07715 139 600

Our Child and Adolescent Team

Elaine Mayall
Elaine Mayall - Director
Retired Cognitive Behavioural Therapist & Counsellor
M.Sc Cognitive & Behavioural Psychotherapies, 2000
M.Sc. Occupational Psychology, 1993
Diploma in Counselling, 1996
BABCP member / BACP registered member
GDPR Compliant
I worked in the NHS from 1993 to 2006 as both a therapist and manager. For the past 10 years I have worked as therapist and Director of The Rooms (our sister organisation). I am now retired from clinical practice and concentrate on my role as Director.
Becky Gorton
Becky Gorton
Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Supervisor
Senior Child & Adolescent Mental Health Practitioner

PGCert Supervision Skills (CBT pathway) University of Manchester 2021 (pending)
PGDip Evidence Based Psychological Therapies CYP (CBT pathway) University of Manchester 2017
Dip Naturopathic Nutrition College of Naturopathic Medicine 2010
Foundation in Family Therapy Merseyside Psychotherapy Institute 2004
Dip Social Work/ DipHE (Applied Social Sciences) University of Portsmouth 1998

BABCP Full Accreditation
SWE Registered
GDPR Compliant
I have worked in the NHS Child & Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) from 2002-2021 most recently as a Senior CAMHS Practitioner/ Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Lead. This role included supervising a CBT student, qualified CBT’s and Children and Young Peoples Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners.
I have seen children and young people with a wide range of mental health difficulties including depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive disorder, trauma, specific phobias and other conditions. I was also part of the CAMHS Multi Disciplinary Team offering assessments and interventions for Children and Young People with social communication difficulties (including young people on the Autism Spectrum and with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).

Primarily in private practice I offer CBT and CBT Supervision. I am on the Private Practice Register and a recognised provider with a number of Health Insurance Companies. Additionally I am a marker for the Psychological Therapy Training Centre. I have undertaken post graduate training in adapting CBT for people with cancer and people on the autism spectrum. I also offer behavioural intervention approaches and draw on my wider experience in family work and parent training.

My background is in Children's Services, both in a multi-disciplinary children with disabilities team and in children and families teams.
Zara Winstanley
Zara Winstanley
Counsellor for Children and Young people
BSc (Hons) Psychology
PGDip Counselling & Psychotherapy
Advanced Diploma in Clinical Supervision
Certificate In Couples Therapy
Certificate In Group Work Adults & Children
Accreditation in Family Substance Misuse Programmes
Rhythm Movement Training – School Readiness
GDPR Compliant
BACP Registered
NCPS Accredited
ENHANCED DBS
I am an accredited counsellor, with over 15 years of integrative counselling experience. I have worked in a variety of settings; a Mental Health Team, managing and working within children’s counselling services, a secure residential unit with teenagers, GP practice, a women’s’ prison both with individuals and their families and in a hospice working with children and their families pre and post bereavement.

I have extensive experience in working with children who are neurodiverse; children and young people with variations in cognitive functioning such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and the wide range of traits present within these variations.

I endeavour to bring best practice for my clients, and I customise the therapy to meet the individual needs and focus on first establishing a trusting relationship with the child or young person. I ethically incorporate creative play, talking therapies and rhythmic movement therapy into my practice.

Rhythmic Movement Training is a movement based, primitive (infant or neo-natal) reflex integration program that uses developmental movements, gentle isometric pressure, and self-awareness to rebuild the foundations necessary to help overcome learning, sensory, emotional and behavioural challenges for children and adults especially present in those who are neurodiverse or traumatised. (see link for more information -Home - Rhythmic Movement )

To support my inclusive practice, I am continuing to engage in highly specialised study. The understanding of the connection of mind and body functioning is advancing and is informing better practices. These advances are enabling me to better support clients by helping them develop their sense of self, understand their ‘profile’, be able to manage how they engage with the world and build relationships which are the foundations of wellbeing.

Very often children’s behaviours and emotions can leave parents/caregivers distressed or confused about how to best support them. I recognise the necessity of collaboration with the client and - in the case of children and young people -parents/primary caregivers to support thriving and flourishing.

I will happily answer questions about how I may approach work with you or your young person and will always offer a brief pre session check in to gather information to inform the assessment before the therapy begins.
Ruth McCluggage
Ruth McCluggage
Child and Young Person’s counsellor, Autism, ADHD and Mental Health Mentor
BSc Psychology
PGCE (Primary)
Qualified Teacher Status
MA Inclusive Education and Special Educational Needs - with a focus on Autism
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Graduate Member British Psychological Society (GMBPsS)
Registered Member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy)
University Mental Health Advisors Network (UMHAN)
GDPR Compliant

I have over twenty years of experience supporting children and young people, initially - as a teacher and SENCo, then as a counsellor and mentor at schools and universities. I specialise in working with neurodiverse children and young people, helping them to identify any challenges and barriers within the education system, at home, and within the wider community. I then work with the child/young person to empower and equip them with the tools and techniques to address current and future challenges.

I am trained as an integrative therapist, meaning that I use a variety of techniques from different therapies including Person Centred counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Transactional Analysis. That allows me the flexibility to adapt the way that I work to meet the individual needs of the child or young person in a collaborative process. I work to help them develop strategies to manage a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, panic disorder, low self-esteem, phobias, trauma, complex grief, problems with anger, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

In the first session I will go through a background history and talk about the child/young person’s challenges and parental concerns. We will then set goals for our work together. How I approach the first session is dependent on the age and confidence of the young person. Typically, parents are only present for part of the session.
Ellen O'Connor
Ellen O'Connor
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
Registered General Nurse 1990
Registered Mental Health Nurse 1993
Diploma in Community Health-Specialism Substance Misuse 1995
MSc Business Management 2004
Webster Stratton Parenting –The Incredible Years-2007
Parent Child Game Practitioner and supervisor 2007
MSc Module in supervision Lancaster University 2008
Diploma Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy 2012
CBT Supervision Module 2016
GDPR Compliant
I have worked in the NHS since 1987 both as a general nurse and mental health nurse in a variety of settings – hospital in patient and the community. The majority of my experience has been in mental health, now specialising in children’s behavioural and emotional well- being for ten years.

I currently work with children, young people and their families using a variety of skills. I work as a cognitive behavioural therapist with children and young people experiencing emotional difficulties such as anxiety, separation anxiety, social anxiety, school refusal, OCD and also I work with young people experiencing low mood and low self- esteem.

I work with children of all age groups. I support parents to strengthen their positive parenting strategies and their relationships .
Alison Triste
Alison Triste
BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
Post Graduate diploma in CBT
Foundation certificate in Emotional Health in Children. Bolton Behaviour Support accredited by the University of Bolton
H.L.T.A Manchester Metropolitan University
B.Sc. (Hons) Psychology
Member of the British Psychological society
29 years’ experience working with children
Delivering CBT to children, adolescents and adults for 8 years
GDPR compliant
Remote Appointments Only
Hello, here is a little back ground about me. I travelled to America and worked as a Nanny for a year when I was 18 then came back to England to study for a Psychology and counselling degree. I then trained as a young people’s advice worker giving support to 16-25 year olds. I continued working as a Nanny for the next 14 years alongside bringing up my own family which included 2 step children and my son diagnosed with Autism, Dyspraxia and Dyslexia. I also ran a pre-school group, worked as a pre-school gymnastics coach and began working in primary school from 2003 where I qualified as a Higher-level teaching assistant (H.L.T.A.)
The teaching role entailed teaching children aged 4-11 and delivering the teaching provision for children with specific learning difficulties and Autistic spectrum conditions for which I completed additional training. I then trained in working with children with emotional health difficulties and became the social and emotional aspects of learning coordinator (SEAL’s) in school which entailed carrying out group and 1 to 1 interventions. I felt that the children I worked with needed extra strategies to manage emotions so I trained as a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist specialising in working with children. I also trained to work with Adults.

