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A mental health coach provides support and guidance to help children and adolescents develop emotional resilience, coping skills, and positive mental health habits. Unlike therapists, coaches do not diagnose or treat mental health disorders. Unlike counsellors, we do not focus on understanding the past in order to manage any problems. Instead, we focus on goal-setting, skill-building, and emotional growth to support overall wellbeing.

I am qualified to work with children and young people aged from 5 to 19 years old. The majority of my work is with young people between 8 and 14 years old, though this can vary depending on their individual needs and developmental stage.

I support young people with a range of emotional and behavioural challenges, including:

• Low confidence or self-esteem

• Anxiety or stress

• Social difficulties or isolation

• School-related worries

• Emotional regulation

• Life transitions (e.g., changing schools, family changes)

Sessions are usually an hour, and each session is tailored to the child’s age, needs, and goals. Sessions may involve talking, play-based activities, creative tasks, and sharing tools to help them explore feelings, develop skills, and build confidence. I will always support the child to decide their own goals to be worked on between sessions, and review progress with these at the start of the next session.

I also offer guidance and support to parents when this will complement the work with their child.

Yes, confidentiality is important, and I will not share any specific details discussed unless the child is happy for me to do so. Where it would be helpful, I will share tools and strategies which we have discussed in a session so a parent could support with these at home.

However, if there are any concerns about a child's safety or wellbeing, I have a duty to share that information with parents or relevant professionals, in line with safeguarding policies.

Absolutely. Parental involvement can be key to a child's progress. I offer regular updates and practical strategies for supporting your child at home, with your consent and in line with what’s best for your child.

If your child wants, you are also welcome to join our sessions.

I am currently training to work as a parent coach also, so watch this space!

It varies depending on the child’s needs. Some may benefit from a short block of sessions, usually 4-6 as an initial booking, while others may need longer-term support. We’ll review progress together and decide what works best.

I hold a Level 4 Diploma in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Coaching, as well as a degree in Psychology. I also receive regular supervision and stay updated with best practices to ensure safe and effective support.

A full list of my training and qualifications can be seen on the About Laura page.

If your child is struggling emotionally or socially, or you just want to boost their confidence and resilience, mental health coaching could be a great fit. I offer a free initial consultation to discuss your concerns and explore whether this support is right for your family.

You can contact me on laura@thriveandgrowcoaching.co.uk to book a free 30 minute phone consultation or ask any further questions. I’m here to help!

I can visit your child in their home, in their school, or in a neutral privately bookable space in Overton, whichever is most suitable. Home visits are usually within the Basingstoke - Andover - Newbury - Winchester area, approximately a 10 mile radius from Overton, and depending on the location could incur a small travelling charge. Visits within schools need to be agreed between the parent and the school.

I hold an enhanced DBS.