Children and young people in the UK are facing an unprecedented mental health crisis. With rates of anxiety, depression, behavioural challenges and complex emotional needs at an all-time high, many families are struggling to access the support their children desperately need. While NHS services continue to provide vital care, increasing demand and limited resources mean more and more families are exploring private therapy as a timely and essential solution.
A System Under Strain
Recent data shows that nearly one million children and young people were referred to mental health services in a single year a dramatic increase over pre-pandemic figures. Yet over 270,000 of those referred were still waiting for support months later. Factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, academic pressures, social media, and family stress have created a perfect storm for young people’s mental health.
Despite the dedication of professionals within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS), long waiting times are now the norm. In some areas, children can wait months just for an initial assessment, let alone treatment. In the meantime, symptoms often worsen, leading to school absences, family breakdown, or crises that require emergency intervention.
Private Therapy: Timely, Tailored, and Supportive
This is where private therapy plays a critical role. Private services like TheraChange are not a replacement for public provision but an essential complement. They offer:
- Shorter waiting times: Families can access assessments and therapy within days or weeks, not months.
- Consistency: Seeing the same therapist each session builds trust and promotes therapeutic progress.
- Flexibility: Evening and weekend appointments, online sessions, and tailored treatment plans allow support to fit around school and family life.
- Specialist expertise: Private therapists often bring diverse experience in areas such as autism, trauma, anxiety, and ADHD, offering focused support that might not be available elsewhere.
For many families, private therapy is no longer a luxury but a necessity to ensure their child gets the help they need, when they need it.
Bridging the Gap
The gap between need and provision is not just about numbers – it’s about outcomes. Children who receive early intervention are far more likely to recover and thrive. Research shows that half of all lifetime mental health problems are established by the age of 14, making timely access to therapy crucial.
With workforce shortages in the NHS, stretched budgets, and rising demand, it’s clear the public system cannot meet every need alone. Private therapy providers are helping to bridge that gap, offering professional, ethical, and compassionate care that supports families during one of the most difficult periods of their lives.
Putting the Child First
At TheraChange, we believe every child deserves the chance to be heard, supported, and helped to thrive. Our team is committed to making therapy approachable and effective, whatever the concern. Whether a child is dealing with anxiety, grief, behavioural difficulties, or needs help navigating neurodiversity, we are here to help.
In a world where waiting months for care is often the norm, private therapy offers something different: timely intervention, meaningful connection, and real change.
To learn more about how private therapy can support your child’s mental health journey, visit TheraChange or contact our team for a confidential chat.
