Guest blog: Growing Together with Fortis Therapist, Gemma

Guest blog: Growing Together with Fortis Therapist, Gemma

One of the most rewarding aspects of working therapeutically with children and young people is not only working collaboratively together but the growth and the therapeutic changes for both the client and the counsellor.

I have found that many elements of play, such as sensory play, games, creative activities, messy play, singing, storytelling, role play and puppets, really enables children and young people to make sense of difficult life experiences or complex psychological issues and express themselves in a safe space.

However, for us as therapists too, play can enable us to make sense of their inner world, thoughts, behaviours, emotions and feelings that are expressed through elements of play, while building a positive relationship. In addition to these benefit, this shared experience also allows us to grow together emotionally and mentally.

I enjoy and feel warmth from the fact that they have let us in, they trust us to support them with often some very deep-rooted issues, unhealthy core beliefs and triggers. It is very rewarding to see them grow through their challenges as well teaching us something new in the sessions not just as a therapist but as a person. I have upskilled within my work; it broadens my outlook on various client issues as well as seeing the power of working together can enable that positive change and growth in them.

Many themes we are seeing coming through in therapy at the minute involve self-esteem, confidence, loss, anxiety, worries, trauma, anger, transitioning, changes, identity, relationships, friendships and many more. Through creative play I notice how children and young people’s triggers lessen when these areas are explored in a session.

I’ve noticed that through tracking their development and reflecting on previous sessions, especially when showing them the creative activities they have made, it enables them to feel empowered – seeing a visual representation of their own growth. Additionally, this boosts their self-esteem and confidence as well as their awareness.  This in turn enables them to cope in healthier ways moving forward.

We also celebrate those overcoming challenges and achievements with lots of encouragement and praise.

The most valuable lesson I have learnt while working with children and young people are that every client is unique, and growth looks different with every person you work with which is more than ok.

‘Let’s root for each other and watch each other grow ‘