Complex Menthal Health Presentations

Some young people experience mental health difficulties that are more severe, layered or multifaceted. These presentations may involve changes in perception, thinking, behaviour or emotional stability. Conditions such as early psychosis, bipolar disorder, complex trauma and emerging personality vulnerabilities can deeply affect a young person’s daily life, relationships and sense of identity.

Complex presentations require careful assessment, clear communication and a supportive, coordinated approach. Our team works with families, schools and medical practitioners to ensure that young people receive the right level of care with compassionate guidance every step of the way.

A complex presentation may involve one or more of the following:
• significant shifts in mood or behaviour
• withdrawal from school, peers or family
• changes in sleep, appetite or functioning
• unusual thoughts or beliefs
• hearing or seeing things others do not
• intense emotional responses that feel hard to manage
• difficulties with trust, safety or relationships
• impulsivity or high-risk behaviour
• long-standing patterns of distress

These experiences can be frightening for young people and challenging for parents to understand. Support is essential, and early intervention can make a profound difference in long-term outcomes.

Some young people experience unusual thoughts, heightened suspicion, perceptual disturbances or a decline in functioning. These symptoms can be early indicators of a psychosis spectrum condition. Early support is extremely important. We work alongside GPs, psychiatrists and specialised early psychosis teams to ensure comprehensive care.

Our role includes:
• monitoring changes over time
• supporting emotional regulation
• providing psychoeducation for families
• helping reduce distress related to symptoms
• assisting with school planning and routine re-engagement

Families often find that understanding what their child is experiencing can significantly reduce fear and uncertainty.

Bipolar disorder and significant mood disorders involve ongoing changes in energy, sleep, motivation and mood. Young people may have periods of elevated mood alongside episodes of low mood, irritability or emotional exhaustion.

We support young people by helping them understand their mood patterns, identify triggers and learn strategies for maintaining stability. Collaboration with medical practitioners is essential, and we work closely with psychiatrists when medication or ongoing monitoring is part of the plan.

Personality difficulties in adolescence can emerge through intense emotions, patterns of interpersonal conflict, impulsivity or a persistent sense of instability. These experiences are often rooted in complex interactions between temperament, environment, trauma history and developmental factors.

Our approach is grounded in validation, emotional safety and practical skills. We draw from:
• DBT-informed strategies
• emotional regulation work
• identity and values exploration
• strengthening interpersonal boundaries
• collaborative family sessions

Early relational support can significantly improve long-term wellbeing.

Trauma can shape how young people see themselves, interpret situations and regulate emotions. Complex trauma may involve chronic stress, disrupted attachments, unpredictable environments or longstanding emotional injury.

We support children and teens through:
• trauma-informed psychoeducation
• grounding and stabilisation strategies
• building safe therapeutic relationships
• exploring emotional triggers
• strengthening trust and communication within the family

Healing is a gradual process and requires compassion, patience and a strong sense of safety.

 A careful assessment helps us understand the full picture. This may involve structured interviews, functional assessments, mood and behavioural measures, developmental history and collaboration with medical or school teams. 

 Complex presentations benefit from a team approach. We coordinate with GPs, psychiatrists, paediatricians, school staff and community mental health services. This ensures the young person receives consistent, stable and informed care. 

 We focus on creating a predictable therapeutic environment. Young people learn emotional regulation skills, grounding techniques and practical strategies for managing distress. Therapy is paced thoughtfully to prevent overwhelm. 

 Families often feel unsure about what is happening or how to respond. We provide clear and supportive guidance, helping parents understand symptoms, communication strategies and what to expect during the treatment journey.