Child, Youth & Family Therapy

Child, Youth & Family Therapy

It all begins with a relationship — someone your child, teen or young adult can trust, feel comfortable with, and enjoy spending time with.

Is your child, teen or young adult struggling at home, at school, in relationships or in the community? WellNest Parenting offers relationship-based, trauma-informed therapy and support for children, adolescents, young adults and families. Our approach is individualized and meets each person where they are, taking their unique strengths, needs and experiences into consideration.

Sessions are available in the office, virtually, through walk-and-talk sessions or, when appropriate, in your home, school or community. Home, school and community visits are available within the GTA and are subject to an additional fee.

Therapy for Younger Children

For younger children, a play- and art-based therapeutic approach is often used. Through play and creative expression, children can explore emotions, develop communication skills, work through challenges, build confidence and practise problem-solving in a way that feels natural to them.

For individual sessions, children are generally recommended to be at least six years old. For children under 12, in-person sessions are usually recommended.

Before beginning one-to-one sessions with your child, at least one virtual appointment with the parent(s) or caregiver(s) is required. This provides an opportunity to share important background information, discuss your concerns and help you feel comfortable with the support your child will receive.

Therapy and Support for Adolescents & Young Adults

For adolescents over the age of 12 and young adults, sessions can take place in person or virtually. Support is tailored to each person's needs and may focus on personal growth, emotional well-being, relationships, family dynamics, independence and navigating the challenges of adolescence and early adulthood.

WellNest works with children, adolescents and young adults, generally into their early 20s. The appropriate age range and type of support are considered individually, based on each person's needs and circumstances.

A preliminary virtual appointment with parent(s) or caregivers may be recommended, depending on the needs of the individual and family.

Areas of Support

Children, adolescents and young adults may benefit from support with a variety of concerns, including:

  • Anxiety, worry and separation anxiety

  • Sadness and changes in mood

  • Emotional awareness and emotional regulation

  • ADHD, autism and PDA (suspected or diagnosed)

  • OCD and related challenges (suspected or diagnosed)

  • Behavioural challenges, anger and aggression

  • Family conflict, parent-child relationships and communication

  • Family changes, including a new sibling, separation, divorce or relocation

  • Trauma and medical trauma

  • Grief and loss, including the death of a family member, friend or pet

  • Bullying and peer relationships

  • Social skills and peer pressure

  • Self-esteem, confidence and body image

  • Fear of dogs and other specific fears

  • School attendance and school-related challenges

  • Self-harm and mental health concerns

  • Relationships and healthy boundaries

  • Sexual orientation and gender identity

  • Safe social media use and online safety

  • Adjusting to adolescence and increasing independence

  • Life skills, goal setting and time management

This list is not exhaustive. If your concern isn't listed, please reach out to discuss whether WellNest may be able to help.

Not Sure What Kind of Support Your Family Needs?

You may be looking for parenting support, individual therapy for your child or teen, support for a young adult, or a combination of these. You don't have to figure that out on your own.

Book a free consultation to talk about your concerns, ask questions and explore what type of support may be the best fit for you or your family.

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