Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Port Perry, ON.

Mental Health Commission of Canada (2021) asserts that Blacks face oppression, colonialism, racism, and segregation. The above reasons compelled our mental health services to dedicate this section to Black young children and youth. I have a long history and experience working with children and youths in school, church, and home environments. I know the mental struggles exist among Black children. We dedicate this section to help them thrive in coping with executive mental health functioning. Other challenges include identity crisis, critical race theory, Immigration, parenting, and Melano-phobia – fear of Black colour. Black young children and youth are confronted with mental health issues, including stress, anxiety, panic, inner hatred, antisocial, inadequate and trauma.

I love working with children!! Children are wired to learn. Often, though, they struggle to communicate their needs, wants and wishes with others in a proper way. Likewise, adults struggle in the same way and/or feel inadequate in coaching their children. Broken communication lines can cause major side effects. This is where I come in. I'm able to connect with most children quit rapidly. I find that whenever children feel understood, they quickly establish a safe bond and share their stories with me. Once this bond is built, most children can't wait to come back to see me for more life coaching/counselling. Parents are always surprised by this.

Children are often impacted by family dynamics and for that reason, at Psychotherapy Collective our approach to working with children aged 6-11 is a family based approach. While I do not work with children under the age of 12, we have many therapists on our team who work with children aged 6-11. I encourage you to view our approach to child and family therapy (https://www.psychotherapycollective.ca/services/child-and-family-therapy) and schedule a consultation with one of our family therapists to see if they are the proper fit for your journey.

Here at JP&A we offer counselling approaches for children, drawing upon art and play therapy modalities to assist children with the challenges they may be facing. We also work with parents to coach steps and strategies you can use at home to assist your child with recovery, coping and enhancing their level of functioning (e.g. social, spiritual, intellectual, emotional etc.)

While I do not work with youth under the age of 16, our clinic has many child and family therapists who are availability to schedule a free consultation. Since children are often impacted by family dynamics, we often find the most effective way to work with children, ages 6-11, is within the context of family therapy. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with one of our child and family therapists by visiting https://www.psychotherapycollective.ca/services/child-and-family-therapy

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.

Growing up is a unique phase of life, filled with new experiences, challenges, and developmental changes. Navigating this period can feel overwhelming and intense. Our work together will involve exploring these aspects of yourself and processing the emotions that arise along the way. Many young people can struggle to express their feelings and may not feel comfortable sharing with family so speaking with a therapist can feel reassuring, as it offers a safe, compassionate environment where you can express your emotions freely, without judgment or expectations. Book a free 15-minute consultation with me to see if I’m the right fit for you.

I work with each child at their own pace, using creative, playful and meaningful strategies to understand and address their emotional and behavioural needs. If appropriate or necessary, I might also incorporate parents/guardians into the therapeutic work. I can also suggest resources and strategies alongside the individual work with the child to assist parents in supporting the child's therapeutic process and personal growth.

When doing therapy with young children, my primary goal is to first make them feel safe and comfortable. I use Play Therapy and Emotion Focused techniques to address concerns and help them regulate their emotions to be able to navigate significant changes in their lives. I find that it is helpful to collaborate with parents for a smoother transition of therapy tools into their lives at home. These younger years can greatly impact their adulthood, which makes therapy a useful tool in building long-term resilience. Call today to see if your child’s needs and my expertise are a good fit.

Since the pandemic, many youths are struggling personally, socially, and academically. Prior to becoming a psychotherapist, I spent 10 years working with children and youth as a guidance counsellor helping youth navigate their challenges and direction in life. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me to see if I am the proper fit for your journey.

Young children often express their feelings through play, behaviour, and imagination. At Willow Tree Wellness, I provide a warm, safe, and playful environment where children can explore big emotions, build confidence, and develop healthy coping skills. Using child-centered, evidence-based approaches, I support children in understanding their feelings, navigating challenges, and strengthening connections with caregivers. Therapy is gentle, engaging, and focused on helping your child feel seen, supported, and empowered as they grow.