What happens in an individual session with a child or young person?

We tailor our approach to the individual and work in an age-appropriate way. We are trained to respond to the way a child or young person wishes to communicate.

During an individual session, young children do not usually talk directly about difficult things but may communicate through play using the toys provided. To a trained eye, play is a powerful form of communication which may express how a child feels and the difficulties he or she may be experiencing. Older children may also play or draw whilst teenagers might talk about their feelings. Infants and parents are seen together to think about their patterns of interaction. We carefully observe a child or young person and respond to what they might be communicating through their behaviour and play. The relationship between the child and the therapist is central to the treatment.