Welcome, my name is Amanda and I am a child and adolescent psychodynamic counsellor.  

Sometimes our capacity to cope can get affected during times of distress. Our coping mechanisms that have always worked fail to make a difference and you find yourself or your child in crises. 

After spending several years studying mental health, therapeutic practice and counselling skills at university, in addition to many years working with young people in education and the NHS, I want to re-assure you that your wellbeing and mental health will be my priority if you decided to work with me. 

Psychodynamic counselling is a style of counselling that gets to the root cause as to what is interrupting the here and now. Although I am specifically trained in children's practice, I have experience and am able to work with and support adults also. 

I offer a containing, safe, non-judgemental service of weekly one-to-one or small group sessions, either in person or online. 

Having a child with a social, emotional or mental health need can be extremely challenging and I believe in supporting parents through this process and will meet and communicate with you at intervals whilst supporting your child. 

When working with younger clients, I use a range of play, toys, sand tray, art and communication methods to understand and support. With older clients, I tend to use more communication and some art-based materials.  

For all booking enquiries, I ask for a completed referral form. Following this, I will carry out an initial meeting with you and your child or young person and then an assessment session with the child/young person alone. This is to ensure that you are getting the correct person and service for your current requirements. If I am not best suited to your needs, I will always try to find a reputable alternative. 

I hold and MA in Psychodynamic Counselling from The University of Essex. I am insured and am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). (https://www.bacp.co.uk)