Claire Holmes

I am available for face-to-face sessions with children, young people and young adults from 4pm on Mondays in Longfield, Kent DA3.

I also offer online or telephone sessions for young people of secondary school age until age 25 on other weekday evenings from 5pm and have limited availability on Saturday mornings.

I mostly work term time only.

I am a person-centred counsellor working creatively and exclusively with children, young people and younger adults.

I work in a client led way exploring experiences and life challenges using the creative arts and play.  I appreciate that young people and adults may prefer to just talk, and we can work this way too.

I offer a confidential and judgement free space while working with honesty and care to help clients gain an understanding of their life, themself, relationships and experiences.   I work to understand their perspective which I believe empowers them to make the changes they want in life.

I have personal and professional experience of working with neurodivergent clients, those with attachment difficulties or traumatic life experiences, school avoidance issues, loss and bereavement, depression and anxiety, those who self harm alongside friendships and family conflicts.

In addition to being a counsellor I have 15 years experience of working with children and parents in a supportive and therapeutic role in schools.  I also trained as a Thrive Practitioner (similar to ELSA) and in Drawing and Talking therapy.  I have experience and knowledge of the SEND and EHCP systems in schools in Kent.

I hold an enhanced DBS check and undertake regular safeguarding training for working with children and adults.  I am also paediatric First Aid trained.

I work from a confidential room in a local primary school after school hours.  Here I offer creative materials, games, sand play and space for children and young people to express themselves.  

I also work online or the telephone with young people and young adults from secondary school age and above.

For children I am able to offer parent reviews, in discussion with, and with the consent of the child.  

After your initial contact I offer a free 20 minute introductory call to discuss your requirements and to discover if we feel we can work together.