Children & Young People's Counselling Service
 

We provide a free and confidential service for children and young people, aged seven to 17 who live in Whitby. We offer professional counselling, play therapy, and creative art therapy to support children and young people with a wide range of emotional and personal difficulties.

​

Who the Service Is For

This service supports young people experiencing issues such as: Anger ✦ Bullying ✦ Mild to moderate anxiety ✦ Stress ✦ Bereavement and other types of loss ✦ Low self‑esteem ✦ Negative self‑image or feelings of being different ✦ Personal development ✦ Mild to moderate depression ✦ Relationship difficulties ✦ Sexuality ✦ Significant life changes ✦ School‑related issues

​

Eligibility

The service is available to young people who:

• Are not currently receiving therapy elsewhere, and/or

• Have been told they are not suitable for CAMHS

 

What We Offer

• An initial assessment with a qualified children’s counsellor

• Followed by a minimum of 10 counselling sessions

• Sessions tailored to the individual needs of each child or young person

 

Where Sessions Take Place

Sessions are primarily held face‑to‑face at: St Hilda’s Business Centre, Whitby, YO22 4ET. The venue is wheelchair accessible. 

 

Support for Parents and Carers

• Sessions may also be available for parents or carers of young people attending the service

• This can help families better understand and support their child’s emotional wellbeing

​

Your First Appointment: What to Expect

Your first appointment is sometimes called an initial assessment. This is simply a chance for us to get to know each other and understand how we can best support you.

​

It’s Not a Test

There are no right or wrong answers. We already have some information from your referral, but this appointment helps us understand more about you, what’s been going on, and what you’d like help with.

​

Learning About Counselling

We’ll explain:

• What counselling is

• How it works

• What sessions usually feel like

This gives you a chance to decide whether counselling feels right for you.

​

Asking Questions and Sharing Concerns

You can ask any questions or talk about anything you’re unsure or worried about.
We want you to feel comfortable, listened to, and supported.

​

Involving Parents or Carers

We may invite a parent or carer to join part of the appointment. This helps us:

• Understand different perspectives

• Make sure everyone feels informed

You will also have time on your own with the counsellor, and we’ll explain how this works.

​

Talking About Goals

During the appointment, we’ll:

• Talk about what you want to achieve from counselling

• Understand how things are for you now

This helps us focus sessions on what matters most to you and see what has improved over time.

​

Other Support That Might Help

Sometimes we may suggest other services, activities, or support that could be helpful alongside counselling—for you or your family.

​

The Counselling Space

Here are some photos of:

• The venue

• The counselling room

We hope this helps you feel more prepared and comfortable before your visit.

​

Who Can Refer?

• Young people (where age or Gillick competency is appropriate)

• Parents or carers

• Schools

• Early Help

• GPs

• Children and Young People’s Services

​

How to Refer

Complete the referral form on our website, or contact us by telephone

​

Information We Need

In all cases we require: GP details, school details, and emergency contact information

​

More Information

• Information Sheet about the service

• For Younger Children – what to expect at the first meeting with the counsellor

• For Parents and Carers – information about the first (assessment) appointment