Child Therapists in Downtown, Toronto, ON

Photo of Juliana Tobon, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Juliana Tobon
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
Dr. Juliana Tobon received her PhD from the University of Western Ontario and completed her predoctoral training at CAMH in the Child, Youth and Family Program. She has worked in various hospital and primary care settings with clients from childhood through age 65. She takes an empathetic and client-centred approach to her practice and will ensure that each client is connected with the most appropriate, accessible and evidence-based treatment. Dr. Tobon is credentialed as a CACBT-ACTCC Certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. She is also registered to provide services for residents of Nunavut.
Dr. Juliana Tobon received her PhD from the University of Western Ontario and completed her predoctoral training at CAMH in the Child, Youth and Family Program. She has worked in various hospital and primary care settings with clients from childhood through age 65. She takes an empathetic and client-centred approach to her practice and will ensure that each client is connected with the most appropriate, accessible and evidence-based treatment. Dr. Tobon is credentialed as a CACBT-ACTCC Certified Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. She is also registered to provide services for residents of Nunavut.
(647) 424-5056 View (647) 424-5056
Photo of Sarah Anne Innes, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Sarah Anne Innes
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Do you feel like anxiety is holding you back? Are you stuck in the cycle of self-doubt? It’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. As a therapist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults, I understand some of the unique challenges you face. I’m here to help you navigate life challenges and find a path forward that feels right for you. Together, we'll work through any anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, or decision-making challenges you are facing. Let's work together to help you feel more confident, empowered, and in control of your life.
Do you feel like anxiety is holding you back? Are you stuck in the cycle of self-doubt? It’s okay to feel this way, and you are not alone. As a therapist who specializes in working with children, teens and young adults, I understand some of the unique challenges you face. I’m here to help you navigate life challenges and find a path forward that feels right for you. Together, we'll work through any anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, or decision-making challenges you are facing. Let's work together to help you feel more confident, empowered, and in control of your life.
(647) 360-2453 View (647) 360-2453
Photo of Kelsey Donald, RP, (Qual), Registered Psychotherapist
Kelsey Donald
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, (Qual)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5E  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kelsey Donald a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) focused on youth and adolescents at MindFit, a leading psychology clinic (or as we prefer to say, "mental health gym"). Just like a "typical" gym, MindFit was designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. From day one, I will do everything I can ensure to ensure you and, most importantly, your child feels heard, supported and valued. My apporach is structured (with weekly handouts), evidence-based, and designed to help your child develop practical and effective skills and strategies to not only cope, but thrive.
Hi, I'm Kelsey Donald a registered psychotherapist (qualifying) focused on youth and adolescents at MindFit, a leading psychology clinic (or as we prefer to say, "mental health gym"). Just like a "typical" gym, MindFit was designed to be accessible and inviting to anyone looking to improve their emotional well-being. From day one, I will do everything I can ensure to ensure you and, most importantly, your child feels heard, supported and valued. My apporach is structured (with weekly handouts), evidence-based, and designed to help your child develop practical and effective skills and strategies to not only cope, but thrive.
(437) 372-5075 View (437) 372-5075
Photo of Stacey Brion, MA, MEd, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Stacey Brion
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K
I have devoted much of my time to building a fulfilling career working with families, couples, children and adolescents. My approach to therapy is integrative in nature, and brings together both person-centered and cognitive therapies to help clients better understand their strengths, to implement solutions, and to improve the stability and happiness of the person, the family and or couple.
I have devoted much of my time to building a fulfilling career working with families, couples, children and adolescents. My approach to therapy is integrative in nature, and brings together both person-centered and cognitive therapies to help clients better understand their strengths, to implement solutions, and to improve the stability and happiness of the person, the family and or couple.
(647) 560-7854 View (647) 560-7854
Photo of Lisa Azzopardi, MSW, RSW, CYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Azzopardi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, CYC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children, adolescents + adults who are effected by anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, sleep + performance challenges and relationship difficulties.
