Counselling
Our specialist children and young people’s counsellors are here to support young people in coming to terms with and coping with the impact of domestic abuse. They are here to listen, discuss and help clients process their experiences in a trauma-informed space, through talking, activities or play.
Children can experience both short and long-term emotional and behavioural impacts as a result of living with domestic abuse, and each child will react differently. Through one-to-one counselling, the young person will guide the sessions and their counsellor will support them to process their experiences and any potential impacts of trauma in an age appropriate way.
Referrals for counselling are currently closed and will be reviewed in April 2025.
"I liked how reassuring it was to speak up. I think I have dealt with a lot and the sessions have helped me"
How does it work?
Receiving support through Rising Sun’s Counselling Service is completely free for children and young people who have experienced, witnessed or been impacted by domestic abuse. If the young person lives in Canterbury, Ashford or Folkestone & Hythe and aged between 5-18, they can be referred into our service by a professional, parent or family member.
The referral will be processed by our team, and a full and detailed assessment will be undertaken by our Therapeutic Lead to gain a thorough understanding of their experiences and personal trauma. Once matched with a Children & Young People counsellor, the young person will be placed onto a waiting list to receive counselling.
When a space becomes available, the young person will be invited to start counselling. 12 weekly one-to-one sessions are initially provided, lasting between 30-60 minutes each, which as much as possible will be in-person. If after 12 sessions it is felt that more sessions would be beneficial, support can be extended.
