About Saba Khalil (She/Her)

My approach to counselling

Every child and young person is unique, and so is their experience of growing up. I work in a person-centred way, adapting my approach to suit each individual's developmental stage, personality, and needs.

Building trust and emotional safety is at the heart of everything I do. I create a confidential, non-judgmental space where young people feel comfortable expressing themselves – whether through talking, play, art, or other creative methods.

Core values

• Safety – creating a calm, secure, and predictable space where children feel protected and at ease
• Empathy – listening with warmth, care, and genuine understanding, without judgement
• Respect for the child – valuing each child's unique experiences, feelings, and way of expressing themselves
• Child-led work – working at the child's pace and following their needs, interests, and readiness
• Trust and relationship – building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship as the foundation for change
• Acceptance – helping children feel accepted exactly as they are, even when emotions feel big or difficult
• Collaboration – working alongside parents and carers in a supportive, respectful way
• Empowerment – supporting children to develop confidence, resilience, and emotional skills
• Integrity and professionalism – working ethically, confidentially, and with clear boundaries
• Hope – holding belief in each child's capacity to grow, heal, and thrive

My journey to counselling

Before training as a counsellor, I graduated with an LLB (Hons) degree (Bachelor of Law) and worked in Financial Services, both in Banking and as a Regulator.

Experience in schools

I have been providing counselling in schools for over three years, working in both state and independent schools across London, achieving positive outcomes with children. I have also worked with Place2Be, one of the UK's leading school-based mental health charities, which gave me valuable experience in delivering professional therapeutic support within educational settings.

Working with adults

Alongside my work with children and young people, I have experience supporting adults experiencing a wide range of challenges, including trauma, bipolar disorder, OCD, severe anxiety and other mental health issues, neurodivergence, divorce, family problems, and domestic abuse. This broader experience enriches my understanding of family dynamics and the pressures that can affect children and their parents.

As a parent myself

As a mum of school-aged children, I understand first-hand the joys and challenges of parenting. This personal experience helps me relate to the concerns parents bring and the desire to do the very best for their children. I know how hard it can be to watch your child struggle and how important it is to find the right support.

Transparency and trust

I am happy to show my qualifications certificates, insurance documentation, and DBS check before proceeding with any work. Building trust starts with transparency, and I want you to feel confident that your child is in safe, professional hands.