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About us
Life will be forever changed when a child is diagnosed with a life limiting condition. We recognise how devastating this can be for everyone involved. That’s why we are here for you all – for as long as you need us.
Emotional and psychological support can help you cope with the initial diagnosis as well as throughout your child’s illness and in bereavement.
Our children and family therapy service forms part of the Childrens Service which aims to provide holistic care for children and young people and their families.
What we can offer
Our counselling is free and is accessible to all families that have a child registered with our Hospice or has a connection with any other local Hospice.
Our therapeutic support for children and families has greater flexibility than individual counselling. Sessions are shaped to suit each family with their individual needs and preferences for as long as is required.
We are very aware that for many families a grieving process begins when their child’s condition is diagnosed. We stay very mindful of this with psychological support throughout their journey.
Why counselling?
Counselling “provides a safe and confidential space for you to talk to a trained professional about your issues and concerns. Your therapist will help you explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours so you can develop a better understanding of yourself and of others.” (BACP)
Simply having someone to talk to who is professional and non-judgemental and by providing a secure outlet to talk about whatever is on your mind can be very effective in managing stress, anxiety and other overwhelming emotions.
What does support look like?
Our approach to counselling is integrative which means it is tailored specifically to the needs of each person and family.
The counselling service works alongside the wider Children’s Service team which enables coordinated respite care to be offered while sessions take place.
Counselling is generally talking therapy but can take different forms depending on your needs and what type of therapy may be suitable. Sometimes we may decide together to use more creative approaches such as using sand trays, drawing materials and music. These can be especially helpful when working with children of a younger age.
Counselling sessions are held in confidential rooms at the Hospice in person, online or by phone.
Our counsellors are members of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or equivalent professional body.