Play Therapy in Pickering, ON
At CBM, we provide psychological and counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families struggling with any number of challenging situations. Our multicultural and integrated team is made up of highly trained and qualified mental health and educational professionals, with many years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Our range of services include psycho-educational and psychological assessments (for children, adolescents & adults), individual counselling/psychotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, couples counselling and family therapy.
At CBM, we provide psychological and counselling services for children, adolescents, adults, couples and families struggling with any number of challenging situations. Our multicultural and integrated team is made up of highly trained and qualified mental health and educational professionals, with many years of experience working with clients from diverse backgrounds. Our range of services include psycho-educational and psychological assessments (for children, adolescents & adults), individual counselling/psychotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, couples counselling and family therapy.
Daniela Estrella - Children Teens Adults
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pickering, ON L1W
Is your child or teenager struggling socially or struggling in school? As a Counsellor with a focus on play therapy, I create a warm, nonjudgmental space where children can freely express themselves and engage in play that is meaningful to them. Play therapy can be effective in helping children with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, behavioral challenges, social skills development, and more. It allows children to develop coping skills, build resilience, and gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, empowering them to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
Is your child or teenager struggling socially or struggling in school? As a Counsellor with a focus on play therapy, I create a warm, nonjudgmental space where children can freely express themselves and engage in play that is meaningful to them. Play therapy can be effective in helping children with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, behavioral challenges, social skills development, and more. It allows children to develop coping skills, build resilience, and gain insight into their thoughts and feelings, empowering them to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience.
Jo-Anne van Draanen
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, DTATI, RP
Verified Verified
Pickering, ON L1W (Online Only)
I am a registered psychotherapist and art therapist with extensive experience working with individuals of all ages with a variety of challenges. My expertise lies in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, as well as marital and parenting issues. I approach my work from a CBT perspective as I find this is a sound and practical platform but do tailor the therapy to other modalities if necessary. I integrate mindfulness into my work as well. I work with youth and adults searching for support with an array for challenges.
I am a registered psychotherapist and art therapist with extensive experience working with individuals of all ages with a variety of challenges. My expertise lies in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, as well as marital and parenting issues. I approach my work from a CBT perspective as I find this is a sound and practical platform but do tailor the therapy to other modalities if necessary. I integrate mindfulness into my work as well. I work with youth and adults searching for support with an array for challenges.
Elda Almario
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V (Online Only)
As a BIPOC psychotherapist, you hold yourself to high standards because you have the best intentions coming into this career. Yet despite that, there's still a nagging feeling that you're not doing enough or you'd somehow get in trouble with CRPO. Psychotherapy is highly regulated so you aim to meet the standards and practice ethically. You do your research, ask around, review your notes, but you're still unsure and afraid. Not only are you navigating burnout and imposter syndrome, but you also feel shamed by some therapists on Facebook groups who seem to have it so easy and all figured out.
As a BIPOC psychotherapist, you hold yourself to high standards because you have the best intentions coming into this career. Yet despite that, there's still a nagging feeling that you're not doing enough or you'd somehow get in trouble with CRPO. Psychotherapy is highly regulated so you aim to meet the standards and practice ethically. You do your research, ask around, review your notes, but you're still unsure and afraid. Not only are you navigating burnout and imposter syndrome, but you also feel shamed by some therapists on Facebook groups who seem to have it so easy and all figured out.
Vanessa Montes
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V (Online Only)
I am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate life's transitions and rediscover their sense of purpose and identity. With a focus on immigrants and those facing acculturation-related stress, multicultural work environments, family restructuring, and productivity challenges, I offer a safe and nurturing space to explore the complexities of life's journey. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or a sense of disconnection from your authentic self, I am here to listen without judgment, provide compassionate support, and guide you towards a path of healing and self-acceptance.
I am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate life's transitions and rediscover their sense of purpose and identity. With a focus on immigrants and those facing acculturation-related stress, multicultural work environments, family restructuring, and productivity challenges, I offer a safe and nurturing space to explore the complexities of life's journey. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or a sense of disconnection from your authentic self, I am here to listen without judgment, provide compassionate support, and guide you towards a path of healing and self-acceptance.
Morgan Sparks
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
Struggling with life's challenges? Feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a cycle of stress and anxiety? You're not alone. Imagine a life where you feel understood, where your relationships flourish, and where you're in control of your thoughts and feelings. Hi there, I'm Morgan, and I'm here to guide you on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Together, we'll explore how your past experiences shape your present emotions, untangling the roots of your struggles and uncovering practical techniques to help you regain confidence and control. In our sessions, you'll find a safe, judgment-free space to share your story openly.
