Counselling Children
It is a joy to be able to counsel children of all ages. Children are amazing and often willing to share their concerns and ideas spontaneously. I have conducted sessions in car parks, while walking, playing games eg basketball and at McDonalds (as well as a number of other fast food outlets). I embrace the need to be flexible and believe that a change of environment can result in an extremely positive outcome. I always ensure that we have have privacy.
Ok, I admit that it is sometimes difficult not to laugh!
Some Comments
- “I need to leave the room – I am about to make a stink bomb and you don’t want to be close to the smell”. Considerate child.
- “I am going to the toilet! You told me not to ask if I can go, just tell you. So I’m going……but I’ll be back”. So will Schwarzenegger
- “I like to come here ’cause I can take my shoes off and lie on your couch while we talk”. Freud would be happy!
- “When you come into my class we have a bet about who will go with you”. Sometimes correct!
- “When it rains it pees – so I think of the ground as it’s toilet”. Novel idea
- “In the desert they probably drank water from cactuses” – my reply “no, they are toxic” Oh dear I hope he is not travelling to a desert soon.
- “You’re starting to sound like a grownup….oh, but you are a grownup” Really!
- Talking about old people – “Their legs start to pass away so they need to be in a wheelchair”. Obviously what awaits me soon.
- “I have to check your heart to see if it’s beating” – my reply – “I hope so”!
- When deciding on an object to draw – “I’ve got a very big mind so I’m sure I’ll think of something”. Definitely
- “You’re one of a kind! I don’t know why I said that…..” Thanks for the compliment
- Smiling at the end of session – ” I had a good time”. Ok, hopefully we also reduced your anxiety.
- “I decided not to eat my lunch at school so I can share it with you. I hope you have a microwave”. Sharing is caring.
- “How did you become the most famous doctor in the world?” Great compliment. Thanks
Showing an 8 year old a present I received from his parents he stated -” They are not beautiful to me, that’s not my style”. Ok, but I still like them!
It is my belief that allowing clients to eat in a session does not detract from the therapy process. It is in fact beneficial especially when someone is hungry.
X – “Hey Ros I am hungry”. Me -“Do you have any allergies?” X – “No!” I double checked with the parent. Me- “Would you like an apple”? X – “What else do you have?” Me – ” We can make a slice of toast” X – “Great. Do you have vegemite?” Me – “Sure”. Our session continued in the kitchen while we made the toast. My young client was encouraged to spread the butter and vegemite himself. Having satisfied his hunger – X – “That’s better. Thanks”
The majority of 6 year olds are aware of their allergies as well as those of their peers and generally respect the rules. “I can’t take peanut butter sandwiches to school because a kid in my class is allergic to peanuts”.
Drawings and Creations
Within the sessions I often provide a range of techniques which I hope will be beneficial. When a child chooses to alter or add to a technique I ask permission to share their ideas with others! I continue to learn from every child.
Drawings and a range of craft materials are tools that are available in the majority of my sessions. I decided to add some drawings and creations to brighten your day.
Take care, stay safe, remember that smiling and laughter are good for all of us.