Click on the sections below to access information about the HYCS counselling service for young people and how to book an appointment.
Unlike some other services, self-referral must be made by the young person themselves. Picking up the phone to ask for an appointment is an important first step in a young person’s journey towards wellbeing! They are engaged in the process from the outset.
Therefore, we are not able to book a counselling session without speaking to the young person directly.
If a young person is anxious about calling, they can of course be supported to make the call but we do need to speak to them.
Young people do not need a referral from a mental health specialist, GP or other professional to access HYCS’ services.
Do encourage the young person to take a look at our website and the many resources available there for self-care in the Self Help Hub and information about our service in general. Alternatively, simply contact HYCS to request display posters and information leaflets. HYCS is happy to offer advice to parents, carers and professionals about the initial signposting process and to provide information about our service.
When emotions and problems begin to feel overwhelming, counselling provides young people with a chance to talk about whatever is troubling them in confidence, in a safe and supportive environment. The counsellor will listen to what they say and feel without judging, helping them to explore thoughts, feelings and experiences and to work things out for themselves, building resilience and self-belief.
Young people who use our service give us regular feedback about their positive experience of our service.
Sessions are Confidential
It’s important that the young people who come to HYCS trust our service, feeling able to share their worries. What young people say in their counselling is therefore private and confidential except in exceptional circumstances, such as if we consider that they or others may be at risk.
HYCS do not give feedback to parents/carers about sessions
As part of our commitment to client confidentiality, we do not give feedback to parents, professionals or other services except in exceptional circumstances as above.
Under GDPR data and privacy laws we are also committed to safeguarding our clients' privacy and protecting the personal information given to us. Read more about this in our privacy policy.
Step 1 – The Introductory Session
When a young person first contacts the service, HYCS will book them in for an introductory session – usually within 2 weeks of first contact.
This intro’ session, at our Centre in St Johns Road, typically lasts 50 minutes (or just 30 minutes for 11 year olds) and is an opportunity for the young person to learn more about HYCS and the counselling process, to explore initial concerns and to identify what help they feel may be most beneficial. It also enables HYCS to identify need, provide interim support resources and to signpost to other services where necessary.
Step 2 – Waiting List for Regular Counselling
If after the introductory session they decide that they would like to continue and to have regular counselling HYCS will add their name to our waiting list – waiting times for a regular slot can vary but are typically around 12 weeks. HYCS will contact them as soon as a slot becomes available.
You may find it helpful to take a look at our various guides and support leaflets which can be downloaded below (click on the images).
Download HYCS' Parents & Carers' support information pdf guide :
Download HYCS' Parents and Carers Summary Guide to Counselling at HYCS for 12-25 year olds:
Download HYCS' Parents and Carers Summary Guide to Counselling at HYCS for 11 year olds:
Download HYCS' Information for Parents and Professionals Leaflet.
Download HYCS' main leaflet about Counselling here:
If you prefer printed copies of our guides, the HYCS poster or brochure please email ask@hycscounselling.co.uk.