For the past 8 years my focus has been on mental health and have been using predominantly CBT interventions with children in schools, working systemically involving the parents and schools where necessary and have developed a private practice for children, adolescents and adults.
Currently I am piloting a whole class program in building resilience and emotional health as a preventative measure and have written a book on CBT in schools which is just at the editing stage.
For the past 7 years I have supervised trainee CBT Therapists working with children, adolescents and adults in addition to qualified therapists in a variety of settings including CAMHS, schools, the NHS and private practice.
I also deliver whole staff training in mental health for school staff and children, using CBT techniques.

As CPD I have trained in Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Metacognitive Therapy and Bereavement counselling for children.
To assess a person’s needs, I carry out a full case conceptualisation using a formulation to best inform treatment. I
fit a disorder specific evidence based CBT treatment with flexibility, drawing from additional approaches if helpful. My passion is enabling children and adults to maximize their potential by working collaboratively to meet their treatment goals by using a combination of symptom reduction protocols in addition to Positive Psychology.

I have experience of treating:

Separation anxiety LSE
Social anxiety Perfectionism
Health anxiety Sleep difficulties
Generalised anxiety
Panic disorder
Agoraphobia
Specific Phobia
Trauma (P.T.S.D)
Depression
Self-harm/distress tolerance
Anger
OCD/BDD
Stress
Phil Jones
Phil Jones
Specialist ASD, ADHD and Mental Health Practitioner & CBT Therapist
DipHE Mental Health Nurse
Post Graduate Diploma CYP Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
GDPR compliant

Remote Appointments Only
I have worked in the NHS since 2002 in a variety of mental health and learning disability settings. My career overall has remained in Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMHS), Child and Adolescent Mental Health Support Team and specialist NHS ASD diagnostic services, whilst earlier in my career spending time working in an intensive therapy service. I have a strong passion for helping young people and their families achieve the best outcomes alongside an understanding of the difficulties, but also to recognise the strengths and resilience within the family.

A significant part of my offering within private work is supporting parents in their support of their young person, helping parents adapt strategies they are using and also to help parents think about their own goals and aims. This approach is supported via a systemic way of working.

I have significant experience in working with young people who suffer from anxiety-related disorders such as OCD, separation anxiety, generalised anxiety, and phobias including emetophobia. Either as a main difficulty or an associated difficulty of another mental health difficulty, I have experience and a strong passion for working with young people with low mood and depression. Alongside this, I also have a special interest and significant experience of working with young people and their families where the young person may or may not have a diagnosis of ASD (but may have a presentation suggested of ASD) which also includes associated experience of interlinked ASD mental health difficulties such as the above.

I feel it is important to have an honest approach with young people and their families, ensuring there is clarity about difficulties and the best way to help the recovery process, whilst recognising that the initial steps to engaging with someone new, sometimes can be the hardest.

I’m able to offer sessions on an individual basis, family sessions or a mix of both. Depending on the difficulties, sometimes family sessions can be a safe and effective way to help understand difficulties and support change within the family home. There are times when a young person may not feel able to attend a session on their own, I am wholly accepting of parents attending sessions initially. There are times when out-of-session tasks may be beneficial to support the work in session, alongside this and if confidentiality allows, involving parents in a session overview with a view to collaborative working which may include parental support outside of sessions for session tasks. This stems from my experience of working within an intensive therapy service.

I listen to young people and their families in a non-judgemental way. It’s important to understand the current difficulties to ensure the right approach is taken, whilst working collaboratively. It’s also important to close a course of treatment, looking at individual relapse prevention work.
kirsty hill
Kirsty Hill
EMDR Therapist, Relationship Therapist, Counsellor, Trauma Therapist, Life Coach
Diploma in Counselling Level 4
Rewind Trauma and phobia THERAPY – Human givens society
BACP accreditation
EMDR Qualification – EMDR Masterclass
Relationship Therapy QUALIFICATION - CFC
Diploma in Coaching – Centre of excellence
GDPR Compliant
I qualified as a counsellor in 2006 working for a local charity which is still ongoing. I have undertaken many projects for them working with:

Victims of domestic abuse in Wythenshawe as part of a multi-disciplinary team.

Young people in schools and pupil referral units and in private practice.

Trauma projects for young people – one being those at risk of/involved in Child Sexual exploitation as part of a multi-disciplinary project in Rochdale, Wigan and Stockport. Another working with care leavers. Working with victims of the Manchester Arena bombing.

EAP clients.

I facilitate crisis management groups when needed.

I feel I offer my clients a non-judgemental, safe place to unpick their issues and look at making positive changes and move forward. I work at my clients pace, giving them the time and space they need to feel more in control of their own lives. I have had the luxury over the years of being able to give my trauma clients the time and space they need to come to terms and move on from what has happened to them. I am as passionate about my work today as I was when I started my training back in 2003.
Katie Meggers
Katie Meggers
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

BABCP Accredited
Post Graduate Diploma in CBT
Foundational Training in Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
Post Graduate certificate in Practice Assessment
Post Graduate Mental Health Social Work Award
Diploma in Social work
BA (Hons) Social Work
GDPR compliant and registered with Social Work England
I originally trained as a social worker and have spent 22 years working within statutory mental health services including the last 6 years working within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in the NHS.

I love to work with young people and their families to support them to bring about the changes they wish to make in their lives. I have worked with a wide range of mental health difficulties including social anxiety, OCD, specific phobia, GAD, PTSD, panic, low self esteem and depression.

As well as working with mood disorder and anxiety, I have worked with young people with difficulties managing emotions, self harm and suicidal ideation. I have a special interest in working with young people with attachment difficulties and have completed further training in this area.

I enjoy working using both CBT and DBT dependent upon the needs of the young person.
Andrew King
Andrew King
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
BABCP Accredited
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural psychotherapy
BA honours in Youth work
Teaching assistant level 3
GDPR Compliant
Remote appointments only
I am qualified cognitive behavioural therapist with experience of working in NHS services, private practice and further education settings.

I previously was working as youth worker and have over 17 years’ experience of working with children and young people aged 0-20 in different capacities. Including people with ASD, ADHD, severe learning disabilities, emotional and behavioural difficulties, anxiety, and low mood disorders. 

I very much enjoy working with children and young people and feel I can keep folk engaged in the process often with humour and fun all done sensitively and empathetically. During our time in therapy, we will work collaboratively on your aims for therapy.

