Child Counselling: Your Questions Answered | Your Space Foundation

If your child is struggling emotionally, it can be difficult to know where to turn. Many parents and carers find themselves searching for answers, unsure whether counselling is the right step or what the process even looks like.

At Your Space Foundation, our therapists hold speciliast qualifications in child counselling and counselling for young people. We know that reaching out can feel daunting, and you likely have a lot of questions. This guide is here to help, offering clear, supportive answers based on our experience working with hundreds of children and families across the UK.

What is counselling for children and young people?

Child counselling provides a safe, confidential space for young people to talk about difficult feelings, experiences or behaviours. It helps children build emotional awareness, understand what they are going through, and develop healthy coping strategies.

At Your Space Foundation, our approach is child-centred and flexible. For younger children, counselling might involve play, drawing, storytelling or other creative tools. For older children and teens, talking therapy may be more appropriate. Every session is shaped around what feels comfortable and effective for the individual.

Who can benefit from child counselling?

We work with children and young people, offering support for a wide range of challenges including:

• Anxiety and stress

• Low mood or depression

• Grief and loss

• Family separation or conflict

• School pressures or refusal

• Bullying or social difficulties

• Neurodiversity such as autism and ADHD

• Self-esteem issues and identity concerns

Whether your child is experiencing a specific issue or just seems not quite themselves, early support can make a big difference. You do not need a referral from a GP or school to contact us.

What happens during a counselling session?

Every young person is different, so sessions are adapted to meet their needs. Some children prefer to talk directly about what is on their mind. Others may express themselves more comfortably through play, creative activities or movement.

Our trained counsellors create a calm, welcoming environment where children can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings at their own pace. We always explain what to expect, and we make sure the child or young person feels in control of the process.

Sessions are confidential, within the limits of safeguarding. This means we will always act to protect a child’s safety if needed, but otherwise what is shared in the room stays private.

Are parents involved in the counselling process?

Yes, especially at the start. We usually begin with a parent or carer meeting to understand your concerns and share information. Depending on the age and preferences of the young person, we may involve you more closely, or provide regular check-ins throughout the process.

We believe in working in partnership with families. Together, we can support your child’s emotional wellbeing in a way that feels respectful and appropriate.

How do I know if my child needs counselling?

As a parent or carer, it can be difficult to tell whether something is just a passing phase or a sign that your child may benefit from emotional support. Children and young people express distress in different ways, and sometimes it isn’t easy to spot.

Here are some signs to look out for. If any of these sound familiar, it may be a good time to consider counselling:

Persistent low mood or sadness If your child seems down or withdrawn over a period of weeks, it’s worth paying attention. This could show up as tearfulness, a lack of interest in activities they usually enjoy, or frequent statements like “I’m just tired” or “I don’t care anymore.”

Increased anxiety or worry Some level of worry is normal, but if your child is constantly anxious, avoids certain situations, or shows physical signs like stomach aches or headaches without a clear cause, they may be feeling overwhelmed.

Avoidance of school or social situations Reluctance to go to school, sudden drops in attendance, or pulling away from friends and social activities can signal that something is wrong. Your child may be experiencing bullying, academic pressure, or anxiety that they’re struggling to express.

Outbursts, anger or changes in behaviour Unexplained irritability, frequent arguments, or aggressive behaviour can often be a way for children to communicate emotional distress. It may not be about the behaviour itself, but what’s going on underneath it.

Changes to eating or sleeping habits If your child is struggling to sleep, waking frequently at night, or showing changes in their appetite, it could be related to emotional or mental health challenges.

Becoming more withdrawn or isolated Some children respond to emotional pain by shutting down or distancing themselves from family or friends. They may spend more time alone, speak less, or stop engaging in conversations or shared activities.

Expressions of hopelessness or low self-worth If your child is saying things like “I’m not good enough” or “What’s the point?”, or shows signs of feeling helpless or worthless, it’s important not to dismiss this as attention-seeking. These are serious signals that they may be struggling inside.

If you're unsure whether what your child is experiencing is 'normal', we encourage you to trust your instincts. Seeking help early on doesn’t mean something is seriously wrong, in fact, early support can prevent issues from becoming more complex.

All of our counsellors have specialist training to work specifically with children and young people. They understand the developmental needs and emotional worlds of this age group and use age-appropriate methods to help children feel safe and supported.

How many sessions will my child need?

This varies depending on your child’s needs. Some young people benefit from short-term counselling, typically 6 to 12 sessions. Others may find longer-term support more beneficial.

We review progress regularly and will always discuss how things are going with both you and your child. Our goal is to make sure counselling remains helpful and appropriate throughout.

What does child counselling cost?

We offer both funded and private options to make counselling as accessible as possible.

If you live in or around Milton Keynes, we currently have some funding available for eligible families, which may cover the full or partial cost of sessions. Please contact us to find out whether this applies to you.

For families choosing to access private support, the cost is £60 per session. We’ll always be transparent about fees, and you’ll have a chance to discuss this during your initial consultation with us.

Our aim is to remove as many barriers as possible so that every child who needs support can access it.

How do I refer my child for counselling?

You can contact us directly via our referral form, by phone, or by email. We do not require a GP or school referral. After an initial consultation, we will match your child with a suitable counsellor and offer an appointment time.

We aim to respond to all enquiries within three working days.

Why choose Your Space Foundation for child counselling?

We are a specialist counselling agency focused on mental health support for children and young people. Our team brings experience in child therapy, youth work, education and safeguarding. We provide inclusive, trauma-informed care and create a space where young people can feel truly seen and heard.

We work across schools, communities and with families, offering both in-person and remote sessions depending on need.

Still have questions about counselling for your child?

We are here to help. Whether you want to ask a quick question, learn more about our services, or make a referral, you can get in touch easily through our contact page.

Together, we can make sure your child feels supported, understood and more hopeful about the future.

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