Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist at Tikvah Family Services-we specialize in helping children and adolescents navigate emotional, behavioral, and developmental challenges. Our team of dedicated child and adolescent psychotherapists is committed to providing personalized and effective care for children and teens facing issues such as PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), ADHD, autism, anxiety, and more. With a range of therapeutic approaches including play therapy, walk and talk therapy, and counseling for children, we aim to foster a supportive environment that encourages growth and healing.
Child and Adolescent Psychotherapist Table of Contents
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist-Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in Children
Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is a condition that falls under the autism spectrum and is characterized by an overwhelming need to avoid everyday demands and expectations due to high anxiety levels. Children with PDA autism may exhibit extreme behaviors such as anger or withdrawal when faced with simple requests. Our therapists at Tikvah Family Services are trained in specialized techniques to help children with PDA manage their emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and engage with daily tasks in a structured way.
Our pediatric therapists utilize therapeutic play therapy to help children express emotions and reduce anxiety. Play therapy serves as a safe space for children with PDA to explore their feelings and build social skills.
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapy at Tikvah Family Services –Addressing ADHD and ADD in Children and Teens
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) are among the most common developmental disorders affecting children and teens. ADHD can result in hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty concentrating. At Tikvah Family Services, we offer comprehensive ADHD testing and ADD assessments to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each child’s needs.
Through a combination of therapeutic play therapy, counseling, and non-stimulant medications for ADHD, we support children in developing executive functioning skills, improving focus, and managing behavior. Our therapists also provide parent counseling to help families understand the condition and foster supportive home environments.
Walk and Talk Therapy: A Unique Approach to Teen Counseling
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist For teenagers who may feel uncomfortable in a traditional therapy setting, walk and talk therapy offers a unique alternative. In this approach, therapy sessions are conducted outdoors while walking, encouraging a relaxed and open conversation. This method is particularly beneficial for teens struggling with detachment anxiety symptoms, separation anxiety, or social anxiety.
Walking in nature helps reduce stress, increases emotional regulation, and fosters a sense of calm, allowing teens to express themselves more freely. At Tikvah Family Services, we offer walk and talk therapy as part of our teen counselling services to help adolescents work through their challenges in a non-confrontational environment.
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist: Helping Teens Navigate Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common issue in children and teens, especially during transitions such as starting school, moving to a new area, or parental separation. Our psychotherapists at Tikvah Family Services offer specialized interventions to address separation anxiety, including counseling and behavioral therapy. Understanding the root causes of anxiety allows our therapists to guide children through difficult periods, build resilience, and reduce the symptoms associated with separation anxiety.
Treatment for separation anxiety often involves developing coping mechanisms, teaching relaxation techniques, and providing a supportive space for children and teens to discuss their fears. We also offer parent counseling to ensure that parents are equipped with the tools needed to support their child’s mental health journey.
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist-Occupational Therapy for Neurodiverse Children
Neurodiversity is an inclusive term that encompasses children with a range of developmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, dyscalculia, and sensory processing disorder. At Tikvah Family Services, we offer occupational therapy activities for neurodiverse children to help them develop life skills, improve sensory integration, and achieve greater independence.
Our team of pediatric occupational therapists knowable- works with children who have conditions like dyslexia, SPD (sensory processing disorder), and autism to create customized treatment plans that target their specific needs. Whether it’s through sensory integration therapy, play therapy, or skill-building activities, we ensure that each child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist-Therapeutic Play Therapy for Children
Therapeutic play therapy is one of the core services we offer at Tikvah Family Services. Play therapy is a powerful tool that allows children to express emotions, understand their experiences, and develop social skills in a way that is natural to them. Through structured play, our therapists can address issues such as selective mutism, oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and social anxiety.
Our child therapists are trained in techniques endorsed by the Canadian Association for Play Therapy, ensuring the highest standards of care. We also offer art therapy and creative expression therapy for children who may find it easier to communicate through creative means rather than words.
Child & Adolescent Psychotherapist-Supporting Families Through Parent Counseling
At Tikvah Family Services, we recognize that therapy doesn’t only involve the child but also their family. Our parent counseling sessions provide parents with guidance on how to support their child’s development, manage behavioral issues, and address challenges like ADHD, PDA, and autism. We equip parents with the knowledge and strategies needed to foster a healthy and supportive family environment.
In addition to one-on-one counseling, we offer family therapy sessions to address broader family dynamics and improve communication between parents and children. Whether a family is dealing with the complexities of a blended family, behavioral issues, or other emotional challenges, our therapists create a compassionate and collaborative space for healing.
Marriage and Couples Counseling
Parenting children with developmental disorders can place significant strain on relationships. At Tikvah Family Services, we offer marriage counseling and couples therapy to help partners navigate the emotional and psychological challenges that come with parenting. By working through issues such as separation anxiety, stress, and differing parenting styles, we help couples strengthen their bonds and work together as a team.
Our marriage counseling services in Hamilton and Vaughan are designed to support couples through difficult times, encouraging emotional connection, understanding, and mutual support.
Affordable and Accessible Mental Health Services
At Tikvah Family Services, we believe that everyone should have access to quality mental health care. We provide affordable counseling services, including free mental health services in Hamilton for eligible clients. Our goal is to break down barriers to mental health care by offering sliding scale fees and online therapy services for families unable to attend in-person sessions.
Whether you’re searching for teenage counselors near me, free counseling in Hamilton, or specialized therapy for children, Tikvah Family Services is here to help. We also offer online therapy for clients who prefer to receive support from the comfort of their homes.
Empowering Teens with Emotional Intelligence and Social Skills
Helping teens develop emotional intelligence is a key aspect of our adolescent therapy programs. We provide tools to help teens recognize, understand, and manage their emotions, which is essential for building healthy relationships and achieving academic success.
Through emotional regulation strategies, therapeutic sessions, and group therapy, we empower teens to overcome challenges such as detachment anxiety, social isolation, and peer pressure.
