Child Therapy in Colchester
Compassionate, professional therapy support for children navigating life's challenges. BACP registered therapist providing a safe, understanding space for your child to grow and heal.
Understanding Your Child's World
Children experience the world differently from adults, and their emotional needs require specialised understanding and care. In my practice in Colchester, I work with children who may be struggling with big feelings, difficult experiences, or challenging behaviours.
Every child is unique, and therapy is tailored to meet them exactly where they are. Whether your child is naturally chatty or more reserved, enjoys creative activities or prefers quiet conversation, I adapt my approach to help them feel comfortable and understood.
When to Consider Child Therapy
Parents often wonder whether their child might benefit from therapy. You know your child best, and if you're noticing changes that concern you, it's worth exploring. Children might benefit from therapy when experiencing:
Emotional Challenges
- Persistent sadness or tearfulness
- Increased anxiety or worry
- Sudden changes in mood or behaviour
- Difficulty expressing feelings
- Overwhelming anger or frequent meltdowns
Behavioural Changes
- Regression in previously mastered skills
- Sleep difficulties or nightmares
- Changes in appetite or eating patterns
- Withdrawal from friends or activities
- Difficulties at school or with learning
Life Transitions
- Family changes (divorce, new baby, moving house)
- Starting school or changing schools
- Loss of a loved one or pet
- Medical procedures or illness
- Friendship difficulties or bullying
My Approach to Child Therapy
Working with children requires patience, creativity, and deep respect for their inner world. I use a psychodynamic approach, which means we explore not just what's happening on the surface, but also the deeper feelings and experiences that might be driving your child's struggles.
Child-Led Therapy
Children communicate through play, art, stories, and movement as much as through words. Sessions are designed to follow your child's natural way of expressing themselves.
Safe Space
The therapy room is a consistent, predictable space where your child can explore difficult feelings without judgment or pressure to 'be good' or 'behave properly'.
Family Involvement
Parents and carers are vital partners in the therapeutic process. Regular check-ins help ensure we're all working together to support your child's wellbeing.
Common Concerns I Help Children With
Anxiety & Worry
From separation anxiety to general worries about the world, I help children understand and manage their anxious feelings in age-appropriate ways.
Big Emotions
Learning to understand and express feelings like anger, sadness, frustration, and fear in healthy ways that help rather than overwhelm.
Family Changes
Supporting children through transitions like divorce, new siblings, moving house, or other significant changes in their family structure.
School Difficulties
Whether it's academic pressure, social challenges, or difficulty separating from parents, I help children navigate their school experiences more confidently.
Trauma & Loss
Gentle, trauma-informed support for children who have experienced difficult or frightening events, helping them process and heal at their own pace.
Self-Esteem
Building confidence and self-worth, helping children develop a stronger sense of who they are and their place in the world.
Supporting Parents Too
When a child is struggling, parents often feel overwhelmed, confused, or worried about whether they're doing the right thing. Child therapy isn't just about supporting the child—it's about supporting the whole family system.
I provide guidance on how to respond to challenging behaviours, communicate with your child about difficult topics, and create a supportive home environment that complements the therapeutic work. You're not alone in this journey.
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
We begin with a conversation (usually with parents) to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you're hoping therapy might help with.
First Sessions
Early sessions focus on helping your child feel comfortable and safe. There's no pressure to 'open up' immediately—trust builds gradually.
Ongoing Work
Sessions typically last 50 minutes and happen weekly. The length of therapy varies depending on your child's needs and the complexity of their difficulties.
Regular Reviews
We regularly check in about progress and adjust our approach as needed. Your input as a parent is invaluable in this process.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're concerned about your child's wellbeing and think therapy might help, I'd be happy to discuss your situation. Every child deserves to feel understood, supported, and hopeful about their future.
Location: I offer child therapy sessions in Colchester and online.View pricing information orlearn more about my background and qualifications.