Child & Adolescent

How We Work With Children, Adolescents and Families.

Children and Teens experience a wide range of emotions as they learn to make sense of the world around them. Are you a parent of a young person who is struggling to express or manage their emotions? Are you feeling unsure about which parenting strategy to use? We are here to help.

Many parents reach a point where familiar strategies no long seem to help. If you’re feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or uncertain about how to best support your child, we provide a safe and supportive space to explore family-based approaches.

What Do Sessions Look Like?

For children under age 10:

We begin with a parent or caregiver session to gather background information, understand your concerns, identify goals, and explain what therapy will look like.

For children and teens over age 10:

Young people often attend the first session alongside their parent or guardian so we can begin rapport building together and set shared goals.

Ongoing sessions:

The structure of each session is tailored to the needs of the child and family. Sometimes we start with a brief parent check-in before working 1:1 with the child. In cases where a child is highly anxious or needs additional support, parents are welcome to stay in the room.

Book an Appointment

New Clients:
Marina is currently only accepting new teen and adult clients (age 13+).

Common Experiences Children and Adolescents May Be Navigating:

 

  • Big emotions and Emotional Regulation
    Many children feel emotions intensely. Learning how to name, understand and safely express those feelings is a skill that develops over time.
  • Communication and Behaviour Differences
    Behaviours are often a form of communication. A child may withdraw or become overwhelmed with their needs, sensory experiences, or feelings feel too big to express with words. We work to understand the why behind the behaviour, not just the behaviour itself.
  • Identity Development and Self-Understanding
    Young people may be exploring who they are and we offer a space for them to feel seen, valued and supported as they navigate this. This may include who they are culturally, socially, emotionally, or neurodivergently. We provide education and exploration strategies.
  • Coping and Problem-Solving Skills
    Many children benefit from learning tools to navigate daily challenges, build independence, and feel confident in their abilities to handle difficult situations.
  • School Related Stress
    School can be overwhelming and we explore social dynamics, sensory demands, learning differences, performance pressures, or feeling misunderstood.
  • Trauma and Overwhelming Experiences
    Some young people have lived through stressful or traumatic events. We offer gentle, trauma-informed support at a pace that feels safe and empowering for them.
  • Anxiety, Low Mood and Worries
    Young people often experience periods of worry, sadness, or self-doubt. We help them understand these feelings, develop coping tools, and reconnect with their strengths.
  • Family Changes and Life Transitions
    Changes happen throughout life and these can include separation, moving homes, new family members, grief, or shifting routines. We support families navigate these transitions with understanding and stability.
  • Neurodivergent Communication and Thinking Styles (such as ADHD, Autism, giftedness, and other brain-type differences)
    Every brain works differently. Some children communicate, learn, or processes sensory experiences in unique ways. We support families in understanding these differences and helping young people thrive in ways that suit them.