Charlie’s Story

Charlie is a 10 year-old, white British male, who was referred to Menu of Services support by his primary school Head Teacher in order to address issues of implicit self-harm, bullying and social isolation. The underlying traumas involved compounding self-confidence issues due to the fact that Charlie pulled out his own hair, and this led to issues of bullying in his current and previous schools. Charlie’s GP diagnosed him with stress, which appeared to be a reaction to a life-threatening illness suffered by his biological father, as well as long-term health issues suffered by his mother and step-father.

Charlie received 8 sessions of Play Therapy, as well as initial assessment and final feedback sessions. Therapy sessions involved a series of play activities and reflective discussion, in a non-directive, client-led approach.

At the point of closure, Charlie reported that therapy has helped him improve his confidence. He indicates that he is now louder and more assertive. He described taking part in activities that he would have previously avoided, and puts his hand up in class more. He states he is no longer being bullied and feels safe and secure in the school environment. He disclosed that by opening up in therapy, he has become more able to open up to others about his fears. This appears to have increased communication with parents regarding his fears over their health, and his parents have consequently been able to reassure him.

In the parental feedback session, Charlie’s mother and step-father expressed that they were ‘extremely pleased’ with the outcome of therapy. They reported that Charlie is no longer self-harming, and is more confident, assertive and relaxed. They state that Charlie no longer minds being out of sight of adults, which in the past could have brought on a panic attack. The post-treatment Strengths & Difficulties questionnaire shows improvements in Social Skills and a decrease in Total Difficulties, which brings Charlie into the normal range in both areas.