Why do I struggle to communicate with my kids?

What is it about communicating with kids that stresses parents out? Is it being understood, heard or ignored? Or is the real concern, making things worse? I bet I am not the only parent who has said “I know what it’s like to be a teenager” only to be confronted with “but that was agesContinue reading “Why do I struggle to communicate with my kids?”

Back to school RAAC anxiety

There has been lots in the news about RAAC (Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete) being in our children’s schools and you can be forgiven for being extremely anxious about this. But what are the children thinking? Do they hear the news and wonder whether their school will fall down with them inside it? With it beingContinue reading “Back to school RAAC anxiety”

How long does it take to get over losing someone?

The process of grieving and getting over the loss of someone is highly individual and can vary significantly from person to person. There is no set timeline for how long it takes to get over losing someone, as it depends on various factors such as the nature of the relationship, the circumstances of the loss,Continue reading “How long does it take to get over losing someone?”

Luminarium at Compton Verney review

Last week I got the chance to see an art installation which has been seen all over the world, in Barcelona, Madrid, Sydney, Los Angeles and now Compton Verney in Warwickshire. I know what you are thinking…What is a luminarium? “A walk-in sculpture designed as an artistic display of light and colour. ” As theContinue reading “Luminarium at Compton Verney review”

How can counselling help with trauma?

Counselling can be an effective form of treatment for individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma can have a significant impact on a person’s emotional and mental well-being, and counselling can help individuals to address the effects of the trauma, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing. Here are some ways counselling can help with trauma:Continue reading “How can counselling help with trauma?”

Davina McCall “Menopausing” book review

I decided to review this book as I have been enjoying it so much lately and have learnt so much more. I have been on my menopause journey for about 2 years but to be honest probably longer. After watching Davina’s documentary in May 2021, I wrote this blog https://vwjcounselling.com/2021/05/14/davina-mccall-and-the-menopause/ and I started to reallyContinue reading “Davina McCall “Menopausing” book review”

How do I support someone who self-harms?

Supporting someone who self-harms can be challenging, but it’s important to approach the situation with compassion, non-judgment, and a willingness to listen. Here are some steps you can take to support someone who self-harms:

How can I get my child seen faster by CAMHS?

So many people are having difficulties getting their child seen by CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services). There are a few things you can try to try to get an appointment more quickly: Why is it taking so long to get an appointment with CAMHS? There are a number of reasons why it canContinue reading “How can I get my child seen faster by CAMHS?”

What is ARFID?

ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, is an eating disorder that is characterised by a lack of interest in food or a fear of certain foods. People with ARFID may avoid certain foods due to a dislike of their taste, texture, or appearance, or they may fear that certain foods will cause them to chokeContinue reading “What is ARFID?”

Why is grief worse at Christmas?

Grief can be particularly difficult during the holiday season because it can be a time of intense emotions and memories. Holidays are often a time when people come together with family and friends to celebrate, and the absence of a loved one who has passed away can be particularly poignant during this time. Additionally, theContinue reading “Why is grief worse at Christmas?”