I have experience of working with, separation anxiety, OCD, PTSD and trauma, depression, anxiety disorders, body dysmorphic disorder, trichotillomania, anger issues, Panic attacks and agoraphobia.
Sally Hinchliffe
Sally Hinchliffe
Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist
BSc (Hons) Psychology
MSc Forensic Psychology
PG Certificate Improving Access to Psychological Therapies
PG Diploma Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapies
HCPC registered
GDPR Compliant
I have worked in the NHS since 2015 providing mental health support. I have experience working in the child and adolescence mental health service (CAMHS), where I worked with young people aged 6-18 years, providing interventions for a range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, social anxiety, panic disorder, health anxiety, OCD, phobias and depression-related difficulties.

My role is to develop a strong therapeutic relationship with young people and their caregivers alike, to be able to work towards your goals for therapy, in order to achieve what you want to achieve from accessing therapy and support. I provide a safe and warm environment for therapy to be an open and honest environment.
Zoe Brook
Zoe Brook
Cognitive Behaviour Therapist
Post Graduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy
Member of the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP)
Registered Member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
Client profile: Children & Teenagers from aged 9 upwards
GDPR Compliant
Children and teenagers can be reticent when it comes to sharing their personal experiences with a stranger. One of the most fundamental skills of the therapist is an ability to engage these young people, earn their trust and encourage them to open up. For me, therapy starts with understanding what interests them, learning about their lives and exploring what is uniquely important to them.

Bumps, bruises and scrapes are a part of growing up. So are struggles, anxieties and mood swings. Challenges arise for all of us from the day we are born and play an important role in developing our problem-solving skills and our resilience.

Sometimes though, these challenges can be overwhelming for a young person and can give rise to issues such as low mood and depression, general anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, social anxiety, school refusal, exam anxiety, low self-esteem, separation anxiety, perfectionism, health anxiety and specific phobias.

A fresh way of looking at themselves, these issues and the world around them allows children and young people try out news skills and strategies in order to make healthier choices and move towards becoming the person they want to be.

As well as traditional CBT, I work with an approach called DNA-V: a therapy which has been specifically developed for young children and teenagers. It is positive, relatable to their lives and allows them to take responsibility for, and ownership of, change even at a young age.

DNA is the genetic material that determines how we look and function. However, there is a different type of DNA which has been developed to help us understand how we feel and how we act in the world. It comprises three skills which we all have from the moment we are born. These are our Discoverer, Noticer and Advisor skills. Transforming each skill into a character allows children and young people to see what might be getting in the way of them leading their lives according to what is uniquely important to them; their Values (DNA-V).

Therapy can involve parents or carers, either in part or for the entirety of the session. Depending on age, I do encourage children to work towards spending some time with just the two of us but to also share what they feel comfortable with the parent or carer at the end of the session.

In addition to my private practice I have experience working with schools; providing support for pupils in the form of individual therapy as well as running presentations and workshops for parents.
Ffion Brooks
Ffion Brooks
CBT Therapist
BSc Psychology
PGDip Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CYP)
BABCP Accredited
GDPR Compliant
Remote Appointments Only
I have over 9 years experience of supporting children and young people with common mental health problems. I am an accredited CBT Therapist and I have gained my experience working in the NHS, private sector and in schools.

I have worked with a wide range of common mental health problems including depression, anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD, specific phobias and other conditions. I have experience of using CBT and supporting those who also have additional neurodevelopmental needs such as Autism.

I understand the importance of implementing the CBT protocols, however adapting the principals to the needs of the young person and their family.
Dr Liz Kirkland
Dr Liz Kirkland
Consultant Clinical Psychologist
BSc (Hons) Psychology University of Lancaster 1991
Clin Psy D University of Manchester 1995
Certificate in Systemic Practice (therapeutic work with families and groups) University of Birmingham 1997
Accredited Life Coach
HCPC and BPS Registered
I have over 25 years of experience working within the NHS (1992-2013) and independent practice (2013-2017) working as a Clinical Psychologist in the North West of England within CAMHS teams as a consultant. After a break, I have been working successfully online since late 2020.

I provide psychological and parenting advice for parents of children and young people up to the age of 18. I often work with children and parents together as I find that this is most effective.

As a psychologist I do not reduce difficulties into generic diagnoses because, although they can provide us with helpful shorthand, everybody is different. Problems may look the same from the outside but we need to understand the fine detail to move forward. Therefore, the basis of the way I work is through a detailed and careful assessment. I meet the child/young person with their parent/s to find out about the problem of course but also the whole child and his or her unique circumstances. The child’s history, family, school and social relationships as well as the current cultural context and events must all be considered when understanding the difficulties.

Formulation:
This is an understanding of the problem, how it came about and what might be keeping it going. I will usually write a report and spend a session explaining this to you and your child. This is often enough to create change and usually takes between one and three meetings over a period of a month.

Intervention:
If further intervention/treatment is required, then this can be arranged with me if appropriate or I can advise on other services that can help.

I work individually but also with couples and families.

The service I provide includes the assessment of and advice for the following conditions and presentations:

Parental Burnout out and stress:
This phenomenon is increasingly an issue as family life and demands on parents becomes effectively unmanageable. This can create relationship issues between the parents, mental health problems for the parents and a tendency to look towards perhaps quick fixes for escalating behavioural problems with the children.

​Addressing the burnout is the priority here which can then have positive consequences for the challenges that the children may be presenting.

​I take a systemic approach here, that is a family therapy and interactive approach considering individual needs and the family functioning as a whole. Assessment is key as all families are different, interventions might be family therapy, marital therapy, parenting advice or of course individual work with the children may be indicated.   

Problems common in early childhood :-
- Behavioural problems, anger and aggression
- Eating
- Toileting
- Sleep difficulties and parasomnias (night terrors, sleep walking)

Issues which can arise in later childhood and early adulthood :-
- Anxiety ; such as panic, phobia, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), separation anxiety, school phobia/school refusal, existential fears
- Mood; sadness and loss, depression
- Adjustment to major life changes (for example; bereavement and loss, parental separation, divorce and family changes)
- Somatic issues ( for example; unexplained headaches, stomach aches, psychogenic non epileptic seizures)
- Eating problems, food fears and phobias, restricted diet, eating disorders
- Neurodiversity: such as those who have attracted a diagnosis of autistic spectrum condition or ADHD for example.

Dan Sutton
Dan Sutton
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
Post Graduate Diploma in Evidence Based Psychological Therapies for Children and Young People CBT
BA (Hons) Primary Education
Postgraduate Certificate in CBT 2015
GDPR Compliant
Hello! I'm Dan, a cognitive behavioural therapist specialising in working with children and young people in the Greater Manchester area. I have 6 years of experience working in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS). I love my job and find it really rewarding to help people navigate their mental health challenges.

My primary focus is providing support for those facing anxiety related difficulties including general anxiety, worry, OCD, panic, social anxiety, health anxiety and specific phobias. Many of the children and young people I work with have additional needs such as autism or ADHD. In my practice, I take a time-limited approach, where we set goals collaboratively. You can expect the first sessions to focus on assessment, allowing me to gain an understanding of your unique situation. Once we have established a shared understanding, we will transition into the treatment stage, where we will work together to address your concerns. Throughout our work, my aim is to empower you with the tools, understanding and skills you need to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
Elle Nixon
Elle Nixon
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
Accredited BABCP
Senior Child & Adolescent Mental Health Practitioner
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Psychology BSc
GDPR Compliant
Remote Appointments Only
Hi, I’m Elle! I have worked for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) for the last 7 years in the NHS, community and schools. My passion is working with children and young people to provide them with a safe and non-judgmental space where they can express their thoughts, feelings and behaviours and gain new insights and skills to support them in achieving their goals.

