Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but for some children and young people, it can feel overwhelming and constant. It might show up as worrying about school, friendships, or even things that seem small to others. You might notice physical symptoms too, like headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping. Anxiety can affect their focus in class and how they interact with others. It’s important to remember that anxiety is common and can happen to anyone. By understanding it, we can offer support that helps children feel calmer and more in control of their emotions.

It’s normal for children to feel anxious from time to time, but if it starts affecting their daily life—like refusing to go to school, avoiding friends, or showing changes in mood and behaviour—it might be time to seek help. If anxiety seems to be holding them back from enjoying everyday activities, or they’re consistently overwhelmed, support from a professional can make a huge difference. Early intervention is key. By addressing anxiety early on, you can help prevent it from escalating and give your child the tools they need to manage their feelings effectively.

Our counsellors provide a range of tailored approaches to help children and young people manage anxiety. They're likely to use a combination of approaches depending on the needs of your child. This will likely include person-centred therapy, which creates a safe, supportive space where the child can lead the conversation, helping them feel heard and understood. They may also incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which focuses on teaching practical tools to challenge negative thoughts and develop healthier thinking patterns. For those who benefit from goal-setting, solution-focused therapy helps children identify strengths and create steps toward positive change. We also incorporate creative approaches, like art therapy and play therapy for children and young people who like to work in that way. 

Depression in children and young people can often go unnoticed, as it may not always look like sadness. It can appear as irritability, withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed, or a drop in school performance. They might seem tired, struggle with concentration, or feel hopeless. Depression is more than just feeling down; it’s a persistent, overwhelming feeling that can make daily life hard to manage. It’s important to approach depression with care and understanding, as young people may not have the words to explain what they’re going through or even realise they need help.

If a child or young person shows signs of depression, such as ongoing sadness, isolation, lack of interest in hobbies, or changes in sleep and eating patterns, it might be time to seek counselling support. Other warning signs include irritability, difficulty focusing in school, or talking about feeling worthless or hopeless. Depression can affect every part of their life, from friendships to academic performance, but early intervention can make a significant difference. Seeking help when these signs appear allows the child to work through their emotions in a safe space and develop strategies to feel better.

At Mable Therapy, we use an integrative, relational approach to support children and young people with depression. Building a trusting relationship is our first priority, as it helps them feel comfortable opening up about their feelings. Our therapists combine various techniques tailored to the child’s needs, including Person-Centred Strategies and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to challenge negative thought patterns. They also use Mable's creative activities and resources, which make the process engaging and less intimidating. By focusing on the relationship and personalising the therapy, we ensure each young person feels understood and supported on their path to healing.

Trauma can have a profound impact on children and young people, affecting their emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. It can result from various experiences, such as abuse, neglect, loss, or witnessing something upsetting. Children may exhibit a range of responses, including anxiety, withdrawal, anger, or difficulties in relationships and learning. Understanding trauma is essential, as it influences how children view themselves and their world. Creating a supportive environment helps children feel safe to express their feelings and experiences, ultimately paving the way for healing and recovery.

If a child or young person shows signs of trauma, such as persistent fear or anxiety, changes in behaviour, withdrawal from activities, or difficulty concentrating, it may be time to seek counselling support. Other indicators can include physical symptoms like nightmares, headaches, or stomachaches, as well as emotional distress manifesting as irritability or mood swings. If these symptoms are interfering with their daily life, social interactions, or academic performance, professional help can provide the necessary support. Early intervention is crucial in helping children process their traumatic experiences and develop coping strategies to navigate their emotions.

Mable's counsellors use a trauma-informed, person-centred counselling approach to support children and young people who have experienced trauma. This means we prioritise creating a safe and supportive environment, where children feel empowered to share their experiences at their own pace. Our therapists focus on building strong, trusting relationships, recognising that connection is key to healing. By using a relational, person-centred approach, we tailor our methods to each child's individual needs, incorporating techniques such as creative therapy and mindfulness to help them process their feelings and build resilience. This compassionate and holistic approach ensures that each child feels heard, validated, and supported on their journey to recovery.

Self-harm is a behaviour where individuals intentionally hurt themselves as a way to cope with emotional pain, distress, or overwhelming feelings. For many young people, it can be a cry for help or an attempt to express feelings that are difficult to articulate. Self-harm may manifest in various ways, including cutting, burning, or other forms of self-injury. It’s crucial to approach self-harm with empathy and understanding, recognising that it often stems from underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or feelings of hopelessness. Supporting young people in addressing these emotions is vital to their healing journey.