If you're familiar with the somatic experiences of anxiety and or depression, symptoms of trauma, overwhelm, stress + relationship challenges, then you've landed in the right spot. If you're hoping to reduce the distress in your life that surrounds particularly experiences and relationships, feel more energized and accepting of self, you've also landed in the right spot. Connecting with a therapist where you there's a mutual fit in the therapeutic relationship continues to be the best indicator of outcomes in therapy. As a relational practitioner, I hold this to high regards while knowing that you deserve good therapy.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents + adults who are effected by anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, sleep + performance challenges and relationship difficulties.
If you're familiar with the somatic experiences of anxiety and or depression, symptoms of trauma, overwhelm, stress + relationship challenges, then you've landed in the right spot. If you're hoping to reduce the distress in your life that surrounds particularly experiences and relationships, feel more energized and accepting of self, you've also landed in the right spot. Connecting with a therapist where you there's a mutual fit in the therapeutic relationship continues to be the best indicator of outcomes in therapy. As a relational practitioner, I hold this to high regards while knowing that you deserve good therapy.
(437) 600-8661 View (437) 600-8661
Photo of Kathryn Walker, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Kathryn Walker
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
Her residency and postdoctoral training at The Hospital for Sick Children focused on health psychology, treating eating disorders, obesity, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Dr. Kathryn (Katie) Walker is a registered clinical and health psychologist and a Clinical Director and Founder of The Downtown Psychology Clinic, a group private practice located in Toronto. Dr Walker works with adults, adolescents and children with a broad range of difficulties including worry, panic, obsessions and compulsions, perfectionism, depression, eating concerns, navigating stressors and transitions, social difficulties, and adjustment to and coping with acute and chronic illnesses.
Her residency and postdoctoral training at The Hospital for Sick Children focused on health psychology, treating eating disorders, obesity, diabetes, and chronic pain.
Dr. Kathryn (Katie) Walker is a registered clinical and health psychologist and a Clinical Director and Founder of The Downtown Psychology Clinic, a group private practice located in Toronto. Dr Walker works with adults, adolescents and children with a broad range of difficulties including worry, panic, obsessions and compulsions, perfectionism, depression, eating concerns, navigating stressors and transitions, social difficulties, and adjustment to and coping with acute and chronic illnesses.
(647) 360-5675 View (647) 360-5675
Photo of Danielle Dekel - Anxiety Therapy for Kids & Teens - Danielle Dekel, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Anxiety Therapy for Kids & Teens - Danielle Dekel
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
Accepting New Clients! I understand from my own experiences how comforting it is to find someone who can connect with and genuinely help your child navigate the challenges and stresses they face daily. Whether your child is grappling with several issues, overwhelmed by a significant event, or anything in between, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can help transform your child’s struggles. No challenge is too big or too small—I’m dedicated to assisting your child in finding their path and ensuring they no longer feel held back. Let’s work together to guide your child through their journey to confidence and resilience.
Accepting New Clients! I understand from my own experiences how comforting it is to find someone who can connect with and genuinely help your child navigate the challenges and stresses they face daily. Whether your child is grappling with several issues, overwhelmed by a significant event, or anything in between, I'm here to offer support. Together, we can help transform your child’s struggles. No challenge is too big or too small—I’m dedicated to assisting your child in finding their path and ensuring they no longer feel held back. Let’s work together to guide your child through their journey to confidence and resilience.
(289) 276-5778 View (289) 276-5778
Photo of Ewa J. Antczak - Core Centre Inc., PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Core Centre Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5J
Core Centre Inc. provides assessment, consultation and counselling for children, youth and adults. Through our platform we provide online consultations, counselling and therapy with registered psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. They can assist with a variety of issues, including: learning/academic struggles, behavioural difficulties, developmental delays, autism and relationship problems, among many other challenges.
Core Centre Inc. provides assessment, consultation and counselling for children, youth and adults. Through our platform we provide online consultations, counselling and therapy with registered psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers. They can assist with a variety of issues, including: learning/academic struggles, behavioural difficulties, developmental delays, autism and relationship problems, among many other challenges.
(289) 277-6644 View (289) 277-6644
Photo of Adriana Santos Mcculloch, BA, RP, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Adriana Santos Mcculloch
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, RP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K
I understand that every child is unique, and their experiences and emotions are equally different.
