Finding the Right Child Therapist and Counselling in Cambridge: Why My Unique Training Matters
- Clair Lewoski
- Jun 9
- 3 min read
Finding a child therapist can feel like an overwhelming task. You want someone who is not only experienced, but who truly understands how children express themselves, regulate emotions, and heal—especially when they cannot easily put their feelings into words. My approach to child counselling in Cambridge is grounded in over 30 years of experience, extensive specialist training, and an integrative, arts-based therapeutic framework that meets children where they are.
What Sets My Approach Apart
I’m a UKCP-registered Attachment-Based Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist, a UKCP Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist, and a UKCP Registered Supervisor. These are rigorous and highly respected credentials, representing years of postgraduate training, clinical hours, and continuing professional development. Being UKCP registered means my work is held to the highest ethical, clinical, and reflective standards.
But qualifications alone don’t make a great therapist. What truly makes a difference is how those qualifications are applied to create a nurturing, thoughtful space where children feel safe to explore their world.
Why My Training Matters for Your Child
The Institute for Arts in Therapy and Education (IATE)
As a graduate and senior lecturer at IATE, I draw on its unique blend of arts-based approaches and psychoanalytic theory. The training I received—and now teach—emphasises the power of metaphor, creativity, and play in helping children express what can’t be said out loud.
When your child enters therapy with me, they are invited to use drawing, painting, sand play, or story-making as well as words. These creative tools are often the most developmentally appropriate way for children to communicate distress, make sense of experiences, and develop emotional insight.
Learn more about this in Why Arts and Play Are Essential in Child Therapy.
Being a senior lecturer and supervisor for other therapists at IATE also keeps my work current and sharp. I am constantly engaged in the latest thinking around trauma, development, and attachment, and I support the growth of the next generation of child therapists.
The Tavistock and University of East London
My MA in Psychoanalytic Observational Studies from the Tavistock and UEL deepened my capacity to observe and understand children’s communications—especially the non-verbal ones. The Tavistock model taught me to attune closely to early relational patterns and unconscious processes, which is crucial in working with children whose issues often stem from early attachment ruptures.
This sensitivity to early experience allows me to work effectively with children experiencing anxiety, emotional regulation difficulties, school issues, and relational challenges.
For more on how early attachment work can support families, read Attachment-Based Therapy Explained.
Anna Freud Centre & Mentalisation-Based Therapy
At the Anna Freud Centre, I trained in Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT) for both children and families. This model helps children learn to understand their own feelings and those of others—building emotional regulation and relational resilience. MBT is particularly helpful for teens, who often struggle with self-understanding and interpersonal difficulties.
I explore this approach in more detail in Blog: Mentalization Therapy in Cambridge.
Extensive School-Based Experience
I have worked for many years in primary and secondary schools, giving me a deep understanding of the educational context, classroom dynamics, and the challenges that affect children in academic environments. I collaborate effectively with teachers, SENCOs, and parents to ensure your child’s therapy integrates with their wider support system.
Why Choose Me for Counselling in Cambridge?
Over 30 years’ experience in therapeutic settings
Advanced academic training from the Tavistock, IATE, and the University of Hertfordshire
Senior lecturer and supervisor for therapists training at IATE
Extensive experience with children and teens in school settings
Specialist training in Mentalization, Parent-Infant Psychotherapy, Mindful Self-Compassion, and Compassion Focused Therapy
Published author on child psychotherapy, school-based counselling, and therapeutic contracting
Real-Life Change Through Therapy (anonymised to protect confidentiality)
Anna, age 9, came to therapy after struggling with social anxiety and emotional outbursts. Through play and metaphor, we uncovered feelings of shame and isolation from an earlier school experience. Over time, Anna learned to name and manage her emotions, and began building friendships again.
Jamie, age 12, was angry, withdrawn, and failing at school. Our work focused on understanding his grief after a recent family loss. Using creative storytelling and role play, Jamie expressed his sadness and rebuilt his confidence. His behaviour and engagement in school improved dramatically.
Let’s Begin
Choosing the right therapist is a deeply personal and important decision. If you are searching for child counselling or a therapist in Cambridge, I would be glad to speak with you about how I can help. My sessions are warm, confidential, and designed to meet your child exactly where they are.
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