If a child or young person is engaging in self-harm, it is important to seek support as soon as possible. We'd recommend going to your GP and coming up with a plan together, which may include accessing counselling. Signs that they may need help include visible injuries, expressing feelings of worthlessness, withdrawing from friends and activities, or talking about self-harm in conversations. Additionally, if there are any indications of suicidal thoughts or behaviours, immediate professional support is critical. Early intervention is essential, as it can help young people develop healthier coping mechanisms, process their emotions safely, and begin to heal from the underlying issues that contribute to their self-harm.

At Mable Therapy, we adopt a relational counselling approach to support young people who self-harm. Establishing a trusting, empathetic relationship is paramount, as it encourages openness and helps the individual feel safe sharing their experiences and feelings. Our therapists work collaboratively with each young person, focusing on understanding their unique struggles and emotional triggers. This relational approach allows us to create a non-judgmental space where they can explore their feelings, learn healthier coping strategies, and express themselves without fear. By fostering a strong therapeutic alliance, we empower young people to process their emotions, develop resilience, and find alternative ways to cope with their distress.

Loss, whether through bereavement or significant life changes, is a profound experience that can deeply affect children and young people. Grief can manifest in many ways, including sadness, anger, confusion, and even guilt. Children may struggle to understand their emotions or feel isolated in their pain. It’s essential to acknowledge that grief is a personal journey—there’s no 'right' way to grieve, and everyone processes loss differently. Providing a safe space for children to express their feelings and memories can help them navigate this challenging time and begin to find healing.

If a child is struggling to cope with the loss of a loved one or significant change, it may be time to seek counselling support. Signs to watch for include persistent sadness, withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed, changes in sleep or appetite, or difficulty concentrating in school. If the child seems stuck in their grief or is experiencing overwhelming emotions, professional support can help them process their feelings and find ways to honour their loss. Early intervention is vital, as it can prevent long-term emotional difficulties and promote healthy coping strategies.

When supporting with loss, an integrative, relational approach to supporting children and young people can be really helpful. Establishing a trusting and compassionate relationship is crucial, as it encourages them to feel safe sharing their thoughts and emotions. Our therapists combine various therapeutic techniques, such as Narrative Therapy, which allows children to tell their stories and express their feelings about their loss, with art therapy to creatively process their grief. By focusing on each child’s unique experience and fostering a supportive environment, we empower them to navigate their grief journey while honouring their feelings and memories in a meaningful way.

Suicidal thoughts can be a distressing experience for children and young people, often stemming from overwhelming emotional pain, feelings of hopelessness, or the impact of traumatic experiences. It's crucial to understand that these thoughts are a sign of deep suffering and indicate a need for support. Young people may express these feelings in various ways, including verbal statements, writing, or through changes in behaviour. Creating an open and accepting dialogue around mental health is vital, as it encourages young people to share their feelings without fear of judgment. Early intervention can significantly improve their emotional wellbeing and safety.

If a child or young person expresses suicidal thoughts or behaviours, it is imperative to seek support immediately. A GP appointment should be made where you can come up with a plan, which may include seeking counselling support. Signs to look out for include talking about wanting to die, feelings of worthlessness, withdrawing from friends and activities, or drastic changes in mood or behaviour. If they exhibit risky behaviours or make plans related to self-harm, urgent professional intervention is essential. Recognising these warning signs and acting promptly can save lives. Support from trained professionals can help them navigate their emotions, find hope, and develop coping strategies to manage their distress.

Anger is a normal emotion that everyone experiences, but for some children and young people, it can feel overwhelming or difficult to control. Anger might show up as frustration, irritability, or even outbursts that affect relationships and schoolwork. It’s important to remember that anger is often a response to deeper emotions like sadness, fear, or frustration. Children may not always know how to express these feelings in healthy ways, which is why they need support in understanding and managing their emotions. With the right guidance, children and young people can learn to handle anger constructively.

If a child’s anger is becoming frequent, intense, or affecting their ability to function at home, school, or in social settings, it may be time to seek counselling support. Signs might include regular emotional outbursts, difficulty calming down, or frustration that seems out of proportion to the situation. Anger can also affect a child’s self-esteem and relationships if left unchecked. Counselling can help them explore the root causes of their anger and give them the tools to manage it in healthier ways. Early support can prevent anger from becoming a bigger challenge later on.

