CHILD/YOUTH & PLAY THERAPY

Play Therapists

Lisa Moore - Counsellor

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults and Family Therapy 

SPECIALTIES: Play Therapy, Special Needs Advocacy and Diagnosis, Anxiety, Depression, Career Counselling, Addictions, LGBTQIA+, Aboriginal Issues, Grief

AGES: Over 6

 

Lisa Moore, ma
MA Counselling Psychology, RCC, CCC, Clinical Counsellor

Languages: English & French

It’s my goal to help people heal and grow through periods of transitions in their lives. Many of us experience loss, grief or unhappiness as we transition from one role to another in our daily lives. 

It’s my honour to help counsel you during these difficult transitions and help you heal from any of these experiences: 

  • Dreams you don’t achieve
  • Changes in career
  • Diagnosis of a child with special needs
  • A loved one entering long term care
  • Divorce from a spouse 
  • Beginning of a new marriage
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I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) through BCACC. I am also licensed through CCPA and hold a CCC license. I completed my Masters of Counselling Psychology at Trinity Western University and began working in my own private practice in 2016.  Before going back to school to pursue my masters, I worked as a senior executive in sales and marketing.  I believe that my unique education has allowed me to help people grow and develop and create change for themselves.

About 10 years ago, I became involved in helping a family with special needs children and it was through that journey that I came to the work I am most passionate about; helping parents of special needs families. Using play therapy, I am able to access children for ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Autism and other types of learning disabilities.

The following list below are my areas of specialization:

  • Personal development
  • Assertiveness / Boundaries
  • Depression, anxiety & panic disorders
  • Phobias
  • Past or recent trauma or abuse
  • Relationship and couples counselling
  • Addictions
  • Divorce, separation and blended families
  • Eating disorders and addictions
  • Life transitions
  • Gender dysphoria, LGBTQ transitions & other issues
  • Communication building
  • Grief counselling
  • Career planning

CHILD AND YOUTH THERAPY

  • Child play therapy
  • Self esteem and confidence coaching
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Career exploration with youth
  • Dealing with separation and divorce from the child and parents perspective
  • Helping parents and children with strategies to deal with ADHD and ADD
  • Assessments for Autism, ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder 

PARENTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS ADVOCACY AND MEDIATION:

  • Access to assessments and diagnosis
  • Psycho-educational, Autism, ADHD testing
  • Referral to local psychologists for assessments and testing
  • Referral to local behavioural consultants and creating a behavioural intervention team
  • Mediation with school districts and IEP planning
  • Access to 3rd party funding and Ministry of Children and Family case workers
  • Completing government and agency paperwork to obtain funding, therapy and resources
  • Family planning at transitional ages: birth, school age and adult
Desiree Dsilva - Counsellor
DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults, Couples

SPECIALTIES: Depression, Anxiety, Self Esteem,  Play Therapy, Behaviour Intervention, Supporting parents with Autism/adhd/odd diagnoses

Desiree D’silva, m.ED

MA Counselling Psychology, CCC, Clinical Counselor

Languages: English

I am an EMDR and Play based therapist who works with children, youth and adults. I am deeply committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where my clients can explore their emotions, gain insight into their experiences, and develop effective coping strategies. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, as I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a crucial aspect of the healing process.

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EMDR is a powerful and evidence-based therapy that has been shown to be highly effective in treating trauma, PTSD, and a wide range of other emotional issues. I have undergone extensive training and certification in EMDR, and I am passionate about helping my clients unlock their natural healing process. In addition to EMDR, I integrate various therapeutic modalities and techniques tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. I am dedicated to providing a warm, supportive, and confidential environment where clients can feel heard and understood.
Michael Zibauer - Counsellor

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults

SPECIALTIES: Play Therapy, Behavioural Intervention, Self-Regulation, Family Dynamics, Pregnancy, Pre-natal, Post-natal, Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Personal Development and Education, Conflict Resolution, Boundaries

AGES: Under and Over 6

Efrosini Stratidakis, MC
MA Counselling Psychology, RCC, CCC
Clinical Counselor

Languages: English, Greek

It isn’t easy to seek support, but here you are. You’ve already jumped over a very tough hurdle! I bring warmth and compassion to each interaction and believe in the innate ability we all have to heal and grow. It’s my goal to help you find a deeper appreciation and understanding of self and to expand your capacity for lifelong resiliency in a space where you feel seen and heard. 