Struggling with life's challenges? Feeling overwhelmed or stuck in a cycle of stress and anxiety? You're not alone. Imagine a life where you feel understood, where your relationships flourish, and where you're in control of your thoughts and feelings. Hi there, I'm Morgan, and I'm here to guide you on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Together, we'll explore how your past experiences shape your present emotions, untangling the roots of your struggles and uncovering practical techniques to help you regain confidence and control. In our sessions, you'll find a safe, judgment-free space to share your story openly.
Accepting NEW patients! I offer counselling to children, youth & adults using a variety of evidence based therapeutic approaches. Everyone faces challenges & sometimes we are too afraid to ask for help in fear of being judged, so I commend you on taking the first step. I believe that we can become our most authentic selves, when we have a safe space to comfortably express our thoughts, take accountability & develop new understandings/skills-this is what I aim to do in our work together. I will help you/your children achieve goals by creating a brave space for you to learn, grow & thrive and move forward effectively together.
Accepting NEW patients! I offer counselling to children, youth & adults using a variety of evidence based therapeutic approaches. Everyone faces challenges & sometimes we are too afraid to ask for help in fear of being judged, so I commend you on taking the first step. I believe that we can become our most authentic selves, when we have a safe space to comfortably express our thoughts, take accountability & develop new understandings/skills-this is what I aim to do in our work together. I will help you/your children achieve goals by creating a brave space for you to learn, grow & thrive and move forward effectively together.
Cinthya Bacilio Rojano
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP, IMG
Verified Verified
Pickering, ON L1V
Hello. My name is Cinthya. If you are dealing with life transitions, mood deregulations, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or more, I would love to help you. I am a caring, loving person with a passion for helping people. Working in an addiction treatment centre gives me great experience assisting clients dealing with substance abuse, stressful experiences, and past trauma. One of my goals is to help my clients heal and move past emotional crises through therapeutic modalities.
Hello. My name is Cinthya. If you are dealing with life transitions, mood deregulations, feeling overwhelmed, anxious, sad, or more, I would love to help you. I am a caring, loving person with a passion for helping people. Working in an addiction treatment centre gives me great experience assisting clients dealing with substance abuse, stressful experiences, and past trauma. One of my goals is to help my clients heal and move past emotional crises through therapeutic modalities.
Holding Hearts Psychotherapy and Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, DCP, RCFT, ACTA, CCPA
Verified Verified
Pickering, ON L1V
Finding the right therapist is as important as getting the right help. In the process of seeking who you would prefer to work with, we offer a free 15 minute consultation over the phone. If you decide to make an appointment, the first session has no strings attached. We will go through what the concerns are, some goals, and expectations (if any), and you can decide whether you are ready for us to continue with further sessions. Collaboration is essential in this process of finding a path to your healing. Take the next step and give us a call to see if we can work together. Our office hours are M-F 9am-8pm and Saturdays 10am-5pm.
Finding the right therapist is as important as getting the right help. In the process of seeking who you would prefer to work with, we offer a free 15 minute consultation over the phone. If you decide to make an appointment, the first session has no strings attached. We will go through what the concerns are, some goals, and expectations (if any), and you can decide whether you are ready for us to continue with further sessions. Collaboration is essential in this process of finding a path to your healing. Take the next step and give us a call to see if we can work together. Our office hours are M-F 9am-8pm and Saturdays 10am-5pm.
Alicia Gandhi
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V (Online Only)
Therapy is a space where you can put yourself first, dedicating time and attention to your needs in a demanding and chaotic world. Here, you can find solace in a safe and welcoming environment, where we focus entirely on you and your unique journey. Together, we'll explore your emotions and thoughts, create space for self-compassion, and unearth the wisdom and resilience that reside within you. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and collaboration. We'll work as a team, acknowledging your unique experiences and strengths as we seek to foster growth and empowerment.
Therapy is a space where you can put yourself first, dedicating time and attention to your needs in a demanding and chaotic world. Here, you can find solace in a safe and welcoming environment, where we focus entirely on you and your unique journey. Together, we'll explore your emotions and thoughts, create space for self-compassion, and unearth the wisdom and resilience that reside within you. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and collaboration. We'll work as a team, acknowledging your unique experiences and strengths as we seek to foster growth and empowerment.
