Why Supporting Children’s Mental Health Early Really Matters

Because every child deserves to feel safe, understood, and emotionally connected.

When we think of childhood, we often imagine play, laughter, and curiosity. But not every child grows up feeling safe and carefree.

Jake (not his real name) was a bright 8-year-old who came to see me after struggling with anxiety and anger at school. His mum was going through a difficult time, and Jake didn’t yet have the words to explain what he was feeling. Through weekly sessions using drawing, storytelling, and play therapy, Jake slowly began to trust. One day, he said, “It’s like the mad inside me got a bit smaller.”

Stories like Jake’s aren’t rare. In the UK, one in five children has a probable mental health difficulty. The earlier we notice signs of distress, the better chance we have of helping children feel safe, seen, and strong. With the right support, they’re more likely to thrive at school, build healthy relationships, and grow into confident, resilient adults.

Working with Children—and Parents

Supporting a child often means supporting the whole family. I work closely with parents to help them better understand their child’s needs, improve communication, and create more connection at home. These small shifts can make a big difference—at home, in the classroom, and in everyday life.

We also know from research that early investment in children’s mental health—whether through school-based counselling, parenting programmes, or community projects—pays off. For every £1 invested, there’s a return of up to £9 in long-term benefits.

In one session, a 5-year-old girl who had barely spoken for weeks built a “worry house” out of blocks. She pointed to the roof and whispered, “That’s where I hide when mummy’s sad.” That moment helped both her and her mum understand what she hadn’t been able to say in words.

Psychodrama and Creative Approaches

My approach often incorporates psychodrama—a powerful, creative method that uses guided role-play and imagination. For children, this is often transformative. It allows them to express deep emotions, explore different perspectives, and develop coping strategies in a safe and imaginative space.

There’s No Shame in Seeking Help

There is nothing wrong with seeking help, and there should never be shame in doing so. Counselling can be a chance to:

Improve communication skills

Better understand ourselves

Feel safe enough to share feelings with others

Whether you're a child learning to name big feelings, or a parent navigating uncertainty—therapy offers the space to reconnect, rebuild, and grow.