As a passionate and dedicated psychotherapist specialized in working with individuals, families, children and teen, my journey in the field of mental health has been driven by the commitment to nurturing young minds and supporting them through their unique developmental challenges. My fascination with psychology began during my own adolescence when I faced personal challenges that really impacted my well-being. Through my struggles, I recognized the importance of having a supportive and understanding environment during this crucial stage of life.
I understand that every child is unique, and their experiences and emotions are equally different.
As a passionate and dedicated psychotherapist specialized in working with individuals, families, children and teen, my journey in the field of mental health has been driven by the commitment to nurturing young minds and supporting them through their unique developmental challenges. My fascination with psychology began during my own adolescence when I faced personal challenges that really impacted my well-being. Through my struggles, I recognized the importance of having a supportive and understanding environment during this crucial stage of life.
(519) 428-0776 View (519) 428-0776
Photo of Rachel Wakaluk, RSW, CYW, BSW, Registered Social Worker
Rachel Wakaluk
Registered Social Worker, RSW, CYW, BSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5V
Are you or your child having difficulty managing anxiety or stress, or keeping emotions on an even keel? Do you or your child feel distant from family or romantic partners? Is your marriage in distress? Therapy is a safe space to get curious about ourselves and to better understand our emotions, patterns and responses. In therapy, you can reconnect with yourself, recover from burnout, and learn how to build healthy meaningful relationships. You can develop practical tools that you can start applying right away to make tangible improvements in your life. Contact me via phone or email. I am looking forward to helping!
Are you or your child having difficulty managing anxiety or stress, or keeping emotions on an even keel? Do you or your child feel distant from family or romantic partners? Is your marriage in distress? Therapy is a safe space to get curious about ourselves and to better understand our emotions, patterns and responses. In therapy, you can reconnect with yourself, recover from burnout, and learn how to build healthy meaningful relationships. You can develop practical tools that you can start applying right away to make tangible improvements in your life. Contact me via phone or email. I am looking forward to helping!
(289) 273-9796 View (289) 273-9796
Photo of Tasha Breau, MACP, RP, TITC-CT, Registered Psychotherapist
Tasha Breau
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP, TITC-CT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M4C  (Online Only)
I offer services to adults, children, youth and families struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, attachment/interpersonal issues, anger, stress management and overall well being.
Welcome! Walking this journey of life can be stressful and at times emotionally and physically overwhelming. I honour the vulnerability and courage it takes to seek support and will create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment that supports your personal growth. In working together we will create personalized goals using evidence-based interventions such as, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, ACT, and Poly-vagal theory. My goal is to inspire individuals to discover their own healing capacities and build resilience through therapeutic intervention, education and skill building.
I offer services to adults, children, youth and families struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, attachment/interpersonal issues, anger, stress management and overall well being.
Welcome! Walking this journey of life can be stressful and at times emotionally and physically overwhelming. I honour the vulnerability and courage it takes to seek support and will create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment that supports your personal growth. In working together we will create personalized goals using evidence-based interventions such as, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, ACT, and Poly-vagal theory. My goal is to inspire individuals to discover their own healing capacities and build resilience through therapeutic intervention, education and skill building.
(249) 444-3467 View (249) 444-3467
Photo of Caleb Anacker, BPE, MSW, RCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caleb Anacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BPE, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5H
For 15 years, I worked in child protection with a special focus on Indigenous social work.
As your therapist, I am committed to helping kids and adults build resiliency against trauma and severe stress. When you are looking for resolution from arguments that just keep happening, we will build on moments of healthy communication. If you are feeling overwhelmed and it's affecting your sleep, eating, life enjoyment, mood, and energy, we will find realistic changes to reduce stress and promote peace. Just when you are struggling with emotions that may be too big or have stopped feeling at all, we will ground you firmly in the present while we work through the causes at your own pace.
For 15 years, I worked in child protection with a special focus on Indigenous social work.
As your therapist, I am committed to helping kids and adults build resiliency against trauma and severe stress. When you are looking for resolution from arguments that just keep happening, we will build on moments of healthy communication. If you are feeling overwhelmed and it's affecting your sleep, eating, life enjoyment, mood, and energy, we will find realistic changes to reduce stress and promote peace. Just when you are struggling with emotions that may be too big or have stopped feeling at all, we will ground you firmly in the present while we work through the causes at your own pace.