Avista Amuyan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V (Online Only)
I know how intimidating it can be to reach out for help and take this first step. I am grateful that I get to accompany my clients during this journey. I work from a biopsychosocial framework. I know that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to therapy and I aim to customize my approach according to each client and their individual needs. I have a lot of passion and experience working with individuals who are struggling with both substance and process addictions through my many years of working directly with these individuals in withdrawal management centres, inpatient treatment centres and sober living homes across Ontario.
I know how intimidating it can be to reach out for help and take this first step. I am grateful that I get to accompany my clients during this journey. I work from a biopsychosocial framework. I know that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to therapy and I aim to customize my approach according to each client and their individual needs. I have a lot of passion and experience working with individuals who are struggling with both substance and process addictions through my many years of working directly with these individuals in withdrawal management centres, inpatient treatment centres and sober living homes across Ontario.
15 Second Videos
Daniela Estrella - Children Teens Adults
Jo-Anne van Draanen
Elda Almario
Hasina Arghastani
Holding Hearts Psychotherapy and Counselling
Alicia Gandhi
Avista Amuyan
Wendy Gage - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Safe Space Psychotherapy Inc.
Registered Psychotherapist, BHS, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V (Online Only)
Often it can be difficult to prioritize our needs and reach out for help when we are struggling. I can understand that taking the first step towards seeking support is not always easy. I can provide a safe non judgmental space to all my clients. I take my time in completing the intake process and listen to all your needs. I can offer 90 minute sessions as I understand that 1 hour is usually not enough to share all about your issues and build rapport with someone you are meeting for the first time. I hold my clients' hands through this process so they can trust me to help and support them.
Often it can be difficult to prioritize our needs and reach out for help when we are struggling. I can understand that taking the first step towards seeking support is not always easy. I can provide a safe non judgmental space to all my clients. I take my time in completing the intake process and listen to all your needs. I can offer 90 minute sessions as I understand that 1 hour is usually not enough to share all about your issues and build rapport with someone you are meeting for the first time. I hold my clients' hands through this process so they can trust me to help and support them.
Wendy Gage - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
New parenthood is such a tender time for couples. Whether you are trying to start a family, are a first time parent or a parent now managing more than one young child, you can find yourself depleted, overwhelmed, and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions along with guilt at how that might be impacting your children. If you are managing a new baby with other young children, you may find that your older children are acting out at a time when you are sleep deprived and struggling to stay patient. Perhaps you and your partner hardly have time to connect and you feel distance or disconnected.
New parenthood is such a tender time for couples. Whether you are trying to start a family, are a first time parent or a parent now managing more than one young child, you can find yourself depleted, overwhelmed, and experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions along with guilt at how that might be impacting your children. If you are managing a new baby with other young children, you may find that your older children are acting out at a time when you are sleep deprived and struggling to stay patient. Perhaps you and your partner hardly have time to connect and you feel distance or disconnected.
Hello & Welcome to BRI Counselling! My name is Fola Browne and I am the founder of BRI. We are a warm, welcoming, culturally responsive & affirming counselling service with a diverse, compassionate, & talented team. We specialize in supporting individuals, couples, & families at all ages & stages of life to achieve their goals, including healing & recovery from trauma, major life changes & transitions, & building new strengths & skills for future success. With a customized blend of western, eastern, Afro-Centric, & Indigenous approaches, we support each client to identify & make progress toward their most important goals.
Hello & Welcome to BRI Counselling! My name is Fola Browne and I am the founder of BRI. We are a warm, welcoming, culturally responsive & affirming counselling service with a diverse, compassionate, & talented team. We specialize in supporting individuals, couples, & families at all ages & stages of life to achieve their goals, including healing & recovery from trauma, major life changes & transitions, & building new strengths & skills for future success. With a customized blend of western, eastern, Afro-Centric, & Indigenous approaches, we support each client to identify & make progress toward their most important goals.
Tracey Angela Grose
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V
Not accepting new clients
Life can be challenging at times. We all need to explore those issues that have an impact on our mental health and daily functioning. I have helped many individuals explore strategies to better cope with their personal situations. I believe that in a supportive confidential environment, all individuals can be empowered to see through their difficulties. I believe all individuals can live to their full potential. I will encourage you to visualize your ideal life and then work towards that vision.
