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Elmira Strange, MPhil, Dip

Welcome to 'Counselling Children & Adolescents' course.

This course is for those who want to become a professional counsellor specialising in working with children and/or adolescents.

Here is what you will learn here:

Read more

Welcome to 'Counselling Children & Adolescents' course.

This course is for those who want to become a professional counsellor specialising in working with children and/or adolescents.

Here is what you will learn here:

  • How to therapeutically work with children and teenagers

  • What is 'child bullying' and 'child abuse'

  • Grief and bereavement in children & teenagers

  • What language to use in counselling of children and teenagers

  • Conflict resolution and stress management in children and adolescents 

  • How to open your own 'online' or 'offline' practice

  • And so much more.

P.S. This course is now fully accredited by the International Association of Therapists (IAOTH).

P.P.S. At the end of the course you will see the instructions on how to obtain your certificate of completion.

About the instructor: Elmira Strange, MPhil - is a Research Psychologist and online instructor with experience teaching for over 10 years. Elmira taught at University level (Wales, UK) and also online via international schools.

When Elmira was recovering from life-saving surgery, she also wrote a book on 'How to be happy' which is available online such as Amazon and Kindle. Elmira is planning to write her next book on self-development to underpin her teachings.

Currently, Elmira's passion is teaching on topics of Self-Development, Psychology, Mental Health, and Coaching. Her free videos are also available across social media such as YouTube.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn how to work with children and adolescents in therapeutic settings
  • Learn about developmental stages of growth in children
  • Understand about the role of behavioural therapies & use of language when working with children
  • Learn about child's psychological issues: grief, dysfunctional families, bullying
  • Understand how therapy takes place: transformation, new skills, recovery
  • Learn how to set up your own therapeutic practice & work as a counsellor

Syllabus

In this section the student will learn the aims of the course, find out about who is the instructor, learn what is 'counselling'

Here you will find out about the aims of the course, who is this course for, and how to derive the best value from it. You will also learn a bit about your instructor.

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Counselling is a 'talking therapy' which helps individuals to achieve 'change' and 'transformation' in their lives.

Each counselling session is based on the counselling relationship between the counsellor and the client. Learn about the importance of 'good' established relationship here.

Developmental Cycle involves stages of growth that a person goes through when they reach adulthood (and then old age).

Both parents and teachers are very important to the child. But to what degree? Learn about it here.

Each age stage has its own difficulties and challenges that the child has to face. What complexities of adolescent period can you think of?

Psychological Development is based on many grounding theories of 'big minds' such as Eric Erickson and Sigmund Freud. Prepare for some Psychology here!

A child (or an adolescent) can go through stages that bring stress and conflict into their lives. Conflict can be external or internal. Can you guess why is that?

To understand behavioural therapies you need to know what theories underpin them first. Then you can learn to use them in your practice.

Counselling adults is different from counselling children. In what ways? Can you think of the approaches that you can use in working with children?

Using language means being aware of what words you use and what body language you demonstrate to your client. Learn more about it here.

Sometimes we forget the important details, facts, names, and so on. Learn here how our memory is structured, and why at times a child cannot recall anything related to their traumatic experiences.

To understand how to counsel a child or adolescent in grief, you need to know how they 'view' the matter of death. Here you will learn more about it.

Dysfunctional families is a very interesting topic. You will learn what exactly that means, and how it affects the children throughout their lives

Co-dependency is another very interesting topic. You will see the pattern that starts in childhood and goes all throughout the adult life affecting the person's relationships with others.

What is the difference between child bullying and child abuse? Can you guess? Learn here about each topic in detail.

Here you will learn how Psychologists and researchers study the process of 'learning' and 'teaching'.

What is required that your client was able to reach transformation in his or her life? Find out all the answers here.

When the client finished his or her set of counselling sessions, they will acquire many new skills. Now is the time to teach them to use them appropriately and independently from counselling.

Recovery is not only about addictions or mental health problems. It's also about recovering from traumatic experiences. This is what you will learn here.

Emotional Intimacy is not only about adult love or anything like that. It's also about relationships with your family and siblings, and even close friends.

