12-15

Years old

It is essential to gain trust as so many adolescents feel that adults are untrusted

Legally, adolescents from 12, don’t need consent from their parents/carers to access therapy, as long as I deem them compos mentis, as their therapist. Therefore, it depends on what and how the adolescent feels and wishes when it comes to parents involvement on their therapeutic journey. I of course have a duty of care, so this does not include if there is any risk involved or I deem them unsafe.

It is essential to gain your adolescents trust, as so many adolescents feel that adults are untrustworthy, or undeserving of being let into their world. Therefore, I work a lot outside with this age group as I have seen huge benefits from the natural involvement of walking and talking therapy combined. As it allows your adolescent to control the pace, rhythm of talking and how much talking they are okay with, without the feeling of it being ‘awkward’ as the nature surroundings form a blanket of dopamine and freedom to stop, breathe and reflect without the intensity of direct eye contact in a confined space.

This setting also works really well for any of you/your adolescents who are neurodivergent as there is less pressure to ‘mask or perform’, reducing anxiety.

This age groups sessions translate as very much a person centred therapeutic approach which is led by the client meaning that the themes will be dictated by them as I guide, support, stretch their narrative around their dialogue and understanding of their situation and environment. The arts can be used to compliment the walking therapy but this tends to be once the therapeutic relationship has been formed.

4 week blocks are necessary here as your adolescent needs to know that they have time to open up and unpick the emotions in relation to their family, friendship and school systems while also balancing their hormones present. Identity and attachment work from me as the therapist is key to revealing how best to support this age group.

Honouring independence

The teenage years are filled with change; emotionally, physically, and socially. It’s a time when many young people begin seeking more autonomy, but still need consistent support. Therapy offers them a space that’s theirs, a place where they can feel seen, heard, and understood without judgement.

What to expect

Walking therapy – Walk-and-talk sessions help young people feel more at ease, especially those who find traditional face-to-face settings overwhelming. Being outdoors can reduce pressure, support emotional regulation, and create a calmer, more grounded environment, particularly helpful for neurodivergent teens. More on walking therapy >

Creative & person‑centred – We explore what’s important to them. If and when they’re ready, we can introduce creative elements like drawing or movement to help process emotions.

Common focus areas

Therapy at this stage might include exploring:

Friendships and peer pressure
Anxiety or low mood
School and academic stress
Identity and self-worth
Navigating changes at home

Structure & duration

How: Face to face

I usually start with a four-week block, which helps build trust and lets us assess what feels helpful. Parents are often involved through regular check-ins or review sessions, only ever with the young person’s consent and comfort in mind.

Typical next steps

Book in a free 15-minute initial call – to check if I am the right therapist for you.
If you want to proceed, book in a consultation to understand you/your child’s needs and discuss how I might be able to help.
First four-week block – Build a safe, steady space for your teen to explore their world.
Reflect & review – We’ll adjust the pace and approach based on how your child is feeling and what they need.