Child & Adolescent Counselling in Illawong

Support for Emotional, Behavioural, and Developmental Challenges

As a parent, it can be hard to know how to best support your child or teenager when they’re anxious, struggling at school, or finding family changes overwhelming.

At Mindnest Counselling, we provide a safe, calm space where children can talk, play, and explore their feelings in ways that make sense to them. Child counselling and play therapy is designed for younger children, typically under 12, while counselling for adolescents focuses more on conversation-based therapy that supports teens navigating emotional, social, and developmental challenges.

We use age-appropriate, evidence-based approaches to help children build confidence, manage big emotions, and develop healthy coping skills. As an ACA registered counsellor, I work with children experiencing low to moderate challenges, and I collaborate with parents, schools, or health professionals if extra support is needed.

Areas Supported in Child & Adolescent Counselling

Child counselling and play therapy can support children through a range of emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges. Children may not always have the words to explain what they’re feeling, and therapy provides a safe way for them to express and process emotions. Adolescent counselling supports teenagers who may be experiencing increased emotional pressure, identity development, social challenges, or school-related stress.

  • Anxiety, worry, or fears

  • Emotional regulation and big feelings

  • Behavioural challenges or changes

  • School-related stress or difficulties

  • Friendship or social challenges

  • Family changes such as separation or adjustment

  • Grief, loss, or significant life events

  • Building emotional awareness and coping skills

  • Low mood, stress, or overwhelm commonly experienced during adolescence

  • Confidence, identity, and self-esteem concerns in teens

  • Navigating peer pressure, friendships, and social relationships

Children and adolescents don’t need to be in crisis to benefit from counselling. Many families seek support to help their child and teenager feel more secure, understood, and supported during times of change.

Counselling can help children and adolescents

  • Develop emotional awareness and coping tools

  • Build confidence and resilience

  • Strengthen communication and relationships

  • Feel calmer, safer, and more supported

  • Improve emotional regulation and self-understanding during adolescence

  • Navigate school stress, friendships, and increasing independence

Supporting families in Illawong, the Sutherland Shire, and across Australia through online counselling.

→ BOOK a Child & Adolescent Counselling Session or

→ CONTACT ME to ask a question.