Many of the children and teens I work with have parents who are high-achieving and a family culture of high expectations. Young people may appear capable and high-functioning, but privately feel anxious, exhausted, panicked or unable to begin.

Performing in exams, whether 11+ or A-levels, can put high pressure on young people which becomes difficult to manage. Many children confuse perfectionism with high expectations, and almost set themselves up to fail or sabotage other aspects of their life, like their own mental health, friendships or family relationships.

This can lead to burnout. Exam stress can affect sleep, mood, eating, concentration, confidence, family relationships and school attendance.

Therapy offers space to understand the pressure beneath the symptoms, reduce shame, and help the young person develop a more sustainable relationship with achievement, school and themselves.

I also support parents in thinking about what helps, what adds pressure, and how to communicate with school when needed.