I am a qualified and accredited CBT therapist and currently work as a CBT therapist and CBT supervisor in a NHS CAMHS service. I work with a wide range of presenting mental health difficulties including depression, social anxiety, general anxiety, panic, OCD, PTSD and a variety of phobias.
Katie Woollam-Smith
Katie Woollam-Smith
Senior Child and Adolescent Mental Health Practitioner
BACP Accredited Counsellor

BA Economics and Politics Hons (University of Manchester)
PGCE Primary (University of Plymouth)
Certificate and Diploma in Counselling (University of Salford BACP Accredited)
PG Certificate Therapeutic Play (PTUK)
PG Certificate Counselling Supervision (University of Salford MSC programme)
PG Diploma in Parenting (Increasing Access to Psychological Therapies programme – University of Manchester)
MSC Psychoanalytic Observation Studies (University of Leeds – currently completing)
Accredited Video Interaction Guidance Practitioner
Accredited Incredible Years group leader
Parent Child Game practitioner
Reflective Interpersonal Child and Parent Therapy practitioner
GDPR Compliant
Remote Appointments Only
I am an integrative psychodynamic therapist with training in a range of therapeutic approaches including counselling, play and creative therapies. I have worked in CAMH Services for over 15 years as a mental health practitioner supporting children and families in teams for 5-18 year olds and under 5’s teams. I have extensive experience of supporting children and families with a range of presenting difficulties and situations and offer a non-judgemental space for parents and children to explore, understand and express their feelings. Through this we can work together to help increase understanding in family relationships, improve communication and wellbeing.

I am accredited Video Interaction Guidance Practitioner which is a video based relationship therapy which can aid in understanding the strengths in interactions and support in building on these. In addition, I am accredited Incredible Years group leader and a Parent Child Game practitioner and have substantial experience of supporting parents of children of different ages in thinking about children’s needs and behaviours in the context of their individual developmental stage.

I help parents make sense of how our experiences of being parented can impact on our experience of being a parent, and support parents to make sense of patterns of relating and connect with the values which are important to them as individuals.

My approach is to support a shared understanding or formulation of what you would like to work on together and I tailor my approach to meet your individual needs.
Helen Brunt
Helen Brunt
Counsellor Specialising in Neurodiversity
Post graduate diploma in Counselling gained in 2002 at Keele University.
Post graduate certificate in Play therapy gained through the University of Canterbury.
Registered member of the BACP (British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy).
GDPR Compliant.
Fully Insured.
My name is Helen and I have been working as an integrative counsellor for the past 22 years. My foundation training is in Person Centred counselling, but work integrating the Cognitive therapy and Transactional Analysis.

I have worked with families, children and young people through private counselling, the NHS, independent schools, colleges and university. I have worked within the NHS school counselling service as well as independent schools and colleges providing a supportive therapeutic service for their students. My experience includes working in a Pupil referral Unit, helping young people and their families deal with Mental Health difficulties, ASD, ADHD, anxiety and depression. For some children who are struggling with these difficulties attending mainstream school is challenge.

Currently within the Childrens Rooms I use my coaching, counselling and teaching experience to support children and young people learning to manage their emotional difficulties and for some the challenges of autism and ADHD. I am a warm and empathic counsellor who believes that providing a supportive environment can help young people to feel validated and understand themselves better as they learn and grow.

I am well placed to help you manage any difficulties you might be experiencing and to offer an individual approach. I am a very warm and empathic counsellor who believes that each individual has the capacity to grow and change.
Tom Aldridge
Tom Aldridge
Integrative Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Councillor
Registered by UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy)
Level 6 Diploma in Integrative and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Level 5 Diploma in Trauma and Mental Health in Schools Practitioner
BA Hons Social Sciences (1st class)
GDPR Compliant.
I have been working with clients with emotional, social and behavioural difficulties for over 12 years. My specialism in child & adolescent psychotherapeutic counselling offers therapy in a deeply relational, fun and creative way. With a foundation in trauma-informed care and signifiant experience working with neurodiverse young people in primary, secondary and alternative education, my approach extends beyond the counselling room—I closely with school and family, advocating for each child's holistic well-being in all environments.

I use a variety of modalities in therapy including sand tray work, play, mindfulness, art and neuroscience. My open and personable attitude allows humour and creativity to create a strong bond with his clients that facilitates young people to be able to express themselves fully.

Counselling is a way of exploring issues, feelings, relationships and behaviours in order to improve wellbeing, feel listened to and understood. I am passionate about my work and my aim is to help young people between ages 7-18 to make sense of their difficulties, whether emotional or relational, by helping them explore experiences and feelings they want to work through at their own pace and in a way that is tailored to their needs.

On a more personal note, I love walking my family labradoodle, watching and playing football (Man City fan).
Sarah Heath
Sarah Heath
Offering Counselling and Psychotherapy
Level 7 Post Graduate Diploma in Integrative Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy (Completion June 2025)
Master’s in Social Work (2019)
Postgraduate Certificate in Education. (2011)
Family System Certificate through a Transactional Analysis Lens (2024)
Member of the UK Council for Psychotherapy. (UCKP)
GDPR Compliant and current DBS.
I have worked with families, children, and young people for 15 years in a range of settings, including, schools, colleges, pupil referral units, children’s residential care homes, communities and directly within the family home.

I am an Advance Clinical Practitioner (4th year Trainee) providing counselling and Psychotherapy in Transactional Analysis. I provide individual and family sessions for those seeking to make positive changes within their lives by embracing change, letting go of what no longer serves us, and accepting permanence.

I have gained a particular interest in working with young people who identify as neurodivergent (both post and or pre-diagnosis.) In my current role, I work for Mental Health Charity that provides support to children and young people who are at risk of self-harming/ have suicidal ideations and intrusive thoughts and a range of complex needs.

I work directly with adults, families and young people who may be affected by friendship and relationship difficulties, abuse, trauma, low mood, depression, poor self-esteem, low confidence, negative thinking patterns, emotional school-based avoidance, bullying, anger and low motivation.
Deborah Aisbitt
Deborah Aisbitt
Children’s Person-centred Counsellor
Neurodiverse affirming approach
ADHD & Autism

BSC (Hons) Psychology & Sociology
Professional Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Certificate in Online and Phone Counselling
Advanced certificate in Clinical Supervision
MBACP
ICO Registered
GDPR compliant
Enhanced DBS
I qualified as a counsellor over 12 years ago and have experience working with children and young people aged 5 – 17 years within schools, colleges & organisational settings. I work in private practice as a counsellor and clinical supervisor for newly qualified & student counsellors, alongside a team lead role overseeing both adults & children’s counsellors. My background prior to counselling was in family & youth support.

