What to expect
We understand that it can be difficult to make the decision to start a therapy journey.
What happens in a session
Children, teenagers and families:
Therapists may see a child or young person individually, or with parents or other family members. Through the relationship with the therapist in a consistent setting, the child or young person may begin to feel able to express their most troubling thoughts and feelings.
We tailor our approach to the individual child and work in an age-appropriate way. Sometimes things can be conveyed more easily or accurately in play rather than just words; or through art-making, a poem or a rap. We make these options accessible to all people irrespective of intellectual or verbal capacity.
During an individual session, young children do not usually talk directly about difficult things but will communicate through play using the toys provided. Older children may also play or draw whilst teenagers are more likely to talk about their feelings. Infants and parents are seen together to think about their patterns of interaction.
This video will give you an idea of what to expect when you arrive at The Bridge for sessions.
Adults:
At the initial consultation meeting you will be invited to talk about yourself, your difficulties and what you feel is important about your situation. You may also be asked to describe anything you have tried to do to help yourself before now, and what change you would like to see.
We may ask you about your relationships, your work and other areas of your life, past and present.
You don’t need to prepare anything for your first appointment – the important thing is to try to be as open as possible about whatever’s on your mind. The service is confidential and the therapist is here to help you.
Sessions last 50 minutes and you will meet your therapist at the same time each week.
Booking an appointment
The first step is to book an initial consultation appointment. You can either book a time through our website or call to speak to our referral co-ordinator.
What to expect
In the initial consultation, the therapist will explore your concerns and expectations to gain a clearer understanding of your situation and difficulties and the child or young person’s challenges, if you are seeking help for them.
The initial consultation will help to decide the best approach, for example:
- Individual therapy for the child, adolescent, couple or adult – usually weekly; duration varies based on individual needs.
- Parent work – sessions to support parents who feel challenged or worried and would like to better understand their relationship with their child.
- Family work – addresses the child or young person’s difficulties within the family context, where the primary reason for the therapy is to explore family relationships.
- Group therapy – for parents worried about their adolescent’s mental health.
If you need emergency support right now or feel a crisis building please speak to your GP or phone the NHS crisis lines. You can find more resources to help here.
What past clients say
Our therapist team
Our team is here to support you throughout your therapy journey, and we are on hand to help you understand what to expect from our services.
Our highly trained therapists provide a safe space to support children, families, couples and adults through one-to-one therapy sessions tailored to individual needs.