 

Life is tough sometimes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck or unable to cope, I can help you. I am passionate about helping children and youth become empowered and in charge of their thoughts. If your child is having a hard time with thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, I am here to support as well. You are not alone.

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I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) through BCACC. I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a Masters of Counselling from City University and currently, I am working towards becoming a Certified Play Therapist. Prior to counselling, I worked as a Kindergarten Teacher for nearly 10 years. It was this role as an early childhood educator that ignited my desire to help children through the challenges of life with more depth and meaning. It fuelled my curiosity around attachment theory and how adverse childhood experiences affect the developing brain, impacting children’s emotional and developmental trajectory. Which ultimately filters into our lives as adults. 

 

I am passionate about helping young children, youth, and adults process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a way that grants them the awareness that they are truly capable and worthy. Through a person-centered, holistic and collaborative approach, my practice aims to help shift unhelpful thinking and exercise healthy coping. I’ll help you identify the physiological responses, process the root cause and learn effective self-regulation to make daily life feel lighter and more enjoyable.  I am equally as enthusiastic to work with caregivers and families to support in better understanding the why behind behaviours, strategies for dealing with diverse needs, and personal struggles.   

 

My approach is integrative and based on your unique needs; I may utilize CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Somatic Practices, Play Therapy and Psychoeducation. I work within a range of areas such as:

  • Emotional Regulation
  • Coping Skills
  • Boundaries
  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Early childhood development
  • Parenting
  • Pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum
  • Trauma
  • Divorce/Separation
  • Life Transitions
  • Family dynamics
  • Self-esteem
  • Grief and loss

 

Everyone deserves a safe, trusting space to share and unpack their story. It would be an honour to walk alongside you as you rise through this and find inner peace. 

Michael Zibauer - Counsellor

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Adolescents, Parents, and Adult Females

SPECIALTIES: Trauma, Children, Neurodiversity, ADHD and Autism, Parent/Child Relationships and Aboriginal Issues

AGES: Under and Over 6

Nisha Sangwan, Ph.D
PH. D Counselling Psychology, RCC
Clinical Counselor

Languages: English, Hindi and Gujarati

My passion and primary focus lie in the realm of trauma. I believe that every individual is unique, and one approach cannot be ideal. I encourage my clients to consider a curious perspective towards their thoughts, emotions, bodily sensations, and memories. I also incorporate tools to help my clients loosen the grip of unhelpful narratives, thought patterns and self-beliefs.

I am a Registered Clinical Counselor with BCACC. I did my master’s in counseling psychology in school and youth concentration from Adler University, Vancouver.

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Mental health issues, especially traumatic experiences and major life stressors can significantly impact our daily lives, and make us feel disconnected from ourselves, our loved ones, and other important aspects of our lives. I believe that building such connections is the key to healing. Hence, my work focuses on helping my clients build healthier perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships.

With this, I attempt to use a holistic approach in counseling, bringing together emotion, thoughts, and the body. I use different modalities with my clients like CBT-Trauma Informed lens, DBT, Emotional Freedom tapping techniques, Brain Spotting, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and ACT.

