When working with children, we appreciate their unique ability to process emotions and situations in a concrete way. We utilize playful activities such as games, drawing, and other forms of play to help children understand and make sense of the complex emotions they experience. This approach enables them to continue developing, communicate more effectively, and refine their emerging life skills.
I have extensive experience working with pre teens and teens, 12 and up. I understand the issues teens are battling with today and offer them an informal space for them to explore and share. The relationship we share creates a safe space for them to understand their emotional landscape.
We help children and adolescents find their voice! Learn how to express their feelings and communicate them with adults. Self-esteem and self-image issues, anger issues, anxiety and depression, reactions to divorce, and many other issues can be addressed in our sessions. We offer art therapy, play therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and other techniques to help children and adolescents.
It is very common for adolescents to experience mental health problems leading into adulthood.
Though it is not often clear that there are mental health issues happening, adolescents with low motivation, poor grades, ADHD, parent-child conflicts, who are engaging in drug use and abuse, with video game addiction, or hostility may be struggling.
It is important in these situations to consider the idea that adolescent therapy might be helpful.
Registered Psychotherapist, HBEd, MA (Hons.), Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
As an educator I have taught over 50,000 kids in the last twenty years. I have helped children through academics but most importantly life issues. I studied psychological child development and behavior at the University of Toronto.
I offer a supportive and understanding space for teens (13+) who are navigating the unique challenges of their developmental stages. Growing up can bring about a range of issues, from academic pressures and social difficulties to emotional regulation and self-esteem concerns. Together, we'll explore these challenges, providing tools and strategies to cope with their feelings, improve their relationships, and build confidence in themselves. This process is about empowering them to understand and navigate their world with resilience and hope.
Adolescents face so many issues, bullying, self-esteem, relationships/friendships, family dynamics, body image, gender, depression, anxiety. All of this is compounded by fluctuating hormones and a struggle for independence. We provide a safe supportive environment for them to grow. Let us help your teen learn emotional regulation, coping skills, communication, boundaries and develop into the person they were meant to be.
Being a teenager in today’s world is incredibly complex and challenging. But with a little help along the way, this phase can be a rich period of growth and self-discovery. Over my four years as a school counsellor and seven years working with teens and their families, I’ve encountered a range of issues. From bullying, identity exploration, and peer pressure to experimenting with alcohol and drugs, navigating first relationships, and discovering sexuality, the teenage years are fraught with difficulties. Teens also face significant life transitions like moving out for college, making new friends, and choosing career paths. Issues such as childhood abuse, neglect, and parental pressure add to the complexity. My goal is to work with teenagers and their families to provide them with a safe space and help them create the future they desire.
Psychologist, Psychologist, Registered Psychotherapist, Pre Registration Professionals
Regardless of the issue your child is struggling with, we are committed to helping them discover themselves by supporting your child and you the parent during the process of a psychological and physical transformation.
With my many years in education I am able and skilled at working with and relating to children and adolescents.
However what I believe makes me truly effective is that I am approachable.
What can I say kids like my smile!
It's also probably because I am still a kid at heart, and because I know what its like for kids to suffer trauma.
My father died when I was 10, he was an alcoholic and was abusive.
I grew up with prejudice, as I am half East Indian.
I moved out when I was 15 because I couldn't stand my step-father.
I started using drugs when I was 13 stopped at 26.
I believe kids need structure and discipline to keep them safe.
My students always said Miss Richardson is really tough.
She is firm but fair, and we have fun!