Individual Counselling
Growing up brings new experiences, changing relationships, and feelings that can be difficult to understand. A child may worry at bedtime, become frustrated after school, or struggle to explain why something feels wrong. A teen may feel overwhelmed by expectations, friendships, or questions about who they are. Individual counselling offers a supportive space to work through these experiences and find ways forward.
At YEG Psychology Kids, our psychologists help children and teens with concerns such as anxiety, low mood, grief, trauma, emotional regulation, school stress, friendship difficulties, and family changes. We take time to understand each young person’s world, including their strengths, interests, relationships, and the challenges affecting daily life.
Counselling looks different at different ages. Younger children may connect through play, stories, drawing, and activities. Teens may prefer conversation, reflection, and practical strategies they can use independently. Throughout the process, we help young people have a voice in their care and work toward goals that matter to them.
Our aim is to help children and teens feel understood, develop confidence in their ability to cope, and build skills they can carry into everyday life.
The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change
Is Counselling Right For Child or Teen?
It can be difficult to know whether a change is part of growing up or a sign that your child needs additional support. Counselling may be helpful when difficulties persist, cause distress, or interfere with home, school, friendships, or activities.
You might notice that your child or teen:
- Worries frequently, expects things to go wrong, or needs repeated reassurance
- Seems sad, withdrawn, or less interested in things they usually enjoy
- Has strong emotional reactions and finds it difficult to recover
- Avoids school, social situations, or activities because they feel overwhelming
- Is very hard on themselves or afraid of making mistakes
- Struggles with friendships, conflict, or feeling that they do not belong
- Is having difficulty adjusting to a loss, separation, move, or other change
- Shows changes in sleep, motivation, or everyday functioning
- Has experienced something frightening or distressing
- Says they would like someone to talk to
Young people do not need a diagnosis to benefit from support. Counselling can also provide a place to explore concerns early, before they become more difficult to manage.
How Can Counselling Help
The goals of counselling depend on the young person and their needs. For one child, progress might mean feeling comfortable sleeping in their own room. For another, it could mean recovering more easily after disappointment. A teen may want to speak up in friendships or feel less overwhelmed by school.
Counselling can help children and teens:
- Understand and express their thoughts, feelings, and needs
- Develop strategies for managing worry, sadness, anger, and stress
- Respond more flexibly to mistakes, setbacks, and uncertainty
- Build confidence and a kinder view of themselves
- Strengthen communication, problem-solving, and relationship skills
- Work through grief, distressing experiences, or changes in their lives
- Participate more comfortably in school, friendships, and activities
When appropriate, caregivers also receive guidance on supporting these skills at home. Working together can help families better understand what their child needs and respond to difficult moments with greater confidence.
What Can I Expect from Counselling?
The first session focuses on getting to know your child or teen and understanding what has brought them to counselling. We explore their interests, strengths, and concerns, along with relevant background from caregivers. Depending on their age and needs, the appointment may include time together and time separately. We also explain privacy, its limits, and how information will be shared.
In the following sessions, the psychologist builds a trusting relationship while helping your child work toward agreed goals. Sessions may involve play, creative activities, conversation, or skills practice. Young people are encouraged to participate in ways that suit their development and comfort.
Caregiver involvement is tailored to the child’s age, needs, and treatment goals. Parents may participate in sessions, attend separate check-ins, or learn strategies to use at home. For teens, we balance appropriate caregiver support with respect for their growing independence and need for a private therapeutic space.
As counselling continues, we review progress together and adjust the plan as needed. Change may show up in small moments, such as asking for help, trying something previously avoided, or handling a difficult feeling differently. If the relationship with the psychologist does not feel like a good fit, we welcome that feedback and can help explore another match.
Your child does not need to arrive knowing exactly what to say. We can begin with what feels manageable and build from there.
Do you take sides between parents or caregivers?
We take a neutral, respectful approach toward caregivers, including in separated or divorced families. Our focus is your child’s well-being and safety. When relationships are strained, we work to build understanding and connection without blame or judgment.
Do you provide custody letters or parenting evaluations?
Our counselling services do not include custody support letters, parenting evaluations, or recommendations about parenting arrangements. These require a separate, specialized assessment process.
How does confidentiality work?
Children and teens need space to speak openly. We balance their privacy with appropriate caregiver involvement, based on their age, needs, and consent arrangements. Your psychologist will explain what may be shared and the limits of confidentiality, including safety concerns and legal obligations.
Can I use my benefits for my child’s counselling or assessment?
Your child’s sessions must be billed in their name and cannot be billed as your own treatment. If your plan includes coverage for dependent children, their sessions may be eligible. Please confirm coverage with your benefits provider.