I am experienced in working with clients dealing with :

Depression

Anxiety

Trauma

ADHD

OCD

Anger Management

LGBTQ

Parenting

Parent-child relationship 

Grief and loss 

Child and Youth therapy :

Child play therapy

Self-esteem and motivation 

Anxiety and depression

ADHD 

OCD

Separation anxiety 

Dealing with parents divorce

Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Teens, Adults, Couples, Families

SPECIALTIES: Family Support, Relationships, Emotion Regulation, Trauma, Parenting, Developmental Trauma, Attachment, Life Transitions, Play Therapy, Depression, Anxiety, Neurodivergence

Ages: Under and Over 6

Mary Tuhkala, MA

MA Counselling Psychology, RCC, Clinical Counsellor

 The best way to connect with a child is through play, which is exactly my approach as a Play Therapist! Children and youth in my counselling room can express their experiences, feelings, and emotions safely and in a non-judgmental space. My treatment plans work towards the development of self-awareness, confidence, and self-esteem. I use individualized plans and creative activities to help children manage their behaviours, develop social skills, and cope with symptoms of stress.

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I have many years of experience working with children and teens in various areas including:

– ADHD

– ASD

– OCD

– Anxiety

– Separated and divorced families

– High-conflict families

– Children who have experienced trauma

– Children with MCFD involvement

– Life transition struggles for youth

I also offer parent-coaching and family therapy, using an emotion-focused and solution-focused lens. I can help families in areas of enhancing family connections, creating cohesive family plans that work for everyone, and psychoeducation for positive behaviour support and effective parenting strategies. I look forward to meeting your child and creating an environment where they can truly thrive!

Michael Zibauer - Counsellor

DEMOGRAPHIC: Individuals, Adults, Youth, Children, Couples

SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Boundaries, Personal Development, Grief, Life Transitions, Anger, Abuse, Addictions, Self Esteem, Relationships, Communication, Cultural/ Racial Identity, Loss, Wellness, Emotional Regulation, LGBTQS+ Issues

AGES: Over 6

Ruby Sall
MA Counselling Psychology
Clinical Counselor Pre-Licensed

Languages: English, Punjabi

Play is a powerful effective therapeutic tool that can act as both a preventative measure and an intervention to alleviate current and ongoing challenges a child may be facing. I use a trauma informed and emotions focused approach to meet each child in their context, gently supporting them as they work through making sense of their internal and external world. Through play, a child can learn how to communicate, regulate their emotions, and process difficult life experiences.

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My background in Psychology in both undergraduate and graduate educational training and research and my experience in working with children with diverse needs in an educational and clinical setting has given me a foundation in appreciating the unique developmental struggles of young clients. I use a strengths based approach to empower and cultivate self-awareness, healthy patterns of communication and emotions processing. I am passionate in creating a safe therapeutic space for each child and youth, where they can experience warmth and non- judgment, ultimately giving them a place where they can cultivate self-acceptance, healthy communication, and healing. It is important for me to collaborate with each parent to best meet their child’s needs. 

 

Some areas I can offer support in are but not limited to: 

 -ADHD

-Life Transitions

-Divorce/Separation 

-Trauma

-ASD

-Self-Esteem

-Emotional Regulation

Michael Zibauer - Counsellor

DEMOGRAPHIC: Adults, Children, Teens (16+), Couples, Families, Groups

SPECIALTIES: LGBTQ+, Anxiety, Depression, Suicidal Ideation, Boundaries, Stress, Communication, Codependency, Interpersonal Conflict, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Women’s Issues, Burnout, Grief and Loss, Guilt and Shame

AGES: Over 6

Carissa Stocco
MA Counselling Psychology
Clinical Counselor Intern

Languages: English

Feeling heard and unconditionally accepted can help us feel safe while exploring the most vulnerable parts of ourselves. This is what I strive to provide you with as I help you summon your inner resources to build self-acceptance, empowerment, and inner peace. It is easy to believe that we do not deserve these things when feelings of guilt and shame prevent us from loving and forgiving ourselves. This can lead us to feel stuck in the past, making it hard to move forward. However, I believe that we are all capable of growing and achieving internal peace, hence why it is my honour and privilege to help you find yours.

