Ellen Laughlin

My working hours are Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm. 

I am currently accepting new clients, and have daytime availability. 

Hi, I'm Ellen, a Psychodynamic Psychotherapist at Kids' Therapy Works. I hold an MA in Psychodynamic Counselling and Psychotherapy from the University of Essex, with a specialist focus on children and adolescents. I also have a First Class Honours degree in Psychology and am a published researcher in the field.

I have worked as a school counsellor supporting adolescents with a wide range of challenges including trauma, bereavement, bullying, and identity. I also have experience as a support worker with Autism Anglia, which has given me a deep understanding of neurodivergent young people and their families.

My warm, empathic approach helps children feel at ease from the very first session. I believe that every child deserves to be heard and understood.

Children and young people can feel overwhelmed by emotions that seem out of control - anxiety, anger, sadness, confusion. Counselling gives them the tools to reflect, understand themselves better, and develop their own ways of managing difficult feelings.

I can help children and young people experiencing:

Anxiety and worry

Low mood or depression

Bereavement and loss

Trauma

Bullying

Difficulties with friendships and relationships

Low self-esteem and confidence

Family changes such as separation or divorce

Identity and sense of self

Emotional difficulties linked to additional needs or disability

Your child’s first session is an opportunity for me to get to know your child. We invite parents into the first session, as this is your chance to show your understanding of why your child is coming to counselling. It is important for me to get a sense of the whole picture, often including the pregnancy, birth and infancy of your child; this will help in tailoring sessions to your child needs.

With young children, it may be important for the parent to stay for the whole initial session. With older children and adolescents, we may ask you (as the parent or guardian) to leave the room after a short amount of time, as this may give your child the space they need to talk to the therapist confidentially.

During the initial session, we will discuss important aspects of therapy such as confidentiality, risk, and why your child is coming to therapy.