Parents don’t need more blame
Parenting a struggling child or teenager can feel incredibly lonely.
You can end up second-guessing every decision.
Wondering whether you are saying too much.
Not saying enough.
Setting the wrong boundary.
Or somehow making everything worse.
By the time parents speak to me, they have usually tried everything they can think of.
They don’t need someone to pick apart their parenting or tell them what they have done wrong.
They need someone who can help them understand what might be happening, think clearly about what their child needs and find a way forward.
Parent work can happen alongside a child or teenager’s individual therapy.
Sometimes, supporting the parent is the most helpful place to begin.
We might think together about:
- What could be driving your child’s behaviour
- How to respond when situations become difficult
- How to communicate when conversations feel stuck
- How to feel more confident in your decisions
- How to support your child without completely losing sight of yourself
Involving parents isn’t about blaming them for what is happening.
It is about recognising that you are an important part of your child’s support system, and that trying to support someone who is struggling is really hard.
You deserve somewhere to think and be supported too.
What happens when you get in touch?
I usually begin by offering a brief telephone call.
You can tell me a little about what has been happening, ask any questions you have and get a sense of whether I might be the right psychologist for your child or family.
You don’t need to prepare for the call or organise everything into a coherent story.
Just tell me what you can.
If we decide to go ahead, the first few sessions will give me time to get to know you or your child and help us build a shared understanding of the difficulties.
From there, we will think together about what might help.
You don’t need to know what kind of therapy your child needs.
Working that out is part of my job.
You don’t need to be certain
You don’t need to be certain that therapy is the answer before getting in touch.
The initial telephone call gives us a chance to think together about what is happening and whether I am the right person to support you.
If I don’t think I am the best fit, I will be honest about that.
Although most of my work focuses on children, teenagers and parents, I also work with some adults when their needs fit with my areas of experience. You are welcome to enquire if you are unsure.
Arrange an initial telephone call
If you would like to discuss support for yourself, your child or your family, please complete the enquiry form. I aim to respond within two working days.
If you or your child need urgent support, please contact your GP, local NHS crisis service or NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.
