A Newcastle academic with international expertise in children’s rights has launched a specialist youth wellbeing service designed to help young people tackle anxiety, stress and self-esteem issues before they develop into a mental health crisis.
Originally from Greece, Dr Christina Poulatova came to Newcastle to study at university and has since made the city her home. Although often mistaken for a medical doctor, her doctorate is a PhD specialising in children’s rights in war and armed conflict, giving her an extensive academic background in the wellbeing and protection of young people.
Drawing on years of experience working with students from a wide range of cultural and geographical backgrounds, she has established Climb Youth Therapy to support children, teenagers, young adults and their families through the everyday challenges that increasingly affect young people’s emotional wellbeing.
Dr Poulatova said: “My interest has always been children’s wellbeing and promoting children’s rights. At Climb Youth Therapy we don’t see the child as the problem. We help young people recognise that they can improve their own wellbeing, step by step and day by day.”
Rather than replacing NHS mental health services, Climb Youth Therapy focuses on early intervention – helping families recognise the warning signs before problems become severe.
“When someone has reached crisis point, the NHS and emergency services are absolutely the right place to seek help,” she said. “What we do is work with young people at the very beginning, when the first signs appear. Those early conversations can often make a real difference.”
The service supports young people experiencing a wide range of issues including exam stress, anxiety, low self-confidence, body image concerns, the pressures of social media, adjusting to university life, workplace stress and eating-related concerns.
Sessions are tailored to each individual and may include practical coping strategies, breathing techniques and confidence-building exercises to help young people develop resilience and healthier ways of managing difficult situations.
“There isn’t one solution that fits everyone,” said Dr Poulatova. “Every young person is different. Some may only need a few sessions to regain confidence, while others may benefit from longer-term support. The important thing is helping them understand that the obstacle they’re facing can be overcome.”
Having worked extensively in higher education, Dr Poulatova has supported students from many different countries as they adapted to life in the UK, giving her insight into the wide range of pressures facing young people today.
She believes one factor stands above all others.
“Social media is probably the biggest trigger affecting young people’s wellbeing today. The constant comparisons and pressures can have a significant impact on confidence and self-image.”
Recognising that parents often struggle alongside their children, Climb Youth Therapy also provides guidance and support for families.
“Parents are often left feeling isolated when their child is experiencing difficulties,” she said. “They need support too. We work with families because they don’t have to face these challenges on their own.”
Anyone wishing to find out more can visit www.climbyouththerapy.co.uk, where they can book a free 20-minute introductory consultation with Dr Poulatova to discuss their concerns and explore the support available.
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Photo: Dr Poulatova (Steve Brock Photography)
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