What is counselling for teenagers?

Counselling is a safe, confidential space where young people can talk about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with a trained professional. It helps teens understand themselves better, cope with challenges, and build confidence.

What kinds of issues can counselling help with?

Counselling can support a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, stress, low mood, friendships, school pressure, family changes or issues, self-esteem, identity, body image, confidence, self-harm, OCD, issues around eating, and managing emotions.

How do I know if my teen needs counselling?

Some signs might include noticeable changes in mood or behaviour, withdrawal from friends or activities, difficulty at school, or feeling overwhelmed. If they are presenting as defensive or closed off, a neutral space could be beneficial. Counselling can also be helpful even without a specific problem. Just having someone to talk to can make a difference.

Do teenagers have to talk about everything?

No. Teens are encouraged to go at their own pace. They can share as much or as little as they feel comfortable with. Building trust takes time and there is never any pressure to talk about anything they do not feel ready to.

Is counselling confidential?

Yes, confidentiality is very important. What is discussed stays private, except in situations where there is perceived, significant risk of harm to the young person or someone else. In those cases, appropriate support will be sought. This would be covered in the first session.

Will parents be told what is discussed in sessions?
Parents are usually given general updates, but not detailed information, to respect the teen’s privacy. Open communication is encouraged, but trust and confidentiality come first.

How long does counselling last?

Individual sessions are 40 or 50 minutes, depending on the individual. We start at 40 minutes and take it from there. The duration of counselling varies depending on individual needs. Some young people benefit from a few sessions, while others may choose longer-term support.

What happens in a typical session?

Sessions are relaxed and supportive. They may involve talking, creative activities, or practical strategies to help manage emotions and situations.

Can counselling sessions be online or in person?

Yes, counselling can often be offered both online and face-to-face, depending on preference and availability. My face-to-face sessions are held in Northgate in Crawley where there is free parking and a bus stop just outside for easy access.

How can a teenager get started?

You can get in touch through this website, email, or text to arrange an initial, free, 15 minute call. This first step helps determine the best way to support the young person. Your teen can take a look at my website or speak to me, or just turn up for the first session then let you know what they think. I recommend involving them as much or as little as they want in the initial process of getting started.

What if my teen doesn’t want to come?

It’s common for teens to feel unsure at first. Counselling works best when they are willing, so it can help to gently encourage them to come to one session then see how they feel. Explain that it’s a space just for them, without pressure, that there is no expectation on them at all. They get to sound-off or share as much or as little as they like to an adult who doesn't have any agenda but to listen and be there for them.

Counselling For Teens in Crawley and Online FAQs