Hilary Knights

I currently have availability on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings and some space after school hours.  Please contact me to discuss possible timings.

I qualified as a psychotherapist and counsellor specifically to work with children and Young People because I fervently believe mental health support at an early age can help them (and their families) negotiate life’s challenges ahead and particularly in the complex world we currently find ourselves in. 

I have a PG Dip and Masters degree in psychotherapy for children and young people and work in primary and secondary schools and for NHS services in London and now Norfolk. 

I set up my private practice to reach clients who cannot access services via other means and I  see young people of all ages from primary age up to older teenagers.  I work with many different concerns including school problems, bullying, changes at home, dealing with their own illness  or in the family, bereavement and so on.  No concern is too big or small - whatever is worrying someone or affecting their ability to connect with others is something we can explore together in counselling sessions.  Ultimately, I see counselling as an optimistic process and I help my clients discover how they can understand and resolve concerns themselves and I hope the process will give them skills they can use throughout their lives.  

I have a qualification in Understanding Autism and ADHD and work with many young people who may or may not have a diagnosis.  

I have an enhanced DBS check.  

Confidentiality is key and I have a clear discussion with clients and their families about this.  

I regularly complete Safeguarding training and have an up to date Certificate from the Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership.

My training included a variety of therapeutic disciplines and I work integratively which means I have a range of therapeutic tools available and I tailor sessions for each client to meet their individual needs depending on their preferences and presenting concerns. For example, we can work with play or art materials, play games or talk - all will give me an insight into my clients’ psyche enabling us to connect and work through their concerns.

Empathy and connection is key to successful counselling and I want my clients to feel comfortable to share whatever worries they have with me and know they will be met with empathy and understanding and never judged.  

I offer a first session at a reduced rate which will usually start with the Young Person and their parent or career.  During this I gather information and often complete an assessment form.  Together we will discuss the Young Person’s needs, their worries and anxieties and what they hope to get from our sessions.  I will explain the counselling process including what we do during sessions, confidentiality, safeguarding and so on and you are welcome to ask any questions or voice any concerns.  If we both feel comfortable together, we will work to arrange a suitable time for regular sessions to go ahead.

As sessions progress, we can think about how many sessions will be suitable as I am mindful of the cost implications and also how quickly things can change in the lives of young people.  Sometimes change can be very quick, sometimes it takes more time.