The Therapy Process

Integrative Child Psychotherapy offers children and young people the chance to talk through difficult thoughts and feelings about life at home or school. It provides a special time just for them to talk, play and explore what it is like being them.

The feelings and experiences of parents and carers are integral to the therapist's work with the child and are highly valued. The therapist will therefore welcome a communicative relationship with parents and carers from the beginning.

• First, the therapist meets with the child's parents or carers to discuss the child's needs and behaviour and agree an initial therapy contract.
• The child begins with three to six assessment sessions so the therapist can understand their emotional needs.
• The therapist then meets the parents or carers to discuss the possible direction of therapy and how the child can best be supported at home.
• Therapy continues with regular review meetings arranged to support the child.
• Sessions are confidential, subject to the usual child-protection requirement to share information if somebody is unsafe or being hurt.
• Children are usually seen weekly and each session lasts 50 minutes.

The aim is to provide a safe place where the child can express themselves, be heard, and develop a greater understanding of themselves and their relationships.