Ellie (11) was referred for one-to-one counselling by her school due to withdrawal, tearfulness, and a decline in classroom participation.
She attended multiple sessions with a TLC counsellor helping her to improve her confidence, mood and re-engage in school.
“Since my parents divorced three years ago, I’ve felt like a visitor in my dad’s house.”
Ellie
She avoided talking to either parent about her feelings. Ellie’s distress had left her feeling isolated, unheard, and at risk of longer-term emotional harm.
Ellie showed us that she was a creative person, so we used tools like drawings and feeling charts to help her name emotions. We role-played conversations to build her confidence to speak to her parents, and encouraged her mother to talk more regularly with her about how she was feeling.
We also encouraged Ellie’s father to do more one-to-one activities with her so she felt more valued and included.
“After some time, Ellie’s confidence and mood had noticeably improved. Teachers saw her re-engage in school life and group activities.”
TLC Counsellor
At home, she reported feeling more “seen” and valued during visits with her father, especially after their new routine of shared activities. Ellie and her mum were able to talk openly and honestly for the first time. Ellie said their relationship had never been better and that she felt less alone.
