Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Kitsilano, BC.

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 have worked with young children for the majority of my career, specifically in a school setting. My primary goal in working with young children is establishing a safe, caring, trusting and fun environment in which children are able to comfortably be able to clearly articulate their emotions and feelings. Helping young children become aware of their behaviors, feelings and emotions are often key in guiding them further, and implement coping mechanisms to help them manage their presenting concern.

Children often suffer from anxiety, depression and worry. I work with children of all ages, who are experiencing worry, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Aspergers/Autism and separation issues. I can also assist with parenting issues. Angry outbursts, tears, worry about being alone are all indicators that your child may be suffering from anxiety or depression.

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 Is your child reluctant to go to school, has trouble making friends, or seems withdrawn and lonely?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.

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.

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.

Watching your child struggle with anxiety is heartbreaking. If your little one is battling fears, OCD, or selective mutism, I provide guidance and support to help them—and you—find relief. Through evidence-based strategies, I empower parents to understand their child’s anxiety, respond in ways that build confidence, and create a home environment where your child feels safe and supported. You’re not alone in this, and help is available. Let’s work together to give your child the tools they need to thrive.

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.

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.

Children are so precious to me, and because I have two of my own...I know how precious they are to you too. I work together with my specially trained (psychiatric dog) named Target, when I work with children. Not only does Target help a child to feel at ease, but there is something incredibly special that happens when a child is cuddled up to a dog with whom he feels both warmth and softness. It doesn't hurt either that 'Target' is a great intensive for children wanting to return. (Which is often a concern) Also my relaxed style, experience with working as a Youth Leader, and Directing Children's productions, gives me an edge on making sessions fun, hip and creative.