Kara Robinson-Howard

I currently work 

Tuesday 1 pm - 6 pm

Wednesday 1 pm - 6 pm

Thursday 1 pm - 6 pm

Friday 1 pm - 5 pm

I offer counselling for children (aged 8 and over) and young people, providing a safe, supportive space where they can explore their thoughts and feelings at their own pace.

As an integrative therapist, I tailor my work to each individual, drawing on person-centred, systemic and cognitive behavioural approaches. This means sessions are shaped around the child or young person’s needs, strengths and stage of development, rather than a one-size-fits-all model.

I support young people experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety, low mood and depression, emotional regulation, self-esteem, friendship and relationship issues, school-related stress, exam pressure, family change, loss and transitions. I also work with children who may struggle to express themselves verbally, using creative and age-appropriate ways to help them make sense of what they are feeling.

I have extensive experience working with neurodivergent young people and children with additional needs, including Autism, ADHD and Down Syndrome. As someone with ADHD myself, I bring both professional and lived understanding of how challenging the world can feel when you are not neurotypical. My approach is affirming, flexible and focused on helping young people feel understood rather than “fixed”.

Before training as a counsellor, I worked with children for thirteen years, giving me a strong grounding in child development and the ability to meet children at their level of understanding. I work in a caring, collaborative and non-judgmental way, helping young people build emotional awareness, coping strategies and confidence, so they feel better equipped to manage difficulties both now and in the future

The initial session with a child or young person is intended to establish rapport and build a trusting relationship. I do this by explaining what counselling is in an age-appropriate way and using games and activities, which often include questions, to help the child or young person feel at ease and share more about themselves. Where appropriate, I will also begin to explore any difficulties they may be experiencing and discuss whether they have any goals for therapy.