Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in St Catharines, ON.

There are a wide range of issues that affect children - they are vulnerable to many kinds of maltreatment and increasing stressors in our culture. However children often find it difficult to express their feelings and fears, which means that problems can be left undetected and unresolved. It is helpful then, to seek professional help if a child seems unhappy or distressed. With children, the construction of a trusting relationship between counsellor and client is especially important. Sometimes the counsellor will use puppets or sandboxes or play therapy to allow the child to tell their own story. In a safe trusting environment, the child can find their way towards emotional health.

Growing up can be challenging and sometimes leave youth feeling confused, frustrated, or misunderstood. I strive to make them feel accepted for who they are and feel heard and validated. Promoting a safe and judgment free environment is a priority and necessary for youth to be able to let their guard down and communicate openly. Together we look at areas of life that are challenging for them and identify the factors that are contributing to the difficulties they are experiencing. We then work on managing those areas more effectively by developing positive coping strategies and emotions management skills. I have a passion working with youth and encourage you to book a free consultation.

Children’s behaviour is often a reflection of their internal experience. Including parents/caregivers in therapy can provide the opportunity for parents to help their child better understand their emotional experiences, to facilitate helpful communication, and to provide an environment that fosters both security and independence. I work with individuals, couples, children and families. Book a free consultation to explore if we are a good fit for therapy.

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

In supporting children and youth through therapy, Nicole offers a unique approach to each child. Nicole is a Registered Social worker and a trained kids yoga instructor. Combining these specialties offers a unique opportunity to help children explore and understand their experience, feelings and emotions. Through body movement, play, art and other approaches, Nicole focuses on building a relationship of safety and trust with each child, understanding that this is key to supporting a child through therapy.

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.

Children can be impacted by transitions and traumas in their lives. When they don’t know how to cope, the stress can build up. I provide safe and compassionate counselling where the child can talk about their feelings without the fear of being judged, better understand why they feel this way and learn strategies to move forward. I help children express their feelings and emotions through the lenses of play and art therapy combined with cognitive behavioural therapy for children. examples of common problems that can be addressed in my therapy: -bullying -loss/grief separation/divorce -depression, anxiety and panic -attachment disorder -behavioural challenges -learning difficulties