SEND Support for Parents: Stress Coaching While You Advocate for Your Child’s Education

The Mental Health Strain of Advocating For Your Child’s Special Education Needs

If you are a parent, guardian, or family member who has worked to secure an adequate education for a child with Special Educational Needs (SEN), you will understand that the journey was not only more challenging than you expected but also lasted far longer than you ever anticipated.

In England, the legislation regarding Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) sets out that every child who meets a certain level of additional education needs is entitled to a needs-based assessment (EHCNA). This assessment determines the level of support required, the necessary provisions, and the most suitable educational setting that can meet those identified needs. All of this personalised information then becomes unique to that child and is captured in an Education Health and Care Plan (EHCP).

That is the theory, in practice the process begins well, starting with an application, that’s the first challenge, getting the agreement that this is the right approach. Then we have the evidence gathering, support from the school, agreement to proceed, presenting evidence to request a needs assessment, understanding the outcome from that assessment request, and the process continues like this until you eventually reach an adequate outcome. At each step in the process, you could be presented with access to the next step or a refusal to proceed. Each step has with it an associated right of appeal, and sometimes that right of appeal can go through to mediation and even to a SENDIST tribunal.

The mental health challenges for parents are significant, often intensified by the delays in securing an adequate education for their child. During this time, the child may continue to struggle in school or, in some cases, not be at school, or sat at home while their education clock continues to tick.

Why Choose Our Parent SEND Support Service?

Parenting a child with special educational needs (SEN) is incredibly rewarding, we often hear the respite parents get is the home time and holidays when they are emotionally detached from the education system, when the child’s needs are not being met. This is not particularly the fault of the school, it’s more a case it’s the wrong type of education setting. Schools have evolved to deliver teaching content to a predominantly neurotypical student body. The further your child is from the centre, the more challenges of fitting in may likely occur, without adaptations,

Therefore the emotional and mental toll of managing the EHCP (Education, Health, and Care Plan) process, coordinating with schools, and ensuring your child gets the support they need can lead to significant stress and anxiety. Our specialised therapy helps parents like you regain control, reduce stress, and find peace of mind.

What is Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy?

Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy (CBH) is a powerful blend of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Hypnosis. It’s an evidence-based approach that helps you address the root causes of stress and anxiety while equipping you with practical strategies to manage overwhelming emotions. We tap into the subconscious mind through hypnotherapy to reinforce positive changes and build resilience.

Who is This Service For?

This 1-to-1 therapy service is specifically tailored for:

• Parents navigating the EHCP process
• Parents of children with special educational needs
• Parents feeling overwhelmed by their child’s educational and developmental challenges

If you’re finding it hard to cope with the pressures and responsibilities that come with being a parent of a child with SEN, this service is for you.

What to Expect

• Personalised 1-to-1 Sessions: Each session is tailored to your specific needs, focusing on your unique challenges as a parent.
• CBH Techniques: We use a combination of CBT and hypnotherapy to help you manage stress, reduce anxiety, and build resilience.
• Practical Strategies: Learn practical techniques to help you cope with daily pressures, including managing the EHCP process and working with schools.
• Emotional Support: Our therapy provides a safe and supportive space for you to express your feelings and work through the challenges you face.

How We Help with the EHCP Process

The EHCP process can be a major source of stress for parents. We understand the complexities involved and offer:

• Stress Management: Techniques to help you stay calm and focused during the EHCP process.
• Confidence Building: Hypnotherapy sessions are designed to boost your confidence in advocating for your child’s needs.
• Emotional Support: A safe space to discuss your concerns and receive guidance on navigating the process.

Benefits of Our Therapy

• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Experience a significant reduction in stress and anxiety levels.
• Improved Mental Wellbeing: Gain a greater sense of control and emotional balance.
• Enhanced Coping Skills: Learn effective strategies to manage overwhelming situations.
• Better Advocacy: Feel more empowered to advocate for your child’s needs.

Book Your Session Today

Take the first step towards a calmer, more balanced life. Book your 1-to-1 Cognitive Behavioural Hypnotherapy session today and start your journey to better mental well-being.