Child Psychotherapy
I offer individual psychotherapy for children and young people aged 3–18, using play, the arts, and creative approaches tailored to each child's unique needs, experiences and stage of development.
About the therapy
What is Child Psychotherapy?
Child Psychotherapy is a specialist form of therapy that supports children and young people to explore and make sense of their inner world — their feelings, thoughts, relationships and experiences in a safe, boundaried and confidential space.
Unlike adult therapy, which can rely primarily on talking, my approach draws on play, art, sand tray, storytelling and other creative modalities. These approaches allow children to communicate and process their experiences in ways that feel natural and accessible to them. We often work in the metaphor when experiences can be too challenging to focus on directly.
As an Integrative Child Psychotherapist, I draw on a range of theoretical frameworks — including psychodynamic theory, attachment theory, trauma-informed approaches and neuro-affirming practice. My goal is to offer each child or young person a therapeutic relationship that is genuinely responsive to who they are. My practice is grounded in compassion, curiosity, and a deep respect for each child's unique story.
Play
Play is the natural language of childhood. Through play, children can explore feelings, rehearse experiences, and make sense of their world in a way that feels safe and manageable.
Art and creative expression
Drawing, painting, collage and other art-based approaches offer children a non-verbal route into their inner world, often reaching places that words alone cannot.
Sand tray
Using miniature figures and a tray of sand, children can create scenes and narratives that externalise their internal experiences — a powerful tool for processing complex feelings.
Storytelling and Puppetry
Stories and metaphor allow children to approach difficult themes at a safe distance, building understanding and resilience.
Areas of support
What Child Psychotherapy can help with
Children and young people may benefit from psychotherapy when they are struggling with:
- Anxiety, worry or persistent fears
- Low mood, sadness or depression
- Trauma, abuse or adverse childhood experiences
- Attachment difficulties and relationship challenges
- Bereavement, loss or significant life changes
- Behavioural and emotional regulation difficulties
- School-related stress, refusal or social difficulties
- Family breakdown, separation or divorce
- Identity, self-esteem and self-worth
The process
What to expect
Initial Consultation
We begin with a conversation — usually with parents or carers — to understand your child's history, current difficulties, and what you are hoping therapy might offer. This is also an opportunity for you to ask questions and decide whether we are the right fit.
Assessment
The first few sessions are an opportunity for me to get to know your child and for them to get to know me and the therapy space. There is no pressure to dive straight into difficult material — building trust comes first.
Ongoing therapy
Sessions are typically weekly and last between 45 and 50 minutes. The pace and direction of the work is led by the child, within a consistent therapeutic frame that provides safety and predictability.
Review and Ending
We regularly review progress and re-align goals and current needs. When the time is right, endings are planned carefully — this is an important part of the therapeutic process in its own right. Children and Young People who have experienced a lot of loss need special consideration to be given to the ending of therapy.
Sarah has a natural ability to build trusting relationships with young people, families and professionals, and her calm, thoughtful approach is highly valued by colleagues across the school.
— Head teacher, Primary school, Somerset
Fees
Session fees
Individual sessions
£65
Per session, paid in advance in blocks of 6 sessions at £390.
ASGSF rate
Contact for details
A different rate applies for ASGSF work, in recognition of the additional reports and professional liaison involved. Please get in touch to discuss.
Find out more
If you would like to discuss whether psychotherapy might be right for your child or young person please get in touch. I am happy to have an initial conversation before you commit to anything.