Life can be challenging at times. We all need to explore those issues that have an impact on our mental health and daily functioning. I have helped many individuals explore strategies to better cope with their personal situations. I believe that in a supportive confidential environment, all individuals can be empowered to see through their difficulties. I believe all individuals can live to their full potential. I will encourage you to visualize your ideal life and then work towards that vision.
Roxanne M. Francis - Francis Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Pickering, ON L1V (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Please Note: I am not currently taking new clients, however, I have a team of highly skilled therapists that are taking new clients, with no wait list. Please visit my website for more information.
Please Note: I am not currently taking new clients, however, I have a team of highly skilled therapists that are taking new clients, with no wait list. Please visit my website for more information.
More Therapists Nearby
Ethan is deeply committed to his clients’ growth and transformation. His goal is to meet clients where they are and create a tailored experience that meets their individual needs. He considers himself a collaborative therapist, walking alongside clients to identify their strengths, passions, and goals. This strength-based and person-centered approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy (FST), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and aspects of Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Ethan is deeply committed to his clients’ growth and transformation. His goal is to meet clients where they are and create a tailored experience that meets their individual needs. He considers himself a collaborative therapist, walking alongside clients to identify their strengths, passions, and goals. This strength-based and person-centered approach draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy (FST), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and aspects of Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Christine Johansen
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, OAMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1N
I am passionate about treating children, youth, and their families using approaches that are tailored to best meeting client’s unique needs and challenges. I am dedicated to meeting clients where they are at, and working with clients to create opportunity for them to be the person they want to be in life. I practice from a psychodynamic lens while including expressive arts and play therapy. It is a pleasure to be welcomed into a clients life, and be trusted with their experience, relationships and emotions. I take pride in offering a safe space for clients to explore these emotions freely, honestly and without judgment.
I am passionate about treating children, youth, and their families using approaches that are tailored to best meeting client’s unique needs and challenges. I am dedicated to meeting clients where they are at, and working with clients to create opportunity for them to be the person they want to be in life. I practice from a psychodynamic lens while including expressive arts and play therapy. It is a pleasure to be welcomed into a clients life, and be trusted with their experience, relationships and emotions. I take pride in offering a safe space for clients to explore these emotions freely, honestly and without judgment.
Mind Matters Psychotherapy & Creative Education
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Whitby, ON L1M
Some of these approaches consist of expressive arts, mindfulness, play based therapies, nutrition counselling, psychoanalysis, EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
We are a Team of Registered Psychotherapists who are dedicate to working with children, youth, families, and adults in unique ways which are tailored to the clients individual strengths and challenges. It is important for us to meet our clients where they are at, not where we might want them to be. This will allow for clients to be a dedicated participant in their journey to wellness. We create a safe space for clients to explore their challenges and work on personal goals. Our team works from a Client-Centered focus, allowing for clients to direct the therapy and contribute to the journey they are on.
Some of these approaches consist of expressive arts, mindfulness, play based therapies, nutrition counselling, psychoanalysis, EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
We are a Team of Registered Psychotherapists who are dedicate to working with children, youth, families, and adults in unique ways which are tailored to the clients individual strengths and challenges. It is important for us to meet our clients where they are at, not where we might want them to be. This will allow for clients to be a dedicated participant in their journey to wellness. We create a safe space for clients to explore their challenges and work on personal goals. Our team works from a Client-Centered focus, allowing for clients to direct the therapy and contribute to the journey they are on.
Are you looking for a safe space where you feel seen, feel heard, and meet your goals? I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families for over 15 years. I offer a non-judgmental, client-centred, and strength-based approach to meet people where they are at. I am dedicated to creating a safe space and am passionately committed to my clients and their well-being. With children and youth, I utilize a play and art based approach so therapy can be fun.
Are you looking for a safe space where you feel seen, feel heard, and meet your goals? I have been providing therapy to children, adolescents, adults, and families for over 15 years. I offer a non-judgmental, client-centred, and strength-based approach to meet people where they are at. I am dedicated to creating a safe space and am passionately committed to my clients and their well-being. With children and youth, I utilize a play and art based approach so therapy can be fun.
Children often benefit from play therapy.
Do you or your child need help to cope with anxiety, phobias, social isolation, or loneliness? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the complexities of your blended family? Have you struggled with depression, anger, or impulse control? In therapy, you can build coping skills that provide significant relief and support sustained lifelong healing. Reach out to me today. Support for children, teens, adults, and families. Anxiety, loneliness, impulse control, anger, phobias, and family conflict are all difficult to handle by yourself. We will work towards building the tools that you need to thrive. I look forward to helping!