 I offer person-centred counselling with a neurodiverse affirming approach. I have both lived and professional experience of children with autism & ADHD. I am passionate about creating a safe space to explore thoughts & feelings and believe therapy can help identify strengths, build confidence and develop a greater sense of self awareness and self-acceptance.  By recognising and celebrating unique skills, we can compassionately discuss any challenges your child may be facing.
Liz Meller
Liz Meller (remote therapy only)
Systemic and Family Psychotherapist and Supervisor
MSc Systemic and Family Psychotherapy (Leeds University)
PGc Supervision Skills for Mental Health Professionals (Manchester University)
Cert in Higher Education in Addiction Studies (Leeds University)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy – (Brief UK Bristol)
Level 3 Qualification in Cognitive Behavioral Interventions (Chester University)
NVQ Level 2 Youth and Community Practice (The National Youth agency)
AFT (Association of Family Therapy) Registered Therapist and Supervisor
UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) Registered
GDPR Compliant
I have over 20 years’ experience working alongside children, young people, adults and families in a number of inpatient and community settings. Until recently I worked within the NHS for nearly 20 years in both the child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) and the young person’s substance misuse treatment service. I currently practice privately at The Rooms at both the Poynton and the Knutsford centres with children, young people, adults, couples and families.

Family Therapy:

As a registered systemic and family psychotherapist, I help people in close relationships to help each other. Family therapy enables family members, couples and others who care about each other, to express and explore difficult thoughts and emotions safely, to understand each other’s perspective, and appreciate each other’s needs. It enables people to build on strengths and make positive changes in their relationships and their lives.

Research shows that family therapy is beneficial for children, young people and adults of all ages experiencing a wide range of difficulties and circumstances. These include (but are not limited to) child, adolescent and adult mental health difficulties, parenting difficulties, illness and disability in families, separation, divorce and step-family life, eating disorders, fostering, adoption and kinship care and substance use.

Individuals:

As well as couples and families I have experience working alongside individuals, with a range of presentations. These include low mood, anxiety, anger, loss, school refusal, difficult attachments, relationship difficulties with peers and family, neurodevelopmental disorders and substance misuse.

As a therapist I draw upon a wide range of models, depending on the need/development/life stage of the individual or family. As an experienced practitioner I aim to work collaboratively with clients ultimately promoting wellbeing and increasing emotional resilience. As a therapist and AFT registered supervisor I adhere to both the AFT and UKCP Codes of Ethics. I am passionate about good practice and evidence based practice (NICE guidelines) in order to safeguard others and promote positive outcomes.

I also provide consultation, training and supervision to other professionals.
Jenny Williams
Jenny Williams
Dietitian, Counsellor, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist & Supervisor
MSc Nutrition & Dietetics | Post Graduate Diploma Counselling
Post Graduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy - Distinction
Post Graduate Certificate Sports Nutrition
Post Graduate Certificate Eating Disorders
Certificate in Filial Therapy
Level 7 Certificate in Supervision
MSc modules in CBT, Obesity & Eating Disorders
Msc Module – Nutrition & Dietetics in Infancy and Childhood
Msc module – Nutrition & Dietetics in common Paediatric Disorders
Kings College London Certificate – Dietary Management: the low FODMAP diet for IBS
BACP accredited counsellor | Registered with HCPC & BDA
GDPR Compliant
Remote Appointments Only
I have worked for the NHS since 2007 & also in the private sector as an accredited Counsellor, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist, supervisor and Registered Dietitian. I have experience of working with children and families within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), community services and hospital settings. With this unique skillset, I can tailor sessions to your individual requirements using a range of tools and techniques. I offer a non-judgemental and supportive space to children, young people and their families to explore their concerns.

As a Dietitian I specialise in working with children and young people with Eating Disorders and eating difficulties, including ARFID. I also work with children with allergies, coeliac disease, irritable bowel syndrome, gastro-intestinal issues, infant feeding difficulties such as reflux, cows milk protein allergy or aversive feeding.

I offer Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for children and young people with a range of difficulties including social anxiety, general anxiety, panic disorder, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, low mood, obsessive compulsive disorder, perfectionism, trauma and eating disorders / difficulties, including ARFID.

Within my role as a Counsellor I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for children and young people to explore their difficulties. My specialist areas include bereavement, eating difficulties, friendship issues, low mood, exam stress, perfectionism, low self-esteem/confidence.

I can offer filial therapy sessions, which is a blend of child-led play therapy and family therapy. This form of therapy helps children communicate their feelings through play.

I am also a qualified supervisor and provide sessions to trainee and qualified therapists.
Anna Dagnall
Anna Dagnall
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

BSc HONS psychology
INLPTA Dip NLP
Dip in professional studies in nursing (Mental Health)
BSc HONS Psychosocial Interventions for Psychosis (CBT and early intervention)
PGDip Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CYP)
PGCert Supervision skills for mental health professionals
BABCP provisionally accredited (working toward full)
GDPR Compliant
I am a qualified mental health nurse and CBT therapist and I have worked in the NHS for 14 years. The first five years in acute adult mental health services and for 9 years in CAMHS (Child and Adolescent mental health services). Latterly I have been the Clinical Team Leader and CBT Lead in CAMHS.

I have a special interest in child mental health and I work with a wide range of mental health difficulties including OCD, generalised anxiety disorder, PTSD, social anxiety, specific phobia, panic disorder, low mood and low self esteem. I am particularly interested in anxiety disorders.

I am really passionate about CBT and how it can help young people understand their difficulties and how to tackle them. I take a team work and collaborative approach.

I incorporate other approaches such as NLP and counselling skills.

I am a qualified supervisor and provide clinical supervision for CBT to colleagues and trainee CBT therapists.
Dr. Sara Bardsley
Dr Sara Bardsley
Clinical Psychologist
BA (Hons) Clinical Psychology
Psychodynamic Interpersonal Therapy trained 2016
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology 2016
EMDR trained 2019
HCPC registered
GDPR compliant
I have worked within the NHS for 5 years as a clinical psychologist and specialise in offering assessment, formulation and therapy for individuals with physical and mental health difficulties, which often involves developing an understanding of the links between people’s physical and emotional difficulties and supporting them to manage their associated distress.

I have experience of working with children and families in different settings including Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAHMS), community and hospital based physical health settings, and forensic settings in young offender’s prisons. I have experience of working with children with a range of difficulties including anxiety, depression, self-harming and suicidal behaviours, attachment and relational difficulties and a wide range of physical health problems, including medically unexplained symptoms. I offer assessment and therapy for emotional and behavioural difficulties in children from secondary school age upwards.

My work with children with physical health problems involves supporting both the child and family to understand and cope with the psychological distress associated with living with and managing a physical health problem. I have experience of working with and liaising with different services that might be involved in a child and families care such as social services, medical professionals, mental health services, and the criminal justice system.

I work in a relational way with both children and families and understand the challenges and impact that emotional and physical health difficulties can have on the family dynamic. I work individually with children but also work with children and families to think about the emotional impact on the family dynamic.
Sue Colegrave
Sue Colegrave
Consultant Clinical Psychologist

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Diploma in Family Therapy
MSc Child Development
BSc (Hons) Psychology
HCPC registered
GDPR Compliant
I have worked in the NHS for over 25 years in child and adolescent mental health services. I am registered as a Practitioner Psychologist with the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC). I qualified as a Clinical Psychologist in 1997 and initially worked in an under 5s service, moving to a Consultants post with 5-18 year olds in 2004. I am now the Lead for CAMHS Psychological Services in South Manchester. I qualified as a Family Therapist in 2003 . I am also trained in Narrative Therapy, Webster Stratton Incredible Years and Non-violent Resistance Therapy. I hold an IAPT systemic supervision qualification and offer supervision to clinicians from a range of professional backgrounds.

