For children and adolescents, I use the Proactive Approach, a model designed by Kathryn Geldard, David Geldard, and Rebecca Yin Foo. 

The Proactive Approach is a counselling model designed specifically for children and adolescents. Rather than waiting for the young person to direct the session, the counsellor takes an active, flexible role to keep the client engaged and promote positive change.

Summary of the Proactive Approach

• Active counsellor role: The counsellor does more than listen. They actively guide sessions using techniques that suit the young person's developmental stage and immediate needs.
• Tailored to adolescents: The approach recognises that young people often have shorter attention spans, communicate differently from adults, and respond well to interactive and creative methods.
• Flexible and integrative: Rather than following one counselling theory, the counsellor draws on a range of evidence-based strategies, including:
  • Creative activities (drawing, storytelling, play)
  • Symbolic techniques
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) strategies
  • Behavioural techniques
  • Psychoeducation
  • Mindfulness 
• Strong therapeutic relationship: Building trust, respect, empathy and collaboration is considered essential before meaningful change can occur.
• Focus on change: The counsellor aims to help young people change unhelpful thoughts, feelings and behaviours so they can function more effectively and improve their wellbeing. 

I apply this approach to every client in an entirely unique way, in line with their strengths, capabilities and interests. All sessions are neuro-affirming.