Barbara Vaughan

I work from Folkestone but cover Hythe and the East coast area of Kent.  Please email me for availability.

Barbs.vaughan61@gmail.com

For over ten years, I have worked professionally with children and young people from primary school age through to 18 years old.  The last 3 years have been specifically working with the age group 10-18 years. I hold a Master's degree in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy for Children and Adolescents from the University of Roehampton. This provided the foundation for specialist training in child and adolescent therapy understanding how delays and gaps in development can have an impact later on in life and in particular the adolescent period.  Alongside this, I am a certified EMDR therapist, trained to work with PTSD and  trauma.

I have a particular interest in working with neurodivergent young people and have worked successfully in helping young people explore their difference and what it means to them.  This allows them to build a stronger sense of self and to be aware of strategies they have used, unconsciously,  to be able to cope with  daily living.

My approach is integrative based on the principles of putting the young person at the centre of the therapy.  Allowing them to lead and listening with an empathic ear.  However, I do bring an awareness to behaviours that may be linked to the past; I may show curiosity around certain behaviours and delve deeper.  I may offer strategies that may help to calm the nervous system or soothe sensory seeking behaviours.   I like to think this is approached in a collaborative and non-threatening way.

I provide therapy for children and young people who may be struggling with emotions, experiences, or difficulties that can show up in ways they don't fully understand themselves.

They may feel overwhelmed, anxious, angry, withdrawn, or behave in ways that seem out of character such as difficulties in school or risk-taking. These experiences can leave young people questioning themselves and wondering, "What's wrong with me?" or "Am I a bad person?" They may feel different from others, out of control, or as though nobody truly understands what they're going through. Parents and carers often find themselves asking difficult questions too. They may feel worried, exhausted, or uncertain about how best to help. Sometimes they wonder when things changed or why their relationship with their child feels different.

These can be incredibly tough times for everyone involved.

Therapy offers a space to make sense of these experiences and untangle the distress, anxiety, and other powerful emotions that can feel overwhelming. While the process is not always easy, a trusting and safe therapeutic relationship can help young people develop a stronger understanding of themselves, their emotions, and their experiences. When a young person feels accepted and understood, meaningful growth becomes possible. Therapy can help them build confidence, resilience, self-worth, and a clearer sense of who they are.

Before the first session, I will arrange a free brief telephone appointment to discuss requirements, who the therapy is for, my availability and contractual arrangements. This helps you decide if you feel if I am the right person to work with your child.