Specialised Therapy for Children & Young Persons

Support for emotional wellbeing at every stage of growing up

Childhood and adolescence can be challenging times. Young people may experience big emotions, changing relationships, academic pressure, identity questions, or difficult life events — often without having the words to explain how they feel.

 

At Poole Therapies, we offer age-appropriate, compassionate therapeutic support for children and young people in a safe and respectful environment. Our work is tailored to each individual’s developmental stage, emotional needs, and circumstances.

Children & Young Persons PACE play therapy
Poole Therapies, Counselling in the Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch area, or online globally. Explore the specialisms of our unique counsellors

When a Child or Young Person May Need Support

Children and young people may struggle in ways that look different from adults. Some express distress through behaviour, withdrawal, or changes in mood, while others may appear “fine” but feel overwhelmed internally.

 

Families often seek therapy when a child or young person is experiencing:

  • Anxiety, worry, or low mood

  • Emotional outbursts or shutdown

  • Difficulties at school or with learning

  • Friendship or relationship challenges

  • Family changes or conflict

  • Loss, bereavement, or trauma

  • Identity or self-esteem concerns

 

You do not need a diagnosis or crisis point to seek support. Early therapeutic intervention can help young people develop emotional understanding, coping skills, and resilience.

Our Approach

Our therapists work in a child-centred and young-person-centred way, this means they adapt sessions to suit age, communication style, and emotional readiness.

 

Depending on the child or young person, therapy may include:

  • Talking therapy

  • Creative or expressive approaches

  • Play-based or art-informed work

  • Emotional literacy and regulation support

 

We prioritise building trust and emotional safety, allowing the child or young person to engage at their own pace.

Supporting Families Through a Therapeutic Parenting Approach

Some children and young people have experienced early stress, trauma, disrupted attachment, or complex family dynamics that affect how they relate to others and manage emotions.

Louise works using the PACE approach and Therapeutic Parenting principles, which are designed to support children’s emotional needs while also helping parents and carers feel more confident and supported.

This approach focuses on understanding the emotional meaning behind a child’s behaviour, rather than viewing behaviour as “good” or “bad”. It can be especially helpful for children who have experienced trauma, attachment difficulties, or significant changes in their lives.

P

Playfulness

Helping reduce anxiety and build connection

A

Acceptance

Validating feelings without judgement

C

Curiosity

Seeking to understand behaviour rather than rejecting it.

E

Empathy

Responding with warmth and compassion

Parental Alienation–Informed Support

We also recognise that some families are affected by high-conflict separation, breakdown in relationships, or experiences sometimes described as parental alienation.

 

Our work in this area is child-focused and trauma-informed, supporting emotional safety and wellbeing without taking sides or assigning blame. A parental alienation-informed approach looks at:

  • The emotional impact of family conflict on children

  • The child’s need for safety, stability, and secure relationships

  • Supporting parents to respond in ways that reduce stress and emotional harm

 

The aim is always to prioritise the child or young person’s emotional needs while offering parents and carers thoughtful, non-judgemental support.

Working With Parents and Carers

We recognise that parents and carers play a vital role in a child or young person’s wellbeing. Where appropriate, therapy may include:

  • Initial consultations with parents or carers

  • Ongoing communication within clear boundaries

  • Support in understanding emotional needs

 

Confidentiality is handled carefully and ethically, balancing a young person’s right to privacy with safeguarding responsibilities.

Who We Support

We offer therapy for:

  • Children

  • Adolescents

  • Young people approaching adulthood

 

Sessions are available online, providing flexibility and accessibility, particularly for families balancing school, work, and other commitments.

Safeguarding & Professional Care

The wellbeing and safety of children and young people is always our priority. Our therapists work in line with professional ethical frameworks and safeguarding guidance.

 

If concerns arise around safety or risk, these will be handled sensitively, transparently, and in accordance with safeguarding procedures.

Interested in a counsellor with this specialty?

Children:

Young Persons:

Still unsure who might be the best fit for your needs? Contact us, and we’ll help match you with the right professional.

Don’t worry — sometimes the best match may be outside of Poole Therapies. In those cases, we’re happy to recommend trusted services that could be the ideal fit for you.

Is this something that resonates with you? Take a look at these resources, which may offer additional support:

If you are concerned about immediate risk, please contact emergency services or your GP.