Learn how to finally become your own boss: how to open your own practice, where to counsel, how to advertise and so much more.

Final Test - 'Counselling Children & Adolescents' course

Complete the test to your best ability. You can re-take the test as many times as you need.

Chose the answer that is most accurate or complete in relation to the question asked.

Good luck!

After you complete the test you qualify for your well-deserved certificates!

How to obtain your certificate of completion

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides an overview of developmental stages in children, which is foundational knowledge for anyone working with children and adolescents
Explores topics such as grief, bereavement, bullying, and dysfunctional families, which are critical areas for counselors working with children and adolescents
Covers the use of language and behavioral therapies, which are essential tools for effective communication and intervention with young clients
Includes guidance on setting up a counseling practice, which is valuable for those looking to establish themselves professionally
Accreditation by the International Association of Therapists (IAOTH) may enhance the course's credibility and appeal to prospective students
Requires students to pass a final test, which may be a barrier for some learners who struggle with test-taking or have test anxiety

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Reviews summary

Introduction to counselling children & adolescents

According to learners, this course provides a solid foundation for anyone looking to begin counselling children and adolescents or understand the basics of working with young clients. Many highlight the clarity and accessibility of the materials, finding the content easy to understand and practical. The instructor is frequently praised for their engaging teaching style and expertise. While some note that the course is a great starting point, they also suggest that further study and practical experience are necessary to become a fully qualified professional, reflecting its introductory nature despite the 'fully accredited' claim which is a key feature.
Covers key issues specific to young clients.
"Covers important topics like grief, bullying, and dysfunctional families specific to children and adolescents."
"I found the modules on developmental stages and communication particularly helpful."
"The section on setting up a practice was a bonus I wasn't expecting."
"The course provides useful insights into the unique challenges faced by young people."
Instructor is knowledgeable and engaging.
"Elmira is a great instructor, knowledgeable and easy to listen to."
"The tutor is excellent and provides good explanations."
"I liked the way the instructor explained things clearly."
"Very happy with the quality of teaching."
Ideal for beginners entering the field.
"A good introductory course for anyone wanting to start counselling children and adolescents."
"This course has provided me with a great foundation to build upon."
"Good course for beginners. Provides a useful overview."
"Helps you get started in thinking about working with young people."
Course content is easy to follow and understand.
"The course is clearly laid out and very informative. The information is easy to understand and the videos were of good quality."
"The course content is very good and easy to follow."
"Excellent course material, explained clearly and concisely."
"Very comprehensive overview of the subject matter and easy to digest."
Course is foundational, not comprehensive professional training.
"While a good introduction, this course is not sufficient on its own to become a practising counsellor."
"It's a useful overview but you will need much more in-depth training to work professionally."
"This course serves as a beginner's guide and highlights the need for further qualifications and practical experience."
"A good stepping stone, but don't expect it to make you a fully accredited counsellor immediately."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Counselling Children & Adolescents (FULLY ACCREDITED) with these activities:
Review Child Development Theories
Strengthen your understanding of child development theories to better grasp the psychological and emotional challenges faced by children and adolescents.
Browse courses on Attachment Theory
Show steps
  • Review key concepts and principles of major child development theories.
  • Summarize the stages of development according to each theory.
  • Identify the limitations of each theory.
Read 'The Whole-Brain Child'
Gain practical strategies for understanding and responding to children's emotional and behavioral challenges.
Show steps
  • Read the book and take notes on key concepts.
  • Reflect on how the strategies can be applied in counseling sessions.
Role-Play Counseling Scenarios
Practice applying counseling techniques in realistic scenarios with peers to improve your skills and confidence.
Show steps
  • Partner with a classmate.
  • Develop realistic counseling scenarios involving children or adolescents.
  • Take turns playing the roles of counselor and client.
  • Provide constructive feedback to each other.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Volunteer at a Youth Center
Gain practical experience working with children and adolescents in a supportive environment.
Show steps
  • Find a local youth center or after-school program.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Assist with activities and provide support to the children and adolescents.
Create a Guide to Conflict Resolution
Solidify your understanding of conflict resolution techniques by creating a practical guide for children and adolescents.
Show steps
  • Research different conflict resolution strategies suitable for children and adolescents.
  • Write clear and concise explanations of each strategy.
  • Include examples and scenarios to illustrate how to apply the strategies.
  • Design the guide with age-appropriate language and visuals.
Study 'Trauma-Sensitive School'
Learn how trauma impacts children and adolescents and how to create a supportive environment.
Show steps
  • Read the book and highlight key strategies.
  • Reflect on how to implement these strategies in your practice.
Develop a Resource List for Bereaved Children
Create a comprehensive resource list to support children and adolescents experiencing grief and bereavement.
Show steps
  • Research local and national organizations that provide support for bereaved children.
  • Compile a list of books, websites, and other resources that can help children cope with grief.
  • Organize the resources by age group and type of support.
  • Write brief descriptions of each resource.

