Yes. Everything discussed in your sessions is confidential. The only exceptions to this are if we believe there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others, which your counsellor will explain in detail during your first meeting.

Counselling isn't meant to last forever. Our goal is to equip you with the tools you need so that you no longer require our support. • How Long: There is no fixed timeframe. Therapy continues for as long as you (or your child) need the support to reach your specific goals. • Open Discussion: You and your counsellor will work together to plan an ending when the time feels right. This is an open, collaborative discussion. For children, this involves a three-way conversation between the child, the parent, and the counsellor. • Joint Meetings: For young people, parents may be invited to join a final session to discuss the transition together. This isn't always necessary, but we are happy to provide this support if requested. • The "Therapeutic Blueprint": Upon ending, we can supply a Transition Letter. This acts as a blueprint of the journey, summarizing the progress made and the tools learned, serving as a reminder of your growth long after therapy has finished.

While traditional talk therapy is our core, we also offer the space to work creatively. Sometimes, identifying a feeling is easier through a metaphor, an image, or a piece of creative writing than a direct conversation. We work in a way that is individual to you, and we will figure that out together. Whether you need a space to vent, tools to manage anxiety, or a deeper look at long-standing patterns, the pace and style of our sessions are shaped by your unique needs. • Creative Expression: If you find yourself "stuck" for words, we might use creative tools to help bridge the gap between your feelings and your thoughts. • Open Conversation: For many, simply having a dedicated, non-judgmental space to speak at their own pace is where the most significant shifts happen.

The initial stage of counselling is all about "getting to know" your child. We don’t rush into deep therapeutic work immediately because trust is earned, not given. Depending on your child’s age and personality, these sessions might involve: • Creative Play: Using arts and crafts to express emotions. • Games: Using play to build rapport and reduce anxiety. • Open Conversation: Simply talking at a pace that feels comfortable. During this time, we also go through contracting. This is where we explain: • Confidentiality: What is said in the room stays in the room. This privacy encourages honesty and gives your child a sense of control. • Safeguarding: The exception to the rule. If we believe your child or someone else is at risk of serious harm, we must share that information with the relevant people to ensure everyone stays safe. WYIM believes true mental health begins with the ability to recognise and communicate thoughts and feelings. By providing a non-judgmental space, we help your child find their voice, which is where change truly happens.

Bringing your child to therapy is a significant step. We understand that you want the best for them, and we work to create a partnership that supports both the child and the family unit. • The Foundation of Trust: The relationship between the counsellor and your child is built on trust. While we aim to work in partnership with you, maintaining a private space for your child allows them to be open and honest. We will always prioritise your child’s well-being when deciding what information needs to be shared. • Phone Consultations: We understand that things change at home or school. We can arrange a brief call before your child’s appointment to discuss specific concerns or updates you feel we should know. • Feedback & Privacy: To help your child feel safe speaking openly, their sessions are private. We don't share the specific details of what they say, but we will keep you updated if there are ways you can help at home. • The Exception (Safety): If we are worried that your child or someone else is at risk of serious harm, we will always inform you. Your child’s safety is our absolute priority. • Managing the "Fine Line": While we value your input as a parent, we manage a "fine line" between including your concerns and protecting your child’s private therapeutic space. If you share something with us that you’d like addressed, we will bring it into the session transparently. Example of our approach: > If you've shared a concern with us, we might start a session by saying: "I wanted to share that your Mum/Dad mentioned you’ve been struggling with getting into school lately. Were you aware they had shared this information? Is this something you feel comfortable telling me a little more about?"