Children and Adolescents
When your child is struggling, it can be hard to know where to start. You may have noticed they are more anxious than usual, withdrawing from others, having frequent meltdowns, refusing school, or simply not seeming like themselves. Whatever has brought you here, you don't have to navigate it alone.
At The Healix Centre, we support children and adolescents experiencing a range of emotional, behavioural, and mental health difficulties. We take the time to get to know your child as a whole person, not just the challenges they are facing. By considering their personality, experiences, relationships, strengths, and family environment, we can tailor therapy to their individual needs.
Our clinicians draw on a range of evidence-based therapies, including EMDR, alongside other approaches suited to your child's age, needs, and circumstances. We understand that children and adolescents engage with therapy in different ways, so we adapt our approach to help them feel comfortable, understood, and supported.
A strong therapeutic relationship is at the heart of effective therapy. We take the time to build trust and create a space where your child can feel safe to express themselves and explore what they are experiencing, always working at a pace that feels right for them.
Our goal is not only to support your child with the difficulties they are experiencing now, but also to help them develop a greater understanding of themselves and practical skills they can draw on as they grow.
Parents play an important role in their child's wellbeing, and therapy is often most helpful when we work together. Depending on your child's age and needs, we may involve you throughout the process by providing feedback, answering questions, and sharing practical strategies that can be used at home.
Our aim is for you to feel informed, supported, and confident about how you can support your child.
Children and adolescents can experience difficulties in many different ways. You may be seeking support if your child is experiencing:
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Anxiety or excessive worrying
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Low mood or depression
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Trauma or PTSD
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Difficulty managing emotions
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Behavioural or emotional difficulties
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School refusal or difficulties attending school
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OCD
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Friendship or social difficulties
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Low confidence or self-esteem
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Perfectionism
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Grief and loss
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Family separation or significant life changes
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Stress or feeling overwhelmed
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Panic attacks
This list is not exhaustive. If you are concerned about changes in your child's emotions, behaviour, relationships, or day-to-day functioning, we encourage you to get in touch to discuss whether therapy may be helpful.
Many parents also wonder whether their child will grow out of what they are experiencing. Sometimes difficulties resolve with time and support, while at other times children may benefit from additional help to understand and manage what they're going through.
If your child's emotions or behaviour are affecting their day-to-day life, relationships, learning, or family life, talking with a psychologist can help. Seeking support early can give children and families a better understanding of what's happening and provide practical tools to navigate challenges together.
The initial appointment is an opportunity for your clinician to get to know your child and understand what has been happening. We may explore their current difficulties, strengths, family life, school experiences, relationships, and other factors that may be contributing to how they're feeling.
Some children are comfortable talking from the beginning, while others may find it easier to express themselves through play, drawing, or other activities. We adapt our approach to your child's age, personality, and communication style, allowing them to engage at a pace that feels comfortable.
Taking the first step can feel daunting. We are here to answer your questions and help you understand what support may be appropriate for your child.