Children often benefit from play therapy.
Do you or your child need help to cope with anxiety, phobias, social isolation, or loneliness? Are you finding it difficult to navigate the complexities of your blended family? Have you struggled with depression, anger, or impulse control? In therapy, you can build coping skills that provide significant relief and support sustained lifelong healing. Reach out to me today. Support for children, teens, adults, and families. Anxiety, loneliness, impulse control, anger, phobias, and family conflict are all difficult to handle by yourself. We will work towards building the tools that you need to thrive. I look forward to helping!
Playful Hearts Therapy (Play/ EMDR Therapy)
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scarborough, ON M1E
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
I am a fully Certified Play Therapist and a Certified Play Therapy Supervisor through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and work with all ages using this modality. I have over 20 years of experience in working with children, youth and families from various ethno-racial backgrounds and in various mental health settings including child welfare, hospital, school, and the community. I am a service provider for Victim Services, the Internet Child Exploitation program at BOOST, Metis Nation of Ontario, Indigenous Services Canada, and previously for the 2-Spirited People of the First Nations.
Since many children have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, I incorporate therapeutic play with evidence-based models (Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Family Therapy) to meet the needs of each child based on age, interests, and treatment needs.
I work with children and adolescents 4-12 years of age who are experiencing difficult life situations such as anxiety, divorce/separation, loss, trauma, anger, school issues, poor self-esteem. I also provide a parent-based treatment called SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for children and adolescents with anxiety and OCD. Parent consultations also provided.
Since many children have difficulty expressing themselves verbally, I incorporate therapeutic play with evidence-based models (Play Therapy, CBT, Trauma Focused CBT, Family Therapy) to meet the needs of each child based on age, interests, and treatment needs.
I work with children and adolescents 4-12 years of age who are experiencing difficult life situations such as anxiety, divorce/separation, loss, trauma, anger, school issues, poor self-esteem. I also provide a parent-based treatment called SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) for children and adolescents with anxiety and OCD. Parent consultations also provided.
As a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW and Registered Play Therapist with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy, I specialize in working with children and youth that are dealing with a myriad of challenges.
The early stages of a child's life are the most vital for socioemotional development and a child's inner world is often complex and full of intricacies. Social anxiety, depression, the after effects of separation and divorce, and phobias are just some of the challenges that children may face in their lives. As every child is unique, these challenges can show up in a multitude of ways. Acknowledging these obstacles is the first step towards overcoming them and allowing children to become better adjusted. Any child can live up to their full potential given they have the right support in their life.
As a Registered Social Worker with the OCSWSSW and Registered Play Therapist with the Canadian Association of Play Therapy, I specialize in working with children and youth that are dealing with a myriad of challenges.
The early stages of a child's life are the most vital for socioemotional development and a child's inner world is often complex and full of intricacies. Social anxiety, depression, the after effects of separation and divorce, and phobias are just some of the challenges that children may face in their lives. As every child is unique, these challenges can show up in a multitude of ways. Acknowledging these obstacles is the first step towards overcoming them and allowing children to become better adjusted. Any child can live up to their full potential given they have the right support in their life.
Chantal Regis
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ajax, ON L1T (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If your child or adolescent is dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to post secondary education, grief/loss, or has witnessed something traumatic, I offer a variety of cognitive and play based interventions tailored to each individual.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Guelph. I provide evidence-based practices, (e.g. CBT) , to support children and adolescents ages 4 to 20 years old. I support youth struggling with anxiety, self esteem, gender/LGBTQ+ identity, relationship problems and social development. I believe in the importance of working together with families, and I regularly involve caregivers in treatment and assessment when possible. I value the opportunity to provide culturally sensitive care to youth of colour.
If your child or adolescent is dealing with anxiety, self-esteem issues, adjustment to post secondary education, grief/loss, or has witnessed something traumatic, I offer a variety of cognitive and play based interventions tailored to each individual.
I am a Registered Psychologist with a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of Guelph. I provide evidence-based practices, (e.g. CBT) , to support children and adolescents ages 4 to 20 years old. I support youth struggling with anxiety, self esteem, gender/LGBTQ+ identity, relationship problems and social development. I believe in the importance of working together with families, and I regularly involve caregivers in treatment and assessment when possible. I value the opportunity to provide culturally sensitive care to youth of colour.
See more therapy options for Pickering
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Play Therapy Counsellors
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.
Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.
What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.
What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.
How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.