PAC

Counselling for children and young people

WHY Cancer Charity

We offer counselling for children and young people in Bath, Frome, Peasedown St Johns, Chippenham and Street. We have in-school services in Frome College, Selwood Academy and John of Gaunt in Trowbridge.

What is counselling and how does it help children and young people?
Counselling, which can involve using toys and art materials as well as talking, can enable children and young people to explore and express their feelings in a safe and confidential environment. When children can express and understand their feelings they start to feel empowered, their self esteem grows and they become more resilient and able to cope with difficult life situations such as a cancer diagnosis in the family.

Children aged 13 and over can also receive counselling online via Teams. Please ask when you refer your child if you'd like to access online counselling.

Visit our 'Other WHY services' page for information about our Family Support telephone service.

 

 

 

 

Frequently asked questions

How will I, as a parent, be involved?

 You and your child’s counsellor will have the opportunity to meet and talk about what to expect before the first session. Children are seen by themselves, and parents/carers stay in the building while the child is being seen. Parents may contact the counsellor at any time if you have any questions or concerns and the counsellor may offer you a review meeting if they think it could be helpful.

There is regular contact between counsellor and parent/carer, but anything talked about or made in sessions is confidential. If the client or others are believed to be at risk, we may contact the client’s GP or other professionals.

How many sessions will my child have?
We Hear You can provide up to 16 sessions of counselling. The number of sessions is very much up to the individual child or young person and how much support they need at the time.

Where do we have to come?
Counselling and therapy are available in Frome, Street, Peasedown St John and Bath. Most of our sessions take place after school hours.

We also provide counselling for children who attend primary schools in John of Gaunt in Trowbridge, as well as for young people in Frome attending Selwood Academy and Frome College.

In addition to our face-to-face service we provide online counselling for young people aged 13 and over.

What age are children who come for counselling?
Our service is provided to children & young people aged four to 17.

How long do sessions last?
The sessions last for 45-50 minutes, usually once a week at the same time and on the same day.

Does it cost anything?
Whilst we do not make a charge for counselling, we would like to ask you to make a contribution towards the cost of your child’s weekly sessions if you are able to. We rely entirely on donations from individuals, community fundraising and support from grant-making trusts to offer this service. We receive no NHS or central government funding. To make a contribution please talk to your counsellor or make a donation via the website.

Can I find out more without committing my child to receiving counselling?
Yes, one of our team of children’s counsellors will be happy to ring you for an informal discussion. Please call the WHY office on 01373 455255 and leave a message with your contact telephone number.

How do I book an appointment for my child?
Initially, the children’s counsellor will want to speak to you as a parent/carer so please contact the WHY office on 01373 455255 to arrange an appointment.

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