We use an integrative and collaborative approach to therapy, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). The approach is adapted to ensure difficulties are not pathologised, aiming instead to reduce feelings of stigma and promote acceptance. Sometimes therapy will incorporate a coaching approach, which can be especially helpful at times when external demands are high. Support through play-based activities is often most effective when working to engage younger children. The interests of the young people we work with often provide a crucial way into helping us support them. Creating a trusted and genuine therapeutic relationship is a priority from the outset – time will be taken to ensure that our clients feel safe and heard.
If you make a referral to ACG Psychology, you will be offered a brief telephone call to help establish whether we are right for you or your child. Following this, we will email our Terms and Conditions, which we kindly request that you confirm (via email) have been read and accepted. An initial session will then be booked in, with subsequent sessions diarised to help ensure the therapy space is protected. A treatment plan is offered based on individual need, sometimes this will include weekly sessions, although this can be adapted to a fortnightly or monthly pattern if appropriate.
We offer individual therapy for children and young people who are above the age of 12 years old. For children younger than this, we would often work with both the child and their parents. We can offer online as well as in-person support, for children who are 12 and older. It is important to remember that adaptations and adjustments will be made according to individual need. For example, we would allow a parent to remain present in the room with a young person until the young person felt safe to engage without this support.
We are aware that sometimes the support needed might include helping others e.g., school to understand their needs. School liaison sessions are therefore offered, if this is agreed as part of the ongoing therapy plan.
Services and Fees:
· Initial telephone consultation (15 minutes) free of charge
· Therapy appointments (50-60 minutes) £125 per session
· Parent consultation sessions (50-60 minutes) £125 per session
· School liaison sessions – meeting with school to discuss needs and support for your child/young person (50-60 minutes) £125 per session
· Clinical reports – cost to be agreed on a case-by case basis. Please note that I do not carry out expert witness work or provide court reports.
