Clover House Therapy - The Complementary Therapy Centre for Children

Molly, aged 14

Depression Low Self Esteem Eating Problems

The Problem

Mum and Dad were recommended Clover House by a friend. For six months before attending Clover House, Mum and Dad had been concerned about Molly’s eating habits and behaviour. Friends at school also became worried when Molly quickly lost a lot of weight in December 2006.

The treatment – 4 Sessions

Imagery
During the first session Molly attended with both her Mum and her Dad, but remained very quiet throughout. The imagery therapist and family both agreed that Molly should be seen on her own at the next session. During the second session Molly did a ‘rewind’ on an event that had upset her some time ago and did a routine designed to externalise bad feelings. At the third visit Molly appeared more cheerful and was dressed in brighter clothes. She did some work on eating in public which she had reported having difficulty with.

Nutrition
Molly reported feeling very tired throughout the day and felt depressed. The nutritional therapist suggested ways in which Molly could increase her protein intake to help provide her with energy and to support her body systems as she suspected that Molly may have low serotonin levels, which can lead to feelings of depression. In the first session, Molly got quite upset when the nutritional therapist suggested that she try different foods, but by the third session, Molly was much more relaxed and was discussing the new foods that she had tried and taking on board new eating suggestions without getting upset.

Massage
During the first massage session Molly was very quiet and was not willing to make eye contact with the massage therapist. Mum was quite nervous of hurting Molly while massaging her and ended up tickling her instead. During the second session, Molly made much more eye contact and was smiling. She enjoyed speaking with the massage therapist about crystals and flower remedies. At the final session the massage therapist noted that Molly was looking much better and they spent a lot of time talking about her plans for school and for her future.

The Results

Two months later, Molly’s mum completed an evaluation of Molly’s treatment at Clover House. She said that Molly did respond to her treatment and that she really enjoyed the aromatherapy and massage sessions and that the nutrition sessions were very informative. At the start of Molly’s treatment at Clover House, Molly and her parents rated her overall happiness at 2 out of 10, at the final session happiness was rated at 7 out of 10.