Child Psychologists and Child Therapists in Bayview Point, ON.

I conduct both assessment and therapy for children and adolescents. For therapy, I use a combination of Art and Play Therapy to help children work through personal difficulties and developmental issues. I encourage parents to join our sessions to help establish and create a safe explorative environment. In addition, beginning at age 3, I offer comprehensive assessment with differential diagnosis for developmental delays, cognitive delays, autism spectrum disorders, and other childhood disorders.

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 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

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.

Previous to private practise, I worked as a clinician in a children's mental health agency for 13 years. I am comfortable working with children and their parents, allowing the children to play while in session. I am capable of meeting children at their level, developing a therapeutic relationship that is effective for change. I believe it is important to work with parents every step of the way.

Parenting strategies are used in order to help parents manage behavior more effectively. Parents are assisted in finding appropriate resources in the community. Expressive therapy such as Art Therapy is sometimes recommended. Stress management and support for parents is also an important part of therapy. In addition, education around typical and atypical behavior also takes place.

Children explore and make sense of their world through imagination and play, so why should therapy be any different? Your child will experience upbeat, playful, and engaging ways to tackle even the most difficult/serious problems. My hope is that our sessions will be a place where your child experiences themselves as capable, knowledgable, and clever. And hey, let's still find a way to have some fun too! I've been told by many parents that their kids are so excited for the next session they can't wait to come back... A far cry from feeling like you have to convince them to do something. *Please note, I work particularly well with children from the ages of six years old and up.

[I OFFER VIDEO SESSIONS THROUGHOUT ALBERTA AND ONTARIO]. I have seen children with various disorders, but mostly those who are 6 years of age and older. I have been a psychologist since 1986, and I have expertise in several approaches. My main approaches include cognitive behaviour therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy. BOOK AN APPOINTMENT NOW: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=14249112