What is child and adolescent psychotherapy?
Child and adolescent psychotherapy supports children and young people to work through anxiety, trauma and low confidence – whether that’s through play, creativity, or working alongside a trusted adult.
It can be helpful for:
- Children struggling with big emotions, anxiety or low confidence
- Children who’ve experienced trauma or disrupted early experiences
- Young people who find talking difficult or overwhelming
- Those who benefit from hands‑on, creative spaces
Types of therapy for children
Some children communicate best without relying on conversation. These therapies help them express themselves in a natural, child‑led way.
We help create a safe and consistent environment where a child can communicate freely, build confidence, and gently work through the things they find difficult.
Play therapy
For children who make sense of the world through play. Therapists use toys, stories, and creative activities to help them explore feelings, worries, and experiences safely.
Creative therapies (art, music, movement)
These approaches support children who find it easier to express emotions through making, moving, or sound. They can be especially helpful when feelings feel “too big” to talk about or difficult to put into words.
Types of therapy for children and their adults
These approaches actively involve both the child and their caregiver, with a focus on strengthening connection, building trust, and supporting healing within the relationship.
By fostering safety, connection, and attuned communication, families can develop stronger, more secure, and more confident relationships at home.
Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP)
Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP) is a specialist approach within child and adolescent therapy. It helps repair and strengthen relationships between children and their caregivers, especially when trust or attachment has been affected by early life experiences or trauma. Sessions often begin with the adult alone and may later include the child when it feels right.
Theraplay
Theraplay uses playful, structured activities to help children feel safe, connected, and understood by their caregiver. It’s warm, practical, and especially helpful for children who need support to feel secure in relationships.
These therapies can be helpful for:
- Those who struggle with trust, connection, or big behaviours
- Families wanting to rebuild or strengthen relationships
- Children with attachment needs or developmental trauma
- Parents or carers who want support with understanding their child’s emotional world.
Not sure what support your child needs?
That’s completely okay. We’ll work with you to understand your child and help choose the most effective support for you and your family. Our clinicians take the time to understand your child’s needs and work with you to identify the most appropriate psychotherapy.
How quickly can I access therapy?
We aim to respond to your enquiry within one working day. Assessments or therapy with one of our experienced psychotherapists typically begin within n 6-8 weeks.
Explore other therapies
Not sure if child and adolescent psychotherapy is the right fit? We offer a range of therapies:
Family therapy
Systemic Psychotherapy helps families and groups improve communication, strengthen relationships, and navigate challenges together.
Therapeutic parenting
Guidance and strategies for caregivers to provide highly nurturing, highly structured relationships with children.
Anger management therapy
Helping people who struggle with anger to understand their triggers and regulate their emotions.
