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“Before counselling I was lost. I used to try and problem solve but made it worse, the advice has helped develop skills and problem solving.”

 “To be honest I didn't really think counselling would help, but it's helped me a lot.' 'It's like laying everything out in front of me so I can sort it out in my head.”

This is just some of the feedback from children and young people who have accessed the ߣsir��Ƶ and Bute Council’s counselling in schools service.

Therapeutic Counselling Service – The Exchange has provided counselling in schools since 2023. The NHS previously provided counselling in schools from 2021 up to 2023.

There has been a steady increase in referrals, with strong evidence that early intervention is delivering clear improvements to children and young people’s wellbeing.

Schools primarily make referrals to the service. Parents, other professionals and young people can also make referrals. You can find more information about referrals on the Exchange website

The service expanded in early 2024 to support children under 10 (Primary 1 onwards) with the latest development being the launch of a Parent Project in January 2025.

This provides free support to parents and carers of children aged 4-18 including online and face-to-face workshops, wellbeing discussions, and one-to-one sessions.

They aim to address common mental health challenges such as anxiety, stress, and self-esteem issues, helping parents to support their children’s wellbeing.

Early indications report positive uptake, with over 70 parents and carers signing up for workshops in the first few weeks, and over 100 parents and carers registering online.

Councillor Audrey Forrest, Policy Lead for Education, said: “The feedback we’re seeing from pupils, parents, carers and teachers shows clear evidence of the benefits which the counselling service within schools is delivering to our young people.

“Early intervention to address young people’s health and mental wellbeing is absolutely vital, often playing an important part in reducing their stress and, as a council, we’re committed to maintaining and further enhancing these services.”