Growing up today is not always easy. School pressures, friendships, social media, identity, and family changes can leave young people feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or unsure of themselves. Sometimes it can be difficult to explain what is happening, even to the people who care about them most.

At Active Listening Therapies, we offer a calm, confidential space where young people can talk openly, be listened to without judgement, and begin to make sense of their thoughts, feelings, and experiences at a pace that feels comfortable for them.

Young person counselling is not about telling a young person what to do or forcing them to talk before they are ready. It is a supportive process that helps them explore what is happening in their world, understand their emotions, and develop healthier ways of coping with challenges.

Sessions are shaped around the individual and use language that feels accessible and age-appropriate. Our aim is to create a relationship where a young person feels safe, respected, and genuinely heard, so they can begin to understand themselves with greater confidence.

Young people seek counselling for many different reasons, and every experience is unique. Some may be struggling with anxiety, low mood, friendship difficulties, bullying, school pressures, or family changes.

Others may find it hard to manage emotions, confidence, identity, or the transition through adolescence. Counselling provides time away from everyday pressures to talk openly, reflect, and better understand what they are experiencing. It can help young people feel less alone, develop emotional awareness, and begin to recognise their own strengths and abilities.

We support young people with a wide range of emotional and life challenges, including anxiety, stress, low mood, confidence issues, friendship difficulties, bullying, family changes, bereavement, exam pressure, and feelings of being overwhelmed. We also work with young people exploring identity, self-esteem, and life transitions.

Our experience of working within local academy schools gives us a strong understanding of the pressures many young people face today, including academic expectations, social media, and changing relationships. Whatever brings someone to counselling, our focus is on helping them feel understood and supported.

Parents and carers often contact us because they are worried about a young person they care deeply about. We discuss confidentiality clearly with both the young person and parent or carer, and only share information without consent if there is a safeguarding concern.

We also support young people who are autistic, have ADHD, or are exploring neurodivergence. Our approach is neuro-aware, compassionate, and non-shaming, focusing on helping young people understand themselves better, recognise their strengths, and feel accepted for who they are rather than trying to change them.

Reaching out for support can feel daunting for both young people and parents or carers, especially if this is the first time counselling has been considered. You do not need to know exactly what is wrong before making contact, and you do not need to have all the answers.

We offer an initial opportunity to discuss what is happening, answer any questions you may have, and explore whether counselling feels like the right next step. Get in touch and let’s explore how we may be able to support you.