Recognising the many challenges that children and adolescents face throughout their development, my work encompasses all developmental stages (infancy, primary school age children, adolescents, and young adults). The lasting effects of the pandemic, in addition to other external factors, have impacted young peoples' mental health and increased anxiety, stress, school avoidance and low mood.

Throughout my years of working with children and adolescents my focus is always on developing trust in the therapeutic relationship. I offer a child-centred approach with the aim to create a safe therapeutic space for young people to work through their difficulties. The way a young person responds gives me insight into the conflicts and difficulties they may be experiencing. This approach can develop a young person’s capacity to understand and make sense of their difficulties, leading to emotional growth and resilience.

I offer a similar psychodynamic approach to working with adults and/or music therapy with the aim to offer a safe environment to explore difficulties and work towards positive change. Adults who may benefit might be experiencing or have experienced the following:

• Finding parenting challenging

• Trauma

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Relationship difficulties

• Bereavement

• Fertility issues/miscarriage

• Low self-esteem

Therapy sessions with adults

Therapy sessions with children and adolescents

Referral process

I understand that if you’re a parent worried about your child, whatever age they are, it may be hard to work out what therapy can help. In all aspects of my work, I consider the whole child/person (home life, school, relationships, culture etc). When working with children, this involves a parent/carer meeting before starting treatment. Adults can self-refer or be referred by a medical professional or therapist.

Step one

I offer a free 30-minute consultation to explain the type of therapies I provide and to hear your main concerns. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and find out if it’s the right fit for you/your child. If you’re looking to better understand your own or your child’s emotional needs, we can talk about how this approach can support you. Please get in touch and complete the contact form below to arrange an initial consultation.

Step two

I recommend a period of assessment (1 – 3 sessions). This will provide an opportunity for you/young person to understand a bit more about what therapy can provide and to see whether attending therapy at this stage is the right time, and with the right therapist. For young people, a review meeting with parents will follow this assessment stage to discuss whether to continue with therapy. If it is decided not to continue, I may signpost or recommend other forms of treatments.

Step three

We will agree on a treatment plan and begin therapy. I offer short- and long-term therapy depending on context and need.

Get in touch

Please complete the contact form and we can arrange for an initial phone call.

Email

clairemariehope@gmail.com