Child & Youth Therapy

What Is Child & Youth Therapy?

Child & youth therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy tailored to the unique developmental, emotional and behavioural needs of children and adolescents. Rather than simply applying adult-therapy models, our clinicians use age-appropriate approaches—such as play therapy, art-based techniques, talk therapy and family sessions—to help younger clients express feelings, build coping skills, strengthen relationships and gain confidence.

This therapeutic process supports children and teens in understanding their emotions, improving social and academic functioning, and developing stronger self-regulation and resilience.

How Child & Youth Therapy Works

Child and youth therapy at Better Life Counselling Center is centered on developmentally informed, evidence-based approaches that support emotional, behavioural, and social growth. Our clinicians tailor treatment to each child or teen’s age, personality, strengths, and specific challenges, helping them gain coping strategies, stronger self-regulation, and improved relationships at home and school.

Therapeutic Approaches We Use

• Child-Parent Therapy
  Strengthens attachment, improves communication, and helps caregivers understand and respond to their child’s emotional needs.

• Play Therapy
  Uses play, role-play, movement, and creative interaction to help children express emotions and experiences they may not yet have words for.

• Art Therapy
  Supports emotional expression, problem-solving, and increased self-awareness through drawing, painting, and creative activities.

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  Helps older children and teens identify unhelpful thoughts and behaviours, build coping strategies, and manage anxiety, mood challenges, and school stress.

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) Skills
  Teaches emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and healthy communication—especially helpful for teens with big emotions or impulsivity.

• Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
  Integrates mindfulness practices to reduce stress, improve focus, and help young clients stay grounded and emotionally balanced.

What Families Can Expect

Therapy typically begins with a family-centered intake session to understand strengths, challenges, and goals. Depending on the needs of the child or teen, sessions may be:

• Individual (child or teen only)

• Parent-child sessions

• Caregiver consultation sessions

• Full family sessions

Our approach ensures that the young person receives support while the family system is also strengthened.