12/05/2026
Our Senior Counselling Officer, Diana Atieno, recently shared this important reflection from her experience working with young people:
“From my experience working with young people, I have realized that most of them are not really looking for advice. What many of them truly need is a safe environment where they can feel heard, supported, understood, and valued.
Most young people already have an idea of what is troubling them. Deep down, they are aware of their struggles, fears, pressure, confusion, or emotional pain. What they often lack is not solutions, but a safe space to express themselves without fear of judgment, dismissal, or criticism.
Mental health support begins with something as simple as listening.
One of the key concepts in counselling is the belief that people have the innate capacity to understand themselves and navigate through their challenges when provided with the right environment, an environment built on trust, empathy, genuineness and unconditional positive regard.
And the beautiful thing is that you do not have to be a psychologist, counsellor, or mental health practitioner to do this. At your own level, you can become a safe space for a child or young person. You can choose to listen without rushing to correct, lecture, or give answers.
Because most of the time, listening matters more than giving advice.”
💙 A powerful reminder that being present and listening can make a meaningful difference in a young person’s life.
