How Psychotherapy may help
Many young people find therapy beneficial and some of the positive effects that parents frequently report are:-
- a marked reduction in anxiety levels
- concentration levels increase with a positive effect on educational ability
- improved sleep with fewer disturbing dreams
- more able to manage difficult feelings and to make sense of their experiences
- improved behaviour in different environments
- enhanced relationships and friendships
- the development of self-esteem and identity
Types of Therapy on Offer
- Play therapy
- Short term counselling
- Longer Term Psychotherapy
- CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy)
- Filial Therapy
- Relationship therapy involving parent and child
- Parents consultation
- Counselling/support for parents
- EMDR
Psychotherapy involves a therapist working individually with a young person to explore and work through their experiences to enable them to live more fully. In therapy the young person will have the opportunity to express themselves in a variety of ways, including creative media, the therapeutic sand-tray, play therapy, drawing, painting and story-telling as well as through talking and being listened to. Choice usually depends on the age of the child.
Although the benefits of psychotherapy have been well documented, progress sometimes may seem slow and rapid change does not always occur. Symptoms, however, such as headaches, anxiety and so forth are relieved quite quickly, relaxation induced and anxiety reduced in the initial stages. As important issues emerge and the young person begins to deal with them, they may feel some distress and require extra support at home.