(825) 797-0623 View (825) 797-0623
Photo of Harjinder S Mundi - Listening to Me, CYW CYC, BEd OCT, MSW RSW, Registered Social Worker
Listening to Me
Registered Social Worker, CYW CYC, BEd OCT, MSW RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5J
Welcoming New Clients! Are you looking for a therapist that can offer support during a challenging time? Then you should meet Harjinder Mundi. Harjinder is a Child and Youth Care Counsellor who possess’ a minor in Family Supports and Community Practice from Ryerson University. He is also an Ontario Certified Teacher from the University of Ontario and a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor. Harjinder has worked in different educational facilities, treatment centres, & hospitals for over 20 years.
Welcoming New Clients! Are you looking for a therapist that can offer support during a challenging time? Then you should meet Harjinder Mundi. Harjinder is a Child and Youth Care Counsellor who possess’ a minor in Family Supports and Community Practice from Ryerson University. He is also an Ontario Certified Teacher from the University of Ontario and a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Windsor. Harjinder has worked in different educational facilities, treatment centres, & hospitals for over 20 years.
(289) 207-7802 View (289) 207-7802
Photo of Agnès Dupin, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Agnès Dupin
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5X
I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety in children, difficulty with transition, behavioural issues, special needs/different abilities, parent-child relationships, adoption and separation issues as well as life transition issues and Youth athletes high performance while preserving life balance.
I am dedicated to the emotional well being of youth, children and their families and to help them find the equilibrium that respects everyone's needs, temperament, developmental stage and aspirations. I use a wide range of approaches tailored to the child and family such as play therapy, art therapy, narrative and solution focused approaches, mindfulness, parent-child attachment and positive behavioural support strategies.
I also specialize in the treatment of anxiety in children, difficulty with transition, behavioural issues, special needs/different abilities, parent-child relationships, adoption and separation issues as well as life transition issues and Youth athletes high performance while preserving life balance.
I am dedicated to the emotional well being of youth, children and their families and to help them find the equilibrium that respects everyone's needs, temperament, developmental stage and aspirations. I use a wide range of approaches tailored to the child and family such as play therapy, art therapy, narrative and solution focused approaches, mindfulness, parent-child attachment and positive behavioural support strategies.
(365) 649-1791 View (365) 649-1791
Photo of Farheen Jamal - Leaside Child Therapy Centre, BSc, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leaside Child Therapy Centre
Registered Social Worker, BSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5W
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
I am a Child and Family Therapist with over two decades of experience helping children, adolescents and adults (ages 4 and up) to develop or enhance their coping skills, tools and strategies to successfully manage life's challenges. I have a warm and engaging style that enables me to quickly connect with children, build a trusting relationship, and help them to develop the skills and abilities they need to succeed. I've worked at various Children's Mental Health Centres in Toronto prior to starting a private practice. I would be happy to be a part of your child/family's journey and a catalyst to their change/success.
(416) 505-3590 View (416) 505-3590
Photo of Pouran Karimian, MACP, BA, CYC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Pouran Karimian
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA, CYC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K
With a specialized professional background counseling children and youth, I encourage young people's strengths and exploration of experiences and emotions through creative and developmentally appropriate interventions.
It takes courage opening up to another person. My role as a therapist is to meet you where you are, honouring your lived experience and values. With compassion and non-judgment, we will explore your story and begin your journey of self-discovery and healing in a safe and supportive space. My approach is grounded in anti-oppressive, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed frameworks that centers you as the expert of your own experiences​. In individual therapy, I firmly believe in fostering a strength-based, empowerment-centered, identity-affirming change process that actualizes self-reflection, liberation, and resilience.
With a specialized professional background counseling children and youth, I encourage young people's strengths and exploration of experiences and emotions through creative and developmentally appropriate interventions.
It takes courage opening up to another person. My role as a therapist is to meet you where you are, honouring your lived experience and values. With compassion and non-judgment, we will explore your story and begin your journey of self-discovery and healing in a safe and supportive space. My approach is grounded in anti-oppressive, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed frameworks that centers you as the expert of your own experiences​. In individual therapy, I firmly believe in fostering a strength-based, empowerment-centered, identity-affirming change process that actualizes self-reflection, liberation, and resilience.
