Parents often notice when something isn’t quite right with their child. Sometimes it shows up as constant worrying, difficulty sleeping, or a sudden reluctance to attend school. Other times it appears more gradually — a young person becoming withdrawn, losing interest in things they once enjoyed, or struggling to cope with everyday pressures.
These challenges are increasingly common for children and teenagers today. Anxiety disorders, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related difficulties can have a significant impact on school life, friendships, and family relationships. The encouraging news is that with the right kind of professional support, many young people are able to develop the tools they need to feel better and regain confidence.
Growing Minds Therapy UK in Chichester specialises in supporting young people facing these difficulties through evidence-based psychological therapy.
A Specialist Practice Focused on Young People
Growing Minds Therapy UK is led by Melissa, a BABCP-accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist specialising in children and adolescents. The practice is based at The Pavilion, Connolly Way, Graylingwell Park, Chichester, PO19 6WD, providing a calm and welcoming environment where young people can feel comfortable discussing what they are going through.
Melissa brings over two decades of experience working with children and young people. Her professional background includes work in education as a primary school teacher, as well as specialist work within NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).
She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Evidence-Based Psychological Treatment for Children and Young People from the University of Reading, as well as further advanced clinical training from the University of Southampton.
Understanding Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Young People
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is widely recognised as one of the most effective treatments for anxiety and depression in young people. It is recommended by NICE and commonly used within NHS services.
CBT focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. Young people learn how unhelpful thinking patterns can reinforce difficult feelings and avoidance behaviours. Through structured sessions, they gradually develop skills that allow them to challenge these patterns and respond in healthier ways.
For example:
• A child with anxiety might learn strategies to challenge fearful thoughts and gradually face situations they have been avoiding.
• A young person with OCD can learn how compulsive behaviours develop and how to break the cycle of reassurance and rituals.
• Teenagers experiencing depression may focus on rebuilding motivation and reconnecting with activities that improve mood and wellbeing.
Melissa tailors therapy to each young person’s age and needs, combining CBT with mindfulness-based approaches and other evidence-based techniques when appropriate.
Areas of Support
Growing Minds Therapy UK works with a wide range of emotional and behavioural difficulties affecting children and adolescents, including:
• Generalised anxiety
• Social anxiety
• Separation anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Depression and persistent low mood
• School avoidance
• Phobias
• Trauma and PTSD
These challenges can affect not only the young person but the entire family. Therapy aims to provide both practical coping strategies and a deeper understanding of what is happening.
What the Process Looks Like
The first step is a free 20-minute telephone consultation. This allows families to briefly discuss their concerns and decide whether the service feels like the right fit.
If you choose to continue, the next stage is a comprehensive initial assessment lasting up to 90 minutes, where Melissa gathers a detailed understanding of the young person’s situation.
Therapy sessions then typically take place weekly and last around 55 minutes. Most treatment plans involve between 8 and 20 sessions, depending on the nature of the difficulty and progress made during therapy.
Flexible Sessions for Families
Sessions can be delivered either:
• Face-to-face in Chichester
• Online for families across West Sussex, Hampshire, and surrounding areas
Appointments are available:
• Monday and Tuesday evenings (5pm – 8pm)
• Thursday (8am – 8pm)
• Saturday mornings (9am – 1pm)
Taking the First Step
If your child is struggling with anxiety, low mood, or another emotional difficulty, seeking support can make a significant difference.
Growing Minds Therapy UK offers evidence-based therapy designed specifically for children and teenagers, helping them build resilience, confidence, and practical coping skills for the future.
To arrange a free introductory call, contact +44 7913 129188 or visit growingmindstherapy.co.uk for more information.