Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Port Moody, BC.

As a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor, I have extensive training working with children and teens. I use play therapy and a combination of other modalities that may fit the child's/teens needs. I use these methods to help children process difficult situations and find new healthy ways of coping. We also work with parents as we know how important their roles are on-going. We help them help their children.

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.

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.

Angela has worked with children for over 30 years, helping them to develop healthy attachments, heal from difficult transitions, and learn skills to cope with challenges and developmental milestones. Children are very perceptive and communicate differently than adults. Children use symbolic play and imagery to express themselves and their experiences. Angela offers both art & play therapy including sandtray as modalities for children to share their experiences and work through conflicts. Angela works collaboratively with parents, schools, and specialized support services to support children's mental & social wellness. Please call Angela today for your free consultation!

Growing up is hard. Even if you’ve done everything possible to give your child the best life, it doesn’t mean they won’t struggle or experience setbacks. Whether it’s making new friends, finding purpose, determining their sexuality or coping with unexpected trauma like death or divorce - there are many building blocks that come into play on our way to becoming adults. I offer friendly suggestions to override their negative thinking. With my sense of humour, I open up their hearts to face the true way to solve. I encourage and reinforce positive energy for them. I have a long experience as a children’s pastor and therapist. With Christ's compassion, let's figure it out together!

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.

In my practice, I work with preschoolers, school-age children, teens, and young adults. I conduct psychoeducational and neuropsychological assessments for learning disabilities, giftedness, ADD and ADHD, organization problems, memory difficulties, developmental delays, FASD, head injuries, and other challenges. I also provide Cogmed training for attention and working memory difficulties. Cogmed can help children with ADD, ADHD, learning disabilities, and executive functioning problems. Cogmed can help your child to improve their short-term memory, stay on task, and concentrate in school. If you’re concerned about your child’s learning, I look forward to hearing from you.

I provide Comfortable play and art therapy sessions for children, that allows them to interact with their emotions without becoming overwhelmed. When given the proper setting Children have the innate ability to process their past traumas, hurts, or relationship transitions and move towards positive growth and academic potential. Child parent relationships can become strained during a separation; I work to help parents connect with their child and identifying areas of support.

Therapy and counselling for young children is a unique and delicate process. I have experience and expertise in working with young children in a safe, relaxed and healing way. I believe that children are highly resilient and intuitive and therapy can be very effective and rewarding for them. As an adjunct to my approach, I offer intensive support to parents in gaining understanding and insight into their child's behaviors, even if they are highly difficult to manage. I also welcome any and all families with children who have mental health diagnoses as I have expertise in that area as well. Contact me for a free consultation to see if I am the right fit for you and your child.

Much of my experience early on as a psychotherapist was with teens (12-18). I found the most helpful tool was creating a safe and judgement free environment where they were able to explore themselves, their inner thoughts, and their values, free of pressures from the outside world. Once establishing a safe relationship, we were able to identify emotions, what they mean, and how to express them in a healthy way. I often bring parents into the counselling room to be a part of the process too. By offering compassion for their own struggles, and a bit of knowledge on the developing brain, we can work together as a team to help everyone reach their full potential.

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*

Children often express feelings through behavior rather than words. Using play therapy and other child-focused approaches, we provide a safe space for children to explore emotions, build coping skills, and work through challenges. Therapy supports children with anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, and more. We also partner with parents to foster growth and healing beyond the sessions.