And Pupdate From Womble
Summer Sun & Support
We’re Here, Whatever the Weather
Hi again, it’s me, Womble the therapy dog, reporting for duty from my shady spot under the desk at Teenage Mental Health (TMH)!
As the days get longer and the smell of suncream replaces soggy school shoes, I can tell summer’s on its way (and not just because the humans keep complaining about exam stress and hay fever). June is such an important month for many young people, GCSEs, A-levels, final projects, transitions to new schools or colleges being thought of, and for some, big life changes. It’s a lot. And while summer often brings freedom, fun, and that long-awaited break, it can also stir up uncertainty, sadness, or anxiety, especially when the structure of school life and past routines suddenly stops.
Whether you’re bounding into the holidays or feeling a little lost in the sunshine, TMH is here for you. We know that mental health doesn’t follow a school timetable, and feelings don’t take the summer off. For some, this is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and work on feeling better, with no homework pressure or 8:30am bells.
We continue to offer specialist support without waiting lists, for children, teens, young adults, parents, carers—and even the occasional tired teacher. Our wonderful therapists work flexibly and creatively, from psychotherapy to play, from talking to drawing, from feeling stuck to finding your feet again.
So whether you're heading into new beginnings, saying goodbye to a familiar chapter, or just need someone to talk to for any reason, we’re here, tails wagging and ears ready.
Visit www.teenagementalhealth.co.uk to find out more.
And remember, your first appointment is free—and you could be seen within 24-48 hours.
Sending you sunbeams, support,
Womble
(Therapy Dog & Official Office Snack Inspector)
Keep up with Womble via his Instagram @womblethetherapy
So you can see what I get up to, and what a good boy I am!
New Parent & Carer Support Group
Starting This Summer at TMH
At Teenage Mental Health, we know that when a young person is struggling, the whole family can feel it. That’s why we’re trialling something new, and we’d love for you to join us.
Starting this July, TMH will be hosting a monthly Parent & Carer Support Group, offering a warm, informal space to connect with others who understand the challenges and joys of supporting young people with mental health needs.
Led by one of our wonderful team members, the group is open to any parent or carer, whether your child is currently receiving therapy with us or you’re just looking for some extra support. Each session will include time for discussion, shared resources, and of course, plenty of tea and biscuits!
Monthly Sessions (Last Friday of the Month)
Time: 3:00–5:00pm
Location: TMH Reception Area, Ipswich.
(Womble House, 31 Lower Brook Street, IP4 1AQ)
Dates:
Friday 26th July
Friday 30th August
Friday 27th September
Friday 25th October
Friday 29th November
(December date to be confirmed)
There’s no pressure to attend every month, just come along when you can. Whether you want to share, listen, or simply feel less alone, this is your space.
If you’re interested or would like more information, feel free to email us at hello@teenagementalhealth.co.uk.
We hope to see you there.
Academic and Exam Stress
Some helpful thoughts and advices shared via blogs including this one below.
"What can TMH actually help with?"
We support young people and families with a pretty wide range of things — here’s just a few examples.
All therapists at Teenage Mental health are highly qualified professionals trained to work with a wide range of mental health condition. Below are just a few of the struggles that many of our patients have sought help from us for.
It is our firm belief that no two people are the same and for each person experiencing a mental health struggle this will be unique to them. Teenage Mental Health do not believe in one size fits all in therapy and as such apply an eclectic approach to all our work and ensure that we use our experience and expertise to work in a way that the patient can feel comfortable with and at a speed that they can tolerate, to ensure that they get the best possible outcomes from our service.
At Teenage Mental Health we firmly believe in robust, reliable and resilient recoveries for all our patients, not quick fixes.
Click the table below to read more about these.
National PTSD Awareness Day: 27th June 2025
As we mark PTSD Awareness Day on 27th June, we’re shining a light on the impact of trauma and the importance of understanding, support, and recovery for those living with PTSD.
Let’s work together to break the stigma and build hope.
FREE MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES
We still provide free mental health bookmarks as supporting resources to schools, child/teen organisations and support services.
Need a new order or a resupply?
Send in your request via the form on our homepage, don’t forget to grab yours! www.teenagementalhealth.co.uk
WE DO FREE CALL BACKS
&
FREE IN-PERSON INITIAL APPOINTMENTS
We always provide a first appointment for free for those considering therapy following a free phone consultation.
You only pay for onward therapy when you receive and accept an offer.
Visiting the centre and meeting a clinician in person before making the decision to start therapy is important to us, and this should be without financial commitment or buy-in when making your decision for support.
Once you speak with us, no matter what you decide, the door remains open to you.
PRIDE MONTH 2025
It’s a time to show care and respect the LGBTQIA+ community, reflect on the progress made, the struggles and renew our commitment to being a safe, inclusive space for every identity, every day.
