Creative Psychotherapy for Children & Young People
Supporting children and young people across Northern Ireland through creative, relational and developmentally appropriate psychotherapy.
Children and young people do not always have the words to explain how they are feeling or what they have experienced.
Creative psychotherapy provides a safe therapeutic space where they can explore emotions, relationships and experiences through talking, creativity, play and other forms of expression.
The way we work will depend on the child or young person, their age, their needs and what feels comfortable for them.
When Might Therapy Help?
Parents and carers may consider therapeutic support when a child or young person is experiencing emotional or behavioural changes, difficulties in relationships or challenges connected with life experiences. This may include difficulties relating to: ● anxiety, worry or fears ● emotional regulation ● low confidence or self-esteem ● bereavement and loss ● family changes ● difficult or traumatic experiences ● relationships ● changes in behaviour ● expressing or understanding emotions ● school-related difficulties ● significant changes or transitions You do not need to know exactly what is happening before making an enquiry. An initial conversation can help us consider whether therapy may be appropriate.
What Happens in Creative Psychotherapy?
Sessions are shaped around the individual child or young person. Alongside talking, therapy may include opportunities to use art materials, play, stories, images, sensory materials, movement or other creative approaches. There is no expectation that a child or young person must talk about difficult experiences before they feel ready. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe and consistent space in which feelings and experiences can gradually be explored and understood.
No. No artistic ability or previous creative experience is required. The focus is not on making something that looks good. Creative materials can simply offer another way to communicate, explore and make sense of thoughts, feelings and experiences.
Does My Child Need to Be Creative?
What Happens Before Therapy Begins?
The process usually begins with an initial enquiry from a parent, carer or referring professional. We will discuss the reason for the referral, the child or young person’s current needs and whether creative psychotherapy may be appropriate. Where we agree to proceed, I will explain the next steps, including practical arrangements, confidentiality, consent and how parents or carers will be involved.
Working With Parents and Carers
Parents and carers are an important part of supporting a child’s emotional wellbeing. Where appropriate, I work collaboratively with parents and carers while also protecting the child or young person’s therapeutic space and confidentiality. The level of parental involvement will depend on the child’s age, needs and individual circumstances and will be discussed before therapy begins.
Practical Information