Child Counselling — Support for Children & Families

What is child counselling?

Child counselling is a gentle, supportive space where children can explore their feelings, experiences and challenges in ways that feel natural and safe for them. Young children often communicate through play, art, stories, movement and metaphor — not long conversations — so sessions are designed to meet them exactly where they are. Rather than focusing on “fixing” behaviours, child counselling helps children understand what’s happening inside their bodies and minds, and gives them tools to express themselves, regulate emotions and build confidence. At the same time, parents receive guidance to understand their child’s needs and strengthen connection at home. The goal is to create a steady, predictable environment where your child feels seen, supported and understood — and where you feel empowered, not blamed or overwhelmed.

Who I work with

I support primary‑school‑aged children experiencing:

• anxiety, worry or emotional overwhelm
• difficulty expressing feelings
• behavioural changes linked to stress or transitions
• challenges with friendships or school
• grief, loss or big life changes
• trauma, including domestic, family or sexual violence

How sessions work

Sessions are 60 minutes, offered in person in one of my two locations in Sydney. Child counselling looks different from adult therapy. Sessions may include:

• art‑based activities
• play‑based exploration
• storytelling or drawing
• sensory tools
• nervous‑system education in child‑friendly language
• gentle conversations about feelings and experiences

Common questions

Do I attend the sessions with my child?⌄

For most children, the first session is with parents only. This helps me understand your child’s history, strengths and challenges without placing pressure on them. After that, sessions are usually child‑only, with regular parent check‑ins to share progress and strategies. You are always part of the process — just in a way that supports your child’s comfort and autonomy. It's important to note that when I have important or valuable information to share, I'll offer you to book a parent session or a time when I can call and have a quick check in over the phone. That way, we are not discussing the child in their presence, to avoid any potential distress for the child.

How long does child counselling take?⌄

Every child is different. Some benefit from short‑term support to learn regulation tools or adjust to a life change. Others need longer‑term work to unpack deeper emotional patterns or trauma. We move at your child’s pace and regularly review progress together.

Do you work with private health insurance?⌄

Yes. I am a registered provider with Medibank, AHM, ARHG, and HCF. If your policy includes counselling or mental health extras, you may be able to claim a rebate. Please check with your health fund to confirm your level of cover.

Do you accept Victims Services referrals?⌄

Yes. I provide trauma‑recovery counselling for children impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence. Sessions focus on safety, regulation, emotional expression and strengthening supportive relationships around the child.

Will you tell me everything my child says?⌄

I share themes, insights and strategies — but not every detail. Children need a space where they can express themselves freely, and part of building trust is allowing them some privacy in what they choose to share. If anything arises that affects safety or wellbeing, we will always discuss it together. You are an important part of the process, and your child’s preferences and voice are also taken into consideration. There are times when we can negotiate with your child about what information is shared with you, and other times when safety and wellbeing will take priority and certain information may need to be shared without your child’s consent. This is handled gently, respectfully and with care for both you and your child. I'm happy to answer any further question you may have on this topic.

What if my child doesn’t want to talk?⌄

That’s completely okay. Many children communicate through play, drawing, movement or metaphor. I follow their lead and use approaches that feel comfortable for them. Talking is only one of many ways children express themselves.

Is this a space where my child will be “fixed”?⌄

No. Children's behaviours are communication, and our work is to understand what they’re trying to tell us. Child counselling is a collaborative process — you and I work together to support your child’s emotional world, strengthen connection and build skills that help them thrive.