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I am currently studying my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. Upon completion, I intend to become designated as a Registered Clinical Counsellor with the BCACC, with whom I currently hold a student membership. Prior to studying my Masters, I completed my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Simon Fraser University. I chose this path because I loved learning about people. During this time, I also volunteered for several non-profit organizations where I worked with diverse people in socially and therapeutically supportive ways. These experiences evolved my love for learning about people into a love for listening to their stories. However, my previous volunteer work as a crisis line call-taker truly confirmed my passion for playing an active role in supporting people therapeutically. It now brings me joy to be able to work with you as a counselling intern to process your pain and help you achieve your goals. 

My approach to therapy is primarily humanistic and integrative. Typically, I utilize a person-centred framework while incorporating elements of Gestalt, Existential, and Solution-Focused therapies. However, I also integrate elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy where relevant. My integrative style is likewise collaborative, strengths-based, and unconditionally regarding of your perspective and experiences. Moreover, it allows me to tailor a unique therapeutic experience to you and your reasons for seeking counselling. This allows me to be flexible with how I continuously uphold your best interests.

Here are just some of the areas I can help you with:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression 
  • Boundaries
  • LGBTQ+
  • Self-Esteem
  • Communication 
  • Life Transitions
  • Stress
  • Family and Relationship Conflict
  • Burnout
  • Suicide
  • Grief
  • Identity
  • Confidence
  • Guilt and Shame
  • Codependency
  • Women’s Issues
Michael Zibauer - Counsellor

DEMOGRAPHIC: Adults, Adolescents, Children, Older Adults, Couples, LGBTQIA+

SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Burnout, Emotion Regulation, Body Image, Self-Esteem, Relationship Issues, Trauma, Grief and Loss

AGES: Over 6

Haylie Palichuk
MA Counselling Psychology
Clinical Counselor Intern

Languages: English

I believe that each person already has the inner resources to grow and make positive changes. But sometimes, we need some extra support accessing our resources. As a counsellor, I aim to foster a supportive, healing environment to help you connect with yourself, get in touch with your inner wisdom, and create meaningful changes in your life. 

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My work is largely informed by Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy, and I ground my practice in anti-oppressive values. This means that in our work together, I may offer an invitation to work with experiential activities, metaphors, imagery, and parts work to facilitate the therapeutic process. I may also invite you to consider the systems at play, whether that be the system within yourself, the system of your relationships, or the systems in broader society. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, so throughout the process, I will always emphasize choice, empowerment, and safety.

 

I am currently completing my Master of Counselling Psychology at Adler University to become a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (BCACC). Prior to my graduate studies, I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at the University of British Columbia. I have worked in the helping profession in many capacities, including coaching, supporting older adults, and answering crisis calls from people in the community. Currently, I work as a support worker for neurodivergent adults. 

Some of the areas I can support you with include:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Stress
  • Burnout
  • Emotion Regulation
  • Body Image
  • Self-Esteem
  • Relationship Issues
  • Trauma
  • Grief and Loss  

If you think we may be a good match, please reach out to Crossroads Collective. I look forward to meeting you and supporting you on your journey. 

Shannon Lawrence - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults & Parents

SPECIALTIES:  Child Play Therapy, Assessments for various Diagnoses, ADHD, Autism, ODD

Ages: Under and Over 6

Shannon Lawrence

Diploma of Applied Psychology and Counselling Counselor Candidate

Are you stuck at a crossroad in your life, and you are not sure which road to take? Let me assist you in teaching you the skills you need to grow yourself and or your children. I can help your child deal with unexpected life struggles and behaviors. Or are you struggling with a recent separation/divorce? I can help! I have experience in Play Therapy, CBT, Grief Therapy, and run Grief Support Groups. I can be utilized as a Behavioural Consultant, Play Therapist, or Grief Therapist. My goal is to help you support your child or support you in your journey right now.

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As an empathic listener for my clients, I treat them with kindness and a non-judgemental approach. I believe that all people pose an internal drive towards positive change and growth. Let me assist you in reaching new goals for your child/youth and family. I have had experience working with a wide range of children and families, blended, or separated.

