Initial Assessment
After the initial contact, you'll be emailed a set of assessment forms and then I'll give you a call so we can talk about your child's difficulties in more detail, and ensure that we can work together.
Session Information
The sessions last up to 1 hour and the first few sessions are usually about getting to know you and your child and vice versa. Normally the first session is with the parents and child together and then the second session is the child on their own (provided they're happy with this).
I would not expect to be told everything in the first session, as it can take a little while for a client of any age to feel safe. I work at the child/young person's pace and some days the experience might energising, but other times it can be exhausting. This is normal. It is also normal to experience setbacks at times, before they begin to feel better.
During the sessions the child/young person and I will work together, exploring the difficulties presented in ways that make them feel most comfortable, This can be talking therapies, using a virtual sand tray, video games, creative arts, role play, using puppets or non-directive play. But, there's no set format, as each child/young person is different. .
confidentiality
Similar to individual therapy, anything the child tells me during the session is confidential (unless there is a child protection issue). The same goes for anything discussed with parents/caregivers.
Support for Parents
Follow-up is provided after each session, together with additional support and help with parenting strategies, if needed . This doesn't mean your current parenting practices are in any way wrong (you will never be judged or criticised), but a different approach can be helpful to some children. Often if a child has challenging behaviour, parents often run out of ideas, so this can be really helpful.
Support for Schools
Most sessions will take place during the school day, so normally a letter explaining the therapy process and a form to assess how your child copes with the educational environment will be sent to their normal teacher and or SENCO./SENDCO I am also more than happy to help with your child's school/college and on any support plans, so that everyone involved can work with pupil in a way that is best suited to them.