Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Coquitlam, 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.

Sessions can consist of art activities in person, expressive play interaction and learning how to regulate emotions as well as where they may come from. With children and youth I can provide a safe space for support and listening, help enlighten them on their feelings and thoughts. Challenges with anxiety, family stress and school issues can be looked at.

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 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.

I will help guide the child towards what they find most comfortable in expressing how they are feeling and their thought process to help them cope with their problem. This may include story telling with figures/puppets, drawing, role playing, stuffed animals or with toys, creative visualization, arts and crafts. Situations can by acted out to understand their concerns and thoughts through play therapy based on their developmental level.

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.

Critically important with youth is to build rapport through an interest shared by them and often this is better achieved through conversation. I work with kids who are verbal and who are open to counselling, usually youth or teens. Once rapport and trust are established it becomes possible for the child to share information very sensitive to them, and this openness allows problems such as depression, anxiety, ADHD to be understood and addressed.

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*

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 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.