helpful information
Alaria CIC Therapeutic Support – FAQ
Find answers to common questions about what we offer, who our services are for, and our session fees.
Many families come to us when something doesn’t feel quite right, even if they’re not sure why. Your child might be experiencing anxiety, low confidence, school overwhelm, social difficulties or emotional ups and downs. If you’re wondering whether support might help, you’re very welcome to get in touch to talk things through.
We currently support children aged 5–12 through Therapeutic Forest School and play therapy, and offer counselling for young people aged 11–18.
We also run parent and under-5 sessions, where younger children can explore nature alongside their parent or carer in a relaxed and supportive environment.
During school holidays, we offer holiday sessions for children and young people aged 4–14, typically grouped into younger children (4–8) and older children (9–14) to ensure activities are developmentally appropriate and enjoyable for everyone.
For those simply looking to slow down and reconnect with themselves and the natural world, we also offer adult Forest School sessions for people aged 18+.
Some of our workshops and family support sessions are designed specifically for parents and carers.
If you’re unsure whether Alaria might be the right fit, we’re always happy to offer guidance.
It depends on the type of support and what feels most helpful for the child or young person.
Therapeutic Forest School takes place outdoors in most weather, with access to sheltered space in our stable block when conditions are particularly poor. Play therapy may be offered either indoors or outdoors, as some children benefit from a more contained space while others thrive with the freedom and connection that nature provides. Counselling for young people can also take place indoors or outside, depending on their preference — some prefer relaxed conversations on beanbags, while others find it easier to talk while engaged in gentle outdoor activities such as den building, woodwork or toasting marshmallows.
We always aim to create an environment that reduces pressure and supports the development of a strong therapeutic relationship.
The first step depends on the type of support being considered.
For Therapeutic Forest School groups, we usually suggest a trial session so you and your child can see whether the group feels enjoyable and meets their needs. For play therapy, we always begin with an initial parent consultation. This may sometimes be preceded by a short scheduled phone call to help us identify which therapist may be the best fit for your child. For counselling with young people, we typically arrange an initial meeting with the young person and their parent(s) or carer(s) together to talk through the process and answer any questions.
We will always guide you through the next steps so you feel clear and supported from the outset.
This varies for every child. Some children attend for a shorter focused period, while others benefit from longer-term support. We review progress regularly and work collaboratively with families to ensure support remains helpful and appropriate.
Yes. We welcome referrals from schools, health and social care professionals and other services, as well as direct enquiries from parents and carers. Please contact us to discuss referral pathways and availability.
Yes. Our approach is neuro-affirming, relational and responsive to each child’s individual profile. We aim to understand how every child experiences the world and to create environments that feel safe, respectful and supportive of their needs.
Alaria was founded by directors with both professional expertise and lived experience of supporting neurodivergent children within their own families. This perspective helps shape our thoughtful, flexible approach – while recognising that every child and family is unique.
We are based in South Lanarkshire beside Glengavel Reservoir, with both indoor and outdoor therapeutic spaces available. Families attend from the local area and beyond.
You can contact us via this website, email or phone to arrange an initial conversation. We’ll talk through your child’s needs and the next appropriate steps.
We aim to keep our sessions as accessible as possible, and offer a range of pricing options depending on the type of session.
Parent and under-5 Forest School sessions cost £10 per adult and child.
Adult Forest School sessions start from £10 (accessible rate), with a recommended contribution of £20 (sustaining rate – covers our costs) and a higher contribution of £30 (supporting rate) for those who are able to pay a little more in order to subsidise others attending on the accessible rate.
Our 2-hour Therapeutic Forest School sessions are offered on a sliding scale from £20–£30, depending on what feels affordable for your family.
Individual therapy sessions are also offered on a sliding scale from £30–£70.
As a not-for-profit organisation, we try to keep sessions as affordable as possible. We rely on the generosity of families who are able to contribute a little more to help subsidise places for those experiencing financial strain.
If cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to get in touch – we’re always happy to talk and see what might be possible.