Children’s Counselling in Colchester and Essex
Helping children and young people navigate their emotions
Home> Children’s Counselling
For an initial chat, contact Ellen using the form below or call 01206 212849
Initial session available within two weeks
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Providing a confidential, non-judgmental space for your child
Children often find it difficult to talk to the people closest to them about what's worrying them. They don't want to upset their parents, burden their friends, or feel different at school. Sometimes they need someone outside their everyday world a trained professional who can listen without judgement and help them make sense of what they're feeling.
At Kids' Therapy Works, our counsellor Ellen provides a safe, confidential space where children and young people across Colchester and Essex can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences at their own pace. Using a psychodynamic approach, Ellen helps children understand not just what they're feeling, but why - building emotional awareness and resilience that lasts.
How counselling helps children
Children and young people can feel overwhelmed by emotions that seem out of control - anxiety, anger, sadness, confusion. Counselling gives them the tools to reflect, understand themselves better, and develop their own ways of managing difficult feelings.
Counselling at Kids' Therapy Works can help children and young people experiencing:
Anxiety and worry
Low mood or depression
Bereavement and loss
Trauma
Bullying
Difficulties with friendships and relationships
Low self-esteem and confidence
Family changes such as separation or divorce
Identity and sense of self
Emotional difficulties linked to additional needs or disability
For families already receiving physiotherapy, occupational therapy, or speech and language therapy with us, counselling can support the emotional side of your child's journey - because physical progress and emotional wellbeing go hand in hand.
About Ellen
Ellen Laughlin holds an MA in Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of Essex, with a specialist focus on children and adolescents. She also has a First Class Honours degree in Psychology and is a published researcher in the field.
Before joining Kids' Therapy Works, Ellen worked as a school counsellor supporting adolescents with a wide range of challenges including trauma, bereavement, bullying, and identity. She also has experience as a support worker with Autism Anglia, giving her a deep understanding of neurodivergent young people and their families.
Ellen's warm, empathic approach helps children feel at ease from the very first session. She believes that every child deserves to be heard and understood
What to expect
Initial session
Your child’s first session is an opportunity for Ellen to get to know your child. We invite parents into the first session, as this is your chance to show your understanding of why your child is coming to counselling. It is important for the therapist to get a sense of the whole picture, often including the pregnancy, birth and infancy of your child; this will help in tailoring sessions to your child needs.
With young children, it may be important for the parent to stay for the whole initial session. With older children and adolescents, we may ask you (as the parent or guardian) to leave the room after a short amount of time, as this may give your child the space they need to talk to the therapist confidentially.
During the initial session, we will discuss important aspects of therapy such as confidentiality, risk, and why your child is coming to therapy.
Ongoing sessions
Sessions are tailored to your child's age and needs. Ellen uses age-appropriate techniques to help children express themselves - through conversation, creative activities, and play where appropriate. Sessions are confidential, with regular check-ins with parents to discuss progress and any concerns.
Session length and booking
Counselling sessions last 50 minutes. All sessions are booked and paid for in advance through our online booking system. To book your child's first session, book online or call us on 01206 212 849.
Where we offer counselling
Counselling takes place at our clinic at Lakelands Community Centre, Stanway - a calm, welcoming space designed for talking therapy. For families already attending our Copford clinic, or Lakelands, for other therapies, this means your child's care remains within the Kids' Therapy Works family.
Why choose Kids' Therapy Works for counselling?
Our counselling service sits within a multi-disciplinary team of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and a speech and language therapist. This means that if your child's emotional wellbeing is connected to physical challenges, additional needs, or difficulties at school, we can offer a joined-up approach that most standalone counsellors cannot.
We understand the pressures families face - because many of our team have personal as well as professional experience of supporting children with additional needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Children's Counselling
What age children can access counselling at Kids' Therapy Works?
8+
How many sessions will my child need?
Every child is different. Some children benefit from a short block of six to eight sessions, while others may need longer-term support. Ellen will discuss this with you after the initial session and review progress regularly.
Is counselling confidential?
Yes. What your child shares in sessions is confidential, with the exception of safeguarding concerns. Ellen will explain the boundaries of confidentiality at the first session. Regular parent check-ins focus on themes and progress rather than the specific content of sessions.
How much does children's counselling cost?
£75 per session.
All sessions are paid for in advance at the time of booking. Call 01206 212 849 for more information.
Can counselling be combined with other therapies?
Yes. Many families find that counselling works well alongside occupational therapy, physiotherapy, or speech and language therapy. Our multi-disciplinary team can coordinate your child's care to ensure a joined-up approach.
How do I book a counselling session?
Book online through our booking system, or call us on 01206 212 849 to arrange your child's initial session, All sessions take place at our Lakelands clinic in Stanway.
Is your child struggling with their emotions?
Counselling could help your child feel heard, understood, and more in control.
Call 01206 212 849 to book an initial session with Ellen at our Lakelands clinic in Stanway, or book and pay online.