Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville: Compassionate Support for Anxiety, Trauma, and More

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Effective child therapy and teen counseling can transform a family’s life. Recent data show that many children struggle: about 1 in 7 young people have a diagnosed mental or behavioral health issue. Anxiety, school stress, and trauma are common, yet far too many families feel alone. Tikvah Family Services in Vaughan and Oakville offers hope. Our team of experts – led by Amir Haimove (registered psychotherapist with 20+ years’ experience) – provides evidence-based, trauma-informed support tailored to each child. Using proven approaches like CBT, DBT, play therapy, and family counseling, Tikvah helps children and teens cope with anxiety, overcome past abuse, tackle school refusal, and build emotional regulation skills in a warm, nurturing environment.

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Play therapy at Tikvah encourages children to express feelings through fun, age-appropriate activities. Therapists use games and creative play to help kids build confidence and emotional tools.

Tikvah’s approach is deeply non-judgmental and family-focused. We understand how overwhelming it is for parents to see a child suffer. Whether a child is withdrawn by fear or acting out with frustration, our goal is to gently guide them toward healing and growth. Studies confirm that early, compassionate intervention makes a big difference: children who receive therapy often improve emotional regulation, self-esteem, and social skills long-term. Tikvah’s clinicians are skilled at creating that safe space. As one parent shares, “Tikvah’s therapists helped my daughter find her voice again — she’s more confident at school and sleeps peacefully now.” (Name changed.)

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Common Child and Teen Mental Health Concerns

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Children and teens can experience a range of intense emotions and behaviors. At Tikvah, we specialize in helping families facing these challenges:

• Anxiety Disorders: One of the most common issues in youth, childhood anxiety can include generalized worry, social anxiety, separation anxiety, panic attacks, or specific fears. Symptoms often show up as excessive worrying, stomachaches, headaches, or avoidance of situations (like school or sleepovers) that trigger fear. Anxiety can range from mild nervousness to paralyzing panic. If your child is constantly worried, fears going to school, or insists on sleeping with you every night, they may need support.
• Emotional Dysregulation: When strong emotions quickly spiral out of control, this is called emotional dysregulation. It often appears in ADHD, autism, or trauma, but can affect any child. Dysregulated children may have explosive tantrums, intense outbursts, or prolonged low moods that seem “out of proportion” to the event. For example, a minor setback (like losing a toy) might trigger hours of crying or yelling. Over time, these intense feelings hurt self-esteem and relationships. We emphasize that dysregulation is not bad behavior – it’s a sign that a child’s brain needs help managing emotions.
• Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA): PDA is an autism spectrum profile where a child feels extreme anxiety around demands or expectations. Children with PDA often resist even simple requests, using sudden tantrums, extreme emotions, or social maneuvers to avoid doing things that others expect of them. This can be confusing and frustrating for parents – common parenting techniques like rewards or time-outs usually backfire. Tikvah therapists understand PDA’s unique challenges. We use gentle, flexible strategies like art and play therapy that let the child feel in control while still addressing anxiety and behavior.
• Childhood Trauma and Abuse: Children who’ve experienced abuse, neglect, violence, or serious loss often carry deep trauma. Traumatic stress can disrupt a child’s sense of safety and their ability to focus or relate to others. Trauma symptoms in kids can include nightmares, aggression, withdrawal, or school avoidance. Importantly, trauma is not the child’s fault – they just need safe, understanding support. Tikvah’s trauma therapy is evidence-based and gentle. We often use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and similar approaches shown to help children process tough experiences. Research shows that when children work with therapists in a safe space, “many children are able to adapt to and overcome such experiences”. At Tikvah, we integrate art, play, and talk therapy so kids can express feelings without words (e.g. drawing or playing out scenarios) and gradually rebuild trust and normalcy.
• School Refusal: Sometimes anxiety or trauma makes children refuse to attend school. School refusal is not laziness – it’s often a sign of deep fear or stress. About 5% of children experience this, with younger kids fearing separation from parents and older kids fearing bullying, academic failure, or world events. Symptoms include complaining of stomach aches or headaches each morning, crying, or tantrums at the thought of school. At Tikvah, we work closely with parents, teachers, and the child to gently reintroduce school. Using CBT and gradual exposure, we help children manage the worries behind school refusal and feel confident returning to class.
• Other Concerns: Tikvah therapists also support children struggling with depression, learning disabilities, ADHD, and other challenges. Even if your child’s problem isn’t listed here, our compassionate therapists will listen and help you make sense of the situation.