I currently work with children, young people and families presenting with psychological difficulties including anxiety, low mood, behaviour difficulties, emotional dysregulation, relationship difficulties and experience of trauma. I work individually with young people and also directly with their families. For me the key to change is a thorough understanding of the issues and the establishment of specific goals with the client. I will tailor intervention to individual and family need. I will work collaboratively with young people and their families to identify their strengths and resources and build on steps they may have already taken towards making change.
Claire Friday
Claire Friday
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist
Adult Psychotherapeutic Counsellor

MSc Psychotherapy (Newman University)
Diploma in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy
Diploma in Adult Psychotherapeutic Counselling
Registered UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy)
GDPR Compliant
Remote Appointments Only
My name is Claire Friday. I have trained as a integrative Psychotherapist at the Northern Guild in Newcastle. Before training as a psychotherapist I worked for over 15 years in the adoption field.

I have worked with various charities, including a child bereavement service and within primary school settings supporting children and young people. More recently I have worked as a psychotherapist with adults within an Enhanced Primary Care Team.

My training at the Northern Guild incorporated working creatively with both children and adults, as appropriate to support and enable expression where words may be difficult to find.

I work with issues such as bereavement, low self-esteem, OCD, somatic issues, eating issues, self-harm, identity issues, peer/bullying issues, anger, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, attachment issues and trauma.

My approach to therapy is to be a companion alongside my client, supporting them by providing a calm and safe environment to explore what brings them to therapy.

When working with children and young people I will meet both the client and parent/s to support understanding of the current difficulties and explore how I can support the client and agree an initial plan so there is a shared sense of direction.

Roseanne Powell
Roseanne Powell
Cognitive Behaviour Therapist
Accredited BABCP
Senior Child & Adolescent Mental Health Practitioner
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
Social Work MA (Social Work England Registered)
Psychology BSc
GDPR Compliant

Remote Appointments Only
Hi, I’m Rosie! I have worked with children for the past 10 years, and have spent the last 5 years working in the NHS within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

The young people I have worked with previously describe me as a warm, kind, and caring person, who is non-judgemental and genuine.

I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT), and currently work as a Senior Mental Health Practitioner and CBT Lead of a large local NHS service. Within my role, I conduct both routine and urgent assessments, and deliver a wide range of therapeutic goal-based interventions to young people aged between 6 - 18.

I absolutely adore working with children, young people, and their families, and have extensive experience working with a variety of mental health difficulties, from mild to severe, as well as more complex presentations.

These problems typically consist of anxiety and mood disorders, particularly obsessive-compulsive disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, panic, health anxiety, trauma (including PTSD), social anxiety, body dysmorphia, phobias, and other conditions.

Likewise, I also support young people who are experiencing low mood, sleep difficulties and emotional dysregulation. I therefore manage risk and safety plan on a day-to-day basis, predominantly supporting young people and their families to cope with issues of self-harm and engagement in suicidal ideation.

In addition to the above, I have 10 years’ experience of working with children with neurodiversity, such as Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and more recently have begun adapting CBT methods to meet my clients’ additional needs.

As both an experienced therapist and practitioner, I often draw upon my knowledge and skills of a range of different evidence-based models, depending on the needs of the young person or their family.

I will initially work together with a young person to understand the problems they are experiencing, and then will seek to develop a shared understanding of their difficulties. Later, we will begin to challenge some of the difficult thoughts they may be experiencing, and then gradually expose them to trying out new coping behaviours.

I believe the real key to positive change is developing a strong and collaborative therapeutic relationship with my clients. I am therefore someone who always put 100% into everything I do, and will consistently aim to achieve the very best outcomes I can for all the young people and the families I work with.
rachel spregg
Rachel Spregg
Therapeutic Integrative Counsellor MBACP
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Certificate in Therapeutic Counselling
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Course (MBSR)
Certificate TA101 in Transactional Analysis
PGCERT Early Years Teacher Status
BA (Hons) Early Years Education
HND Early Years Education
Certificate in the Theory & Practice of Nurture Groups
Trained in Therapeutic Messy Play Groups
Trained in Grief Recovery
Trained in the Therapeutic Intervention Drawing & Talking
Trained in Lego Therapy
Youth Mental Health First Aider
Relax Kids Coach
Certified Infant Massage Instructor
Certified Peer Massage Instructor
GDPR Compliant
I am a member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and have experience of working as a therapeutic counsellor within the NHS, Education and community organizations.

Having worked in pastoral care for the last twenty years my skillset in the areas of intrapersonal and interpersonal skills are excellent, I connect well with people of all backgrounds and ages.

I have worked extensively with children exhibiting social, emotional and/or behavioural difficulties across all phases from Early Years through to Teenagers. I have led a nurture group for children with attachment related difficulties and provided trauma informed care – I have achieved awards with Nurture UK for my work in this area.

I work from the premise that we are all human beings constructive at our core and have the ability to move forward and be the very best version of ourselves. I believe that we all are doing the best we can at any given time with the resources we have available. Sometimes we need the support of a therapist to help us find ways to manage challenging times and process our thoughts and feelings.
This is where I can help!

As an Integrative counsellor I am trained in Person Centred Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Transactional Analysis. This enables me to draw upon a wide range of theory and tools in order to best meet client’s needs and a diverse range of issues. I love to work creatively and utilise the arts, bringing crafts and play within sessions with children and young people.

I look forward to connecting with you.
Rosie Khan
Rosie Khan
Childrens Counsellor
Master’s in Counselling, PGDip, MBACP
GDPR Compliant

 
Hi, Rosie here!

I am an Integrative Psychotherapist with a wealth of experience having worked across the North West for the past 13 Years. During my time as a Counsellor I have helped support children, adolescents and families.

I provide a warm, safe, non-judgemental space where the client/s can freely express their thoughts, feelings and feel heard. I am qualified in a range of therapeutic approaches and as an Integrative Psychotherapist I tailor the session to best suit the young person’s personality and needs, to reach the desired outcome.

Having previously worked in CAMHS enabled me to help families and children suffering with a range of issues including Anxiety, Low-mood, Self-harm, Issues around bullying, School refusal, Dyslexia, Autism, Anger, Low motivation and Behavioural issues. I work creatively with children, so that they feel at ease to express themselves and share their concerns. Through my wealth of experience, I have encountered many different situations including working with Children in the Foster Care System, Caregivers, Support staff, Social Workers and Foster parents, enabling them the skills required to manage the demands of children who are struggling with any change and/or instability they are facing.

I am bilingual in Urdu, Punjabi, Hindi and English and have a wealth of knowledge of South Asian Culture. Throughout your time with me I commit to working ethically and adhering to the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy guidelines.

Dr Joy Harris
Dr Joy Harris
Consultant Clinical Psychologist
Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Associate Fellow of the British Psychological Society
British Psychological Society Expert Witness
HCPC registered
GDPR Compliant
I have extensive experience (over 20 years) of working as a clinical psychologist specialising in helping children and their families. I offer assessment and therapy for a wide range of emotional and behavioural problems in children from birth to college age. I frequently help children and young people with depression and low self-esteem, anxiety problems, panic and obsessive compulsive disorder and difficulties with anger.

