Rebecca Mottershead

Child and Adolescent Counsellor

After over 30 years in teaching, I became acutely aware of the impact of mental health on children’s lives and decided to retrain as a Children’s Counsellor.

My style of therapy involves an integrative approach adapted to each client’s needs depending on their age and interests using creative media.

Many of the students are initially referred because they exhibit challenging behaviour in the classroom, which not only puts them at risk of exclusion, but impacts on their relationships with others. Often the children are wary of adults, and working in a non-directive way, using play and metaphor enables them to bring and explore their feelings in a safe and contained way.

I also work to support the whole school community, offering training sessions for parents and staff to give a greater understanding of how mental health affects both the children and themselves, and gives them tools to support their own wellbeing.

Testimonials

I have really noticed a difference at home, since starting her sessions, she seems
better within herself.

Parent

Therapy gave me a space to think about my insecurities, the times when I overthink, and my friendship issues.

Student

She is no longer upset in the mornings or in class. While she’s still not comfortable answering questions in a big group, she participates in lessons and does well. She will occasionally contribute in class and can ask for help when she needs it.

Teacher

It was good to share my feelings with someone whose job is to listen and understand someone’s feelings. It’s a fun place to be creative.

Student

My daughter really enjoys going to see you and looks forward to her weekly sessions. I don’t hear too much about them as I think it is important to her that they are private. She does however, want to recreate the activities at home. I have really appreciated you taking the time to communicate with me and keep me up to date on my daughter’s progress.

Parent

We feel that his attainment and emotional regulation have improved. His Dad spoke very highly of the experience that he had with you and thanked us for the referral to you.

Teacher

My son has settled in very well, has started being more confident and more comfortable speaking up. I believe the sessions with Magda have been an important part of this. I appreciate the termly face-to-face updates that Magda has provided to follow my son’s progress.

Parent

Child in Time is a wonderful organisation. Child in Time provide therapists in my current primary school and we have found the experience to be hugely supportive. The way the therapists are able to support pupils, staff and families is invaluable. I would unreservedly recommend Child in Time to anyone.

Teacher

Karen was wonderful. It’s such a helpful service – our daughter is on the spectrum, so spending an hour talking about the impact on us was truly restorative.

Parent

Empathetic, professional, knowledgeable, personable counselling. Highly recommended on all fronts.

Parent

This was a massive help to me as a parent of a child with recently diagnosed ADHD and autism. The therapist was so easy to talk to. Talking through my concerns and my son’s behaviour, has definitely made a difference to both my understanding and how to help him regulate his emotions better. I’ll definitely be booking again.

Parent