I have experience of working with young people aged 11 and upwards
Contact USHaving run the counselling service and Pupil Support Department for a leading independent school for 15 years, I have a heart for the mental health of our young people (and their parents!) and am well equipped to help them navigate the significant challenges they often face. I also have four children of my own.
I have supported many young people who might describe themselves as neurodivergent; where appropriate, I am able to work collaboratively with schools and colleges and with CAMHS.
My sessions provide a confidential space for young people to explore their experiences and related thoughts and feelings, and find ways of thriving and flourishing in our challenging world. Safeguarding is of course explained fully to the young people I work with and always remains the highest priority. A child or young person is entitled to confidentiality unless there are issues of significant harm to the young client or others. Any necessary contact made with parents because of safeguarding will be discussed with the young client first.
Sessions of 50 minutes are offered weekly in my therapy room, which is designed to provide a peaceful setting- with access to a very calm Labrador for those young people who appreciate a creature to stroke during therapy!
"When Mel first spoke to me I was in an awful place and I remember she immediately making me fell at ease…I cannot express in words how grateful I am to Mel. …She made me feel comfortable going into school, which is something I never thought I would say, and She has helped me learn to challenge my bad thoughts, which has made me a better and stronger person…” T
After your initial enquiry, I will arrange to give you a call to discuss your need for counselling and what you would like to get out of it: it will also be a chance for me to try to answer any questions you have and put you at ease. You can decide whether you feel comfortable working with me and I can consider whether I feel I can be of help to you. You need to feel comfortable and positive- and sure that therapy is something you want and can engage with fully and honestly. If we choose to go ahead, we would then arrange a regular time to meet at my therapy room.
During the first face to face session, I will also give you a counselling agreement, which outlines arrangements for confidentiality and safeguarding.
Get in touch with me today to find out how I can help you or someone you know.