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Psychological Services
Supporting Young Minds Across the Scottish Borders
At Cheviot Youth, we believe that emotional wellbeing is the foundation for everything else.
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That’s why our psychological services sit at the core of our work with young people. Through our dedicated service, Insight Youth, we offer free, confidential counselling and psychotherapy to children, young people, and young adults aged 8 to 25 from across the Scottish Borders.
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Our approach is trauma-informed, relational, and led by qualified professionals. Whether through one-to-one therapy, family work, or early-stage emotional support, we meet young people where they are — building trust, resilience, and self-understanding.
​We also support the next generation of practitioners by offering structured placements for trainee therapists.
"It helped me gain a much better understanding of what I am dealing with, what is going on, why it is happening, and has helped me find suitable coping strategies that I feel fit me best."
Insight Youth Client
Age 15
"I cope better with situations where conflict may arise and am able to put myself and my children’s needs and best interests at the centre of these situations rather than making things easier for others."
Insight Youth Client
Age 24
91% of counselling clients reported improved or very improved mood
Over £8M in social impact value delivered last year
4 out of every 5 referrals is for a child aged under 16
Demand for our services grew 47% in the last 12 months
How to access our psychological services
We believe that getting the right help should be simple and welcoming. Whether you’re a young person, a parent, or a professional, you can reach out to us directly. For some projects, such as Thrive Youth, we’re in development — so you can register your interest now and we’ll keep you updated.
Why This Work Matters
Young people’s mental health needs are rising faster than ever. Many experience challenges that affect daily life, yet do not meet the criteria for statutory services, or may need support while waiting for it to begin. Others would benefit from approaches that simply aren’t available through the NHS — not because of oversight, but because they have never been part of statutory provision. Some of these approaches, while highly effective, are only available privately.
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We work alongside statutory provision — offering accessible, trauma-informed psychological support that complements and strengthens the existing system. By providing help earlier, and in ways that broaden the range of available approaches, we aim to prevent issues from escalating and to make later interventions more effective.
"Before I came here I couldn't see next week. Now I can see good stuff in my future. Life's not all bad. Thank you for being there."
14-year-old client
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Preventive: Addressing issues before they escalate.
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Relational: Building trust through consistent, skilled support.
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Flexible: Offering help in ways and places that work for young people.
The Difference We Make
Our psychological services don’t just offer support in the moment — they create lasting change in the lives of young people and their families. Independent feedback and internal monitoring show significant improvements in wellbeing, confidence, and engagement with school, work, and community.
"My child smiles again. I can’t tell you how much that means."
Parent of a 9-year-old client
9 in 10 young people say they feel more confident and better able to cope after working with us
"I feel more like myself. I’m not scared to go to school now."
12-year-old client
Help Us Reach More Young People
Every counselling session, workshop, and wellbeing activity we run is only possible because of the generosity of funders, partners, and individuals. Together, we can ensure that every young person who needs support can access it — without barriers and in the shortest time possible.