FAQs

How do I know if my child needs counselling?

Children may benefit from counselling if they are experiencing persistent low mood, anxiety that interferes with daily life, sudden changes in behaviour, low self-worth, conflict at home, or if they are using unhealthy coping mechanisms. If you’re unsure, speak to your child’s class teacher or form tutor, who can advise whether a referral is appropriate.

What can I do at home to support my child’s emotional wellbeing?

The most important thing is to provide a safe, calm space where your child feels listened to. Encourage them to share their feelings, validate their experiences, and maintain routines. Small things like spending quality time together and ensuring good sleep, diet, and exercise also help.

How can I encourage my child to open up about their feelings?

Try asking gentle, open-ended questions rather than yes/no questions (e.g. “What was the best and hardest part of your day?”). Be patient if they don’t want to talk right away, and let them know you are available when they’re ready. You can also model 'opening up' by speaking about your own day, and parts of your day that made you feel a certain emotion, such as frustrated or excited. This helps your child to feel comfortable expressing their own emotions, even ones that are uncomfortable.

Is it normal for children to worry or feel anxious sometimes?

Yes, occasional worries are part of growing up. It becomes a concern if anxiety starts to affect daily routines (school, friendships, sleep, appetite). At that point, extra support may be needed.

What’s the difference between a bad day and a deeper concern?

Everyone has bad days, but if your child’s low mood, irritability, or worries last for several weeks, or cause changes in appetite, sleep, or school attendance, it may indicate a deeper issue.

What’s the first step if I think my child needs counselling?

Speak to your child’s class teacher or form tutor. They will discuss your concerns with the pastoral, inclusion, or counselling team and let you know the next steps.

Who decides if my child should see a counsellor?

The decision is made collaboratively between the school and parents. The counsellor will then carry out an introductory session to assess if counselling is the right support.

Do I need to give permission for counselling sessions?

Yes, for primary-aged children, parents must complete a Google consent form before counselling starts. For older students, consent may vary depending on age and circumstances, but parents are generally kept informed.

How long does the referral process take?

This can vary depending on demand, but we aim to respond within a few days of recieving the referral. Once referred, the counsellor will contact you to gather more information and arrange the first session.

How will I be updated about my child’s progress?

Counsellors provide updates halfway through and at the end of a block of sessions. Parents are welcome to reach out with questions in between.

Can my child’s teacher request counselling support without me asking?

Teachers can raise concerns if they notice changes in behaviour or wellbeing, but parents will always be informed before counselling begins.

What if my child doesn’t want to attend counselling?

Counselling is most effective when a child is willing. The counsellor may offer a gentle introductory session to see if the child feels comfortable, or suggest alternative support if needed. 

How can I contact the counsellors?

All counselling referrals should first go through the class teacher. Once sessions have been approved and the referral form completed, parents will have the opportunity to speak directly with the counsellors. At that stage, parents will also be provided with the counsellors’ email addresses, so they can get in touch with them whenever needed.

What happens in a counselling session?

Sessions usually involve talking through any issues and providing students with effective strategies that they can use outside of the therapy room. For younger students, the counselling session might involve play therapy, games, or creative activities that help children express their thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive space.

How long do sessions last?

Each session will last up to 30 minutes and usually takes place once a week.

Will my child miss important lessons?

As far as possible, children are taken out of non-core lessons so that core subjects (like English, maths and science) are not disrupted.

Are the sessions confidential? Will I be told what my child shares?

Sessions are confidential to give children a safe space. Counsellors do not share specific details unless the child’s safety is at risk. General updates are given to parents, but not specific details of what the child says.

How many sessions will my child have?

Typically a block of 6, but it may be fewer, more, or occasional check-ins depending on the child’s needs.

What if my child needs more than 6 sessions?

The counsellor will review this with the child, parents, and school team to decide the best next steps. Sometimes an extension is possible, or a referral to external services may be considered.

What’s the difference between a drop-in session and a block of sessions?

Drop-ins are one-off chats available on Fridays with teacher approval. Blocks of sessions are structured, ongoing support.

Will counselling “fix” my child’s issues?

Counselling is not about “fixing” but about supporting your child to develop healthier coping strategies, resilience, and emotional wellbeing.

What if my child opens up about something serious or unsafe?

If a child discloses something that suggests they, or others, are at risk of harm, the counsellor must share this information with the safeguarding team and DSL (Mr Ashton), who will take appropriate steps to ensure safety.

Is counselling available for all students, including secondary/primary?

Yes, counselling is available across the school, though the process and consent requirements may vary by age.

What if my child’s needs don’t fit counselling?

Not all concerns require counselling. Issues like friendship difficulties, organisation, or academic worries are usually better supported by teachers, pastoral, or inclusion teams.

What’s the difference between the pastoral, inclusion, and counselling teams?

• Pastoral team: Supports behaviour, attendance, and general wellbeing.

• Inclusion team: Helps with learning needs and classroom support.

• Counselling team: Focuses on deeper emotional and mental health needs.

Can parents meet the counsellor before sessions begin?

Yes, in many cases the counsellor will contact parents first to gather information and answer any questions before sessions start.

What happens if multiple small concerns add up - will counselling still help?

Yes, even if each individual issue alone is not usually considered a 'counselling need', when several occur together, the team may decide counselling is appropriate.

Do you offer group or family sessions, or only one-to-one?

Sessions are usually one-to-one with the child. However, in some cases, group, family, or parent sessions may be offered.

Can my child access counselling outside of school hours?

School counselling sessions take place during the school day. If ongoing or out-of-hours support is needed, we may recommend external services.