Child and Adolescent Counselling

A time of transition

Childhood and adolescence are periods of rapid development and change. Young people are confronted with an array of physical, emotional and psychological developmental milestones. For some kids, this can be a relatively smooth, or even exciting process of transitions on their journey to adulthood. Yet for others, the challenges encountered can seem overwhelming.

The common bond that links all children is their need for love and nurturing as they develop, learn and grow. Yet even when parents and carers provide a nurturing home environment, sometimes children still need extra support.

Child counselling (4 to 12+ years)

The childhood years present a unique set of challenges, for children and parents alike. Young children frequently find it difficult to regulate their emotions and articulate the complexity of what they are feeling. From temper tantrums to social withdrawal, and concerning behavioural issues such as biting and bedwetting, children often express their distress in worrying ways. Older children may experience school-related problems such as social isolation, learning difficulties or bullying

Child counselling for:

  • anxiety
  • bedwetting
  • behavioural problems
  • blended family issues
  • bullying
  • coping with separation and divorce
  • depression
  • grief and loss
  • school refusal
  • separation anxiety
  • sibling conflict
  • sleep issues

Ultimately, Life Supports’ priority is ensuring your entire family feels supported.

Adolescent counselling (12 to 18+ years)

The adolescent years are a significant life stage that introduces a range of new challenges. Commencing the transition into adulthood, they start to develop physical and emotional maturity by exploring their sense of self in the world. There is a natural progression of moving away from the family group in order to gain greater independence. This process of individuation is a significant, and necessary, transition for both the teenager and their family.

Adolescent counselling for:

  • academic difficulties
  • anger management
  • anxiety
  • behavioural concerns
  • body image issues
  • bullying (online and at school)
  • depression
  • drug and alcohol concerns
  • eating disorders
  • family conflict
  • grief and loss
  • interpersonal conflict
  • relationship issues
  • self-harm and suicidal ideation
  • self-esteem issues
  • sexuality
  • sleep issues
  • social isolation
  • stress

A crucial stage of individuation involves teenagers experimenting with new social roles, behaviours and situations, integral in establishing their adult identity. Problematic behaviour may manifest externally (anger, aggression and family conflict), or your adolescent may internalise their feelings about transitioning into adulthood (anxiety, depression and family withdrawal). Counselling for adolescents can help adolescents make sense of themselves, their behaviours and interactions with others during this critical time of development.

Growing up can be an exciting, empowering experience – especially when children and adolescents have learned the skills and support required to develop psychological resilience and an intrinsic sense of self-worth.