Counselling for Children
Helping Children Feel Understood, Confident, and Secure
Children experience many of the same emotions as adults, but they do not always have the words or tools to express what they are feeling. When children are struggling, it may show up through behaviour changes, emotional outbursts, anxiety, withdrawal, or difficulty at school or at home.
Counselling offers children a safe and supportive space where they can explore their emotions, understand what they are experiencing, and develop healthier ways of coping. Through conversation, creative activities, and age appropriate approaches, children can learn to better understand themselves and feel more confident navigating challenges.
Our goal is to help children feel heard, supported, and capable while also helping parents better understand what their child may be going through.
Common Situations We Help With
Families often reach out when they notice their child is struggling with things such as:
Anxiety or frequent worries
Emotional outbursts or difficulty regulating emotions
Changes in behaviour at home or school
Low confidence or self esteem
Friendship challenges or social stress
Adjusting to family changes or stressful life events
These challenges are common during childhood and often arise as children navigate school, friendships, family dynamics, and growing independence.
Counselling can help children develop the emotional skills and confidence they need to navigate these experiences.
How Counselling Helps Children
In sessions, we work with children in ways that feel natural and comfortable for their age. Depending on the child, this may involve conversation, creative expression, or activities that help them explore emotions and build skills.
Counselling can help children:
Understand and express their emotions
Develop confidence and self awareness
Learn healthy coping strategies
Improve communication with parents and family members
Navigate social and school challenges
Parents are also an important part of the process. We work collaboratively with families to ensure children feel supported both in counselling and at home.
Our Team Approach
At Harbour Family Counselling, families benefit from the experience of a collaborative team. While you work closely with one counsellor, our clinicians regularly consult with one another to share perspectives and insights.
This approach allows us to provide thoughtful, well-rounded support while ensuring families receive care that is compassionate, practical, and tailored to their situation.
Counsellors Who Support Children
Maria Butler
BA, B.Ed, MA, RCC
Maria works with children 6+ to create a warm and supportive space where children can feel safe expressing themselves. She helps children understand their emotions, build confidence, and develop skills that support healthier relationships and communication within the family.
Talita Nell
B.Sc, MA, RCC
Talita works with children 6+ to better understand emotional and behavioural patterns that may be causing stress in life. Her approach helps children develop confidence and emotional awareness while supporting parents in strengthening their relationship with their child.
Helping your child thrive
Every child deserves to feel understood, supported, and confident as they grow. With the right support, children can learn the emotional skills that help them navigate challenges and build healthy relationships throughout their lives.
Fees & Availability
Individual sessions fees vary by counsellor
Complimentary 20-minute consultation calls available
Receipts provided for extended health benefits
Currently accepting new clients
Consultation calls are available most days.
What to Expect
Starting counselling can feel uncertain, especially for children. We want children to see counselling as having another trusted adult to listen, understand, and guide them through life’s challenges.
1. Book a free 20-minute consultation
This is an opportunity to meet a counsellor and share why you’re seeking counselling for your child. Children are welcome to join these video calls, but it is not required.
2. Start with a Parent / Caregiver Intake Session
This session is for parents to share the child’s developmental history, strengths and areas to focus on in counselling. One or more parent / caregiver are welcome to join.
3. Counselling for Children Begins with Relationship
Early sessions focus on helping your child feel comfortable in a new space and with the counsellor. Parents are welcome to join at first to help your child settle in. We follow your child’s lead, inviting them to share what they want when they are ready. Trust is built over time, and children know they are safe and respected.