School Notices very own in-house Parenting and Mental Health expert and founder of Teen Tips, Alicia Drummond, opens up to us about her own heartbreak that led to her becoming a psychotherapist and how she manages a thriving business with being a mother

How did you get into psychotherapy and is this what you’ve always done?

My first career was as an events organiser in London which I loved – what’s not to like about creating people’s dreams!  In 2007 we lost a baby in very difficult circumstances and I ended up with post natal depression.  I received amazing support and found a therapist who not only helped me recover but also inspired me to look at therapy as a career option.

Why did you choose to specialise in teenager’s mental health?

I think I just identify with teenagers.  Working with them can be heartbreaking and challenging but seeing them grow and change is an extraordinary privilege.

Why do you work with schools?

I work with schools to create cultures of pastoral excellence that nurture self-esteem, self-confidence and self-reliance because I see these as the foundation for success in all other areas of life. 

How did you find setting up your own business? 

It’s exciting, terrifying, exhausting, interesting – a proper roller coaster and probably not too dissimilar to how it feels being a teenager!

What’s been your biggest challenge?

Accounts – I hate the money side of business but you have to do it so I am learning!

How do you juggle running a business with being a parent?

I try to be all in or all out of each role which is a lot easier to say than do but it does get easier as they get older.

What element of the business are you most proud of?

Knowing that we make a positive difference in the lives of teenagers and their parents and that when staff move schools they invariably take us with them.

What advice do you have for others wanting to set up their own business/get into this industry?

Get properly qualified!

Do you have a motto for life?

If you don’t try you’ll never know.

More about Alicia Drummond…

Alicia is a therapist accredited with the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy; she is also a pastoral care consultant working with over 100 schools in the UK and abroad and, perhaps most importantly, is a parent.

Teen Tips Courses, Talks and Workshops are designed to give information, advice and practical tips and tools to help you to help teenagers fulfil their potential.

Visit her website for more information here www.teentips.co.uk/