Support for young people
with minds in distress
Young people are under ever increasing pressure in our competitive world and some may be growing up without the support they need or people they can reply on. We aim to support those who are vulnerable, isolated and disconnected from help.
If you have a pupil or have observed a pupil in distress or in need of support outside of the family, you can refer them to us for counselling.
If you have a child that is struggling with any of the issues below, a referal to DAPL can be the first step in recovery.
If you are facing difficult challenges and distress, you can contact us directly or speak to your teacher to begin the referral process.
Stress is a physical and emotional response to demands placed on you, often leading to feelings of anxiety, frustration, or overwhelming pressure. If prolonged, it can lead to physical problems.
We all experience feelings of unease or worry that can be triggered by specific situations or events, but if it becomes constant or your reaction to everyday situations, it can become debilitating.
Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities that typically bring pleasure. It can be a gradual decline that makes life very difficult, and at times, unbearable.
Addiction is a compulsive and uncontrollable behaviour that involves seeking and using a substance or engaging in negative activity despite consequences. DAPL are experts in addiction recovery.
Low mood is a general feeling of sadness or disinterest that is less severe than depression but can still significantly impact daily life. Talking with a DAPL counsellor can lift people out of it.
Anger is a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility, often accompanied by physical and emotional reactions like aggression or irritability. DAPL can help you manage triggers.
Abuse is the intentional and harmful treatment of another person, often involving physical, emotional, or psychological harm. Please reach out to DAPL as soon as you feel safe to.
Physical violence towards another is never OK and sadly many people suffer at the hands of those responsible for caring for them. It is a very difficult situation to deal with, but support is available from DAPL.
All relationships have ups and downs but can have bad consequences when they breakdown, like homelessness and many other of the distresses listed here. DAPL can help people with relationship issues.
Sexuality is a complex issue and not everyone is fully aware of their own preferences, from early teenage years right into adulthood. DAPL have expert counsellors that can help you navigate it.
Fife has many rural communities that can feel cut-off, but people can also feel isolated whilst surrounded by people. DAPL can help you tackle this and gain confidence to connect with people.
Losing someone close to you can be a very traumatic and difficult experience. DAPL can help you through the grieving process by offering guidance on how to alleviate the distress of losing a loved one.
A persons identity may develop and change over time. Not being who you were meant to be can be a significant struggle. DAPL offers counselling to those who need support to find their true selves.
We offer support at the additional and intensive levels within Fife’s framework of support, including those who are home educated or on a reduced school timetable, as well as those who are attending school.
We provide one to one counselling with young people in a safe environment that is confidential and accredited by BACP.
Art therapy sessions are delivered by qualified practitioners who use creative tools to work through issues, building relationships and improving communication.
I feel like DAPL has helped me quite a lot about thinking about myself more and helped me get through things at home. I feel like DAPL is a good help.
DAPL has helped me as I've seen a huge improvement in my behaviour and attitude towards other pupils and teachers.
Thanks to DAPL I've managed to control my anger. I feel like DAPL has changed my life.
