Child therapy provides a compassionate, safe space for children to express themselves, work through challenges, and build essential life skills. Whether your child is struggling with big emotions, life changes, or simply needs extra support, therapy offers tailored guidance to help them feel heard, understood, and empowered while nurturing emotional growth and resilience.
Children face unique challenges as they grow and therapy can offer meaningful support in:
In therapy, children are given the opportunity to work through these areas in a safe and supportive environment, empowering them to navigate their emotions and build lifelong coping skills.
Therapy with children is tailored to their age, developmental stage, and personality, often incorporating activities that encourage expression through play, art, and storytelling. This approach allows children to feel comfortable and engaged while exploring their thoughts and emotions.
Each session offers a personalized approach to your child's wellbeing, guided by their unique needs and interests. Sessions are designed to support:
Child therapy provides a safe, nurturing environment for children to gain self-awareness, confidence, and tools to manage their emotions effectively. It can be beneficial for children experiencing a range of challenges, from navigating day-to-day stressors to processing significant life events. Therapy may be helpful if your child is:
Child therapy is most effective through a family-centred approach wherein family members are involved in the process. As part of this approach, parents and caregivers receive guidance on how to support their child’s growth and resilience outside of therapy. Together, we’ll create strategies that foster a positive and supportive home environment for everyone.
Preparing your child for therapy starts with honesty, simplicity, and reassurance. Let them know that therapy is a safe space where they can talk about thoughts, feelings, or worries — and that the therapist is there to help, not judge or get them in trouble.
Before the first session, it can help to explain what therapy looks like: a quiet, comfortable room, a friendly adult who listens, and time to talk or even play (depending on the child’s age and developmental stage).
Brief parental check-ins can be provided before or after sessions when appropriate. These allow parents to share relevant context and hear general feedback while still respecting the child’s autonomy and privacy.
Children aged 12 and older generally provide their own informed consent and can expect confidentiality in therapy unless there is a developmental challenge (like an intellectual disability) that affects their ability to understand and consent. In such cases, the therapist will work with families to find the most ethical and supportive approach. Parents/guardians are encouraged to discuss the informed consent process with their children and the therapist.
Let your child know they’re in control of what they share and that it’s okay to feel nervous. The goal is to create a space that feels safe and helpful — for them.
If you’re ready to help your child grow, thrive, and develop emotional resilience, child therapy offers the compassionate support they need. Connect with Matt and discuss what your first steps will look like in building a foundation for your child's future!
For children in the North Bay area, in-person sessions are available in a private, confidential office/playroom setting. This option provides a focused environment that promotes comfort, safety, and connection.