my approach

My approach is person centred to the individual child or young person... I give them space to think and communicate through play, books, creative activities or simply talking, this all depends on the age and maturity of the individual.

I am down to earth and realistic with life goals and strategies to cope with the issue(s) that are causing concern or effecting their mental health. I prefer to visit the child or young person within their own home, as often they feel more comfortable and safer when talking about anxieties. 

I believe that it is essential to support parents too, giving advice and sign posting them to helpful and valuable services so that everyone is consistent in their approach to helping the individual.

I am relaxed and proactive in supporting children and can use my experience within SEN / mental health in schools to suggest strategies to help.

I always say that "nothing is a quick fix" and it takes time to get to know one another and trust, then we move forward in the young person being brighter, happier, positive as well as having the tools to manage and cope with life in general. This then can be continued forward into adulthood.