Child & Adolescent Mental Wellbeing

Specialist mental health support for children, teenagers and young adults in London and online

Our Child & Adolescent Mental Wellbeing Unit is a specialist service built around the needs of young people and their families, bringing together psychiatrists, psychologists and specialist practitioners.

We understand that when a young person is struggling, the whole family feels it. Whether you’re a parent who has noticed changes in your child and isn’t sure what to do next, or a young person looking for support yourself, we’re here to help you make sense of what’s happening and find a way forward.

Our approach is compassionate, developmentally informed and tailored to each child. We take into account not just their symptoms, but the full context of every young person’s life. This includes everything from family, school, and friendships to hobbies and social media.

We work with children from early childhood through to young adulthood. Whether you’re seeking an assessment, a diagnosis, or ongoing support through therapy or other approaches, we can help.

Who this is for

Does any of this sound familiar?

Many families come to us unsure of what they’re looking for. They just know that something doesn’t feel quite right.

  • Worry or low mood

    Persistent anxiety, tearfulness, or low mood that is getting in the way of everyday life, school or friendships.

  • Behavioural or emotional difficulties

    Outbursts, withdrawal, or emotional responses that feel hard to manage at home, at school, or both.

  • Social difficulties or withdrawal

    Pulling away from friends, family or activities they used to enjoy, or finding social situations increasingly difficult.

  • Difficulties at school or with learning

    Struggling to concentrate, keep up or feel settled at school, sometimes alongside signs of anxiety or low confidence.

  • Changes in mood, sleep or confidence

    Noticeable shifts in how a young person seems in themselves, their energy, sleep, appetite or self-esteem.

  • Questions about development or neurodiversity

    Wondering whether ADHD, autism or another neurodevelopmental difference might be part of the picture.

We support young people with:

“We combine experience, curiosity and compassion to support young people and their families with thoughtful, exceptional care.”

Dr Hayley Ponsford

Dr Hayley Ponsford

Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

  • 24

    Child & Adolescent specialists in our clinic

  • 1 in 5

    Children in England are likely to have a mental health condition

    Find out more
  • 50%

    Of mental health conditions begin by age 14

    Find out more

Children (up to 12)

For younger children, our approach is gentle, unhurried and tailored to their developmental stage. We never expect a child to simply sit and talk about how they feel.

We work closely with parents and carers to build a full picture of a child’s world. This includes their behaviour at home and school, how they express emotion, and what their environment looks like day to day. Support at this stage often focuses on:

  • Anxiety, fears or separation difficulties
  • Emotional and behavioural difficulties
  • School-related challenges
  • Early signs of neurodevelopmental differences

Teenagers and young adults (13 to 25)

For teenagers and young adults, we take a more collaborative approach that respects growing independence while still recognising the value of family involvement where appropriate. We aim to create a space where young people feel heard, respected and actively involved in their care, helping them develop insight, resilience and practical coping strategies.

This stage of life brings its own distinct pressures like academic demands, identity, relationships, the transition to university or work. We see many young people who have been quietly managing difficulties for some time before seeking support. Support at this stage often focuses on:

  • Anxiety, depression or low mood
  • Emotional regulation and self-esteem
  • Stress related to school, university or work
  • Social or relationship difficulties
  • Neurodiversity, including ADHD and autism

Meet our Specialists in
Child & Adolescent Mental Wellbeing

Need help finding the
right specialist for you?

We can arrange a brief courtesy call directly with one of our psychiatrists/therapists/specialists so you can judge for yourself if you feel comfortable talking to them.
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