
The Service for Children and Young People (CYP)
At times I find it difficult to express what's going on and how I feel. It's difficult to understand myself, what I'm feeling, and my reaction to certain situations. I would like someone to talk to about what is going on in my life. My friends and family aren't always the right people. There are times when I need a special place to reflect, to sit and think and concentrate.
My family situation may have changed, someone may have died; I may have changed school, started college or a have new job; perhaps I'm struggling to fit in or my friendships have changed; I may be feeling lonely, upset or I'm having angry outbursts, or feeling worried or confused ...etc. I don't seem to have anyone I can trust to talk to about all this stuff.
It's in situations like this that seeing a counsellor may help.
We have four counsellors offering one-to-one counselling sessions. The sessions are usualy once a week and last up to 50 minutes each. You will see the same counsellor each week.
The main CYP service is based in St. Clements Church.
The CYP service is for anyone aged 9-17 from any income group. We ask for a contribution of £4 per session but this can be waived under special circumstances.
If you are aged 18-25, there is the option to see a counsellor who has a particular interest or experience with your age group, or you can see one of our adult counsellors if you prefer
A young person or a parent/carer can contact us by telephone, text or email to make an appointment.
Our counsellors have a lot of experience of working with and being around children and young people. Your counsellor will aim to help you feel comfortable enough to express what you are experiencing and how you feel. They will try hard to understand what the world is like for you, what "your world" is like, what it is like to "be you".
You will not be made to talk if you don't want to. You will be encouraged to decide for yourself how to use the time. Art, play and expressive materials are available including books, writing materials and games.
Anything - but here are some examples: divorce, domestic violence, bereavement, school /friendship problems, self harm, abuse, being fostered/adopted, parent substance/alcohol abuse, suicide of relative, victim of gang culture/robbery, loss, relationship difficulties with parent/peer/step-parent, self harm, neglect/feeling unseen, victim of grooming, anger ... etc
[Bounce-back-ability describes how the process of therapy has released pressure].
We have a leaflet that gives more information for parents/carers.