Last updated:

18th May 2026

Mental health support for young people

If things feel hard right now, or you just need someone to talk to, help is available. You can get support to talk about how you’re feeling, ask for advice, or connect with people who understand what you’re going through.

You get to choose what works best for you – online or in person, anonymously, or with the same trusted person each time. You don’t have to handle everything by yourself.

Support you can access locally or online

ARC Counselling 

For young people aged 11+ 

  • Up to 9 weekly counselling sessions
  • You'll see the same counsellor each time
  • Sessions can be face to face or online.

Website: ARC Counselling

Tellmi 

For young people aged 11-18

Free learning for wellbeing and relationships with Togetherness

  • Online information that can help you understand your thoughts and emotions 
  • Designed to support you through your teenage years.

Website: Togetherness

Mental Health support at school or nearby

Mental Health Support Team (MHST) 

  • Work with schools across Berkshire to promote positive mental health 
  • Support young people in school or college experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties

Further information, and a list of schools, can be found on the BHFT website.

CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) - Getting Help Service

  • Available to young people who do not attend an MHST support school
  • For young people up to the age of 18 
  • Supports mild to moderate mental health difficulties
  • Help with feeling low, worried, or anxious

A full list of supported schools is available on the BHFT website.

Other wellbeing support

Alongside counselling and therapy, there are a range of local services that can support young people’s mental wellbeing, emotional needs, and specific life circumstances.

Sport in Mind: Provides sport and games sessions designed to support mental wellbeing for 10–14 year olds, helping young people build confidence, resilience, and social connections. Go to the Sport in Mind website.

Cranstoun Here4YOUth: The Wokingham Borough Substance Misuse Recovery Service, offering advice, information, and support for young people affected by substance use, including alcohol and drugs. Find out about the Cranstoun Here4YOUth

Florey Sexual Health and contraceptive services: Offers confidential sexual health and contraception services, including information and support on all aspects of sexual health. Go to the Royal Berkshire NHS website for times of clinic and how to book an appointment.

Wokingham Young Carers Project: If you help care for a family member, juggling responsibilities can be challenging. The Young Carers Project offers support, activities, and opportunities for a break from caring. Visit the Berkshire Youth website for further details.

Read Well Programme: Find recommended self‑help books for young people through the Read Well scheme at your local library, covering topics such as anxiety, low mood, and coping skills.

Get involved and have your voice heard

Mind in Berkshire offers a safe space where young people can share their views and experiences about mental health using the Children and Young People’s Mental Health Forum.

National support

  • Anna Freud - wellbeing resources that help young people understand their mental health and make informed, confident choices.
  • MIND offers young people clear, trusted mental health support and information, helping them understand what they’re going through and feel less alone.
  • The Mix - under 25’s can access one-to-one support from counsellors, as well as support groups, community boards or Peer Chat service.
    • You can also learn at your own pace with our self-help tools, 
    • Get urgent help through Shout
    • Hear real stories on The Mix Six podcast.
  • Young Minds help you to understand how you are feeling and find ways to feel better.

NHS resources

  • NHS better health website - free tools and support to help you improve your health and wellbeing.
  • NHS UK - advice and support for teenagers, young adults and students with mental health problems
  • NHS UK - self help guides, tools and activities to support you on your way to feeling better.

Looking for support aged 18 or over?

Visit our adult emotional and mental health support pages for advice, information and ways to get help.

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