Psychologists work directly and indirectly with children and young people. Sometimes the support is through others, for example: parents, teachers, the school. Often though the support is directly with a child or young person. For example, working towards improving: self-esteem, confidence, motivation, social skills, self-regulation (including anger management), study skills, conflict resolution.

Children and young people’s mental health, well being and learning progress is an important part of our Psychologists support services. Assessment, identification and advice for children and young people with Special Educational Needs or Disability is integral to keeping the child & young person at the heart of everything we do at Plumanicca.

This helps us to effectively support schools, parents and our multi-disciplinary colleagues (occupational therapists, speech and language therapists etc.) in meeting the needs of individual children & young people with a range of additional support needs.

A few examples of the barriers to learning children face, which may require additional support include: Developmental Coordination Delay; Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autistic Spectrum Disorders, Specific Learning Difficulties (Reading Comprehension etc.), Social, Emotional and Behavioural challenges and mental health needs.

Assessment usually involves observations within the learning environment, consultation with school staff and parents and individual work with the child or young person. Following assessment and consultation a report will provide information regarding findings, and recommendations will be made to support the school and parents in meeting the child or young persons needs.

In addition to working with children & young people individually, our psychologists also undertake group work. This may be at the request of a school or a parent that feels group work may be effective. For example, drama therapy is more effective when delivered to a group of students (rather than individually). Drama Therapy group work may focus on improving confidence and social skills.