Career center

Learners who complete Counselling Children & Adolescents (FULLY ACCREDITED) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Child and Adolescent Therapist
A Child and Adolescent Therapist specializes in providing mental health services to younger individuals. This course is directly relevant, as it focuses on therapeutic work with children and teenagers, covering topics such as bullying, abuse, and grief. The course's teachings on appropriate language and communication techniques are an asset to a Child and Adolescent Therapist. Furthermore, the insights into setting up a practice help those who aspire to establish their own therapy services. The course content on understanding child psychology and developmental stages makes it a strong starting point for aspiring therapists in this field.
School Counselor
A School Counselor supports students' academic, social, and emotional development. This course helps build a foundation for understanding the unique challenges faced by children and adolescents, such as bullying and grief. A School Counselor will find great value in the course's focus on therapeutic techniques tailored for younger clients, especially the material on conflict resolution and stress management. The course's exploration of developmental stages and communication strategies helps a School Counselor create effective support systems for students. Those interested in becoming a School Counselor may find this course particularly helpful as a stepping stone to understanding therapeutic practices.
Guidance Counselor
A Guidance Counselor assists students with academic and personal development, helping them make informed decisions about their future. The course's concentration on the developmental stages of children and adolescents helps build a foundation for understanding the challenges students face at different ages. A Guidance Counselor may find the material on conflict resolution and stress management particularly useful in helping students navigate difficult situations. Those who wish to become a Guidance Counselor will appreciate how this course offers insights into the psychological and emotional aspects of working with young people.
Youth Worker
A Youth Worker supports young people in various settings, such as community centers or youth groups, to promote their personal and social development. The course's focus on understanding the challenges faced by adolescents, including conflict, stress, and bullying, provides valuable insight for a Youth Worker. The course material that covers communication strategies and conflict resolution may be useful in effectively engaging with young people. Aspiring Youth Workers should consider this course as a way to develop a deeper understanding of the issues affecting children and adolescents.
Child Life Specialist
A Child Life Specialist works in hospitals and other healthcare settings to support children and families facing medical challenges. The course's exploration of grief, bereavement, and the psychological impact of difficult experiences on children is relevant for a Child Life Specialist. The therapeutic communication strategies taught in the course may be helpful in easing children's anxieties and fears in medical environments. People who wish to become a Child Life Specialist may find the course offers insights into supporting children's emotional well-being during stressful times.
Residential Counselor
A Residential Counselor provides support and supervision to children and adolescents living in residential treatment centers or group homes. This course can provide a Residential Counselor with background on therapeutic techniques for working with children and adolescents. Moreover, the material on conflict resolution and stress management may prove helpful in managing the dynamics within a residential setting. For those interested in becoming a Residential Counselor, this course can offer insights into the emotional and psychological challenges that young people in these environments may face.
Behavioral Therapist
A Behavioral Therapist uses therapeutic techniques to address behavioral issues in individuals. With its coverage of behavioral therapies and their application to children, this course may be useful for a Behavioral Therapist who specializes in working with children and adolescents. The course introduces communication strategies and approaches tailored for younger clients. A Behavioral Therapist may also find the discussions on conflict resolution and stress management useful in modifying behaviors. This course provides a helpful introduction to the unique aspects of behavioral therapy for children and adolescents.
Family Therapist
A Family Therapist works with families to address relationship issues and improve communication. The course's coverage of dysfunctional families and co-dependency patterns provides valuable insights for a Family Therapist and enables the therapist to recognize these patterns within family dynamics. The principles of therapeutic communication and conflict resolution in the course helps the Family Therapist in facilitating healthier family interactions. Anyone interested in becoming a Family Therapist will find that the course's content provides helpful background knowledge.
