Child and Adolescent Counselling in St Albans
Therapy for children and young people who are struggling with big feelings, anxiety, confidence, school worries or emotional overwhelm.
Hi, I’m Charlotte
I am a qualified child and adolescent counsellor and founder of The Happy Human Project. I offer warm, gentle and developmentally appropriate counselling for children and young people who may be finding life, school, friendships or emotions difficult to manage.
Bella, my gentle and well-trained therapy dog, can be present during sessions if you and your child feel this would be supportive. For children who may feel anxious, overwhelmed or unsure about counselling, this can help create a sense of safety and ease.
Some children enjoy:
Sitting alongside Bella
Stroking her during conversations
Having a comforting presence in the room
Of course, this is completely optional, and sessions can take place without Bella if preferred.
I hold an MSc in Counselling Children and Young People from the University of Northampton. I am also a registered member with the BACP (membership no. 01020169)
Counselling for children and teenagers
Children and young people do not always have the words to explain what they are feeling. Sometimes distress shows up as anxiety, anger, tearfulness, low confidence, withdrawal, school avoidance, friendship difficulties or emotional outbursts.
Counselling gives your child a safe space to explore what is going on for them, at their own pace, with someone who understands children’s emotional development and mental health.
I support children and young people with:
Anxiety and worries
Emotional regulation
Low confidence and self-esteem
Friendship difficulties
School-related stress
Big emotions and overwhelm
Family changes
Anger, sadness or withdrawal
Understanding and expressing feelings
Why work with me?
Alongside my counselling training, I have years of experience supporting children’s emotional wellbeing through The Happy Human Project, working directly with children in schools, holiday camps and wellbeing sessions.
This means my approach is not just about talking. For many children, especially younger children, therapy may include creative work, play, emotional regulation tools, nervous system support and gentle ways to explore feelings without pressure.
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy recognises that counselling with children and young people requires an understanding of child development, emotional needs, mental health, family context and the school environment.
Location
Counselling is available for families:
From my office in Markyate, St Albans or where possible, at schools in St Albans, Harpenden, Hemel Hempstead, Watford, Berkhamsted and wider Hertfordshire.
You can also enquire about online sessions where appropriate.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my child needs counselling?
Your child may benefit from counselling if they seem overwhelmed, anxious, withdrawn, angry, low in confidence, struggling with friendships, avoiding school or finding it hard to talk about their feelings.
Will my child have to talk the whole time?
No. My training is integrative, which means I draw upon many modalities, including play therapy, art therapy and dance/movement therapy. Children often process feelings through play, creativity, movement and metaphor. Sessions are adapted to your child’s age, personality and needs.
Do you work with autism or ADHD?
Yes, I have lots of experience supporting neurodivergent children and young people, including those with ADHD, autism and sensory differences.
I understand that every child experiences the world differently, and therapy is adapted to meet your child’s individual needs. This might include a more flexible, creative or sensory-based approach, depending on what helps your child feel most comfortable.
For many neurodivergent children, counselling can be especially valuable as it offers a space that is entirely theirs, where they don’t have to mask, fit into expectations, or keep up with others. Instead, we focus on understanding their experiences, supporting emotional regulation, and building confidence in a way that works for them.
If you’re unsure whether counselling would be the right fit for your child, I’m always happy to have an initial conversation.
How many sessions will my child need?
This depends on your child and what they are experiencing. Some families benefit from short-term support, while others prefer longer-term therapy.
Do parents attend the sessions?
Usually, the counselling space is for the child or young person and it’s important they feel some agency over this. However, parent involvement can be helpful, so we will keep in regular contact.
How much does it cost?
Sessions are £75.