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Lauren Askins counselling for children and young people in Bingley, West Yorkshire

About Lauren

Supporting children and young people with warmth, creativity and understanding

Lauren Askins, child and young person counsellor in Bingley, West Yorkshire

Hi, I’m Lauren

BACP-registered counsellor and clinical supervisor with over 10 years' experience supporting children and young people.

Throughout my career, I have worked across schools, community settings and online services, helping children and young people navigate some of the challenges that can come with growing up. Whether a young person is struggling with anxiety, low mood, self-esteem, friendship difficulties, family changes, grief or overwhelming emotions, I provide a safe and supportive space where they can explore what they're experiencing at their own pace.

I believe every young person deserves to feel heard, understood and accepted. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is at the heart of my work, creating a space where children and young people can talk openly, make sense of their feelings and develop greater confidence in themselves.

Lauren Askins, BACP-registered child counsellor in West Yorkshire

My Approach

Therapy that meets young people where they are

My core approach is person-centred, meaning I work alongside each young person and adapt sessions to meet their individual needs.

I also draw on attachment theory, play therapy and solution-focused approaches, allowing me to tailor support depending on the age, personality and preferences of the young person I am working with.

Not every child or young person finds it easy to express themselves through conversation alone. For this reason, I often incorporate creative and play-based methods into sessions, helping young people communicate and process their experiences in ways that feel natural and comfortable for them.

I work in a non-directive and confidential way, offering a calm therapeutic space where young people can explore emotions safely, gain new perspectives and develop emotional resilience.

Lauren Askins supporting children and young people through counselling in Bingley

My Experience

I began my counselling career in 2015 as a school counsellor with Place2Be, providing individual counselling and group work within a primary school setting.

Since 2018, I have worked for a Bradford-based charity, delivering counselling across primary and secondary schools, within community settings and online.

Through this work, I have developed a strong understanding of the complex challenges young people face today, from the pressures of social media and friendships to self-esteem, family changes, exam stress and mental health difficulties.

Over the years, I have supported children and young people experiencing:

  • Anxiety and panic attacks

  • Depression and low mood

  • Self-esteem and confidence difficulties

  • Family conflict

  • Relationship challenges

  • Exam stress

  • Life transitions and change

  • Self-harm

  • Suicidal thoughts

  • Bereavement and loss

 

Professional Memberships

  • BACP Registered Member (374524)

  • Creative Counsellors Professional Member

Specialist Bereavement Support

Bereavement is an area of particular interest and experience within my practice.

I have extensive experience supporting bereaved children, young people and adults, including those affected by sudden death, suicide and sibling loss. Alongside my work within schools and community services, I have also worked with Cruse Bereavement Support.

I continue to undertake specialist bereavement training to ensure my work remains sensitive, informed and ethical, helping children, young people and families navigate grief with care, compassion and understanding.

Counselling can provide a safe space for children and young people to express difficult emotions, make sense of loss and find ways to move forward while carrying the memory of someone important to them.

Bereavement counselling support for children and young people in West Yorkshire

Looking for counselling for your child?

You don't need to have all the answers before reaching out.

Whether you're concerned about a recent change in behaviour, struggling to support your child through a difficult period, or simply wondering whether counselling might help, I'd be happy to hear from you.

Child and young person counselling with Lauren Askins in Bingley

Why I Do This Work

I am passionate about supporting children and young people because I know how important it is to receive the right support at the right time.

Early therapeutic support can help young people better understand themselves, develop healthy coping strategies and build the confidence they need to navigate life's challenges both now and in the future.

Every young person is different, which is why I believe therapy should never be a one-size-fits-all process. My aim is always to create a space where each young person feels safe, valued and able to be themselves.

Person-centred counselling for children and young people in West Yorkshire
Counselling for children and young people in Bingley, West Yorkshire

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Finding the right therapist for your child is an important decision.

If you'd like to discuss your young person's needs, ask a question, or find out more about how counselling works, I'd be happy to hear from you.

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