Why therapy in schools has never been more important

When you think about therapy in schools, you might assume it’s only for children in extreme situations, like coping with the loss of a parent or serious problems at home. But actually, at Fortis Therapy and Training, our therapists work with children facing a range of difficulties. 

Having therapy available in school means it is accessible as needs arise. Children can form a relationship with their therapist and work through their own thoughts, feelings, experiences and behaviours in a safe and confidential space.  

Do children need therapy?

In January 2025, it was reported that 34,793 children were referred to child and adolescent mental health services crisis teams between April and October 2024, which is a 10% rise from the previous year. At Fortis we are seeing increases in referrals year on year.

Children and young people can sometimes struggle to make sense of their experiences, or may feel anxious, low in mood, or find processing their feelings impossible to do on their own. Fortis is also seeing increasing numbers of children, and young people who have been diagnosed as neurodivergent . 

How can therapy in schools help?

Therapy in schools can make a big difference, not just for vulnerable pupils in crisis, but also for any child who needs emotional support. By spotting and addressing mental health issues early, therapy can help students manage stress and emotions.

By accessing therapy, children learn about themselves. Therapy can help increase their emotional literacy and teach them strategies to manage their feelings and process experiences. It can be powerful stuff!  

How does therapy in schools work?

School therapists work independently, meaning they are there purely for therapeutic support with no conflicts of interest. Fortis therapists work with the school to manage referrals coming into our service. Each session is tailored to the child’s needs, using different approaches to help them feel comfortable and engaged.

Approaches include one-to-one or group therapy, talking therapy, and CBT techniques to explore thoughts and feelings. Creative therapy such as play, art, drama therapy, and sand play offer alternative ways to help students express emotions and can be helpful for younger children or those who find it hard to communicate verbally. Support can also help children who are struggling with transitions, such as changing schools or family dynamics. Students are seen in school in a safe, confidential space. Sessions take place during the school day and we do our best to work around timetables so students are not missing the same lessons each week. 

If children need some time before returning to class, we liaise with the school for this to happen, or if it is better for a client to be seen towards the end of the day, we can do this too.

Where appropriate, we liaise with parents and carers to share strategies that may help at home and to support the child, without breaking confidentiality.

Therapy for school staff

Fortis therapists in schools aren’t just there for pupils. We also support teachers, support staff, and school leaders who are under increasing pressure. In 2023, 52% of teachers were considering leaving their jobs due to health and wellbeing concerns, and 72% of school staff reported feeling stressed.

To help staff cope, our school therapy service offers reflective practice and clinical supervision. We also provide therapeutic coaching and therapy, giving teachers a space to process challenges and develop strategies to support themselves and pupils. One-to-one and group support, as well as creative wellbeing workshops, can give staff practical tools to look after their own mental health.

The lasting benefits of school therapy

Therapy in schools leads to real, measurable benefits. It improves emotional wellbeing and resilience, helping students feel better, more confident, and in control. It reduces stress and anxiety for both pupils and staff, making school a more positive environment. Behaviour improves as pupils gain better coping strategies, and engagement in learning increases. 

Want to learn more about how therapy can benefit your school? Get in touch with us today.