Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Chemainus, BC.

I love working with children! Therapy with kids is quite different from therapy with adults because we engage in play, nature and sensory exploration, art and crafts to make therapeutic interventions accessible for the age and stage they are at. I did courses toward a Graduate Certificate in Child and Youth Mental Health and am finishing the last step toward my level two nature-based therapist certification specialized in children, youth and families. I am also trained in behaviour intervention and have worked with many neurodivergent children who are ADH(D), autistic, FAS(D) and other developmental differences. When working with younger children parental or guardian involvement is key.

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.

Is your teen struggling with anxiety, substance use, or relationships with their peers? Do you see them withdrawing, acting out, or losing interest in things they once loved? Are you feeling helpless, worried, or overwhelmed as a parent, unsure of how to support them? I understand how heartbreaking it is to watch your child suffer and feel like you can't reach them. As a clinical counsellor, I specialize in helping teens navigate these challenges. Together, we can improve their emotional well-being, boost their self-esteem, and strengthen family connections. Let's work towards a happier, healthier future for your teen. Book your free 15-minute consultation now. *I see clients ages 15 and up*

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.

Many times, child therapists overdo the family system in their quest to seek effective solutions for emotional, learning or behavioral concerns with young children. And many times doctors overpathologize issues that shouldn’t be medicated necessarily. This leaves parents wondering what is the best route for their child? Introducing brainwave optimization technology. A fast, effective, natural, and less expensive way to allow your child's brain to make the optimizing changes it desires to make---on its own! Without any external force, opinion, medication, diagnostic, etc. Contact kevin@kevinflemingphd.com or 877-606-6161.

Challenges with a young child can affect the whole family and put enormous pressure on parents and their relationship. While I don’t provide counselling directly to young children, I work with individuals and couples who need support navigating parenting concerns. We can explore differences in parenting styles, conflict between partners, difficult behavior at home, boundaries and discipline, or the stress and emotions that come with raising a young child. I help parents understand what may be happening underneath their own reactions, communicate more effectively and work together as a team while finding ways to respond to their child with greater connection and understanding.

Children are unique and precious. At Great Life Counselling, I provide a safe environment for children to express themselves using a wide range of methods, some of which include; play, art role playing and writing. I offer a kind and gentle approach and aim to offer each child an opportunity to grow and heal at their own pace. Each child is gifted and I will help your child to gain self confidence, recognize their own talents and skills; while offering them support to problem solve and overcome challenges.