CHILD AND TEEN COUNSELLING
Counselling for children and teens is a specialized area of counselling designed to address the emotional, social, behavioural, and mental health needs of our most vulnerable population. The focus helps children and teens express themselves in a safe and non judgemental space where they can “tell it like it is” in a supportive environment.
Because young people can have a more difficult time expressing their thoughts and emotions, the understanding of child development and building relationships is at the forefront of the work to make sure they feel understood and are able to engage in the process. Play, art, storytelling, and other interactive activities are often used allowing children and teens the space to explore their feelings and thoughts, develop skills, and gain a better understanding of themselves and their experiences.
Common areas we help with are:
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Behavioural concerns at home or school
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Concerns around social skills
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Feeling your child is behind their peers in development
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Mental health issues or concerns
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Family conflict
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Grief and loss
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New family members, new roles, separations/divorce, and blended families
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Academic difficulties
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Significant life changes
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Trauma, abuse, neglect
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Adoption
Family is at the core of working with children, and parents are often an essential component of the treatment for younger individuals and sometimes teens. Parents might be involved in gaining a better understanding of their child’s experiences, learn effective communication skills, strengthen the parent- child bond, and learn effective parenting strategies.
Child and teen counselling can have positive impacts on their overall mental health and wellness through:
Development of emotion regulation skills and effective emotional expression
Managing stress and anxiety that goes along with the pressures of being young
Building resilience and coping skills
Effectively being able to navigate challenging situations and conflict
Empower them to make their own decisions, solve problems and handle social pressures
Enhance self-esteem and self confidence
Trauma recovery
Develop a greater sense of self- worth which helps with developing empathy, healthy relationships and understanding towards others
Academic success through managing test anxiety, stressors and school pressures. Enhancing focus and attention issues, executive function skills, and reaching their potential
Behavioural improvements which help with feeling better about themselves, enhancing their relationships, and positively impact overall functioning
