The Talking Cave
Therapy With Josh Harvey
Therapy For Teens
There can be a lot expected of you at 16, 17 or 18. College, work, friendships, relationships, family life and people asking what you’re going to do with the rest of your life.
Sometimes there’s a particular thing you’re struggling with. Sometimes everything feels a bit much, and you’re not sure why.
Therapy gives you somewhere to talk about how things are for you and work through what’s happening.
If You're Thinking About Therapy
You might be dealing with
Worry, anxiety or pressure around college, exams or work.
Feeling low, angry, overwhelmed or unlike yourself.
Difficulties with friendships, relationships or family.
Grief, loss or changes you didn’t choose.
Confidence, shame or feeling you’re never quite good enough.
Questions about who you are and what you want for yourself.
You don’t need to fit one of these descriptions. You can come because something is bothering you, even if you can’t explain it yet.
What Stays Private?
Your sessions are confidential, within the limits explained before we start.
Parents, carers, schools and colleges don’t automatically receive information about what you say. If you would like someone involved, we can discuss what you want to share and how.
I also discuss my work in confidential professional supervision, using as little identifying information as possible. I’ll explain this, along with how your records are handled, before we begin.
You can ask about privacy at any point—including before deciding whether to book.
Safeguarding: When Might Someone Else Need To Know?
Safeguarding means taking steps to help protect people from harm. If you’re under 18, specific child safeguarding responsibilities apply. At 18, responsibilities around safety and lawful information sharing still remain.
Sometimes I may need to share relevant information to help protect you or someone else—for example, where there are concerns about abuse, neglect or exploitation. Information may also need to be shared where the law requires it.
Depending on the situation, this could involve an appropriate professional or service, such as children’s social care, a GP or emergency services.
Where it’s safe and possible, I’ll talk with you first about what needs sharing, who with and why. Sometimes I may need to act without your agreement or without speaking to you beforehand, particularly if waiting or telling you first could increase the risk of harm.
I’ll share only information that is necessary and relevant, and explain what has happened as soon as it’s safe to do so.
You can always ask: “If I tell you something, would you need to tell someone else?”
For Parents & Carers
It can be hard to see a young person struggling, especially when you’re unsure what they need or how to help.
You’re welcome to get in touch to ask about the service, availability and practical arrangements. You can also help with organising appointments, travel or payment.
The young person’s own willingness to take part matters. They need a chance to meet me, ask questions and have a say in whether therapy feels right for them.
Sessions centre on their experiences and needs. Before we begin, we’ll agree how any contact with parents or carers will work, including communication about appointments, fees and concerns.
Being involved in arranging or paying for therapy doesn’t automatically mean receiving updates about what is discussed.
Consent: Who Decides?
If you’re 16 or 17, you can usually consent to therapy yourself, provided you can understand what’s involved and make that decision.
I’ll explain how we would work together and discuss whether involving a parent, carer or another trusted adult would be appropriate in your circumstances.
At 18, you consent to therapy as an adult.
Before starting, we’ll also consider whether the support I offer is suitable for your needs.