01 — A safe, confidential space

Emotion coaching provides children and young people with a safe, confidential space within which they can build a relationship of trust. I establish a contract where the child or young person understands the meaning of confidentiality and the limits applied to ensure they are safeguarded appropriately. I begin and end the coaching relationship with clear expectations and goal setting. I encourage the child or young person to lead, and feel they have control over the process of bringing about positive change in their life.

02 — Exploring, understanding and labelling

Emotion coaching supports children and young people to talk about their thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Children who are able to label their feelings and develop emotional literacy are better able to regulate emotions, build self esteem, grow in confidence and succeed in social and academic situations.

03 — Coping strategies and building a toolkit

Emotion coaching equips children and young people with a toolkit of coping strategies that work for them. Strategy banks are built and personalised with input from the child or young person, not prescribed. What works for one child, may not work for another.

04 — Advice, signposting and referrals

Emotion coaching is an early intervention to support children and young people who are struggling.

I have counselling qualifications and professional experience of emotion coaching, positive behaviour management and safeguarding children and young people. I am not a medical professional and recognise the limits of my professional expertise. I am able to signpost to other Services and provide evidence on request to support referrals.