Some of the diagnoses that I have worked with are Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, ODD, OCD, Behavior Issues, Stress, Autism, Grief. I have helped families in all these areas, plus more. I have a passion for teaching, playing, learning, and bringing out the best in all. Let me assist you on your journey or your child’s journey. We are in this together!

Counsellors - Mansi

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Young Adults, New Moms, Families

SPECIALTIES: Play therapy, Gender affirming LGBTQ+ care, Neuro diverse affirming, Anxiety, Fear, Self-esteem, Behaviour Intervention, School and academic related challenges, supporting parents with Autism/ADHD/ADD/ODD diagnosis and psychoeducation.

AGES: Under and Over 6

Mansi Parekh

MA Counselling Psychology
Clinical Counselor Intern

Languages: English, Hindi & Gujarati

Your story, your pain and your collection of struggles and memories are unique to you. My overall goal in therapy is to build a grounded relationship with my clients and facilitating them to. My approach is interactive, warm, and accepting; helping my client, which includes children, youth, young adult, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe. I follow eclectic approach to therapy as I believe there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. We will spend time understanding exactly what you are experiencing and why so that when you start making changes that improve your life, they will stick.

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I prefer in utilizing an integrative approach in which they blend different but complimentary theories to work with their client in the most effective way. This flexible approach enables the counselling experience to be tailored to the individual needs and style of each client. I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where relationship can thrive.

I have earned my Bachelor’s in Developmental Counseling and Master’s in Psychology from India. Also have 6+ years of experience of working with children and young youth both in elementary and secondary schools as a counselor and as academia support teacher. I plan to educate myself again in Canada starting May 2022 with master’s in counselling psychology. I have experience working with a broad range of mental health difficulties along with life challenges. I have worked alongside parents and teachers and other professionals. My main areas of focus are those who present with anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. I also work with those who have experienced grief/loss, life transitions (school, work, moving), anger, bullying/discrimination and conflict resolution.

Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults, Families

SPECIALTIES: Depression and Anxiety, Life transitions, Grief and Loss,  Substance Use and Addiction, Trauma, Illness

Ages: Under and Over 6

Ana-Maria Comia, DVATI, RTC
Registered Therapeutic Counselor, RTC

Languages: English, Romanian

Whether you are re-taking control of your life and starting over or you are looking to set time aside for your mental wellbeing, Art Therapy can help. Art Therapy is widely used as an auxiliary treatment for depression, illness and chronic pain, addiction and trauma. Children and Youth particularly respond well to Art Therapy as it offers a less confrontational approach to counseling.

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I have experience working with children and youth with various challenges stemming from parental separation, anxiety disorders, grief and loss and especially difficulties with social inclusion and feeling outcasted. I encourage you to reach out and start your wellness journey. I truly look forward to showing you how Art Therapy can help better your life.

I am an Art Therapist with over six years of experience providing trauma informed mental health and addictions support to vulnerable clients in Surrey. Art Therapy is a treatment approach that combines the creative process and psychotherapy, facilitating self-exploration and understanding.

A common misconception is that artistic ‘skill’ or ‘talent’ is required to benefit from art therapy. In fact, many artists find that their perfectionistic attitude towards their skill level promotes anxiety and a sense of failure. The purpose of Art Therapy is to promote wellness by engaging your creativity, playfulness and problem solving skills.

I have a Masters Level Diploma in Art Therapy from Vancouver Art Therapy Institute which followed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from University of British Columbia. My training background and experience includes community outreach, addictions and trauma work and family counselling. I have extensive experience working with children, teens and families and have a personal interest in connecting with families who are newly arrived in Canada.

