Archie's story
Archie is a primary school pupil who was referred due to stress and anxiety. His home life was difficult due to an acrimonious break up between his parents and living as part of a blended family. In addition to these family issues Archie was dealing with historic and recent sexual abuse within the family, pressures relating to his education and racial bullying. Archie was also awaiting confirmation of a suspected Asperger’s diagnosis.
He began counselling feeling very stressed and anxious but quickly engaged well with the therapeutic relationship. During this time Archie described counselling as a safe place which gave him space to share his worries. He reflected on how well he was now able to deal with difficult situations and appeared happy and able to cope. By the end, he felt confident enough to move forward on his own, having had a very positive experience of the counselling process.