I also work with children who have been traumatised, either by road traffic accidents, abuse and bullying. I often see children who have behavioural problems, who may be on the autistic spectrum or suffer ADHD, and I help them and their families, to deal more effectively with their difficulties. My most recent role in the NHS has been in leading a team who help children deal with the psychological distress of living with physical health problems, and this is my specialist interest. I frequently deal with children with selective eating problems, constipation and soiling, anxiety, pain and other emotional and behavioural difficulties associated with physical health conditions.

I start therapy with an assessment. This may or may not include the child depending on the child’s age and parents’ concerns. We go through the child’s background history and talk about parents’ concerns and goals for treatment. I can then help parents prepare their child for therapy. All the techniques I use are evidence-based but as play is such an important part of development I use humour and creative strategies to make the appointments child friendly and appropriate to the child’s developmental stage. If there is a concern about the child’s cognitive abilities I also offer psychometric testing to explore these and I provide a report with recommendations.

I also offer advice on referrals to other professionals when a child presents with difficulties that are outside of my experience. I have considerable experience in training other professionals who work in health and education and in social services. I also supervise a number of other clinical psychologists. I am a British Psychological Society Expert Witness and as such I am able to carry out medico-legal assessments and treatment for children and families.
Dr Diane Griffiths
Dr Diane Griffiths
Clinical Psychologist
GDPR Compliant
What I offer:
I am an experienced Clinical Psychologist offering a confidential psychological therapy service. I use the most effective therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Cognitive analytic Therapy (CAT).

I work with young people whose traumas have manifested in many forms of emotional distress such as: Anxiety, depression, phobias, post-traumatic stress, low mood, difficult unusual beliefs and distressing voice-hearing.

The therapy begins by together understanding how the problem developed and how it is maintained. Your therapy will be tailored to the young person’s individual needs which may draw on a number of approaches. At the end of your therapy, you will have a written summary of your therapy which includes potential unhelpful patterns to look out for and new ways of coping.

Therapy can be online or face-to-face. We include parents and others where appropriate. In truth it’s difficult to give a precise description of how therapy will proceed as each piece of therapy is unique. However, the therapeutic relationship is central, as is working in a collaborative and empowering way.

About me:
I qualified as a clinical psychologist in 2006 and have worked in the NHS for over 20 yrs. I currently hold the position of Principal Clinical Psychologist and help to manage a large psychological service within a busy Early Intervention for Psychosis service. 

In addition to my training as a Clinical Psychologist I have gained further postgraduate qualifications and specialise in several different therapeutic approaches. A proportion of my role involves teaching and supervising other Clinical Psychologists. I am trained in and use EMDR therapy in my practice.

My work usually involves sitting together but can also involve taking the work out of the therapy room if together we feel this would be helpful.
Dempsey Lengden
Dempsey Lengden
Integrative Counsellor for adults and teenagers 11+
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Level 3 Safeguarding Children, Young People and Vulnerable Adults
Understanding PTSD
BACP - Working Online and Remotely
Domestic Abuse Training and Safeguarding
Make a Change – Recognise, Respond and Refer training
Suicide Awareness and Prevention Training
Bereavement and Loss Training
Coaching and Goal Based Outcomes
Working with the Functionality of Neurodiversity in CYP
Kids Nervous System Reset
Understanding ADHD
Understanding Autism
I am a registered counsellor working with children and young people. I have experience working in a variety of settings such as private practice, the charity sector, local primary schools and high schools, Alternative Provisions (AP) and Pupil Referral Units (PRU). This has given me a wide range of knowledge from children and young people of all ages, backgrounds and settings who are experiencing issues such as bullying, gender and identity issues, anger and aggression, anxiety, depression, changes in family dynamics, domestic abuse and Neurodivergence.

I am committed to continuous learning and ongoing development of my skills. Since completing my formal training, I have completed a number of additional courses to enhance my understanding and knowledge around child development and working with Neurodivergent clients. I am continuing to engage in courses and external studies to advance my work with clients and better understand my clients and their experience of the world. I actively engage in online learning in areas relating to child development, neurodiversity, Childrens mental health, Adverse Childhood Experiences and the impact on children and young people.

I am aware that often children’s big emotions and behaviours can be difficult to manage at home which can leave parents distressed and feeling overwhelmed at times wondering how to best support them. I have experience in working with children and young people who are neurodiverse; such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia and the wide range of traits present within these variations.

I work with my younger clients through the use of creative play and talking therapies, I feel I can keep them engaged in the sessions often with humour, creative play, games and creating a fun and engaging environment for them to feel comfortable and build a trusting relationship to allow young people to understand their own mental health and help them to find useful tools and techniques to manage how they are feeling.

I will happily answer questions about how I may approach work with you or your young person and will always offer a brief pre session check in to gather information to inform the assessment before the therapy begins.

Within my role I manage risk and safety plan on a day-to-day basis, predominantly supporting young people and their families to cope with issues of self-harm and engagement in suicidal ideation. I engage in regular training in safeguarding for children, young people and vulnerable adults to ensure my skills and knowledge are up to date.
Lynn Southern
Lynn Southern
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist
BABCP Accredited
Post Graduate Diploma in CBT
MSc Social Work
BSc (Hons) Psychology
Level 1 & 2 Narrative Therapy Training
GDPR Compliant and Registered with Social Work England
GDPR Compliant
I am a qualified cognitive behavioural therapist with over 20 years experience working with children, young people and their families.

I have supported families within social care organisations, education settings and most recently the NHS.

For the past 14 years I have worked within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) Teams in the Cheshire area, offering both preventative and specialist interventions to children and young people.

This has involved working with families to address common emotional and mental health problems such as: Anxiety, Low Mood, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Specific Phobia's, Panic, Worry and Loss.

Within the Cognitive Behavioural Interventions I offer, I can also draw on my training in Narrative Therapy, allowing children and young people the opportunity to share their individual stories and consider the outcomes they wish to see from our work.

I enjoy helping people to develop skills to take their lives forward in ways that are meaningful to them. This allows them to face new challenges and situations with increased confidence and certainty in their own abilities.
vicky parker
Vicky Parker
Children’s Counsellor
BA Hons Psychology
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
GDPR Compliant
Level 5 in working therapeutically with children and young people
Recent CPD includes : ACE’s and bullying, working with children with SEND/ASN/ALN, Beethoven and Beyoncé: Incorporating Music as a Tool for Engagement in Evidence-Based Treatments for Child Trauma’, How should we best improve the behaviour and relationships of children aged 2 to 10 who display disruptive and challenging behaviour
I am an adult and children’s counsellor and an accredited member of the NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society). I am bound by this membership to work ethically and to maintain my professional standards. This means the psychological safety of the adults and children I work with is my priority.

I am an integrative counsellor which means that I use parts of different psychological theories to meet your needs. I am also a member of ACAMH (Association of Children and Adolescent Mental Health) and regularly update my knowledge and professional development through them.

