Youth Counselling in Bayside Melbourne
Growing up can bring new experiences, changing relationships and increasing expectations. For some young people, these changes can feel difficult to navigate, particularly when they are trying to understand their emotions, manage challenges or find their place at home, at school and within their friendships.
At Calming Paws Therapy, counselling provides young people with a safe and supportive space to talk, reflect and develop practical ways of managing the challenges they may be experiencing. Sessions are tailored to each young person's age, developmental stage, communication style and individual needs, with a focus on building trust and creating a space where they feel heard, respected and understood.
How Youth Counselling Can Help
Youth therapy may support young people who are experiencing anxiety and worry, difficulties managing emotions, low confidence or self-esteem, friendship or relationship challenges, school or study pressures, changes within their family or difficulties with motivation and coping.
Counselling can help young people develop a better understanding of their emotions, recognise their strengths and build practical strategies they can use in everyday life. It can also provide an opportunity to talk openly with someone outside their usual circle of family, friends and school.
Sometimes a young person may know exactly what is troubling them. At other times, they may simply feel overwhelmed, stuck, frustrated or unsure of how to move forward. They do not need to have a diagnosis or a specific problem to benefit from counselling.
A Counselling Approach That Meets Young People Where They Are
Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is an important part of counselling. Young people are encouraged to have a voice in their counselling experience, and sessions are adapted to suit their individual needs and communication style.
Sessions may involve therapeutic conversation, creative activities, practical exercises, problem-solving or strategies for managing emotions, relationships, school and everyday challenges. There is no expectation that a young person needs to talk about everything straight away. Counselling can develop at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
Where appropriate, accredited therapy dog Winnie may also be incorporated into counselling sessions. For some young people, having Winnie present can provide a more relaxed way to connect and engage in the counselling process.
What Can Parents and Carers Expect?
An initial consultation with a parent or carer provides an opportunity to discuss what has been happening and what support may be helpful. Sessions with the young person are 50 minutes and are guided by their individual needs and therapeutic goals.
Parents and carers remain an important part of the support process. Where appropriate, parent consultation and practical suggestions may be provided to help support the young person outside of sessions, while respecting their developing independence and privacy.
Youth Counselling FAQ’s
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I work with children and young people from the early years through to young adolescence. Each young person's individual needs, developmental stage and circumstances are considered when determining whether counselling is appropriate.
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Where appropriate, Winnie may be incorporated into a counselling session. Her involvement is guided by the young person's comfort, preferences and individual needs.
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Calming Paws Therapy provides counselling in Highett and across Melbourne's Bayside area, including Hampton, Moorabbin, Brighton, Sandringham, Black Rock, Beaumaris and Cheltenham.
If you're considering counselling for your young person and would like to discuss whether Calming Paws Therapy may be a good fit, you are welcome to get in touch to talk about their individual needs.