We have counsellors who have extensive experience supporting children and young people with their anger. There are lots of different therapeutic approaches, and they'll use the combination that's right for your child. A person-centred approach ensures they feel heard and valued, creating a safe space to explore their emotions. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps them recognise triggers and develop practical strategies to manage their anger. Solution-focused therapy encourages them to set small, positive goals to build confidence in handling challenging situations. All of these approaches can be used in an engaging and creative way via our Mable Canvas. The Mable Canvas has hundreds of activities and games which help children and young people learn about 'big' psychological ideas in an accessible way. 

Eating issues in children and young people can take many forms, from picky eating and food avoidance to more serious concerns like restrictive eating or bingeing. These behaviours may be linked to anxiety, body image concerns, or a need for control, and they can often mask deeper emotional struggles. Eating issues aren’t just about food—they reflect how a child feels about themselves and their world. Left unaddressed, they can impact physical health, emotional well-being, and social development. It’s important to approach these issues with care, understanding that they may signal a need for emotional support.

We always recommend that you speak to your GP if you have any concerns about your child's eating. Speak to the GP if you notice them avoiding food, becoming overly focused on weight or body image, or expressing distress around mealtimes. Other signs might include rapid weight changes, secrecy around eating, or anxiety about food. Early intervention is crucial, as eating issues can escalate and become more difficult to manage over time. Counselling provides a safe, non-judgmental space for children to explore their feelings about food, their bodies, and any underlying emotional struggles they may be facing. It's important that counselling is considered alongside a GP appointment, as they will be able to advise you on the best steps to take. 

Mable Therapy is not a specialist eating disorder service and we cannot work with complex or serious eating issues. We may be able to work with low to moderate eating issues, this is something that will require discussion in the consultation session.

For those children and young people we're able to support, our therapists are likely to use an integrative, relational approach.  We tailor therapy to meet each child’s unique needs, combining approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to challenge unhelpful thoughts about food and body image, with creative therapies that encourage self-expression in a non-threatening way. By blending these techniques and focusing on the therapeutic relationship, we help children explore their emotions, develop healthier habits, and feel more in control of their wellbeing.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition where a person may experience unwanted, repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and feel compelled to perform certain actions or routines (compulsions) to ease their anxiety. These can be things like excessive handwashing, checking, or needing things to be ‘just right.’ OCD can be confusing and exhausting for children, making it hard for them to focus on school or enjoy activities. It’s important to remember that OCD isn’t just a habit—it’s a way of coping with anxiety, and with the right support, children can learn healthier ways to manage these feelings.

If a child’s obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviours are interfering with their daily life, schoolwork, or relationships, it’s time to consider seeking counselling support. Common signs include spending excessive time on rituals, becoming upset if they can't complete routines, or avoiding situations that trigger anxiety. OCD can create significant stress for both the child and the family, but early intervention can help. Counselling provides a safe space for children to talk about their worries and learn how to manage their compulsions without feeling overwhelmed by anxiety.

At Mable Therapy, we use Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in a child-friendly, supportive way to help manage OCD. CBT helps children understand how their thoughts and behaviours are connected, and we break down this process into simple, relatable steps. Firstly we'll build rapport with your child, getting to know them so they know they can trust their counsellor. Then the therapist will teach them techniques to challenge their obsessive thoughts and reduce the urge to perform compulsive actions. By practising new ways of thinking and handling anxiety, children gain confidence and feel more in control. Our approach is designed to be engaging and positive, helping children build lifelong tools for managing OCD effectively.

Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities that can significantly impact a child's daily life. While it's normal for children to have fears, phobias can lead to extreme anxiety and avoidance behaviours, making it difficult for them to engage in everyday activities, such as going to school, participating in social events, or even being in certain environments. Understanding that phobias are often rooted in deeper emotional experiences is crucial. With the right support, children can learn to confront their fears in a safe and manageable way, helping them regain a sense of control and confidence.

If a child’s fear begins to interfere with their daily activities or causes significant distress, it may be time to seek counselling support. Signs include extreme avoidance of specific situations, heightened anxiety when facing their fears, or physical symptoms such as crying, shaking, or panic attacks. If the fear is impacting their social interactions, academic performance, or overall happiness, professional support can help. Early intervention is essential, as it can provide children with the tools they need to understand and manage their phobias effectively, fostering resilience and emotional wellbeing.