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Photo of Charlotte Fergusson, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Charlotte Fergusson
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5A  (Online Only)
Charlotte Fergusson MACP, R.P. has over 25 years of experience providing high quality, compassionate services. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and offers psychotherapy for a wide range of concerns, such as, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, acute trauma, grief, anger management, stress management, emotional regulation, life transitions, separation and divorce to children, teens, families and adults. Charlotte also meet the CPRO criteria for Clinical Supervision offers Clinical supervision to students and those qualifying for CPRO hours.
Charlotte Fergusson MACP, R.P. has over 25 years of experience providing high quality, compassionate services. She is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and offers psychotherapy for a wide range of concerns, such as, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, acute trauma, grief, anger management, stress management, emotional regulation, life transitions, separation and divorce to children, teens, families and adults. Charlotte also meet the CPRO criteria for Clinical Supervision offers Clinical supervision to students and those qualifying for CPRO hours.
(249) 202-2070 View (249) 202-2070
Photo of Chris Lobsinger, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Chris Lobsinger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5C
30+ years experience working effectively with children, adolescents, and adults to resolve a range of common and uncommon problems.
Practical, collaborative, brief therapy to help you create the life you want.
30+ years experience working effectively with children, adolescents, and adults to resolve a range of common and uncommon problems.
Practical, collaborative, brief therapy to help you create the life you want.
(226) 270-6719 View (226) 270-6719
Photo of Dr. Ameeta Dudani, PhD, CPsych, RYT, Psychologist
Dr. Ameeta Dudani
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Toronto, ON M6K
I am a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist based in Toronto, Ontario. I work with children and youth (0-19) from diverse communities with a range of issues. I practice from an integrative, family-centered and trauma-informed framework, that is culturally sensitive and honours the strengths and wisdom of each child and family. I try to meet children/youth where they are and help them to feel empowered with the skills and tools to blossom into their fullest beings. I specialize in providing mindfulness-based therapy, with a longstanding personal meditation and yoga practice, and training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
I am a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist based in Toronto, Ontario. I work with children and youth (0-19) from diverse communities with a range of issues. I practice from an integrative, family-centered and trauma-informed framework, that is culturally sensitive and honours the strengths and wisdom of each child and family. I try to meet children/youth where they are and help them to feel empowered with the skills and tools to blossom into their fullest beings. I specialize in providing mindfulness-based therapy, with a longstanding personal meditation and yoga practice, and training in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction.
(647) 371-0385 View (647) 371-0385
Photo of Tara Noble, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Tara Noble
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Downtown, Toronto, ON M5V  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Counselling is an opportunity to uncover your potential. My expertise includes supporting children, adolescent, adults and families experiencing trauma, relationship challenges, adoption preparation/breakdown, grief & loss, separation/divorce/reunification, anxiety, depression & exploring your own unique personal life challenges & goals.
Counselling is an opportunity to uncover your potential. My expertise includes supporting children, adolescent, adults and families experiencing trauma, relationship challenges, adoption preparation/breakdown, grief & loss, separation/divorce/reunification, anxiety, depression & exploring your own unique personal life challenges & goals.
(289) 366-1632 View (289) 366-1632

See more therapy options for Downtown, Toronto

Child Counsellors

Do I need to attend therapy with my child?

Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.

How long are sessions with child therapists?

Children’s therapy sessions can last 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes. The length of the session may depend on your child’s age and the type of therapy practiced. You can discuss this with therapists you consult and the one you ultimately move forward with.

How do I get a child to agree to seek therapy?

The best approach is to have an open-ended conversation with your child about how they’re doing and what they might be struggling with. When you raise therapy, discuss the concept in an age-appropriate way, for example explaining that a therapist’s job is to help kids handle their hard or uncomfortable feelings. Frame therapy positively, as an opportunity to explore and build emotional skills—it’s an important tool in the toolbox to help kids feel their best.

How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?

A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.