Frances Toynbee | Child Counsellor York

Frances Toynbee (Child Counsellor for York Therapy Clinic)

Qualifications & Training

Psychotherapeutic Counselling (Distinction) (Northern Guild, Newcastle, 2019)
Bereavement Care (CRUSE, 2015)
Bereavement in Children (Winston’s Wish, 2013)
Advanced Diploma in Interpersonal and Counselling Skills (Institute of Education, London University, 1992)
Introduction to Counselling Skills (Schools Psychological Service, Inner London Education Authority, 1989)

About Frances Toynbee (Child Counsellor for York Therapy Clinic)

Dr Frances Toynbee is one of our experienced psychotherapeutic child counsellors at York Therapy Clinic, working closely with children and adolescents.

With special expertise in bereavement, anxiety, school phobia, bullying, anger management, attachment difficulties, ADHD, and counselling for people with autism, Frances supports clients of all ages across various developmental stages of life.

Frances is known for her empathetic and relational approach, creating a safe space where children and young people can explore their inner worlds to overcome difficulties that might be causing distress.

Her other work with adults experiencing neurodiversity and loss and bereavement also helps her understand the importance of early experience and the role that childhood plays in our later development.

Background in Education & Counselling

With over 26 years’ experience within education, Frances has a unique perspective on supporting young people with social, emotional, and behavioural needs.

Her previous teaching career spans inner London, Scarborough, and York, where she worked with both mainstream and alternative provisions, often supporting students at risk of exclusion or those navigating difficult personal circumstances.

Frances has also worked closely with Looked After Children and young offenders, helping them to overcome emotional problems and bringing a wealth of experience to her therapeutic work with children.

Following her transition from teaching, Frances joined CRUSE, the national bereavement charity, as a volunteer, where she provided compassionate support to individuals processing grief. She also completed further training in helping to counsel children experiencing loss and bereavement.

This experience deepened her commitment to helping children and adults learn to cope with bereavement, trauma, and life transitions throughout the different stages of life.

Child & Adolescent Counsellor York

Frances’ journey into counselling was born from her deep connection with young people in her teaching roles.

She realised that what she missed most was the close, supportive relationships she developed with her students, which often extended beyond academic success to helping them navigate personal challenges.

For her PhD, Frances conducted research interviewing students deemed ‘troubled’ or ‘troubling’ in secondary schools.

Her work highlighted the loyalty these students felt towards their schools, even when faced with punitive treatment, and revealed the importance of seeing the world through the child’s eyes rather than through adult assumptions.

This has helped Frances to be an effective child counsellor who is able to connect with and help children of all ages open up and work through difficulty.

Personal Interests & Passions

Outside of her counselling practice, Frances enjoys personal growth and self-development, often seeking out and meeting other professionals with whom she can share personal insights.

Her dedication to understanding the adolescent experience continues to influence her work, allowing her to foster empathy and resilience in her clients.

Frances also enjoys relaxing and taking time out for herself to reflect.

Registered with Professional Bodies

Frances Toynbee (Child Counsellor) is registered with the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy).

Frances offers face-to-face counselling in York, as well as telephone and online counselling using Skype, Facetime, Zoom & WhatsApp Video for York Therapy Clinic. Other methods are also available.

If you wish to discuss working with Frances or any of our therapists, psychologists or counsellors in York, contact us using the form below, or call us on 07788 129245.