Grigore Counselling & Associates

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Child & Youth

Child & Youth Therapy

Child and youth counselling focuses on supporting children and adolescents (5-12 years old) in navigating emotional, behavioural, and social challenges. It provides a safe, nonjudgmental space where young people can explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. This type of counselling often addresses issues like anxiety, depression, trauma, bullying, family conflict, and self-esteem, using age-appropriate techniques such as play therapy, art therapy, and talk therapy. The goal is to help children and youth better understand themselves, improve their relationships, and thrive in their personal and academic lives.

  • Develop Emotional Resilience & Coping Skills
  • Improve Communication & Relationships
  • Increased Self-Esteem & Confidence

Clarity

Balance

Healing

Empowerment

How Does Child & Youth Therapy Work?

There are several different therapeutic modalities and approaches to working with children, youth, and adolescents, however, each share the following goals:

1. Emotional Resilience and Coping Skills:  Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents develop healthy ways to manage stress, regulate emotions, and cope with challenges like anxiety, depression, or trauma. These skills foster emotional resilience that benefits them throughout their lives.

2. Improved Communication and Relationships: Counselling encourages young people to express themselves more effectively and understand their emotions, improving their ability to communicate with family, peers, and teachers. This can lead to healthier and more supportive relationships.

3. Increased Self-Esteem and Confidence: Through therapy, young individuals may heal past emotional wounds, and gain a better understanding of themselves, their strengths, and how to navigate their struggles. This self-awareness boosts confidence and helps them feel more empowered in their daily lives.

4. What a Session Might Look Like: Generally, therapy sessions for children, youth, and adolescents are 50 minutes, and can occur online or in-person depending on the clinician’s approach. Approaches reflect the age and developmental stage of the client.

Child & Youth Therapy Can Help With...

Anxiety &
Depression

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents with anxiety and depression by providing a safe space to explore their feelings, develop healthier coping strategies, and challenge negative thought patterns to improve mood and build emotional resilience.
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ADHD &
Neurodivergence

Therapy helps children (5-12) with ADHD and neurodivergence by offering strategies to manage symptoms, improve focus and organization, and develop social and emotional skills, while fostering a positive understanding and acceptance of their unique neurological traits.
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Trauma
& PTSD

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents with trauma and PTSD by offering a safe and supportive environment to process their experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and develop healthy coping mechanisms to reclaim a sense of safety and control.
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Suicide &
Self-Harm

Therapy helps youth struggling with suicide and self-harm by providing compassionate support, addressing underlying emotional pain, teaching healthier ways to manage overwhelming feelings, and build a sense of hope and connection.
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Communication
& Relationships

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents improve communication and relationships by teaching them effective ways to express their thoughts and emotions, resolve conflicts, and build stronger, healthier connections with others.
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Bullying

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents affected by bullying by offering a safe space to process their experiences, build self-esteem, and develop assertiveness and coping strategies to navigate and address bullying situations effectively.
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School
Performance

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents improve school performance by addressing underlying emotional or behavioral challenges, enhancing focus and motivation, and teaching effective stress management and organizational skills.
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Anger &
Emotional Regulation

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents with anger and emotional regulation by teaching them healthy ways to identify, understand, and express their emotions while developing constructive coping strategies to manage intense feelings.
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Self-Esteem
& Identity

Therapy helps children, youth, and adolescents with self-esteem and identity by providing a supportive space to explore their sense of self, challenge negative beliefs, and develop a stronger, more positive self-image and a clearer understanding of their unique identity.
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What the Research Says...