I am an open and compassionate person and understand that entrusting me with your child’s mental health might feel like a huge ask. The time I spend with your child is time in which they can expect to feel heard, to learn about their feelings as a way of learning about themselves and how they can understand their needs and how to meet them. I have accessed counselling several times myself and I remember asking for help feeling daunting, but I hope I can help you and your family feel safe and comfortable in doing so.

I understand that the outcome of any therapy or counselling is the strength of the relationship underpinning it but that this also takes time if children have let down in the past. I also understand that parents and carers know their children best and will take time to really understand the impact of any difficulties on a family.

I am passionate about helping children discover their emotions in a safe and playful way and each course of therapy is tailored to their individual needs. I am trauma informed and understand how critical creating psychological safety is to the success of any interventions. I use creative materials such as paint, sand, lego, and play figures with a child to help them express themselves in a way which is accessible and meaningful to them. The sessions may allow children to take risks and try new strategies in a safe environment.

My background is in information advice and guidance in the charity sector, providing support to charities such as Macmillan Cancer support, Mind, National Autistic Society NAPAC and the NHS. I qualified as a counsellor in 2017 as I wanted to deepen my ability to provide psychological support to people. I went on to specialise in children and young people having suffered bereavement myself as a child and wanting to be part of something which makes life better for children.

I have worked in primary schools since 2019 creating positive and trusting relationships with children. They respond well to my warmth humour and ability to build connection. I currently work for a national charity providing mental health support to children in primary schools running 1-2-1 counselling support and group sessions.

My areas of passion and special interest are loss and bereavement, neurodiversity, and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their effect on mental health, as well as emotional dysregulation, attachment (particularly in looked after children and brain tumours.

The feedback I had from one child was “I feel like a beam of the sun when I am here” and it is feedback like this which cements my love and passion to support children and young people.
Rachel Curtis
Rachel Curtis
Psychotherapist & Counsellor
Teaching & Supervising Transactional Analyst (Psychotherapy) TSTA(P)
Certified Transactional Analyst (Psychotherapy) CTA (P)

Diploma in Counselling
Cert. Advanced Play Therapy
Cert. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
UKCP Accredited Psychotherapist
BACP Registered Member
Accredited UKCP Supervisor
EMDR Qualified
Counselling Lecturer
GDPR Compliant
I am a highly experienced integrative psychotherapist, with 19 years clinical experience. My model of therapy offers flexibility and adaptability to your unique needs. I work with adults, couples, families and children.

My experience is within both the NHS and private healthcare, the criminal justice system, womens organisations and LGBTQI+ organisations.

I work with issues such as:

Grief and loss
Identity
Loss of Meaning
Infertility and pregnancy loss
Relationship Issues
Gender and sexuality
Sexual difficulties
Depression, including ante & post-natal
Anxiety
Trauma
Abuse (sexual, physical, financial, emotional)
Life changing illness
Work & career related issues

I use a variety of tools, techniques and approaches in my work, which is one of the joys of Transactional Analysis. There’s no set process, rather it is a collaborative journey towards a mutually agreed goals or purposes. Therapy can be short or long term.

I am a registered gender psychotherapist with the London Gender Clinic and able to provide assessment and reports for gender dysphoria and associated treatment.

I am also able to work with sexually harmful behaviours, including offending, and able to provide assessment and reports.

I lecture in Counselling at a Liverpool University & College and supervisee students, qualified therapists and supervisors.

Catherine Daly
Catherine Daly
Cognitive Behavioural Therapist

BSc (Hons) Psychology
PG Certificate Improving Access to Psychological Therapies
PG Diploma Cognitive Behaviour psychotherapies.
BABCP Registered
GDPR Compliant.
I have over 5 years of experience of working in the NHS providing mental health support to clients who are experiencing common mental health problems. I have also worked for over 10 years with young people with emotional distress; some having a diagnosis of ASD (autism) and ADHD, in the social care sector.

I’m an experienced psychotherapist and a registered member of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. [BABCP].

I offer a supportive, safe and confidential space for young people and their parents/carers where they are helped to explore and understand their difficulties.  I pride myself on being a warm and caring practitioner who is never afraid to go the extra mile. I work with children and young people experiencing difficulties including, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD, low mood, and difficulties managing emotions. I work on empowering young people with the understanding and the tools needed to help them overcome the obstacles they are experiencing.
Dale Richardson 
Dale Richardson 
Specialist Mental Health & Autism Mentor & ADHD Coach
MSc. Psychology (Conversion)
PG Diploma Counselling Skills and Mental Health Studies
PGCE with Qualified Teacher Status
Accredited Practitioner University Mental Health Advisors Network (UMHAN)
Graduate Member (GMPsS) British Psychological Society (BPS)
GDPR Compliant 

Remote Appointments Only
I have worked in support of neurodivergent young people and adults across a broad diversity of settings and in a variety of roles. I am accredited as a Specialist Mental Health Mentor by UMHAN, and currently provide highly specialised, specifically tailored, one-to-one support to mentees in a higher education context. This support helps mentees to address barriers to learning and wellbeing created by challenges relating to neurodivergence and mental health. With ongoing mentoring support, mentees are able to move toward fulfilling their academic and professional potential, whilst cultivating improved social and emotional wellbeing. My work in mentoring is supported by a solid academic grounding in subjects including education, psychology and mental health. I have also completed extensive NAS accredited training in autism, and CPD accredited training in ADHD coaching. Lived experience of autism means that I am afforded an intrinsic understanding of neurodivergent mentees and the challenges they face. Mentees often have the sense that I am speaking their language and helping from a place of genuine understanding. 

Areas of experience include: pre- and post-diagnostic support, interpersonal relationships, university support, strategies to manage common mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, coping with stress during times of change/ points of transition, motivational support, emotional wellbeing, career choices and employment, support with job interviews, psychoeducation and executive functioning.
Nicola Morley 
Nicola Morley 
Cognitive Behaviour Therapist (CBT)
Specialist Mental health/therputic practitioner in the NHS
Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (BABCP Registered)
Registered Learning Disability Nurse
EMDR trained 2022
GDPR compliant 

I offer face to face and remote appointments
I am a qualified nurse and qualified CBT therapist and CBT Lead in CAMHS (Child and Adolescent mental health services). I have worked in CAMHS and Adult mental health services for the last 13 years. I am a registered member of the British Association for Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies. [BABCP].

I have a special interest in child mental health and I work with a wide range of presenting mental health difficulties including OCD, generalised anxiety disorder, PTSD, social anxiety, specific phobia, panic disorder, low mood and low self esteem.

I am passionate about CBT and how it can help young people and parents/carers understand their difficulties and how to begin to challenge those difficulties and break the cycle. I work collaboratively with young people and parents and can work individually with parents when indicated/requested. I also provide individual and family sessions for those seeking to make positive changes within their lives. I also offer adapted CBT for people who are neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and who need therapy adapting to meet those needs.

My role involves working with young people who identify as neurodivergent and offer support and strategies to help both pre and post diagnosis.

I can also offer different approaches to meet individualised needs, offering individual systemic parenting support for a variety of presenting mental health difficulties along side autism, learning disabilities and behaviours that challenge.

I have further training in positive behavioural support (PBS), riding the rapids which is a parenting evidenced based intervention, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) and EMDR.

My work seeks to empower young people and parents and support them with the tools they need to help overcome the obstacles they are facing.