Click below to read some thoughts why Pride month is still so important for all, including young people, and why this month still matters so much.
Meet The Team
Meet some of our Wonderful team
Introducing Ellie
Ellie graduated in 2021 from the University of Essex with a first-class honour degree in Ma in Psychodynamic Counselling with children and young people. She emphasizes the importance of continuing professional development and has recently qualified in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) training. CBT is a well-evidenced short-term intervention that can be easily incorporated into a psychodynamic approach with clients.
Ellie explains “In the short-term CBT can be used to address immediately presenting issues, such as anxiety, phobias or OCD.” She collaborates with clients to implement biological and behavioural interventions.
Ellie’s background is in education, and she has previously worked as a teacher in secondary schools and further/higher establishments, supporting both the learning and emotional needs of children and young people. Ellie has worked alongside clients with a range of difficulties; loss and bereavement, anxiety, low mood and depression, problems with emotional regulation, self-esteem, relationships, gender dysphoria, and trauma.
As a registered member of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), Ellie practices evidence-led the rapyusing a client-centred approach to establish a mutually trusting therapeutic alliance.
And now, introducing …..
Martin!
Martin retrained in 2011 to work as a psychodynamic counsellor with adults, adolescents and children. His background in art and design helps inform some aspects of his counselling work e.g. dream interpretation that often touches on symbolism/representation.
After successfully completing both a certificate and diploma in psychodynamic counselling at Chelmsford Counselling Foundation, Martin embarked on successive courses at the University of Essex where he completed a Graduate Diploma in Psychodynamic Approaches, an Ma in Psychoanalytic Studies and an Ma in Psychodynamic Counselling with children/adolescents.
Since graduating Martin has worked in both primary and secondary school settings with pupils and staff members as well as volunteering for Open Road as a counsellor supporting adults in recovery from substance abuse. In the past he worked for the charity 1NE in London/Essex schools supporting children impacted by substance abuse and addiction. He was also an Essex County Council foster carer for over 10 years.
Martin’s therapeutic approach is a combination of psychodynamic modality enhanced by play and art therapy. His work has often focused on children impacted by substance abuse/addiction and the trauma/dissociation and psychological turmoil associated with this. Working with attachment disorder and self-esteem issues form a significant part of this and other aspects of his work.
Can TMH Work With Adults?
YES WE CAN!
That’s right. TMH may specialise in Paediatric and Young Adult services, but we want to help as many people as we can.
We have therapists qualified to work with Adults too, such as the wonderful Denise, Read more about Denise and others. HERE
It doesn’t matter if you’re a parent or not, or what your you’re looking for help with, we have options to support you.
Learning Disability Week
(16th–22nd June)
“Do You See Me?”
We’re recognising the strengths, voices, and rights of people with learning disabilities.
People with learning disabilities, often go unseen, unthought of and let down. Join us as we explore how we can create a more inclusive, supportive world for everyone.
Monthly Book Recommendation
The SEND Handbook for Parents and Carers
By Dr. Sarah Alix
If you're navigating the world of Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) with your child, The SEND Handbook for Parents and Carers is a truly helpful guide. Written by education expert Dr. Sarah Alix—who brings both professional insight and personal experience—the book breaks down the often confusing SEND system into easy-to-understand steps.
With clear explanations of things like EHCPs, school support, and transition planning, plus tips from a range of professionals (including speech and occupational therapists), this book helps you feel more confident and informed. It even includes reflective activities and real-life examples to support your journey.
Perfect for parents and carers who want to feel more empowered in supporting their child through school.
Clear, compassionate and practical – a must-read for SEND families.
Raising Mentally Strong Kids
By Dr. Daniel G. Amen & Dr. Charles Fay
In today's complex world, equipping children with mental resilience is more crucial than ever. Raising Mentally Strong Kids offers parents a comprehensive guide that intertwines neuroscience with the renowned Love and Logic® approach. The authors provide actionable strategies to help children develop confidence, responsibility, and empathy.
Readers have praised the book for its clarity and practicality. "This book is a goldmine for overwhelmed parents, providing evidence-based strategies to address both the brain and mind of your child.".
Whether you're navigating toddler tantrums or teenage trials, this book serves as a valuable resource to foster emotional strength and resilience in your children.
Fathers Day
In March we had Mothers Day
And this month we have Fathers Day
With Father’s Day just around the corner, we’re shining a light on the vital role dads and father figures play in children’s emotional wellbeing.
Whether you're a dad, stepdad, grandad, carer, or someone who simply shows up with love and care, your presence matters more than you might realise. (We celebrate mums and others too of course).
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Thank you for reading!
If there's anything related to therapy or mental health that you'd like us to cover in future newsletters, blogs and other media Email us at: womble@teenagementalhealth.co.uk
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For general enquiries or to self-refer for services, please contact: hello@teenagementalhealth.co.uk
