Lisa Hilditch

I am available on Thursdays 9am - 7pm, and Fridays 9am - 2:00pm in Buckingham.

Childhood and adolescence can be a complicated and challenging time, and as a parent it can be upsetting to see your child struggle. From navigating social dynamics and self esteem, to dealing with academic stress or family issues, young people are facing increasing pressures that can impact their sense of well-being and happiness. Counselling can provide support and guidance for children facing these challenges, helping them to develop coping skills, build resilience, and thrive emotionally and socially.

As a Creative Arts Counsellor, who specialises in working with children and young people (CYP), I use a blend of talking therapies, therapeutic play and creative arts. This enables CYP to express their feelings and thoughts in a safe and supportive environment, helping them articulate emotions they might not be able to verbalise. Sometimes a picture or game can say a thousand words!

My practice is child-centred, meaning I provide a safe, non-judgemental space so they can explore their emotions, thoughts and experiences at their own pace. Your CYP is free to select activities based on their own personal preferences, creating space for them to express themselves authentically. I provide a diverse range of toys and art materials, including sand trays, clay, stories, games, and sensory items.

My approach is rooted in attachment theory and neuroscience. I understand how past experiences can impact current coping behaviours and how these may affect a young persons, self esteem, relationships, and learning. Whilst counselling can often focus on the past, it can also be about finding joy and meaning in the present and future.

By engaging in developmentally appropriate and enjoyable activities, counselling can help children/young people:

Gain insight and self-awareness

Learn to articulate their thoughts and emotions

Develop empathy for themselves and others

Expand self-expression and interpersonal skills

Build healthier relationships with family and friends

Therapy takes place in a private and confidential setting where I see your child/Young Person on a one-to-one basis. Each session lasts for 50 minutes. Consistency helps me to promote safety and build trust with your child/Young Person which is why I meet with them on the same day, at the same time, in the same place each week. I provide all the play and art materials for use in sessions.

If your child has specific needs that may require more flexibility around the way sessions are provided, then please contact me to discuss. I am trained in Makaton, PODD, Supercore and other communication devices and can provide Symbols for use in sessions.

I work part time as a school counsellor and carry out my private practice around this. I have 20yrs experience of working with children and young people in a variety of roles and settings.

It’s no secret that life can be tough for children, young people and families. The idea of seeking therapy can feel like a big step, but it’s important to remember that it’s a courageous step towards healing and personal development. Finding the right therapist is key to getting the right support through this process which is why I offer an initial free 20 minute call or online appointment. It's an informal conversation for us to see if we would be a good fit. There is no obligation to book a session after this.

If you decide to proceed then we can meet for a more detailed information gathering session, which lasts for about an hour and costs the same as a session (£70). This is usually a meeting between me and the parent/carers. Depending on how old the young person is, we may decide that it is appropriate for them to be present too.