Children and young people who are struggling with their feelings often show this not with words but with behaviour that can appear confusing and anxiety-provoking to those around them. Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists are trained to closely observe behaviour, play and words in order to understand the underlying factors which may be interfering with a child or young person’s capacity to fulfil their potential.

ACP trained Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists are highly skilled mental health professionals who specialise in work with children, young people/adults, families, and parents/carers. They have completed a six-year, full time training funded by NHS England, and frequently work with patients experiencing anxiety, relationship difficulties, depression, behavioural difficulties, family relationship or parenting problems, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, eating disorders, Autistic Spectrum Disorder, self-harm and suicidality, psychosomatic disorders, video game or internet addiction, sexual acting out, or issues arising from sexuality or gender.

ACP registered Child and Adolescent Psychotherapists are able to offer:

• Complex assessments, including State of Mind Assessments (to help parents and education better understand a child or young person’s specific needs)
• Assessments for individual psychotherapy
• Short-term psychoanalytic psychotherapy, an evidence-based treatment recommended by NICE for medium to severe depression and anxiety
• Longer term and intensive psychotherapy
• Work with parents/carers to help them understand their child or adolescent’s developmental trajectory
• Advise networks on meeting a child or young person’s individual developmental needs

Children and young people are not always aware of why they are feeling angry, frightened or confused. When these feelings are put into words they become less likely to be externalised in behaviours and usually lead to improved relationships with those around them.