Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Murrayville, BC.

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.

I offer children a safe place to express their feelings and provide guidance to support them in managing experiences that they are finding overwhelming. I focus on developing a healthy and trusting connection first and foremost and use a strength based lens in which children can feel empowered to grow. Children often need validation from a safe adult so being able to connect and listen non-judgementally is of crucial importance to me in this work.

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.

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.

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.

I love working with children, we have fun with toys, colouring, art work, and games to help the child. This is called play therapy and it is different than any other kind of therapy. Children usually act out their emotions rather than talk about them as adults do. I usually meet with the parent(s) at the first appointment and then either later at that appointment or at the next appointment, I meet with the child and the parent and eventually work into play therapy. Often the child's play mirrors the anxiety or stress that the child is dealing with.Play therapy helps children get better, feel more secure and confident to be able to grow up happy and healthy.

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.

When working with young children, I do so as a secure attachment specialist. I typically work not just with the child(ren) but the family as an entire system of support and healing. My goal is to support the parent(s) of the child in learning secure attachment practices until the child begins to seek them out for support and guidance. When appropriate I co-counsel with my colleague Jamie Sabourin who also specializes in working with teens and children.

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.

Young children are a very sensitive group when it comes to counselling. In counselling with young children, we use play therapy, art therapy, and sand tray therapy. We believe it is through these therapies that we can work through deeper emotions with children and understand their stories. Sometimes, children are able to narrate their stories, and by increasing their insights through play and art therapy, we can help them re-narrate their stories. We also include parents in therapy by providing them with appropriate feedback to modify their behaviour toward their children or help their children modify their behaviour at home.

Art Therapy and Play Therapy approaches are offered for kids ~ these are the languages of kids and the way that they learn. These approcahes are used to explore feelings and thought, problem solve and resolve conflicts or challenges in their lives. Parents should expect to be involved either in additional session(s) or at times, as part of a session. Parent support, education and assistance is of high priority. Parent education is also offered, which involves a series of sessions to address conflicts in the family, behavioral problems, discipline issues and improve overall family functioning and better relationships.

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!

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.

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.

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.

At the Cheam Centre for Counselling Therapy we have a full service play therapy centre We are located in East Abbotsford. We have experience in working with children and their families struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, and anger. We also have experience working with children and their families through situations such as separation, divorce, loss, trauma, and abuse, We offer a supportive environment to help with parenting through variety of approaches such as attachment and Child Parent Relationship Therapy (CPRT).

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!

There are so many different opinions about the best way to parent! Many of these parenting trends come and go so quickly and can leave you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. We want our family to be a happy unit where our kids will become healthy functioning adults someday - without the daily fight. I use the attachment approach ~ getting your kids on your team so they will want to interact and contribute to the family. No matter how desperate your situation may seem, I am confident that there are inherent strengths that each of you have to offer. I will help you find and build on what is working in your family and ,offer new ideas that will continue to add to your current family successes

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.

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.

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.

I have worked with young children my whole career. I love working with young children as I very much believe in early intervention and prevention. The earlier a young child receives treatment the higher the success rate! I began my career working at The Children's Foundation which is a residential treatment centre for behavioural and emotional issues. I learned so much and I have been able to transport that experience and knowledge to my private practise. I have also had training as a play therapist which is a wonderful tool to have!

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.

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*

My Approach to Counselling Children may include but is not limited to: * Acquiring general information * Talk therapy * Art Therapy * Behavioural Therapy * Play therapy * Relaxation techniques * Solution focused * Cognitive Behavioural Therapy * Attachment-based psychotherapy If you do not see a specific approach that you are looking for Please feel free to call and ask.