Therapy for Children
&
Young People

My Experience

I possess thirty years’ experience supporting children and young people in a variety of capacities, encompassing both therapeutic and non-therapeutic roles.

Settings and Organisations

Throughout my career, I have worked with children across diverse educational environments, including early years settings, infant, junior and secondary schools, as well as colleges. My experience extends to specialist provisions such as special educational needs schools and child development centres.

Specialist Experience

I am experienced in working with children who have complex disabilities and medical needs. My background includes supporting children with sensory impairments, speech and language needs, and those who are neurodivergent.

Therapeutic Roles

My professional roles have included serving as a school counsellor and a therapist within children and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS).

Age Range

I work with children and young people aged 5 to 18. Sessions for children under 12 must be held in person at my Honley office. Fortnightly sessions are available only for older young people and adults.

Therapy Sessions

When working with children and young people, I strive to create sessions that are engaging and meaningful for them. This is achieved by incorporating a variety of methods tailored to their interests and needs, such as play, games, arts and crafts, sensory activities, the use of worksheets, and talking therapy.

By offering diverse activities, I aim to ensure that every child and young person is able to participate in a manner that suits them best.

Please click to see photographs of sensory/play room.

Personalising Sessions During the initial assessment session

I make it a priority to discuss each child’s or young person’s preferred activities and any special interests they may have. This allows for sessions to be individually tailored, helping participants feel comfortable, valued, and more willing to engage actively throughout the sessions.

Encouraging Feedback and Adaptation

I strongly encourage and welcome feedback from children and young people. Their input is invaluable, as it enables me to adapt and refine the sessions, ensuring that the experience remains both helpful and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Referral and Initial Consultation Process

How to Make a Referral

If you wish to make a referral, please get in touch with me directly. Contact details below.

Upon receiving your initial enquiry, I will promptly email you a short form to complete. Once I have received the completed form, I will arrange an introductory telephone call or zoom call at a mutually convenient time.

Introductory Call

During this call, we will discuss the details from the form and explore the next steps for organising sessions. This conversation will allow us to determine how best to support your child and address any questions you may have about the process.

Suitability and Further Support

Please be aware that, on occasion, the information provided on the form may indicate that I am not the most suitable professional for your child’s needs. If this situation arises, I will ensure that you are signposted to the most appropriate service, supporting you in finding the right help for your child.

Qualifications

BSC Hons Degree Psychology

Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling

Diploma Counselling Children and Adolescents

Diploma NNEB Nursery Nursing

Training

Using creativity as a therapeutic tool

Neurodiversity Affirming Play Therapy

Attachment workshop

Safeguarding Children

Autplay Therapy

I also hold an enhanced DBS Check.

Sarah Nichols

Therapy for Children & Young People