Working with children and young people
Working with children and young people requires a sensitive, age-appropriate approach. Below are some common questions parents and carers ask about how counselling works.
Confidentiality and privacy
Child confidentiality is respected within professional and safeguarding boundaries
This means that what a young person shares in sessions stays between them and me, except in specific circumstances where there may be concerns about their safety or the safety of others. These limits are explained clearly to both the young person and their parents or carers at the start of the work.
Respecting confidentiality helps build trust and creates a space where young people feel safe to speak openly. It shows them that their feelings and experiences are valued and that they have control over what is shared.
Parental and carer involvement
Collaborative where appropriate, while keeping the child's needs central and confidential
At the start of counselling, I will usually have an initial conversation with parents or carers to understand the concerns and background. Throughout the work, I may check in with parents or carers where appropriate and agreed, but the content of sessions with the young person remains confidential.
This balance ensures that parents and carers are involved and informed, while the young person has their own private space to explore their feelings. It respects both the family and the individual needs of the child.
Safeguarding and professional responsibilities
In line with BACP ethical framework
Safeguarding means that if a young person shares something that suggests they or someone else is at risk of harm, I have a professional duty to act. This might involve sharing information with parents, carers, or other professionals such as schools or safeguarding teams.
These situations are handled sensitively and transparently. Wherever possible, I will talk to the young person first about what needs to happen next and why. Safeguarding is always carried out with the young person's best interests at heart.
Working with schools
Liaison where appropriate and agreed
If counselling is taking place at a school, I may liaise with school staff where it is helpful and agreed. This might include discussing practical arrangements or sharing general updates on progress (without disclosing session content).
Any communication with schools is done with the knowledge and agreement of both the young person and their parents or carers.
Consent and professional boundaries
Age-appropriate consent and clear professional boundaries
For children under 16, parental or carer consent is required for counselling to take place. For young people aged 16 and 17, they may be able to consent to their own counselling, though parental involvement is still encouraged where appropriate.
Professional boundaries are maintained throughout the work to ensure that the counselling relationship remains safe, ethical, and focused on the needs of the young person.
Common questions from parents
Will I be told what my child talks about in sessions?
No. The content of sessions is confidential between your child and me. However, I will provide general updates on progress and engagement where appropriate and agreed.
What if my child does not want to talk?
That is completely normal, especially at first. Sessions can involve other forms of expression such as art, play, or games. There is no pressure to talk if a young person is not ready.
How will I know if counselling is working?
Progress looks different for everyone. Some young people may show changes in mood, behaviour, or how they talk about their feelings. Regular reviews help ensure the work is helpful and focused.
What if there is a safeguarding concern?
If your child shares something that suggests they or someone else is at risk, I have a duty to act. I will handle this sensitively and discuss it with your child first wherever possible.
Still have questions?
If you would like to discuss how counselling works or whether it is right for your child, get in touch for a free consultation.