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Childhood Counselling at Breath Counselling
At Breathe Counselling Perth, we understand that children process emotions differently than adults. Our specialised childhood counselling services are designed to help young people navigate their feelings, thoughts, and behaviours in age-appropriate ways. Our qualified counsellors use evidence-based approaches including play therapy, art therapy, and cognitive behavioural techniques tailored to your child’s unique needs and developmental stage.
Early intervention can make a profound difference in a child’s life. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, childhood trauma, behavioural challenges, grief, family changes, or difficulty adjusting to new situations, our compassionate team of counsellors creates a nurturing environment where children feel safe to express themselves. We work collaboratively with parents and caregivers, providing strategies and support to help your entire family thrive. With locations across Perth, including CBD, West Perth, Rockingham, Joondalup, Midland and regional WA (Albany), plus online counselling options, we’re here to help support your child’s emotional wellbeing.
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Childhood Counsellors
I’m sorry I’m currently unable to take new clients
Grace Teias
COUNSELLOR
BSc (Hons) Counselling, PGDip (CYP-MH)
Grace offers after hours counselling in Midland and…
Matthew Bond
COUNSELLOR
MSocSc(Cnslg&Psycthpy), BTheo
Matthew offers day time and after hours counselling…
Karen Efron
CLINICAL COUNSELLOR & SUPERVISOR
MCouns, PGDipGestaltTherapy, AssocDipWelfStds
Karen offers face to counselling and psychotherapy to…
Kathryn Wee
COUNSELLOR
GradDipCouns&IntPsycthpy, BA(Crim)
Kathryn is a qualified counsellor based in Albany,…
Nerida Holmes
COUNSELLOR
M.Couns, B.A. Ed, GradDipCouns&IntPsycthpy, GradDipFamRelThpy
Nerida offers counselling in Joondalup. Individual therapy, couples…
Eleanor Middleton
PSYCHOLOGIST
B.Psych, BA.Psych
Eleanor is available for online counselling. She has…
FAQs - Childhood Counselling
How do I know if my child needs counselling?
Consider counselling if your child shows persistent changes in behaviour, mood, or school performance; has difficulty managing emotions; experiences sleep disturbances; withdraws from activities they once enjoyed; or is struggling to cope with significant life changes such as divorce, grief, or relocation. Trust your instincts, you know your child best, and seeking professional guidance early can prevent issues from escalating.
What happens in a childhood counselling session?
Unlike adult counselling that relies heavily on conversation, childhood counselling at Breathe Counselling Perth incorporates play, art, storytelling, and other age-appropriate activities. These therapeutic techniques help children express feelings they may not have words for yet. Our counsellors create a safe, non-judgmental space where children can explore emotions and develop healthy coping strategies through activities that feel natural to them.
How long does childhood counselling typically last?
The duration varies depending on your child's specific needs and circumstances. Some children benefit from short-term counselling (6-8 sessions), while others with more complex challenges may need longer-term support. Our counsellors regularly review progress with parents and adjust the treatment plan accordingly, always working toward helping your child develop the skills they need to thrive.
Will I be involved in my child's counselling?
Yes, parent involvement is crucial to effective childhood counselling. At Breathe Counselling Perth, we typically begin with a parent-only session to gather background information and understand your concerns. Throughout the counselling process, we maintain regular communication with parents while respecting the child's confidentiality. We'll provide guidance on supporting your child's progress at home and may occasionally include you in sessions when appropriate.
How can I prepare my child for their first counselling session?
Explain counselling in simple, positive terms appropriate to your child's age. You might describe the counsellor as someone who helps kids with big feelings or problems, similar to how a doctor helps when they're physically unwell. Reassure them that counselling is a safe place to talk and play, and that they're not in trouble. At Breathe Counselling, we work hard to make the first session welcoming and comfortable for your child.
Is childhood counselling confidential?
While we maintain appropriate confidentiality, childhood counselling involves a balance. We provide parents with general updates on progress and strategies to support their child, but specific details of what your child shares may remain private unless there are safety concerns. This approach helps children feel safe to express themselves freely while ensuring parents have the information they need to support their child's wellbeing.
How do I explain to others that my child is seeing a counsellor?
There's no need to feel embarrassed about seeking professional support for your child. You might simply say, "We're working with someone who specialises in helping children develop emotional skills," or "We're getting some extra support to help our family through this challenging time." At Breathe Counselling Perth, we believe seeking help demonstrates strength and commitment to your child's wellbeing.
What if my child refuses to attend counselling?
Resistance is common and understandable. Try discussing their concerns without pressure, emphasising that counselling is a supportive resource, not a punishment. Our counsellors at Breathe Counselling Perth are experienced in engaging reluctant children and often find that once a child attends their first session and experiences the supportive, play-based approach, their hesitation diminishes. We can provide guidance on addressing your child's specific concerns about attending.