Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Qualicum Beach, BC.

As children use play as a natural means of expression, the most effective mode of therapy for children is play therapy. I have developed Holistic Expressive Therapy, an integrated approach which addresses the unique physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual needs of a child. I tailor design carefully chosen play and other expressive materials to help your child bring into the open the behaviours and blocked feelings that have interfered with healthy emotional growth. Through this active expression, inner strengths are discovered that can help your child deal with past experiences and cope with present situations. The result is an increase in confidence and strength to meet challenges.

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.

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.

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.

I treat children who present with ADHD. We would discuss strategies that work to provide support for your child to succeed in school, be happy socially, and improve their overall daily function. By accomplishing these goals, it would improve their self esteem and give them confidence in themselves to be successful. Additionally, we would use the creativity that comes with the ADHD brain to its full potential. Symptoms often include: struggle with time management, outbursts, talking excessively, being impulsive, forgetful, fidgeting, and many others. Using behaviour therapy techniques, such as CBT, we would jointly create a plan that is feasible, and address many symptoms.

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.

As a previous elementary school teacher, I have experience connecting with children and adapting the counselling process to meet their needs. I use movement, games, play, and humour to create a safe, fun atmosphere in which kids feel comfortable expressing themselves and sharing their feelings. I have experience working with children of all ages and provide guidance to parents and guardians on how they can apply strategies learned in session to the home.