The power of early intervention when working with children

As Children’s Mental Health Week highlights the importance of emotional well-being, the need for early intervention has never been more urgent. In today’s fast-paced world, children face increasing pressures—social expectations, academic demands and the ever-growing influence of technology.

Anxiety, low self-esteem, sleep difficulties and emotional regulation challenges are becoming more common than ever before. Left unaddressed, these struggles won’t just disappear. They can manifest by impacting confidence, hindering academic progress and shaping a child’s future in ways that extend far beyond the classroom. Research shows that poor mental health in childhood often leads to difficulties in adulthood, affecting career prospects, relationships and overall well-being.

But here’s the good news: early intervention can change this trajectory.

Why early intervention matters

When children are given the tools and strategies to manage their emotions early, they develop resilience, confidence and a healthier sense of self-worth. Studies show that children who receive early emotional support are less likely to experience severe anxiety, depression, or behavioural difficulties later in life. When they feel understood and supported, they are more likely to thrive in school, form healthy relationships and approach life with confidence.

Yet despite this, mental health support is often reactive rather than proactive. Many children struggle in silence and by the time help is sought, issues have often escalated. We wouldn’t wait until a child’s physical health deteriorates before acting, so why should mental health be any different?

So, why are we waiting until children are struggling before offering help? Could it be the long waiting lists? Or the lack of signposting by GPs to hypnotherapists? I believe in a world that moves so quickly, we must take a more proactive approach.

How I support children and families

I work both in-person and online, supporting children and families with a variety of successful approaches that are tailored to their unique needs. My work focuses on helping children build emotional resilience, develop confidence and learn essential skills to manage their thoughts and feelings effectively.

I offer a diverse range of interventions and therapeutic approaches, including:

• One-to-one therapy interventions - Personalised support sessions to help children explore their emotions, develop coping strategies and build resilience.
• Group well-being sessions – Small group environments where children can learn from one another, develop social confidence and practice emotional regulation in a supportive space.
• Classroom-based crafting activities – Creative, hands-on activities designed to help children express themselves, manage emotions and learn mindfulness techniques through play and art.
• Metaphorical stories & therapeutic storytelling – Stories are a powerful tool in helping children process their emotions, reframe their thinking and relate to positive messages in a way that feels natural and engaging.
• Other proven methodologies – A range of effective strategies, including relaxation techniques, mindset coaching and cognitive-based approaches to foster emotional growth and resilience.

Every child is different, which is why I tailor my approach to suit their individual needs—whether that means structured interventions, creative activities or simply offering a safe space to talk and to be heard.

The emotional burden on children

Children should be free to enjoy their childhood, not burdened by overwhelming emotions they are unable to manage. However, many children today struggle with:

• Anxiety and stress – worrying about school, friendships or the future.
• Anger and frustration – difficulty managing emotions or expressing feelings in a healthy way.
• Sleep issues – struggling to switch off at night or dealing with bedtime anxieties.
• Eating disorders – using food as a way to cope with emotional distress or an aversion to certain coloured foods etc.
• Social isolation – withdrawing from peers due to fear, low self-esteem or feeling misunderstood.

These struggles can manifest in different ways—withdrawal, outbursts, behavioural challenges and even can present in physical symptoms such as stomach aches and headaches. Many parents feel helpless, and unsure of how to best support their child. Some believe they must wait until the problem becomes ‘serious enough’ before seeking help, but this simply isn’t true. Recognising the signs early and accessing the right support can transform a child’s future.

Empowering parents to make a difference

One of the most common concerns I hear from parents is: “I just don’t know how to help them” Or “I didn’t know where to turn for help”

The truth is, parental support is crucial in a child’s emotional development. Children look to the adults around them for guidance, reassurance and coping strategies. That’s why I believe in working not just with children, but with parents too, ensuring that the support continues beyond my sessions.

Here’s how parents can play a key role in nurturing their child’s mental health:

• Encouraging open conversations – Creating a safe space for children to talk about their feelings without fear of judgment.
• Teaching emotional regulation techniques – Simple strategies such as deep breathing, grounding exercises or positive affirmations can help children manage stress and anxiety.
• Reframing negative thoughts – Helping children shift their mindset from self-doubt to self-belief.
• Practising self-care as a parent – A child’s emotional well-being is often a reflection of their environment. When parents take care of their own mental health, they model healthy coping strategies for their children.

Even small changes—like adjusting the way we respond to a child’s worries, offering reassurance in a different way, or changing the language we use can have a profound impact on their mental wellbeing.

Creating safe spaces for children

In my sessions, I provide a safe and supportive space where children can express themselves freely. Many of the children I work with feel overwhelmed by school pressures, social challenges or significant life changes. Others present with more complex issues such as phobias, eating disorders or persistent anxiety.

Through one-to-one sessions, group wellbeing classes and creative therapeutic activities, children learn to:

• Express their emotions in a safe and non-judgmental environment.
• Develop coping mechanisms for stress, anxiety, and frustration.
• Rebuild confidence and self-worth.
• Gain practical tools to help them navigate life’s ups and downs.
• By working on these areas early, we reduce the likelihood of these challenges escalating into more serious mental health issues in the future.

Building a stronger foundation for the future

A child’s mental well-being is just as crucial as their physical health. If a child were physically unwell, we would take immediate action—so why should emotional well-being be treated any differently?

By nurturing emotional resilience from an early age, we equip children with the skills they need to handle life’s challenges with confidence and self-belief. We help them feel strong, capable and prepared for whatever comes their way. Most importantly, we give them the freedom to be children again. To laugh, play, explore and grow without the weight of anxiety or self-doubt holding them back.

Let’s build a future where every child feels empowered

As we mark Children’s Mental Health Week, let’s recognise that mental health isn’t just an issue for schools, parents or professionals—it’s something we all play a role in. By listening, understanding, and providing the right tools, we can ensure that no child feels alone in their struggles. Together, we can create a future where children don’t just ‘cope’—they thrive. Let’s encourage every child to become their own inner superhero.