Children’s Support

Childhood is a very important time of life. Experiences and behaviours learnt during this time can shape who we become as adults. Children and teenagers can experience a number of stressful situations from ordinary milestones. For example, starting school, puberty and exams. They can also experience difficulties dealing with events – for example, bereavement or separation of parents. They may often find it difficult to communicate their feelings to a parent or teacher. Therefore, speaking to an impartial professional can help them work through confusing emotions.

Counselling and psychological support are available at The Eaves for any child or young person over four years old who is experiencing a problem. Talking to one of our qualified therapists can help them to work through their issues in a safe space and be reassuring for parents.

At The Eaves, sessions with children are strictly confidential in order to build a trusting relationship between the client and the therapist. However, we understand that as a parent this can be difficult and if there are any concerns for your child’s safety you will be informed.

Bullying (children)

Bullying can occur at any age, however for children and young adults it can be particularly difficult, as they are still learning how to deal with the world and interact with people.

Bullies use force, threat or coercion to intimidate others. Bullying can be divided into four basic types of abuse: emotional, verbal, physical and cyber. It is an aggressive behaviour which is characterised by hostile intent, an imbalance of power and repetition over a period of time. In addition, the perpetrators can often be a group of peers who seek to outcast an individual. As a result, this can lead the victim to feel isolated and alone.

Cyber-bullying is becoming more prominent, brought about by technical advances and increased accessibility to social media for school aged children. It is unique in that guardians or teachers are unable to monitor interactions between children as they would at school or home. Bullies themselves may find the anonymity of hiding behind a computer screen leads to more abusive behaviour.

How we can help

At The Eaves, our qualified therapists can provide a safe environment for children or young adults to share their experiences. We can assist in developing coping strategies to lessen the sense of isolation that bullying creates.

Our therapists can also guide children who feel the need to bully others to understand their behaviour. This can give them the space they need to work through their issues in a non-judgemental environment.