Social Worker
A Social Worker supports individuals and families facing various challenges, often involving vulnerable populations. The content within this course on child abuse, bullying, and dysfunctional families may be insightful for a Social Worker. Understanding the impact of these issues on children and adolescents is crucial for effective intervention and support. A Social Worker might find the strategies for therapeutic communication useful in building rapport with young clients. Therefore, this course may broaden a Social Worker's understanding of the unique needs of children and adolescents.
Adoption Counselor
An Adoption Counselor provides support and guidance to individuals and families involved in adoption processes. This course may be useful, as it explores the emotional and psychological issues faced by children and adolescents, which include loss, grief, and adjustment to new environments. This course teaches the prospective Adoption Counselor communication techniques and approaches tailored for younger clients. This equips the counselor to address the unique needs of children navigating adoption.
Special Education Teacher
The Special Education Teacher works with students who have a wide range of learning and behavioral differences. This course's focus on therapeutic communication and understanding the emotional challenges faced by children, may be useful to the Special Education Teacher. Those who wish to become Special Education Teachers may find that the course's insights into childhood development and psychology are beneficial.
Mental Health Counselor
A Mental Health Counselor provides therapeutic support to individuals experiencing mental and emotional health challenges. This course may be useful for a Mental Health Counselor who wishes to specialize in working with children and adolescents. It introduces relevant topics such as grief, bereavement, and the impact of dysfunctional families. Furthermore, communication techniques, conflict resolution, and the establishment of a therapeutic practice may be valuable to the Mental Health Counselor. The course's focus on the unique needs of children and adolescents makes it a relevant resource for mental health professionals.
Pediatric Psychologist
A Pediatric Psychologist needs advanced training, usually a doctoral degree, and specializes in the mental and behavioral health of children and adolescents within a medical setting. This course may be useful, as it covers therapeutic work with children and teenagers, highlighting topics such as bullying, abuse, and grief. The course may help in understanding child psychology and developmental stages, and appropriate language and communication techniques. As a starting point for aspiring psychologists in this field, this course creates a foundation for the advanced work required.
Child Advocate
A Child Advocate works to protect the rights and well-being of children, often in legal or social service contexts. This course may be useful, as it covers the psychological issues a child may face, such as grief, dysfunctional families, and bullying. The course's teachings on abuse help those wishing to become a Child Advocate. The advocate will also find the section on therapeutic communication useful in assisting the child.
Early Childhood Educator
An Early Childhood Educator works with young children in preschools and daycare centers, focusing on their development and learning. While not the primary focus, the course's overview of developmental stages in children will likely enable an Early Childhood Educator to deepen their understanding of children's behavior and emotional needs. The techniques for conflict resolution and communication may be useful in managing classroom dynamics. Aspiring Early Childhood Educators might find this course's perspectives on childhood development informative.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Counselling Children & Adolescents (FULLY ACCREDITED).
Provides practical strategies for understanding and nurturing a child's developing brain. It offers insights into handling everyday struggles and fostering emotional intelligence. The book is particularly useful for counselors working with children and adolescents as it provides a framework for understanding their behavior and guiding them towards healthy emotional development. It is commonly recommended by therapists and child development experts.
Explores how trauma impacts children and adolescents in educational settings. It provides practical strategies for creating a trauma-sensitive classroom environment. This book is valuable for counselors as it offers insights into understanding and supporting students who have experienced trauma. It is often used as a resource for educators and mental health professionals.

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