Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy
I provide psychotherapy that is relational, compassionate and grounded in understanding. My aim is to create a safe, thoughtful space where children and young people can feel held in mind, supported to make sense of their experiences, and understood beyond behaviour alone.
About the practice
A thoughtful, child- and young person-led psychotherapy practice grounded in compassion, curiosity and emotional understanding. I work in a child- and young person-led way, creating a space where feelings and experiences can be explored at a pace that feels right. I am particularly interested in what behaviour may be communicating, especially when words feel hard to find.
About me
My interest lies in understanding the emotional meaning behind behaviour, particularly when feelings are complex or difficult to put into words. I am especially thoughtful about how early experiences, relationships and neurodiversity shape a child or young person’s inner world.
I approach my work with curiosity, care and respect for each individual’s unique story, and aim to offer a reflective, containing presence that supports emotional growth and understanding over time.
Credentials
I am a qualified Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist with a Professional Doctorate from the Tavistock and Portman NHS Trust, and a full clinical member of the Association of Child Psychotherapists (ACP).
Alongside my private practice, I hold a senior clinical leadership role within a schools-based therapy service, supervise therapists, and teach on a doctoral psychotherapy training programme.
Office
I am based in Bristol and work across the South West, offering both in-person and online psychotherapy sessions.
An initial conversation can help us think together about what might be most helpful and whether I am the right fit for your child, family or school.
Services
I offer psychotherapy and consultation for children, young people, families and schools. My work is thoughtful, relational and tailored to individual needs, with care taken to ensure support feels appropriate, containing and collaborative.
Individual Psychotherapy for Children & Young People
Individual psychotherapy offers a confidential, supportive space for children and young people to explore feelings, relationships and experiences at their own pace. Sessions are shaped around what feels most helpful, using talking, play and creative approaches where appropriate.
Parent Sessions & Parenting Support
Parent sessions provide space to reflect on a child’s emotional needs and the meaning behind behaviour. These sessions support parents and carers to feel more confident, thoughtful and emotionally attuned in responding to their child.
Consultation for Schools & Professionals
I offer consultation and reflective support for school staff and education professionals. This work focuses on understanding behaviour, developing trauma-informed practice, and supporting emotionally attuned systems around children and young people.
Contact
If you’d like to enquire about therapy or arrange an initial conversation, please get in touch. An initial exchange can help us think together about what you’re seeking and whether I am the right fit for your child, family or school.
Email: hello@drjessicamaliphant.co.uk