As a young person who experienced uprooting one’s life and moving across the world to start over, I quickly found my passion working with children and youth in Surrey neighbourhoods where the kids often acted as English interpreters for their parents. These families had the unique challenge of finding that their children were more independent and capable of navigating their new environment and culture than they were. The disconnection and alienation they experienced created large gaps in communication causing anger and hurt on both sides. The youth centre programs I ran helped bridge this gap allowing the kids to draw strength from their resilience and find creative ways of engaging their parents and bringing the community together. I also participated in community outreach, forging alliances with at risk youth vulnerable to homelessness and addiction.

More recently I have been working with women struggling with trauma and multiple barriers (justice system involvement, homelessness, generational trauma, addiction) and found that Art Therapy provided something that regular psychotherapy couldn’t – a way to own their story and become authors of their own experience, creating something tangible out of their pain and self-advocating in the process.

How I work with clients:

I work with clients in a variety of ways and I cater my methods to my client’s needs and therapeutic goals. Often, I will introduce a client to a theme and suggest a directive which will touch on or evoke a response in that theme.

An example would be working with the theme of identity. I would ask the client to create a sculptural lifeline which would showcase their life journey, major life events, accomplishments etc. The client will have an opportunity to choose the size of the sculpture, materials used (wire, paper mache, cardboard, string) and which events or information to include. Some clients prefer to talk about their process while they are creating, while others prefer to discuss their results upon completion. A theme can be explored over a number of sessions and through various directives like masks, photos, body tracings, sculpture.

The resulting artistic product is the property of the client and retains the same confidentiality protection as the context discussed in a session. It is up to the client how the art is handled, stored or disposed of. As well, a client’s permission is required to share the art with others outside of the scope of supervision.

Here are some specific examples of clients I work with/have worked with in the past:

  • Child whose parents have recently separated and is experiencing extreme separation anxiety
  • Mother and young (4) child, fleeing domestic abuse and child acting out through aggression towards Mom
  • Young adult woman recently moved out from home due to Mom’s substance use, struggling with self-worth and depression.
  • Young woman awaiting trial for robbery, with multiple childhood trauma incidents, survivor of incest.
  • Autistic child experiencing alienation from peers and loneliness, rejection.
  • Autistic adult, exploring their authentic self and wanting to delve into their masking behaviour and repression of their intrinsic self regulation mechanisms.
  • Child who recently experienced the loss of an estranged parent due to suicide.
Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Families, Parents, Teens, Children

SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Parenting Support & Education for Children with Diagnosis, ADHD & Neurodiversity, Relationships, Behaviour Issues, Self-esteem/Self-worth, Self-harming, Mental Health, Coping Skills, Trauma, Fears, Grief and Loss.

Ages: Under and Over 6

Tara Anton
Registered Social Worker (RSW)

Languages: English

Parenting is one of life’s most challenging and rewarding adventures, that comes with no instruction guide. When life throws additional stressors in, parenting can quickly become overwhelming. Despite the plans we create, relationships are unpredictable – conflict and challenges can emerge. My goal is to help guide you while you process, navigate, and explore the unexpected in life in a safe space. My approach to play therapy is to create a warm, understanding, client-centred environment to support with compassion, empathy, and understanding to view your child’s situation holistically.

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I am a Master of Social Work student at Wilfrid Laurier University. While embarking on the journey to become a private counsellor, I also work with Fraser Health Authority as a Clinician Social Worker with an Assertive Community Treatment Team, supporting people daily with acute mental health struggles. Before this, I lived in Saskatchewan and worked as a crisis counsellor for over seven years, and have extensive experience in crisis intervention, solution-focused, and family-centred practice. I obtained my Bachelor of Social Work through the University of Regina in 2010, and have been a registered social worker in good standing for many years with the provincial bodies.

I have gained experience in counselling families and individuals through crisis situations. What brings me the most joy is supporting families, especially parents and children, to learn new ways of interacting and engaging with each other, to create more positive family dynamics and happy home lives. All behaviour has meaning and is an attempt to communicate.

Feel free to reach out if you are looking for assistance in navigating a difficult time in your family. I would love to provide guidance and empathy to help explore alternate perspectives and to heal and move forward toward a new, optimistic, hopeful path, for you and your child.

