Counselling is a "talking therapy" – a way of supporting people (of any age) to deal with personal problems that negatively impact their emotional wellbeing.

For counselling to be effective, a trusting relationship must develop between the counsellor and the client. This helps the client express how they feel, explore underlying causes, and work toward strategies for positive change.

Yes, and that's okay. Many young people naturally want to talk about their families, particularly relationships with parents, carers, or siblings. This exploration can be helpful for them in understanding how they relate to those closest to them and what changes they may want to make.

Some young people may choose to share what was discussed in their sessions, while others may not. Either way, it's important to be respectful and supportive. If your child seems upset after a session, being present and available can make a big difference. They'll share if and when they're ready.

You know your child best and will likely have a sense of how much they're comfortable discussing. Counselling is just a small part of their week—your support outside the sessions is just as important.