Child and Youth Counselling

Counselling for children and youth addresses their individual needs through developmentally appropriate approaches. Developing a safe relationship is integral to this process, so I take time to connect with each individual to create a safe environment that suits their specific needs. Each child is different. Some may connect with art or games, while others may seek a safe haven to talk through life’s challenges. This is why I tailor my sessions to each client to ensure they feel heard, supported and seen in the counselling room.

The goal at Gillian Tuyp Counselling is to provide children and youth with the experience of consistent, repetitive, predictable and compassionate care with an adult. Recovery from trauma, emotional distress, and attachment rupture is all about relationships. Therefore, I hope to rebuild trust, develop confidence, and provide emotional safety through the experience of a caring and genuine therapeutic relationship. This alone can buffer the pain, stress and loss associated with many presenting concerns, including trauma, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, self-harm, grief, and parental separation. From there, I will incorporate aspects of mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and somatic and emotion-focused therapy to address presenting concerns.

Caregivers/parents are encouraged to participate in parent support while their child engages in counselling. That way, I can support you in providing your child the nurturing and support they require to heal and develop resiliency.