Children and Adolescent services
Growing up can come with challenges that are difficult for children and teens to navigate on their own. Changes at home or school, anxiety, big emotions, friendships, self-esteem, attention difficulties, trauma, and other life experiences can all affect a young person’s well-being.
At North Simcoe Therapy Network, we provide individualized psychotherapy and mental health support for children and adolescents in a welcoming, supportive environment. Our therapists work collaboratively with young people and their families to understand what is happening, identify strengths, and develop practical skills that can be used at home, at school, and in everyday life.
How We Can Help
Children and adolescents may come to therapy for many different reasons, including:
- Anxiety, worries, fears, and panic
- Depression and low mood
- ADHD and executive functioning difficulties
- Emotional regulation and managing big feelings
- School avoidance and academic stress
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Friendship and peer challenges
- Family changes, separation, and divorce
- Grief and loss
- Trauma and difficult life experiences
- Behavioural concerns
- Autism-related support
- Social skills and communication
- Stress and life transitions
- Self-harm and other mental health concerns
Therapy That Meets Them Where They Are
Therapy with a child or teenager shouldn’t simply look like adult therapy with a younger client.
Our clinicians adapt their approach based on each young person’s age, developmental stage, personality, strengths, interests, and individual needs. Depending on the child and their goals, sessions may incorporate conversation, activities, games, creative approaches, skill-building, psychoeducation, and evidence-informed therapeutic strategies.
Our clinicians draw from approaches such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness-based strategies, and trauma-informed care, depending on the clinician and the needs of the client.
Supporting the Whole Family
Parents and caregivers can play an important role in a young person’s progress. When appropriate, therapy may include parent consultation, family sessions, education, and practical strategies that caregivers can use between appointments.
With appropriate consent and consideration for the young person’s privacy, our therapists may also collaborate with schools, physicians, and other professionals involved in their care to help create consistent support across environments.