For Professionals

I offer a consultation service for school, health and social care professionals, to support reflective practice and work with children and families. Managing a particularly challenging class or full caseload can leave even the most experienced professional feeling stressed, anxious or inadequate. Clients’ relational, emotional difficulties or mental disturbances are often projected onto or acted out within professional networks; this can leave professionals feeling ‘stuck’ or de-skilled.

Consultation is a formal, safe space in which we think together about children’s presentations, needs, and patterns of relating. I work alongside you to identify solutions and useful strategies. The professionals I’ve worked with have reported feeling increasingly supported, empowered and skilled in responding to particular children or situations.

Consultation can be arranged as a one-off session, or on a more regular basis. It’s available in your school or workplace or at my consulting rooms. It can also take place by phone or online.

Testimonies

It has been really helpful and reassuring to meet with Lizzie to discuss my concerns about [this child], his behaviour and possible strategies to use when he transitions into mainstream class.’ –Rob Y4 teacher

Discussing key issues relating to work with Y and his family has resulted in a far more positive relationship between parents and school, which has only been beneficial for Y and helped him to progress’—Anna, Y3 teacher

Very helpful to think together to find ways to help R through his difficulties in a constructive way, that does not have a negative impact on his learning –Kelsey, teacher, Y6 class.

Lizzie has been very supportive –Sue, Year 3 teacher

Thank you for your support this year with M; it has been very much appreciated –Linda, Year 2 teacher.

Thanks for taking the time to meet up regularly to discuss B’s needs and progress (it was really helpful to share ideas and talk things through) – Rachel, Social Worker

Are you concerned about a child’s emotional wellbeing, behaviour or mental health? I welcome referrals from health, education and social care professionals, where parents/carers have consented* and funding has been identified. Assessment and sessions are arranged on a case-by-case basis, and can take place in school, community locations or my consulting rooms in Letchworth.

I also provide workshops and therapeutic group work for children and young people. These usually focus on a theme such as Self Esteem, Transition to Secondary School, Wellbeing and Mental Health, Being a Young Carer or a Looked-After Child. Drop me a line to discuss ideas tailored to the needs of your clients or students.

* if applicable

Testimonies

We are extremely pleased this partnership and the exceptionally high quality of Lizzie’s work with our children and families –Roger, primary school headteacher.

This has been a great benefit to A and I’ve seen remarkable improvements’ –Lisa, Year 5 teacher

B has shown greater responsibility for organising what he needs to bring to school each day. He has also shown more confidence in giving his opinions amongst his peers –Sarah, Year 4 Phasegroup Leader

The support has given this child a private opportunity to share his fears and concerns about family life and things that worry him’ –Martin, Year 5 teacher

I’ve seen a definite improvement in the child’s understanding of her own needs. She has matured a lot and therapy has had a positive impact on her academic progress –Caroline, SENCO

C seems far more assertive following the sessions. She seems more willing to give her opinions and not simply follow the instructions of others. Her confidence has increased. There are no longer as many or as frequent problems with other children, but when minor difficulties arise, C can sort things out and seems more resilient. A really positive change: thank you! – Sally, Year 3 teacher

D has gained a great deal of confidence and is more independent in class following her sessions, which she clearly really enjoyed. Her concentration in class has improved –Simon, Head of Key Stage 3

It has been of enormous value to have Lizzie working with children in my classes over the last four years. She is passionate about the children she works with –Emma, Year 5 teacher.

Lizzie has been great working with F: they’ve built up a positive relationship and I feel he’s benefited from time with her –Sally, Learning Mentor.

H is becoming more in control of his tantrums… I have witnessed a huge improvement —Jan, Year 4 teacher

J has made special effort to tell me that she is now fostered, feels happy and safe …she is a changed girl, happier and contented. There has been a wonderful transformation –Chris, Family Support Worker.

I work both independently and collaborate with qualified and experienced colleagues to provide a range of bespoke training, CPD and teambuilding packages. Training is tailored to the needs of your organisation and staff. Twilight, half day and full day courses are available. Contact me to discuss your requirements!

Themes, so far, have included:

• Working with Children’s Social Emotional and Mental Health Needs


• The Impact of Parent Mental Health Difficulties on Children and Young People


• Working Therapeutically with the Impact of Substance Misuse


• Thinking Creatively about Children, Families and Professionals


• Attachment Theory in School Settings


• Personal Identity and Self Esteem


• Working within Networks


• Developing team identities and resource sharing


• The Creative Therapies


• Art Therapy with Children

Testimonies

training was well presented and clear – Sarah, Y4 teacher

Well thought out and planned. Lizzie instructed and held the group firmly but gently and made the space really safe –Frances, workshop attendee

the workshop was a very enriching experience which helped cement positive affirmations and personal qualities –Amanda, participant

excellent workshop, very enjoyable and cathartic –Sue, workshop attendee

the talk was enjoyable –Alison, trainee therapist

I provide clinical supervision to other art therapists or counselling professionals who work with children, young people and families. I am on BAAT’s list of approved supervisors. Supervision is usually conducted in person, but working together online can be considered. Rates for supervision are currently £55 per session. Please get in touch to discuss your needs.

In having supervision with Lizzie for over three years (and currently), I’ve enjoyed a compassionate space where my clinical work could be safely held in a child-centred perspective.  I’m glad to say that issues that needed clarity got clearer with sharper thinking, and the solid ground and perspectives Lizzie provided supported best practice towards good outcomes.

– Feedback from Melanie, supervisee