Areas I can support include, but are not limited to:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Parenting support
  • ADHD & Neurodiversity
  • Relationships
  • Behaviour issues
  • Women’s issues
  • Self-esteem/self-worth
  • Self-harming
  • Self-care
  • Coping skills
  • Trauma
  • Grief and loss
  • Parenting support
Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children (6+), Preteen, Teens, Youth, Young Adults

SPECIALTIES: Play Therapy for Anxieties, Depression, Families in Divorce, Blended Families, Bullying, Neurodiversity, Autism, ADHD, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Self-Esteem, LGBTQ2+

Ages: Over 6

Kaitlin Petter
Intern Counselor

Languages: English

You dedicate your life to keeping your child safe, and therapy for your child is a great way to extend that safety. In play therapy we build, with your child, a space where they can safely and wholly express the feelings they hold close to their heart. The connection between therapist and child can aid in developing a sense of autonomy and self-awareness that might be challenging to develop alone in their day-to-day environment.

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As a play therapist I believe deeply in providing my youth clients with the same level of respect, admiration, and confidence that I have with my adult clients. Youth clients actively develop their treatment plans as a team with myself and the loved ones they choose to include in their therapy. Together, we explore ways to get closer to our wellness goals. I take an affirming and acceptance approach to neurodivergence, and incorporate themes of self-discovery and advocacy for all of my clients. 

I work with youth clients of all ages to address areas like:

  • Divorce
  • Blended Families
  • Life transitions
  • Grief and loss
  • Identity development
  • ADHD
  • Autism
  • Comorbid mental health concerns
  • Traumas 
  • Bullying
  • Sports performance 
  • Sleep difficulties 
  • Anxiety 
  • Depression

Play therapy is an amazing array of techniques that can help children better express their experiences. Through a number of therapeutic games and activities; like painting, drawing, sand-tray, yoga, etc., we will help your child form a solid sense of connection with themselves, and a trusted adult (the therapist). I also offer modalities like walk-and-talk therapy that have additional therapeutic benefits of including movement and nature. If this, or other modalities, are of interest to you and your child we can create an individualised plan that best assists in your child’s therapeutic journey. I offer free 15 minute consultations, if you would like to learn more, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Teens, Adults, Couples, Families, Groups and Children

SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Codependency, Interpersonal Conflict, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Women’s Issues, Burnout, Grief and Loss, Guilt and Shame and any other concerns being faced

Amanpreet Kang
Intern Counselor

Languages: English, Punjabi, Hindi

“The most difficult thing in life is to know yourself.” – Thales (one of the Seven Sages of Ancient Greece)

I believe that life is a gift, and it presents us with unique experiences, situations and challenges every day. Navigating these becomes easy when we are supported by someone we can trust, when someone genuinely empathizes, when we are offered non-judgemental space and when we are heard with unconditional positive regard. I am humbled and honoured to support my clients by offering them a space to heal, discover themselves and live a fulfilling life.

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I strive to build a strong relationship with my clients and adopt a client centered approach to ensure that the counselling experience is tailored to the individual needs of each client. I work closely with my clients to identify the root causes of the concerns and problems faced by them. Specific interventions are used to bring about changes desired by clients and a sincere endeavour is made to ensure that the changes are adopted.

I am an experienced educator and have worked closely with individuals and teams for more than 20 years. This experience has allowed me to witness various facets of people’s lives, their thought processes, struggles, highs and lows, etc. Having lived and worked in different countries and by interacting with people from various cultural backgrounds, I’ve experienced both diversity and strong human connection. I am currently completing my Master’s in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University.

I am very passionate about helping young children, youth, adults, couples, and families process their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I would be honoured to assist clients to change any form of unhelpful thinking and build healthy coping strategies. I am equally as enthusiastic to work with caregivers and families to support in better understanding the why behind behaviours, strategies for dealing with diverse needs, and personal struggles.

