U18 Sports Counselling
Athletes transitioning from recreational sport to representative pathways often face new challenges that can affect both their performance, wellbeing and relationship with their parents/cargivers.
During my time as a counsellor, I have worked with young athletes experiencing difficulties such as injury, low confidence, self-esteem concerns, burnout, and a lack of motivation. My Under 18 counselling service is designed for young athletes who love their sport but may be struggling with said issues.
Counselling can also help young athletes better understand and express their thoughts and emotions, making it easier to communicate with their parents or caregivers. By improving this communication, counselling can strengthen the parent-child relationship and ensure young athletes feel understood and supported both on and off the field.
Initial U18 Appointment
The initial appointment begins with the parent or guardian present so we can complete the counselling contract together, discuss confidentiality, and introduce everyone involved. Once this is complete, I spend some time speaking with the parent or guardian about their perspective, what their personal concerns are, and what they hope their child will gain from counselling. This also provides an opportunity for me to explain what counselling can and cannot provide, ensuring everyone has clear and realistic expectations.
Following this discussion, I work purely one-on-one with the child for all following appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I know what is discussed during my child's sessions?
Confidentiality is an essential part of the counselling relationship. To help your child feel safe speaking openly, I do not share the content of sessions with parents or guardians.
Your child is welcome to share whatever they feel comfortable discussing outside of counselling. The only exception is if I have concerns about your child's safety or the safety of someone else, in which case I will follow my legal and ethical obligations.
There are topics I don't want discussed in counselling.
My focus is always on supporting the young athlete's wellbeing and addressing issues related to their sporting experience. While parents cannot determine which topics are discussed in counselling, you can be assured that my intention is to provide appropriate, ethical, and athlete-centred support.
How can I be assured of my child's safety?
I hold a current Working With Children Check and comply with all relevant child safety legislation and ethical guidelines. My professional boundaries policy prohibits contact with young clients outside of scheduled in-person or telehealth appointments.
I do not communicate with children through personal social media accounts or private messaging. All communication outside of counselling sessions is conducted through a parent or guardian unless agreed to otherwise. This applies until the client transitions into the adult service, where the standard professional boundaries policy applies.