As a parent seeking therapy for their child, it is normal to want to know a bit more about the person who will be providing the sessions, therefore I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself. My name is Niki, and I am a qualified children and young person’s counsellor. I have a Master’s Degree in Counselling for Children and Young People (Level 7) as well as a diploma in levels 1,2 and 3 in Counselling Studies. I am an individual member of the British Association for Counsellors and Psychotherapists (BACP) and am fully insured. My counselling rooms are based in central Milton Keynes (with parking) and are accessible via car or public transport. However, I do have access to other rooms across Herts, Beds and Bucks which means I can offer flexibility with regards to location. I also offer online sessions if travelling is an issue or if the client feels that they would benefit more from the session if they were in a space chosen by themselves.
Why did I choose to become a Children and Young Persons Counsellor? I have always held an interest in counselling and psychotherapy and how experiences in childhood can shape the development of a person through growing up and into adulthood. Children have little autonomy over their lives, and I want to provide them with a space where they feel as though they have some control and can explore any challenges or issues that they face. My aim is to equip children with the right tools to be able to navigate and overcome the challenges that life may present to them.
What is my approach? I am a qualified integrative counsellor which means I can utilise skills and tools from a range of different approaches for the client. Every child is unique, as are the challenges and issues that they bring to therapy. I ensure that the client receives a tailored intervention guided by the challenges that they face and their own therapy goals. I am strong believer that a strong therapeutic relationship underpins the entire process, therefore I will take time to allow for the client to feel safe and supported within the counselling space.
Some of the challenges for young people that I have worked with are:- social anxiety, anxiety, school refusal, depression, grief, low self-esteem, ASD, trauma, panic attacks and peer issues to name a few. If you feel as though your child would benefit from counselling with myself, or you just want a few further details, please do not hesitate to contact me and I will try to respond to you the same day.