Katie Hartfield Counselling in Sussex

10/10/2025

World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10 October. It’s a reminder of the importance of good mental health and the need to prioritise and invest in good mental health. Empower Your Daughter: Join Our Self-Esteem Group for Girls in Years 10 to 11!

As your daughter approaches her GCSEs and navigates the pressures of mock exams, she may be feeling overwhelmed by the expectations placed upon her. Research shows that:

- Approximately 47% of students experience significant anxiety related to exams, which can severely impact their mental health and performance.
- Girls in particular report higher levels of stress during this critical time, with studies indicating that they are more likely to experience exam-related anxiety than boys.
- The intense pressure to achieve can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, affecting their overall well-being.

Our self-esteem group for girls in Years 10 to 11 provides a supportive environment where they can address these challenges head-on. Through group work, participants can:

- Share their experiences and feelings, realising they are not alone in their struggles with exam pressure and anxiety.
- Develop effective coping strategies and stress management techniques that can help them navigate their academic responsibilities.
- Build resilience and confidence through supportive interactions with peers who understand the pressures they face.

By joining this group, your daughter will gain valuable tools to manage her anxiety and enhance her self-esteem, empowering her to approach her exams with a positive mindset.

Spaces are limited! Contact me today to discuss this further!

10/10/2025

World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10 October. It’s a reminder of the importance of good mental health and the need to prioritise and invest in good mental health. Support for Your Daughter: Join Our Self-Esteem Group for Girls in Years 7 to 9

Navigating the transition to secondary school can be particularly challenging for girls in Years 7 to 9, and some may struggle with feelings of sadness, isolation, or even thoughts of self-harm. Alarmingly, recent statistics reveal that:

- Around 20% of adolescent girls have reported self-harming behaviors, often as a way to cope with emotional pain.
- Many girls experience increased pressure during this transition, leading to heightened feelings of anxiety and depression.
- Studies indicate that girls are more likely than boys to engage in self-harm, often as a response to social and emotional challenges.

Our self-esteem group is designed specifically for girls in Years 7 to 9 who may be dealing with self-harm or thoughts of self-harm. This safe and supportive environment allows participants to:

- Share their experiences and feelings without judgment, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
- Learn healthy coping mechanisms and strategies to manage their emotions effectively.
- Build confidence and resilience through positive interactions and group activities.

By participating in this group, your daughter will connect with peers who understand her struggles and work towards developing a healthier self-image and coping strategies.

Spaces are limited! Contact me today to discuss further!

10/10/2025

World Mental Health Day takes place every year on 10 October. It’s a reminder of the importance of good mental health and the need to prioritise and invest in good mental health.
Empower Your Daughter: Join Our Self-Esteem Group for Girls in Years 7 to 9!

As your daughter embarks on her journey through secondary school, the transition can be both exciting and challenging. Many girls in Years 7 to 9 experience significant changes that can impact their self-esteem and mental well-being. Research indicates that:

- 1 in 3 adolescent girls report feelings of low self-worth or anxiety, particularly during this critical developmental stage.
- The pressure to fit in and perform academically can lead to increased feelings of stress and isolation among girls.
- Studies have shown that girls are more susceptible to social anxiety, which can hinder their confidence and ability to form new friendships.

Our self-esteem group, designed specifically for girls in Years 7 to 9, offers a supportive space to share experiences and navigate these challenges together. Group work is effective in boosting self-esteem because it:

- Creates a sense of belonging and acceptance, helping girls realise they are not alone in their struggles.
- Encourages open dialogue, fostering connections that can lead to lasting friendships.
- Provides tools and strategies to enhance personal growth and resilience in the face of challenges.

By participating in this group, your daughter will have the opportunity to build confidence, develop a positive self-image, and make meaningful connections with her peers who understand her journey.

Spaces are limited! Contact me today to discuss further!

08/10/2025

04/10/2025

27/09/2025

Supporting Carers Through Compassionate Counselling:

Caring for a loved one can be both a rewarding and challenging experience. With personal experience and a passion for supporting carers, I understand the unique emotional toll that caregiving can take. Did you know that approximately 1 in 3 carers report feeling lonely, and nearly 60% experience mental health challenges? These statistics highlight the importance of seeking support.

Here’s how I can assist you:

1. Safe Space for Expression: Our sessions will provide a nonjudgmental environment where you can share your feelings and experiences as a carer. This safe space encourages openness, allowing you to explore the complexities of your role without fear of judgment.

2. Understanding Your Journey: I will listen attentively to your experiences, helping you articulate the emotional and physical challenges you face. By understanding your unique story, we can work together to identify the underlying stressors and develop strategies to cope.

3. Empowerment through Connection: Together, we’ll explore therapeutic techniques that not only help you manage stress but also empower you to find joy and balance in your caregiving journey. Building this connection can foster resilience and hope during difficult times.

Counselling can be a vital source of support for carers, offering tools to navigate the emotional landscape of caregiving. If you’re ready to take that important step toward your well-being, please reach out. You deserve support and the opportunity to care for yourself, too. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. 🌼

24/09/2025

Emotive words ❤️

22/09/2025

Dealing with Child Anxiety and Autism Through Talk Therapy:

Is your child experiencing anxiety, especially in the context of autism? You're not alone; many families are navigating similar challenges, and I'm here to support you. As a person-centered therapist, I recognise that anxiety can be particularly pronounced in children on the autism spectrum due to social expectations, sensory sensitivities, and changes in routine.

Here’s how I can help your child navigate both anxiety and autism:

1. Authentic Engagement: I create a safe, welcoming space where your child can express their emotions freely. This connection encourages them to explore the roots of their anxiety and understand how it relates to their experiences with autism.

2. Nonjudgmental Support: I provide a compassionate environment where your child feels valued and understood. Together, we can identify their unique challenges associated with autism and develop effective coping strategies that empower them to manage anxiety confidently.

3. Deep Empathy: By tuning into your child's emotional and cognitive experiences, I strive to foster a trusting relationship. This bond can help them make sense of their feelings, guiding them toward practical solutions and a renewed sense of calm.

UK Statistics on Child Anxiety and Autism
Recent statistics reveal that “one in six children” in the UK faces mental health issues, with anxiety being a prevalent concern. For children with autism, the situation can be even more complex; studies indicate that up to “40% of children with autism” experience anxiety disorders. The **National Autistic Society** highlights that many children on the spectrum struggle with anxiety, often due to difficulties with social interactions and changes in routine.

If you’re looking to support your child in managing anxiety—whether it's related to autism, school pressures, or social situations—please reach out. I'm here to partner with you in fostering their well-being and resilience! 🌼

18/09/2025

“What is your biggest barrier to personal wellbeing?”

Options:
1. Work-life balance
2. Stress management
3. Healthy lifestyle choices
4. Social connections

18/09/2025

A good reminder for us all ❤️