Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Kitsilano, BC.

Counselling children and adolescents requires an understanding of the physical, emotional and cognitive stage of development through the life span. It is critical for a counsellor to address the issues of children on all levels of development. Young children, for example, are less verbal and cognitively developed than teenagers, and therefore, may benefit from play therapy and/or expression of thoughts and feelings through more concrete modalities such as art, music or dance therapies. When working with younger children, parents are typically a part of the counselling process. Adolescents, on the other hand, typically benefit from psycho-education and role play. Confidentiality is key.

I love working with children, we have fun with toys, colouring, art work, and games to help the child. This is called play therapy and it is different than any other kind of therapy. Children usually act out their emotions rather than talk about them as adults do. I usually meet with the parent(s) at the first appointment and then either later at that appointment or at the next appointment, I meet with the child and the parent and eventually work into play therapy. Often the child's play mirrors the anxiety or stress that the child is dealing with.Play therapy helps children get better, feel more secure and confident to be able to grow up happy and healthy.

As a family man, I'm seriously passionate about the importance of family and hope to support families in my private practice struggling with hopelessness, break downs in communication and lack of boundaries and clear expectations in the home. If you're looking for help improving the environment in your home, please reach out for a free consultation.

I work with youth ages 13 and above to address their mental health concerns. I work with youth to help them work through trauma from adverse childhood experiences, family conflict, peer rejection, and other traumatic events that may occur due to life transitions, grief, and traumatic experiences. I help individuals cope with anxiety, depression, PTSD, BPD, grief, concurrent disorders, and self-esteem issues.

Is your child bullied or isolated from others? Is your child reluctant to go to school, has trouble making friends, or seems withdrawn and lonely? Many children have trouble with self confidence, anxiety or social skills. Improving self esteem, emotional regulation, and social skills deficits in the younger years reduces difficulties later. We all want the best for our children, and as a parent myself I know how it can hurt to watch your child suffer and not know how to help. Find out how your child can be helped by in-person counselling, online coaching, or online educational programs.

My Approach to Counselling Children may include but is not limited to: * Acquiring general information * Talk therapy * Art Therapy * Behavioural Therapy * Play therapy * Relaxation techniques * Solution focused * Cognitive Behavioural Therapy * Attachment-based psychotherapy If you do not see a specific approach that you are looking for Please feel free to call and ask.

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.

I treat children (11 & up) and adolescents who present with ADHD. We would discuss strategies that work to provide support for your child to succeed in school, socially, and improve their overall daily function. By accomplishing these goals, it would improve their self esteem and give them confidence in themselves to be successful. Additionally, we would use the creativity that comes with the ADHD brain to its full potential. Symptoms often include: struggle with time management, outbursts, talking excessively, being impulsive, forgetful, fidgeting, and many others. Using behaviour therapy techniques, such as CBT, we would jointly create a plan that is feasible, and address many symptoms

I have over twenty years of experience in working with children. I understand that children process information at different rates and often in different ways than adults. My Counselling approach is gentle, warm and age and stage appropriate. I help young children and elementary-aged children to manage their emotions, build friendships, organize their school life, improve their academics, cope with anxiety, understand death, grief and loss, as well as deal with family dynamics e.g., separation/ divorce. I use play, art, narrative and cognitive behavioural therapy as some of my therapeutic tools. I really enjoy working with my young clients and seeing how happy they become!

I have worked with many young children over the last 30 years and have developed tools to help them to express themselves. I encourage children to work through issues in a manner that is supportive yet enquiring, all the while allowing the child to lead. Young children are able to reap the benefits of brain training with Neurofeedback (NFB) and work through issues with desensitizing hurts through EMDR. As well, when utilizing the skill of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), I offer many child friendly approaches such as games and drawing and have weighted blanks and animals to help comfort children with sensory integration / over stimulation challenges. My office is child friendly.

I have worked with young children for three decades in school therapeutic settings. I have counselled children and their parents through all sorts of difficulties. I have insider knowledge about schools, school behaviour problems, and special education. I am passionate about helping children find their tears, so they can release emotions safely and continue to grow.

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.

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*