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Hi - I’m Jessica.
I specialize in working with children and young people who might be experiencing difficulties at school, are out of school, or have an Education Otherwise Than at School (EOTAS) package. I also work with young people who attend school, yet may be struggling with some aspects of life.
My approach is unique – I work primarily through play, immersing myself in the world of the video games that your child feels comfortable in. Sometimes just playing may be all a child wants to do for months or even years. I don’t sandwich in advice at every opportunity, but I do provide an ever increasing space over time, where a child is helped to feel progressively more comfortable and safe expressing their feelings, dreams, thoughts and worries.
As a parent, it can be challenging to deeply listen to your child in daily life (ask me how I know!). But as your child’s mentor, I have dedicated time and focus to take in all the ways your child communicates anything that is on their mind.
I believe that once a young person feels understood, change can happen. This change is always child initiated, and I aim to help a child move towards living a more fulfilled, enjoyable life, but without exerting pressure. I don’t provide strategies, star charts or booklets. I believe if these worked for the issues your child is facing, you wouldn’t be here.
I’m not here to ‘fix’ anyone - I’m here to help them explore who they are, understand what they’re feeling, and give them the space to grow. In my experience, this leads to a young person being more able to navigate the trickier parts of life with a more balanced perspective, freeing them up to pursue the things which give them pleasure and meaning.