How a Youth Counsellor Helps Teens and Adolescents Navigate Life’s Challenges

Last Updated on 20 January 2025 by Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Youth Counselling provides teenagers with professional guidance to navigate emotional, behavioural, and psychological challenges. At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, our Youth Counselling services are tailored to the unique needs of adolescents, helping them thrive through difficult times. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship issues, our experienced practitioners create a supportive and empowering environment for young people and their families.

Teenage girl listening to music. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Introduction to Youth Counselling

Youth Counselling focuses on understanding and supporting adolescents as they transition through critical developmental years. Teenage life often brings emotional turmoil, social pressures, and personal struggles that can significantly impact mental health. A professional counsellor provides the tools, strategies, and safe space to help teenagers overcome obstacles, build resilience, and develop self-confidence.

At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we combine evidence-based approaches with innovative therapies to ensure every session is effective and meaningful. Our focus is on holistic care, which means addressing the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of a young person’s well-being.

Two teenagers talking. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Why Youth Counselling Matters

Teenagers face unique challenges in today’s fast-paced, interconnected world. The pressures of academic performance, social media, peer relationships, and family dynamics can create overwhelming stress. Youth Counselling offers more than just a listening ear; it equips adolescents with coping mechanisms to manage these pressures.

Common issues addressed in Youth Counselling include:

  • Anxiety and stress management
  • Depression and low self-esteem
  • Bullying and social challenges
  • Trauma recovery
  • Family conflicts and relationship issues

Early intervention through counselling not only improves mental health but also fosters long-term resilience. By addressing concerns early, teenagers can develop the tools they need to thrive in adulthood.

Teenage girl siiting on a bench. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

The Counselling Process

Every counselling journey begins with an initial consultation to assess the young person’s needs and goals. The process is collaborative, involving the adolescent, their family, and, where appropriate, schools or other support systems.

Our counsellors build trust and rapport with teenagers to encourage open communication. Sessions may include:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to address negative thought patterns.
  • Trauma-informed care to ensure a safe and supportive environment.
  • Creative therapies, such as art or play therapy, to explore emotions in non-verbal ways.


At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, the focus is always on empowering teenagers to take charge of their mental health journey.

Young friends having picnic near the lake. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Meet Mel Blair: Counsellor for Children, Teenagers, and Adults

Mel Blair is a compassionate and highly skilled Youth, Child, and Family Counsellor at Brisbane Livewell Clinic. She blends her extensive experience in mental health with a special focus on animal-assisted therapy, bringing her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Gypsy, into sessions to create a calming and supportive environment.

Mel has a particular interest in supporting children, teenagers, and families through trauma-informed approaches, mindfulness practices, and creative therapies. She also works with adults one-on-one and couples, as well as conducting family therapy for all family members together.

Qualifications

  • Graduate Diploma in Youth, Child, and Family Counselling – University of Southern Queensland, 2023
  • Internationally Qualified Yoga and Mindfulness Teacher (Children and Adults) – Santosha Yoga Institute, 2023

Further Training

Mel is committed to ongoing professional development and has completed a range of specialist training courses, including:

  • Love Bites Healthy Relationships Senior Facilitator Training – NAPCAN, 2024
  • Domestic Violence Perpetrator Mapping Training – Safer Together, 2024
  • Clinical Supervision Training – Clinical Supervision Services, 2024
  • Art Therapy Training – YWCA Communities for Children, 2024
  • Youth Mental Health First Aid – Yasmar Training Facility, 2024
  • Youth Sexual Health Training – The Nitty Gritty, 2023
  • Suicide Prevention Training – Assist, 2023
  • Indigenous Healing Through Reconnection to Country Training – Emerging Minds, 2023
  • Youth Advocacy Training on the Justice System – YAC, 2022
Teenage friends camping in the forest. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

In Our Experience

In the Experience of Our Practitioner

Mel shares, “Teenagers often struggle to express themselves in traditional talk therapy. Incorporating creative methods like art or animal-assisted therapy opens new avenues for them to communicate and heal. I’ve seen incredible transformations when teenagers feel truly heard and supported.”

In the Experience of Our Patients

A parent of a 16-year-old patient stated, “Mel’s approach to counselling has been life-changing for our family. Our son looks forward to his sessions and has made significant progress in managing his anxiety. The inclusion of Gypsy in therapy sessions has been especially helpful.”

Portrait of a young girl smiling. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Benefits of Youth Counselling at Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Choosing Brisbane Livewell Clinic means accessing tailored care designed to address the specific needs of teenagers. Our team prioritises creating a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where adolescents feel comfortable sharing their concerns. We focus on achieving measurable improvements in mental health and overall well-being.

Teenage friends playing tug of war. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

How to Access Our Youth Counselling Services

If your teenager is struggling, now is the time to seek professional help. At Brisbane Livewell Clinic, we offer in-person sessions at our Wavell Heights clinic and our Cannon Hill clinic as well as online consultations for added convenience.

Contact our clinic today to book an appointment and begin the journey towards better mental health.

Happy teenage girls. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

Empower Your Teenager with Professional Support

Take the first step towards improved well-being for your teenager. Book an appointment with our Youth Counsellor today and experience the difference compassionate, expert care can make.

Teenager holding phone smiling. Youth Counselling.

Useful Resources – Counselling

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Counselling – Locations We Service

Counselling Wavell Heights
Counselling Clayfield
Counselling Morningside
Counselling Chermside
Counselling Aspley
Counselling Nundah
Counselling Northgate
Counselling Virginia
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Young people waved their hands. Youth Counsellor. Brisbane Livewell Clinic

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About Brisbane Livewell Clinic

  • Brisbane’s most-established Health, Natural Therapies, Naturopath & Wellness Clinic
  • Clinics located in Wavell Heights and Cannon Hill
  • Multiple skilled and experienced practitioners

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The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions. Our therapies complement, not replace, medical treatment; discuss any proposed treatment or therapy with your GP before commencing. Please read our complete Disclaimer for more information.

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Brisbane Livewell Clinic, located in Wavell Heights and Cannon Hill, is Brisbane’s top health, natural therapies, and wellness clinic. Founded in 1979, it is the longest-running wellness centre in Brisbane.

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