Withdrawing from friends or family
Constant worry or restlessness
While every young person is different, you might notice patterns that suggest they are struggling to cope.
These signs are some common responses to stress, and accessing support early can help your young person build the skills they need to move forward.
Signs your young person may need extra support
Noticeable changes in sleep or appetite
Feeling stuck, hopeless, or overwhelmed
Avoiding school, university or work
Increased conflict or tension at home
Frequent or intense mood swings
Low confidence or self-esteem
When to seek help for your young person
Sometimes knowing when to reach out can be difficult
Many parents and caregivers wonder whether they should wait, give things more time, or seek support now.
While every situation is different, counselling does not need to be reserved for times of significant distress.
If your young person seems to be struggling, feeling stuck, or finding life more difficult than usual, having someone independent to talk with may provide valuable support.
Reaching out early can help create opportunities for growth, understanding, and positive change before challenges become more overwhelming.
The free call is a good chance to ask about anything you could not find on this website and get a sense if this is the right fit for your young person.
Why online and phone counselling?
Technology is a big part of everyday life for young people, and my approach is to consider not only how much technology we use, but how we use it and what purpose it serves. It can help us connect, communicate and access support. It can also sometimes become a way of avoiding numbing, distracting or escaping from things that feel difficult.
For some young people, talking about personal things from the comfort of their own home can feel more natural and make it easier to open up. Online and phone counselling can also remove barriers such as travel time, transport, physical accessibility, or simply having together to an office for an appointment.
That is why I offer counselling by video and phone: not because online support is right for everyone, but because for many young people aged 16–25, technology can be a practical and meaningful way to connect with another person. Used intentionally, a screen does not have to create distance; it can be the place where a genuine conversation begins.
The goal is not to be more connected to technology, but to use it in ways that support connection, wellbeing and the relationships that matter.
Prefer to meet in person? In person sessions are available around Glenelg in Adelaide, for a first session or on an ongoing basis, by prior arrangement. Please get in touch to check availability.
'When I first started, I was really nervous but then I felt reassured that this was going to be a good experience'.
'You always made me feel valued and important, and you always believed in me'.
What young people say about working with Brooke
'You make things relatable . . . it helps me put into perspective that I can handle it'.
in their own words
'You helped me view things differently and I am sure the things I learnt will help me in the future'.
'I feel like you helped me communicate especially about my strengths and things I want to achieve'.
'Getting support is really scary
but you made it really good'.