Nicola Jefferson

I currently have availability on Friday's

I am a Play & Creative Therapist working with children, teenagers and young adults from 4-18 years (up to 25 years for SEN/D or care leavers). I offer a safe, welcoming space where children and young people can explore their feelings and experiences through play, creativity and the therapeutic relationship, without feeling under pressure to talk if they don't want to.

I work with children and young people experiencing a range of difficulties, including anxiety, emotional overwhelm, low self-esteem, difficulties with emotional regulation, relationships and changes in their lives. As a neurodivergent practitioner myself, I have a particular interest in supporting neurodivergent young people, including those with ADHD and autism.

I also have experience supporting children and young people who have experienced bereavement and loss. I understand that these experiences can be difficult to put into words, and that everyone needs space to process things in their own way and in their own time.

My approach is relational, child-centred and neuro-affirming. I take time to get to know each child and young person, understand what matters to them and find ways of working that feel right for them.

I hold a Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Play Therapy (Distinction), a Level 6 Certificate in Relational Play and Creative Therapy and a BA (Hons) Degree in Social Work. I also bring nearly 20 years of experience working with children in foster care.

I recognise that supporting a child or young person can sometimes feel difficult for parents and carers too. Alongside individual therapy, I offer optional parent/carer support sessions (at additional cost). These provide time to talk through concerns, develop an increased understanding of your child’s needs and develop ways to support them at home.

If you are considering therapy for your child or young person, I would be happy to have an initial conversation about what you are looking for and whether I might be able to help. 

I recognise it can be really scary for children or young people to start something new, with an unfamiliar person and often in an unfamiliar place. I am flexible in my approach and encourage parents/carers to be part of the process, led by the child/young person. There is no one size fits all and every child/young person will need a way of working that works for them.

I am based in Newport Pagnell and offer weekly 45-minute sessions. 

I offer a free 20 minute initial discussion where we can see whether we are the right fit.

If you would like to progress, I offer a face-to-face initial session (up to an hour) where we can discuss goals and create a contractual agreement. This gives you and your child/young person the opportunity to meet me and be introduced to the space.