Services
MindJam Mentoring vs. Counselling: What’s the Difference?
At MindJam we are well known for developing our innovative mentoring sessions – a new, groundbreaking approach to supporting young people that truly connects and empowers them. What some people don’t know is that we offer two types of support – Mentoring and Counselling. Each has a unique focus. Both are client-led and about making you feel heard, understood, and supported, but here’s how they’re a little different:
At MindJam our primary focus is to support young people’s emotional well-being. We believe that the key to doing so is by engaging them in a world in which they feel safe and comfortable, namely video games. We support young people between the ages 6 – 25.
Our mentors’ shared passion for gaming provides a platform to build a trusting, long-lasting relationship from which we can support their individual needs, whether emotional or SEN. All mentors are experienced and trained in supporting neurodivergent individuals including autistic young people and other additional needs such as PDA, ADHD, anxiety, stress and trauma.
Our mentoring sessions are all about emotional support with a twist of creativity and fun. Think of it as a space where you can talk, game, or explore new digital skills with a mentor who truly “gets” your world. It’s not like therapy or school; it’s a place for collaborative and explorative learning. We do things you enjoy – like gaming, game design, digital art, or video editing. All this while focusing on your emotional well-being.
With mentoring, you’re in control. Whether you’re looking to build confidence, relax, or just chat, we’re here to meet you where you’re at, with no pressure and lots of encouragement. Our goal is to support your journey, help you feel empowered, and explore new skills, all while having fun!
Due to high demand for our service we operate a waiting list for all applicants, including those with funding, which is currently approximately 1-3 months for mentoring sessions. Please contact us for further information and to be added to our waiting list.
A Safe Space for Deeper Conversations
Our counselling is more like traditional therapy but still keeps you in the driver’s seat. It’s a safe, private space to talk about feelings, thoughts, or challenges that are important to you. Counsellors at MindJam are here to listen, help you understand yourself better, and work through any tough emotions or situations.
Counselling sessions focus on understanding and processing what you’re going through at a deeper level. There’s no rush, no judgement – just support from someone who’s trained to help you explore and make sense of things that might feel confusing or overwhelming. It’s a way to dive into personal growth and find strategies that work best for you in everyday life.
Therapy In A World Built Just For You
Imagine stepping into Minecraft for more than just building and battling – welcome to MindCraft Counselling! In this unique counselling experience, you’ll explore a world specially designed by our trained counsellors to help you reflect, grow, and tackle challenges in a way that feels comfortable and fun.
Our MindCraft world has carefully crafted areas where you can safely explore feelings like worry, anxiety, and more, with guidance from counsellors who understand both the game and your journey. Whether you’re building pathways, navigating obstacles, or taking time in a calm reflection zone, MindCraft Counselling makes exploring emotions feel like an adventure in a world that’s all about you!
Which One is Right for You?
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At MindJam, we offer different kinds of support, so you can choose what feels best for you! Here’s a quick look to help you decide:
- Mentoring: If you’re looking for creative, relaxed support where you can explore things like gaming, digital art, or other cool digital skills, mentoring is the way to go! It’s flexible, fun, and focused on helping you feel good and build confidence through things you already enjoy. Think of it as emotional support that feels more like a fun hangout or learning session.
- Counselling: If you’re ready to dig a bit deeper and want help understanding or processing emotions, counselling might be the perfect fit. It’s a safe, private space to talk through whatever’s on your mind, with a counsellor who’s there to listen and help you make sense of things. You can explore tough feelings, find new ways to cope, and discover what works for you.
- BlockJam Counselling: Want to explore emotions while gaming? Try BlockJam Counselling! In this unique approach, you’ll enter a specially designed Minecraft world created by our trained counsellors. In this digital therapy world, you’ll discover areas built just for reflecting on feelings like worry, anxiety, and stress, all in a way that feels like an adventure. With the support of a counsellor by your side, BlockJam Counselling helps you explore emotions in a safe, creative space.
Whichever option you choose, our goal at MindJam is to help you feel understood, supported, and empowered in a way that works best for you!
FAQ'S
For answers to our most commonly asked questions regarding sessions, please visit the FAQs page.
Benefits of Gaming
Read our guide to the benefits of gaming, that looks at current research around health and wellbeing.
We'd love to hear from you.
If you would like our team to get in touch with you to discuss how we can help you and your young people through our services, please feel free to fill out our contact form, and we will be in touch as soon as possible to talk you through enrolling with one of our mentors or counsellors