About Me

Advanced Drawing & Talking Practitioner
Therapeutic mentor
Youth mental health first aider
Experienced safeguarding lead, Enhanced DBS

My name is Tanya and, for the past 20 years, I have worked with children and young people, and their families, including 10 years working as a therapeutic learning mentor in a Primary School, working with children facing barriers to their learning caused by trauma. This included children and families who have experienced bereavement, domestic abuse, family breakdown, family illness, addiction, bullying, anxiety, and EBSNA (emotionally based school non-attendance). I also have a number of years experience supporting children who are, or have been, looked after by foster carers or wider family.

I am passionate about supporting children and young people to thrive and, as well as being a therapeutic mentor, I am an advanced Drawing and Talking practitioner, a youth mental health first aider, and am also trained and experienced in carrying out ELSA interventions, for social and emotional health. I am paediatric first aid trained, an experienced safeguarding lead, and hold an enhanced DBS certificate, registered with the update service.

One of the interventions I have seen incredible results from is Drawing and Talking, and I am delighted to now offer this support on a private basis.

Testimonials

‘You have been a constant source of support and reason when all felt very scary and unreasonable.’

- Parent

'Thank you for being there when there are problems.'

- Child

‘It was so good to work with you, your commitment to families shone through all you did.’

- CYPS Professional

'Thank you for helping me and supporting me with all of the problems I have had.’

- Child

‘You have changed lives and taught our scared little ones that adults can be trusted.’

- Headteacher

'I really appreciate how clear and and direct you are, but also calm and kind.’

- Headteacher

''Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it''