Holly Allen

I am a fully qualified children and young person counsellor with over 10 years experience in this field. Most of my work has been in schools and charities - working with a wide range of clients.

The way in which I work initially focuses on forming a secure, trusting relationship between myself and my client. It is incredibly important my clients feel safe, welcome, understood and valued. Coming to counselling is daunting - I want to eleviate as much of those initial fears as I can - I will never push my clients to speak about anything they are not ready to. My sessions go at my clients pace - I am not the expert in their lives - they are, my clients autonomy is something that I will encourage my clients to explore. Quite often we have the answers and know ourselves what we need to do to change or improve our lives but we need the help to uncover it. 

In a world of filters, social media and the insatiable need to always be and want more it is no wonder the children and young people in our lives are suffering. Putting on the mask and hiding who they truly are - feeling the need to conform potentially hiding their own amazing individuality out of fear of rejection. 

In Japanese culture, Wabi-sabi - is a reminder that nothing is perfect, and thats ok - beauty is found in the flawed, the old and the imperfect things. 

The work I have done with young adults has taught me that some vulnerability in myself during sessions goes a long way with relating to my clients  - they can see me as a adult who had difficulties as a teenager and that myself had to go through the bad stuff and evolve into who I am today. They may feel broken right now but over time they can be helped and become even more stronger than before. The process maybe slow and at times painful but it will be healing. 

Sessions are led by the client - bring what you feel you want to talk about that day - it can be anything - conversation is never rigid - you may start one place and end up talking about something you never thought you would. 

If you feel more structure would work better for you we can work together and set out a plan of what you would like to achieve - this could also change overtime. 

During sessions there will be resources you can use such as colouring, drawing, playdoh, fidgeting style toys and some games. We are never too old to play a wee game of snap or Uno!

For my younger clients I will bring toys and arts/crafts to suit ages.

Social media and phones play such a huge part of our lives - if my client wants to share any aspect of that they can. Children or teenagers I can adapt to what they need. 

Ideally a call would be beneficial especially if you are looking for support for your child or young person. 

Initial session involves working on a contract together - figuring out a mutual way of working together that works for us both. 

Parents can also be present during all or part of the initial session this may help your child or young person feel more at ease when first meeting me.