Helping Children Thrive: A Story from Growing Hope Solent
WRITTEN BY sarah trevett
In the midst of overwhelming emotions, anxious thoughts, and the pressures children can face today, small steps of support can make a profound difference. At Growing Hope Solent, we have the privilege of walking alongside children and families as they begin to find understanding, tools, and hope in the middle of their challenges.
“Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God will come…’” Isaiah 35:3
Molly, age 9, came to Growing Hope Solent for counselling, experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, and at times fear. She would often become very fearful when angry and feel overwhelmed by these emotions, as well as by negative voices she would hear in her head. She attended six counselling sessions with Peter, our Children and Young People’s Counsellor, together with her mum. During these sessions, they used creative expression and gentle conversation to explore her feelings and develop tools to support her day-to-day life.
The following feedback was shared at the end of the sessions:
“Our therapy sessions over the last six weeks have been so rewarding for both Molly and myself. I have seen positive changes in Molly’s mindset right from the onset. We have taken on board the different strategies discussed and embedded them into our daily life. We particularly enjoyed the ‘hard, loved, and proud’ strategies, which we now use daily."
"Peter has been fantastic and very easy to talk to. He has helped us make small, positive changes to our daily lives.”
It is an absolute privilege to offer weekly therapy and support to children like Molly through Counselling, Occupational Therapy, and Speech and Language Therapy.
Every child and family we meet carries their own story, and many face daily challenges that can feel overwhelming. Yet within those stories, we continue to see moments of growth, courage, and hope. The Growing Hope Solent clinic, based here at King's Community Church, exists to offer both practical support and the reminder that no one walks this journey alone—and that Jesus offers real and lasting hope in every situation.
As we reflect on Molly’s journey, we are reminded that even small tools, shared conversations, and consistent care can bring meaningful change over time.
Why not try this at home? Use a simple “feedback bag” around your table this week:
Small moments of reflection can open the door to big conversations—and even bigger connection.
“Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God will come…’” Isaiah 35:3
Molly, age 9, came to Growing Hope Solent for counselling, experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, and at times fear. She would often become very fearful when angry and feel overwhelmed by these emotions, as well as by negative voices she would hear in her head. She attended six counselling sessions with Peter, our Children and Young People’s Counsellor, together with her mum. During these sessions, they used creative expression and gentle conversation to explore her feelings and develop tools to support her day-to-day life.
The following feedback was shared at the end of the sessions:
“Our therapy sessions over the last six weeks have been so rewarding for both Molly and myself. I have seen positive changes in Molly’s mindset right from the onset. We have taken on board the different strategies discussed and embedded them into our daily life. We particularly enjoyed the ‘hard, loved, and proud’ strategies, which we now use daily."
"Peter has been fantastic and very easy to talk to. He has helped us make small, positive changes to our daily lives.”
It is an absolute privilege to offer weekly therapy and support to children like Molly through Counselling, Occupational Therapy, and Speech and Language Therapy.
Every child and family we meet carries their own story, and many face daily challenges that can feel overwhelming. Yet within those stories, we continue to see moments of growth, courage, and hope. The Growing Hope Solent clinic, based here at King's Community Church, exists to offer both practical support and the reminder that no one walks this journey alone—and that Jesus offers real and lasting hope in every situation.
As we reflect on Molly’s journey, we are reminded that even small tools, shared conversations, and consistent care can bring meaningful change over time.
Why not try this at home? Use a simple “feedback bag” around your table this week:
- What was something hard? (rock)
- What was something you were proud of? (star)
- What was something you loved? (heart)
Small moments of reflection can open the door to big conversations—and even bigger connection.
