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Child & Youth Counselling

I am committed to supporting the mental and emotional well-being of children and youth. Whether your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or simply needs help understanding their unique strengths, I am here to guide them on their journey toward growth and resilience.

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Child & Youth Counselling

Focused on the Unique Needs of Young Individuals

At Heart Tree Counselling in Port Alberni, BC, and through online sessions, I offer specialized Child and Youth Counselling services that focus on the unique needs of young individuals. My approach is grounded in compassion and a deep understanding of the challenges children and teens face, providing a safe and nurturing space where they can explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop a strong sense of self.

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Book an Appointment with Tanya

Reach out today to learn more about Child and Youth Counselling at Heart Tree Counselling in Port Alberni, BC, or through online sessions, and support your child’s emotional well-being and development.

Understanding Their Strengths

Supporting Your Child's Emotional and Behavioral Growth

I offer specialized support to help children and teens navigate a range of emotional and behavioral challenges. From managing anxiety and depression to understanding their nervous system and building self-esteem, I provide a compassionate space where young people can explore their feelings, develop resilience, and embrace their unique strengths. Whether your child is dealing with grief, behavioral issues, or learning to cope with the complexities of life, I am here to guide them on their journey toward emotional well-being and personal growth. Each of the following areas highlights the ways in which I can support your child or teen, helping them to overcome obstacles and build a stronger, more confident future.

Anxiety

Anxiety can be overwhelming for children and teens, but with the right support, they can learn to manage their fears and regain a sense of calm. I work with young clients to understand the root of their anxiety, teaching them coping skills that empower them to face challenges with confidence and resilience.

Depression in children and teens can be difficult to recognize, but early intervention is crucial. In our sessions, I provide a supportive environment where young people can express their feelings, explore the underlying causes of their depression, and develop strategies to improve their mood and outlook on life.

Grief can be a complex and confusing experience for young people. I offer a compassionate space for children and teens to process their loss, helping them navigate their emotions and find a way forward. Through gentle guidance, I support them in honoring their feelings while building the strength to move toward healing.

Sensory experiences can have a profound impact on a child’s behavior and emotional well-being. I help young clients understand their nervous system and how it affects their responses to the world around them. By increasing their awareness of sensory triggers, we work together to develop strategies that promote emotional regulation and a greater sense of control.

Behavioral challenges often stem from misunderstood attachment needs. I approach these challenges by exploring the underlying attachment dynamics, helping children and teens build stronger, more secure relationships.

Supporting parents and caregivers to see that behaviours are a child’s way of communicating a need, we can work together to support co-regulation and connection and ultimately solid/strong attachment.

"When we can give our children the experience of being truly seen and understood, we build the foundation for secure attachment, resilience, and emotional well-being."
Dr. Daniel Siegel

Every child has unique strengths, and those with intellectual disabilities are no exception. I focus on celebrating these strengths, helping children and teens recognize their capabilities and build self-esteem. Together, we work on fostering a positive self-image and empowering them to embrace their individuality.

Children and teens have incredible inner strengths—what I like to call their “superpowers.” In our sessions, I help young clients identify and harness these powers, equipping them with coping skills that will serve them throughout their lives. By reinforcing their resilience, we build a foundation for facing challenges with courage and confidence.

Building self-esteem is essential for healthy development. I work with children and teens to celebrate their unique strengths, helping them develop a positive self-image and a deep sense of self-worth. By fostering a strong foundation of self-esteem, we create a pathway for a brighter, more confident future.

Contact me to learn more about Child and Youth Counselling at Heart Tree Counselling in Port Alberni, BC, or through online sessions, and support your child’s emotional well-being and development.