Having spent the last 25 years supporting children through Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) difficulties, I know that primary school is a crucial window. Today's children face unprecedented challenges—from the usual growing pains to navigating the pressures of social media.
I firmly believe that emotional well-being is the foundation for learning. A child whose mind is overwhelmed by big emotions or intrusive thoughts cannot focus; but when a child feels safe, heard, and equipped to manage their feelings, they unlock the mental capacity to learn and thrive, socially and academically.
In our busy world, navigating these challenges can be tough. Whether you are a school looking to strengthen your pastoral support, or a parent seeking a safe, outside perspective for your child, I am here to help. We all need an extra layer of support sometimes—after all, we have to put our own oxygen masks on first.
The need for that support has never been more urgent. The number of children attending A&E in mental health crisis rose by 36% between 2019 and 2025 (NHS). Too often, the system only steps in once a child has become seriously unwell — effectively requiring young people to reach crisis point before qualifying for help (Mind). Brian, Bee and Me exists to bridge that gap: offering early, accessible social and emotional support so that children get the help they need long before things reach that stage.
My approach is grounded in extensive, specialised training and a deep commitment to supporting children's social, emotional, and mental health.
Every child's journey is unique. My practice is built on collaboration, trust, and a holistic understanding of their world.
Children are typically referred by parents, class teachers, or School SENCOs. To build a comprehensive picture, I begin by consulting with the key adults in their life to understand their perspectives on the current difficulties.
I spend dedicated time getting to know the child, creating a safe environment where they can express their feelings. It can often take time to gently 'unpack' emotions and identify the underlying causes of distress or behavioural changes.
Once we understand the core challenges, I work closely with the child to develop practical resolutions and coping strategies. I also work in partnership with parents and educators to ensure a consistent, unified support system at home and at school.
I utilise a blend of evidence-based therapies tailored to the individual child, including:
I provide regular feedback to parents and school staff throughout the process. I typically recommend an initial 6-week intervention block, with a joint review at the end to decide whether further sessions would be beneficial.
My work spans a wide range of SEMH topics, delivered with care and expertise to schools, educators, and families:
🐝 Not sure if your need is listed? Please get in touch — I'm always happy to discuss.
In her Pastoral and Learning Support Manager role, Debbie Harris has been looking after the wellbeing of our children and helped to develop the school's values as well as a culture of kindness for many years. She knows that 'behaviour is communication', and that time, patience and a listening ear are what those most vulnerable pupils need during their most challenging moments in life.
Whether Debbie worked on developing the children's self-esteem and resilience, or advocated for the pupils' mental health, she understood exactly what a child needs to feel safe and valued. Acknowledging that providing assistance to a child means supporting their home too, she built strong partnerships with families, offering them practical guidance when most needed.
Thank you Debbie, for your hard work with our school community. I wish you the best in your next chapter!
"… has learnt so much from you, in terms of how to handle 'life' — social skills, emotional attachment, resilience, fairness, self-expression, kindness and how to 'bee yourself'. Your role in giving them a solid foundation on which to build the rest of their life cannot be underestimated."
"Thank you for taking care of us in our lowest times and nurturing us with love and affection."
"You are one in a million and we will never forget all that you have done for us as a family. You hold a special place in our hearts."
"You have treated me like I was something."
"Thank you for making me happy when I was sad."
"Thank you for all the work that you did to help me and my friends with conflicts and misunderstandings. Your support and guidance is much appreciated and you will be sadly missed."
"You mean a lot to me. You have helped me figure out what's so special about me. If I had anyone to talk to, it would be you."
A few of the handwritten notes, poems and letters that mean so much.
Brian is a 2-year-old Cavapoo and a cherished member of our family. For two years, he has accompanied me to school settings as an unofficial therapy dog, bringing warmth, comfort, and plenty of smiles to children and adults alike.
A playful spirit at heart, Brian loves snuggles, playtime, and the occasional theft of a stray sock or Croc. As a low-shedding, hypoallergenic Cavapoo, he is gentle on allergies while offering a calming, stress-reducing presence whenever a comforting pause is needed.
The name Deborah means "Bee" — a connection that deeply inspires my approach to working with children.
Bees play a vital role in our ecosystem through eusociality — the practice of caring for one another, working together, and supporting the community. Teaching children to appreciate bees helps them learn essential life lessons about empathy, connection, and teamwork.
Bees also teach us the power of "hovering." When faced with uncertainty, a bee pauses in mid-air to assess its surroundings from a new perspective. Taking a moment to "hover" rather than react allows us to pause, reflect, and find a clear path forward.
"Anyone who thinks they're too small to make a difference has never met the honeybee."
Whether you're a school, a teacher, or a parent — reach out and let's talk about how I can help.
Debbie Harris
