Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Port Alberni, BC.

Children can benefit from attending counselling or therapy as do adults. Children process through play, creative exercises. Children are highly aware of what has happened in their home, school, community and in the relationships with their family. Often times, kids see but don’t say. Giving children a safe space to express themselves, to be seen can help them process what May have happened to them.

My approach to counselling children is rooted working with the parents. Incorporating principles of attachment theory, I recognize the significance of secure emotional bonds in a child's development. I aim to address any attachment-related concerns with parents directly which will support the child in developing healthy connections. I tailor interventions with the parents to meet the unique needs of each child. Through exploration of emotions, coping strategies, and building resilience, children benefit from a supportive environment that facilitates their emotional growth and overall well-being.

Is your teen struggling? Are they having trouble thriving in school, at home, or in their relationships? Do they need someone outside the family they can talk to? I’m Tim, and I help young people navigate the complex world of being a teenager. With me, young people can expect therapy grounded in respect, encouragement, humor, as well as evidence-based techniques. Whether it be anxiety, relationships, anger, or family issues, I work with teens to find out the root causes of their mental health challenges, provide a trusting and empathic ear, and find solutions that work for them and their family. ***Please note *** I only work with teens ages 15 and older.

As a previous elementary school teacher, I have experience connecting with children and adapting the counselling process to meet their needs. I use movement, games, play, and humour to create a safe, fun atmosphere in which kids feel comfortable expressing themselves and sharing their feelings. I have experience working with children of all ages and provide guidance to parents and guardians on how they can apply strategies learned in session to the home.

Children, like adults, can be affected by anxiety, stress, pressure and self-esteem issues. It can be very challenging for children to balance a busy lifestyle of sports, school, friends, and personal growth. It can also be very challenging for parents to watch and support their child as they struggle. We use child play therapy as a great tool to support young children in expressing their inner thoughts and feelings, while also creating tools and strategies for how they can cope with things better. We will also work with the parents, as needed to better understand their child and learn tools on how to support them.

Critically important with youth is to build rapport through an interest shared by them and often this is better achieved through conversation. I work with kids who are verbal and who are open to counselling, usually youth or teens. Once rapport and trust are established it becomes possible for the child to share information very sensitive to them, and this openness allows problems such as depression, anxiety, ADHD to be understood and addressed.

Children are resilient. They have an amazing way of adapting to change in the world around them. When a child has lost their ability to adapt or is no longer able to cope and manage their world, a multitude of behaviors can manifest. This can be scary and frustrating for the parent or caregiver and can be equally difficult for the child. We understand and appreciate the struggles that children face today and how challenging parenting can be. We will work together to uncover the underlying issues and recreate harmony for both the child and/or parent. In a warm and understanding environment we will use a variety of techniques, customized to your child'd individual needs.