Children and teens often show emotional distress through changes in their behavior. You might notice subtle or sudden shifts in mood, sleep patterns, appetite, social connections, or school performance, as well as increased aggression or anxiety. Stressful life events—such as family transitions, divorce, illness, loss, or school-related pressure—can also weigh heavily on a young person. Recognizing these signs is an important first step toward supporting your child through challenging times.

At Expressive Minds Therapy, I support children and youth across Simcoe Muskoka who are looking for ways to promote personal growth and improve wellbeing, develop self-regulation and healthy coping mechanisms, increase capacity to think of new and different perspectives, and build secure and resilient relationships with family and peers.

As children and youth navigate increasing expectations and rapid changes, it is normal for them to need extra support.

I understand that the word “therapy” might sound intimidating, and young people may worry about stigma. My role is not to “fix” your child, but to listen, understand their perspective, and support them in finding their own solutions to promote their mental health. I meet them where they are, recognising their strengths and challenges.

Therapy is Not About ‘Fixing’

I offer a warm, confidential, and non-judgemental space. I believe that healing and growth occur through the therapeutic relationship itself. My approach is developmentally appropriate and child/youth-led, attachment-based and relationally informed, and grounded in neuroscience and the belief in the inner capacity to grow.

In child & youth psychotherapy, thinking and talking with a therapist helps children/adolescents to make sense of and understand their troubled thoughts and feelings. Through deep communication and dialogue, I strive to reach the root of their experience, empowering the young person to clarify problems, see patterns in their relating, and make informed choices.

My Relationship-Based Approach

I believe that young people need to feel truly seen and heard before they can begin to open up. The therapeutic relationship itself is where healing happens — not through techniques alone, but through genuine connection and safety.

Integrated Therapeutic Tools

I use an integrated, holistic approach, tailoring tools to the needs of each young person. This may include:

• Talk Therapy
• Play Therapy
• Creative & Expressive Arts
• Sand-Tray and Puppetry
• Mindfulness Techniques

By using intentional, age-appropriate, and creative methods, I facilitate a space where the child can engage in self-discovery, identify their internal resources, and strengthen their self-identity.

For younger children, play therapy is often the primary modality. For children impacted by trauma, I may also incorporate EMDR therapy.