When working with Phobias, our counsellors will usually incorporate Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) combined with a person-centred approach. Establishing a trusting, supportive relationship is fundamental, as it allows children and young people to feel safe in sharing their experiences and feelings. Through CBT, we help children identify and challenge negative thought patterns associated with their phobias, guiding them through gradual exposure to their fears in a controlled and supportive manner. This approach is combined with relational techniques that emphasise empathy and understanding, ensuring that they feel heard and validated. By fostering a strong therapeutic alliance and employing effective strategies, we empower children and young people to confront their phobias with confidence and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

ADHD, or Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that affects a person’s ability to focus, stay organised, and manage impulses. Children with ADHD may find it hard to sit still, follow instructions, or concentrate on tasks, which can make school and social situations more challenging. It's important to remember that ADHD affects every child differently—some may be more inattentive, while others might be more impulsive or hyperactive. ADHD is not a result of poor behaviour or parenting; it’s a neurological condition that requires understanding and support to help children thrive in school and everyday life.

ADHD is not a mental health disorder and does not automatically require counselling. However, if your child has ADHD and is struggling with emotional regulation, self-esteem, or relationships, counselling can be incredibly helpful. While ADHD often involves difficulties with focus and behaviour, it can also affect how a child feels about themselves and interacts with others. If you notice that your child is becoming frustrated, anxious, or withdrawn, or if they are having trouble managing emotions or social situations, it may be time to seek additional support. Counselling can provide tools to help them navigate their challenges more confidently and build healthier coping strategies in daily life.

Our therapists offer integrative counselling approaches tailored to children with ADHD.  Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) focuses on the practicalities, teaching them strategies to manage impulsivity and improve focus. Solution-focused therapy helps them to set small, achievable goals, boosting their confidence and motivation. Many of our therapists incorporate person-centred strategies, which focus on making each child feel understood and supported, which is great for enhancing self-esteem. We also incorporate creative therapies like art therapy to help them express themselves in a fun, non-verbal way. By blending these approaches, we create a personalised plan that meets each child’s individual needs, helping them develop essential emotional and social skills.

Autism is a developmental condition that affects how people communicate, interact socially, and process information. Every Autistic child is unique—some may find it difficult to understand social cues, while others might have specific routines or interests they feel very passionate about. Sensory sensitivities are also common, with loud noises or bright lights feeling overwhelming. It’s important to remember that Autism is not something to 'fix'; rather, it’s about understanding and supporting each child’s individual needs and strengths to help them thrive in their own way.

Counselling can be a valuable support for Autistic children and young people, especially when they are struggling with social interactions, managing emotions, or dealing with anxiety. If an Autistic child becomes frequently overwhelmed, has difficulty expressing their feelings, or is facing challenges with change or transitions, it might be time to seek additional support. Counselling can help them navigate their emotions, improve social skills, and develop coping strategies for sensory or environmental stressors. Early intervention and tailored support can make a significant difference in helping an Autistic young person feel more comfortable and confident in their world.

Our therapists are experts at building strong, trusting relationships with Autistic children and young people. We understand that creating a safe, familiar environment is essential for helping them feel comfortable. Using an integrative, relational approach, we combine various therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and creative-based techniques, to tailor our support to each person’s unique needs. Our focus is on understanding their individual experiences, helping them express themselves, and developing practical strategies for managing emotions and social interactions. By fostering trust and connection, we empower Autistic young people to feel supported, confident, and capable.

Understanding and supporting LGBTQ+ children and young people is vital for their emotional and social wellbeing. Many face unique challenges, such as navigating their identities, dealing with societal stigma, and managing feelings of isolation or discrimination. Whether they are questioning their sexual orientation or gender identity, or have already come out, it’s important for them to know they are valued and accepted. Creating a safe and affirming environment can help foster self-acceptance and resilience. Open conversations about LGBTQ+ issues can empower young people to embrace their identities and build confidence in themselves.

If a child or young person is experiencing distress related to their LGBTQ+ identity, it may be time to seek counselling support. Signs that they may need help include feelings of isolation, anxiety about coming out, struggles with self-acceptance, or experiencing bullying or discrimination. It’s important to act early, as these challenges can impact their mental health, self-esteem, and overall happiness. Counselling provides a safe space for them to explore their feelings, ask questions, and develop coping strategies to navigate the complexities of their experiences, ensuring they feel supported and empowered.

At Mable Therapy, the therapist would be likely to use an integrative, relational approach to support LGBTQ+ children and young people. Building a trusting, affirming relationship is key, as it allows them to feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. Our therapists tailor their methods to each individual’s unique needs, combining techniques such as Narrative Therapy to help them share their stories and understand their identities, with Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address negative thoughts and feelings. By focusing on their experiences and creating a supportive environment, we empower young people to embrace their authentic selves and build resilience in the face of challenges.