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Evidence-Based, Non-ABA Therapeutic Approaches

All therapy at Tikvah is evidence-based and respectful of your child’s uniqueness. We do NOT use ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis); instead, we focus on approaches shown to work for emotion and trauma:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a first-line, structured therapy for anxiety, OCD, phobias, and depression. It helps children identify unhelpful thoughts (like “I must be perfect”) and replace them with balanced ideas, while practicing coping skills. For example, a child might learn to challenge the thought “If I fail a test, I’m a failure” and instead focus on effort and learning. Studies show CBT is “the gold standard” for kids with anxiety, leading to significant symptom reduction. Tikvah’s CBT programs also cover anger management, self-esteem building, and social skills.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is an intensive, skills-based therapy for kids and teens who have extreme emotions or mood swings. It combines mindfulness (helping kids notice and accept feelings without judgment) with coping strategies from CBT. DBT teaches children key skills in four areas: mindfulness, distress tolerance (managing crises), emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. For example, a teenager might learn a breathing technique to calm down during a meltdown, or practice thinking ahead about how a situation will end well. DBT is often recommended when other therapies haven’t been enough, and Tikvah offers tailored DBT groups and individual sessions. Our therapists and parents also learn DBT skills so kids get consistent support at home.
• Play Therapy: For younger children especially, play therapy is an invaluable tool. In a safe playroom, a child might build with blocks, draw, or play out scenarios with dolls. Because children naturally express themselves through play, therapists can learn about their inner world and gently guide them. The American Psychiatric Association notes that play therapy “helps children better express their thoughts and emotions and address a variety of problems”. Research shows play therapy is effective for children who have experienced trauma, as well as those with anxiety or learning challenges. At Tikvah, our therapists use play, art, puppets, and even sand trays to help kids open up when words fail. This creative approach makes therapy feel safe and even fun for many children, laying the groundwork for healing.
• Family Counseling: Children’s issues usually affect the whole family, so Tikvah offers family therapy to improve relationships and communication. Our family sessions might involve siblings or parents together with the child. We focus on teaching families ways to solve problems, set supportive boundaries, and listen without judgment. As our website explains, “family therapy sessions focus on enhancing communication, resolving conflicts, and fostering healthier dynamics”. For example, parents may learn how to respond calmly to a meltdown, or siblings may learn to express feelings with less fighting. Research confirms that when families engage together, children do better — they feel understood and supported, and therapy gains traction faster.
• Other Methods: Depending on each child’s needs, Tikvah may also use art therapy, sandtray therapy, social skills groups, or mindfulness training. We continually choose strategies backed by research to ensure children thrive.

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Our Approach at Tikvah Family Services

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-At Tikvah Family Services in Vaughan and Oakville, everything we do is trauma-informed, compassionate, and collaborative. Our values include respect, empathy, and cultural awareness – for example, we understand many local families want therapy guided by Jewish values or other traditions, and we honor that.

Amir Haimove (our founder) brings decades of international experience in special education and mental health. As noted on our site, Amir and our clinicians have helped “countless children overcome anxiety, trauma, and other challenges, fostering resilience and emotional stability”. Whether a child has autism, ADHD, PTSD, or no diagnosis at all, Amir’s team tailors the approach. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. During the first assessment, we listen to your family’s story and goals. Then we design a plan – which may include individual therapy, group workshops, and parent coaching.

All Tikvah therapists hold advanced credentials (Registered Psychotherapists, Child Psychologists, etc.) and engage in ongoing training. We also emphasize teamwork: we coordinate with schools, pediatricians, and any specialists involved. For example, we might do a meeting with a teacher to ensure consistent strategies for a child with school anxiety. Our aim is a holistic, 360-degree plan for your child.