Here are just some of the areas I can help you with:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Boundaries
  • LGBTQ+
  • Self-Esteem
  • Communication
  • Life Transitions
  • Stress
  • Family and Relationship Conflict
  • Burnout
  • Suicide
  • Grief
  • Identity
  • Confidence
  • Guilt and Shame
  • Codependency
Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Adults, Children, Adolescents, Families

SPECIALTIES: Anxiety, Depression, Stress, Codependency, Interpersonal Conflict, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions, Women’s Issues, Burnout, Grief and Loss, Guilt and Shame and any other concerns being faced

Natasha Sani
Intern Counselor

Languages: English

Taking steps toward counseling can be a brave move, especially for children and teens. I want you and your family to know that this journey isn’t one you’ll take alone. I believe in working together, making sure your needs and hopes are the center of our time together. We’ll go on this journey side by side, exploring your child’s experiences, finding their strengths, and moving toward positive changes.

In our sessions, I promise a safe, judgment-free space where your child can express themselves freely. I’m here to listen, guide, and help foster growth. Let’s work towards your goals, no matter how big or small they might feel.

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I am currently in the process of pursuing my Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology at Yorkville University. Upon completing this program, I aspire to obtain certification as a Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) through the CCPA and become a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) with the BCACC.

Prior to embarking on my master’s journey, I earned a Bachelor of Technology degree in forensic investigation at the British Columbia Institute of Technology. During this time, I gained valuable experience in forensic mental health and providing support to women escaping domestic violence. Through these roles, I developed a profound passion for working closely with clients and facilitating positive transformations through counselling.

My counseling style integrates various child-centered techniques tailored to each child’s needs. I focus on empowering them, strengthening their abilities, and setting goals together. Issues like anxiety, depression, social struggles, and life changes can be addressed through our collaborative approach.

Feel free to reach out; I’m here to support your child’s journey towards self-awareness and resilience. Together, we’ll explore how past experiences may affect their present, and I’ll provide tools to foster their growth.

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Coping Skills
  • Self-Esteem
  • Communication
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Family Dynamics
  • Emotional Regulation
  • Social Skills
  • Bullying
  • School-related Stress
  • Grief and Loss
  • Trauma
  • Play Therapy
  • Parent-Child Relationships
  • Life Transitions
Nadine Viker - Behavioural Technician

DEMOGRAPHIC: Children, Youth, Adults, Parents, Families

SPECIALTIES: Neurodivergent Children and Youth (Autism, ADD, ADHD, Sensory Processing), Anxiety, Depression, Past or Recent Trauma or Abuse, Coping Skills, Family and Relationship Conflict, Parenting, Divorce/Separation, Burnout, Career Planning, Self-Esteem and Self-Confidence Building, Stress Management, Personal Development, Emotional Regulation, Communication Skills, Life Transitions (New Parent), 2SLGBTQIA+ support

Brandi Woods
Associate & Virtual Counsellor

Languages: English

“Enter into children’s play, and you will find the place where their minds, hearts, and souls meet.” – Virginia Axline 

Play is powerful, and the language used by children. Children are often not able to communicate their feelings in the same way adults do. As such, traditional talk therapy is not always effective. Play therapy can be used to address behavioural or emotional concerns, attachment or relational issues, communication development and past traumatic experiences.

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Over the past decade, I have worked in the community with children and adolescents, both neurodiverse and neurotypical. I am passionate about working with the next generation and am deeply honoured when I am given the opportunity to help a child thrive. I believe in a collaborative relationship with parents and other caregivers to promote a positive support network to surround the child.

I wholeheartedly trust that every child can heal when met with genuine support in a safe and empathetic environment. Through a trauma-informed, culturally sensitive approach, children can explore their emotions and make sense of their inner world. A nurturing therapeutic relationship between a child and counsellor facilitates this process and may further help a child heal and flourish.

We are here to support you along your journey.

We are now accepting both virtual appointments as well as in-person appointments. Click below and schedule your first visit today!

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