One parent from Oakville told us: “Tikvah’s team made us feel heard from day one. They kept us in the loop, even doing sessions by telehealth when my child was too anxious to leave home. Now my son is back in class, making friends.”

Emotional and behavioral issues often make a child feel stuck or alone. At Tikvah, therapists create a comforting, judgement-free space (as in the photo above) to help children gradually face fears and express themselves safely.

Illustrative Success Stories

• Case Study (School Anxiety): Seven-year-old “Emma” was terrified of the school bus. Each morning, she clung to her mother, saying her tummy hurt and begging to stay home. Parents tried threats and bribes, but her anxiety only worsened. After working with Tikvah’s child therapist, Emma learned coping skills (deep breathing and imaginative play about school). The therapist also did family sessions to teach mom and dad gentle ways to ease Emma’s fears. Within a few months, Emma was riding the bus with a stuffed animal for comfort. Her teacher reports Emma now participates more in class. Emma’s mom said, “We saw a complete turnaround. Tikvah Family Services gave Emma her confidence back!”
• Testimonial (Trauma Recovery): “Our son Amir was badly hurt by his early life experiences. He wouldn’t talk, slept poorly, and had flashbacks. Tikvah’s therapists used art therapy and Trauma-Focused CBT to help him. Slowly, he started drawing his feelings and learned that the ‘bad things’ he saw weren’t happening now. His nightmares stopped, and he’s become a playful boy again. We can’t thank Tikvah enough.” — The Goldstein family of Vaughan.
• Case Study (Teen Counseling): *“Jake”, age 15, was a bright teen who suddenly became sullen and defiant after learning of family struggles. He fell into an internet addiction and his grades plummeted. Jake’s parents brought him to Tikvah’s teen counseling program. Through individual therapy and DBT skills training, Jake learned healthier ways to deal with anger and disappointment. He also attended a Tikvah support group for teens. In follow-up, Jake’s mom noted he’s now talking about college plans again. She said, “Amir’s team didn’t just treat Jake, they educated our whole family. Jake’s laughter is back.” (Name changed.)

These examples are illustrative but reflect the kinds of progress we see. Tikvah’s website also highlights dozens of satisfied parents and teens. For many families, making that first call to Tikvah – sometimes nervous or hopeful – is the beginning of healing.

Child and Teen Therapy in Vaughan & Oakville-Taking the Next Step: Contact Tikvah Family Services

If you’re reading this, you’re likely a caring parent wanting help. You don’t have to navigate this alone. Tikvah Family Services is here to help children and teens of all backgrounds thrive emotionally and academically. Our Vaughan and Oakville clinics are warm, welcoming spaces, and we happily offer online sessions as needed.

Feel free to explore our Child and Adolescent Services and Teen Therapy pages for more on our programs. You can also read client reviews and our blog for tips on parenting and coping.

When you contact us (phone or the Contact page), our friendly administrative team will guide you. We will arrange an initial consultation with Amir or one of our senior therapists. At that first meeting, we’ll listen carefully to your concerns and answer all your questions. There’s no judgement – only understanding professionals ready to help.

For families in Vaughan, our office is conveniently located at 17 Honeywood Rd. In Oakville, we share space at 323 Kerr St. (see map on our website). Evening appointments may be available to fit busy schedules.

Remember: reaching out is a sign of strength. Every day at Tikvah, we witness children and teens blossom once they get the right support. As one parent put it, “We called Tikvah when we were at our wits’ end. Now our daughter is learning coping tools, and our family feels hopeful again.”

You can do the same. Contact Tikvah Family Services today to learn how our caring team can help your child overcome anxiety, trauma, PDA, or any emotional challenge. Together, we’ll create a plan so your child can feel safe, understood, and confident. Let Tikvah be your partner in building a brighter future for your family.

Sources: Authoritative information and statistics are drawn from the CDC and clinical research, and from Tikvah Family Services’ own resources and blog. Our descriptions of therapy and its benefits are based on current best practices in child mental health (see e.g. APA and SAMHSA guides).