Child & Youth Therapy Fast Facts

In a study assessing pediatric PTSD following a single-incident trauma where 43 children were provided EMDR, 42 were provided Cognitive Behaviour Writing Therapy (CBWT), and 18 remained in the waitlist group, both EMDR and CBWT proved effective. 92.5% of the children in the EMDR group lost their PTSD diagnosis (after just 140 minutes / 4.1sessions), and 90.2% of children in the CBWT group lost their PTSD diagnosis (after 227 minutes (5.4 session). All children in the waitlist experienced heightened anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms until they were treated.
de Roos C, van der Oord S, Zijlstra B, Lucassen S, Perrin S, Emmelkamp P, de Jongh A., 2017.Comparison of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, cognitive behavioral writing therapy, and wait-list in pediatric posttraumatic stress disorder following single-incident trauma: a multicenter randomized clinical trial. J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2017 Nov;58(11):1219-1228. doi: 10.1111/jcpp.12768. Epub 2017 Jun 28. PMID: 28660669.
CBT focuses on helping children recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. According to multiple meta-analyses, show CBT significantly reduces symptoms of generalized anxiety, social anxiety, and separation anxiety in children. Effect sizes range from moderate to large. CBT is also highly effective in reducing depressive symptoms in adolescents, with sustained results in follow-ups. CBT is also particularly effective for Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) and conduct issues when combined with parent training.
Weisz, J. R., Kuppens, S., Ng, M. Y., Vaughn-Coaxum, R. A., Ugueto, A. M., Eckshtain, D., & Corteselli, K. A. (2019)Are Psychotherapies for Young People Growing Stronger? Tracking Trends Over Time for Youth Anxiety, Depression, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Conduct Problems. Perspectives on Psychological Science, 14(2), 216-237. https://doi.org/10.1177/1745691618805436
Play therapy uses play as a medium to help children express emotions, process trauma, and improve coping skills. Research supports play therapy as a developmentally appropriate approach for children dealing with trauma or abuse. It is effective in helping younger children (ages 3–12) who struggle with emotional expression and regulation and promotes positive peer interaction.
Bratton, Sue & Ray, Dee & Rhine, Tammy & Jones, Leslie. (2005).The Efficacy of Play Therapy With Children: A Meta-Analytic Review of Treatment Outcomes. Professional Psychology: Research and Practice. 36. 376-390. 10.1037/0735-7028.36.4.376.
Play therapy offers numerous benefits for children and their families and has been shown to improved communication in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Play therapy enhances children's social skills and communication in a stress-free setting, involving parents to strengthen the parent-child bond, reducing parental stress. Additionally, it is cost-effective and has no notable side effects.
Elbeltagi, R., Al-Beltagi, M., Saeed, N., K., Alhawamdeh, R. 2023.Play therapy in children with autism: Its role, implications, and limitations. World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics. Vol. 12(1): 1-22. DOI: 10.5409/wjcp.v12.i1.1. Retrieved from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9850869/pdf/WJCP-12-1.pdf
EMDR is highly effective for children with PTSD and developmental trauma, including those affected by abuse, neglect, and violence. Single-event traumas often require 1–2 sessions, while chronic trauma may need several to process interconnected memories. For preverbal trauma, narrative techniques are used to activate and process memories. Beyond PTSD, EMDR helps with phobias, anxiety, depression, and neurodiverse challenges, enhancing emotional regulation and overall functioning. EMDR is also effective in unstable conditions, reducing symptoms and improving well-being even for high-risk children.
Struik, A. (2024).EMDR With Children. an Overview of Research and Clinical Practice. Journal of the New Zealand College of Clinical Psychologists, 34(1), 49–58. https:/​/​doi.org/​10.5281/​zenodo.10939142. Retrieved from: https://jnzccp.scholasticahq.com/article/94467-emdr-with-children-an-overview-of-research-and-clinical-practice
Despite the high prevalence of self-harm in adolescents, effective treatments are limited. Adolescents with borderline traits and repetitive self-harm are often seen as difficult to treat due to treatment reluctance, early dropout, and safety concerns. However, this first randomized trial of DBT-A shows it is possible to engage, retain, and treat these adolescents successfully and safely, with comparable results only seen in mentalization-based treatment (MBT-A).
Mehlum, Lars et al. Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents With Repeated Suicidal and Self-harming Behavior: A Randomized Trial. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, Volume 53, Issue 10, 1082 - 1091. Retrieved from: https://www.jaacap.org/article/S0890-8567(14)00499-7/fulltext
A review of ten high-quality trials involving 881 participants found that trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) significantly reduces post-traumatic stress symptoms in young people immediately after treatment and shows modest benefits at 12 months. While small positive effects were noted for depression and behavior problems initially, these were not sustained long-term. TF-CBT remains an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress in youth.
Cary CE, McMillen JC. (2012).The data behind the dissemination: a systematic review of trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy for use with children and youth. 2012. In: Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE): Quality-assessed Reviews [Internet]. York (UK): Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (UK); 1995-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK91652/
This study found that an intensive trauma-focused treatment combining prolonged exposure, EMDR therapy, and physical activity led to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms in adolescents and teens, with 81.5% showing clinically meaningful improvement. Of these, 63% no longer met the PTSD criteria at post-treatment, and results were sustained at 3-month follow-up. No adverse events or dropouts occurred during treatment, suggesting the program is both effective and safe for adolescents and teens with severe PTSD and comorbid psychiatric disorders.
van Pelt, Y., Fokkema, P., de Roos, C., & de Jongh, A. (2021).Effectiveness of an intensive treatment programme combining prolonged exposure and EMDR therapy for adolescents suffering from severe post-traumatic stress disorder. European Journal of Psychotraumatology. Vol.12(1). pp: 1-9. Retrieved from: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/20008198.2021.1917876#abstract

Pricing Options

We carefully hand-select and train our therapists to provide the highest level of evidence-based care for our clients.

Your wellbeing is our primary objective, so our goal is to help you reach your goal(s) as soon as possible.

We won’t keep you in treatment any longer than necessary.



Student therapist

$ 50
  • Supervised by Robert Grigore
  • Extended Benefits Covers All
  • Safe & Accepting Environment
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coming soon

Registered Therapist

$120-$180
  • Supervised by Robert Grigore
  • Extended Benefits Covers All
  • Evidence-Based Treatments
  • Specialized Training
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available

Certified EMDR Therapist

$180-$250
  • Supervised by Robert Grigore
  • Extended Benefits Covers Most or All
  • Evidence-Based Treatments
  • Specialized Certification in EMDR
  • Fastest Results*
  • No Homework
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available

* Studies show standard EMDR to produce clinically significant results in 1/4 of the time compared to standard treatment options. 50+ cases produced clinically significant results in as little as 3 days with our Total Immersion EMDR process, indicating this model produces clinically significant results in 1/24 the time as traditional therapy. Studies support our findings by indicating complicated clinical issues can be resolved with an intensive format when combined with high and low intensity physical activity (Bongaerts, et. al., 2017; Mendez, et. al, 2018).

Changing your life can be easier than you think.

Free 20 Minute Consultation

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

Your child may benefit from therapy if they show persistent changes in mood, behavior, or performance, such as increased sadness, anxiety, anger, withdrawal from family or friends, trouble concentrating, or a decline in school performance. Other signs include difficulty managing emotions, frequent conflicts with others, changes in eating or sleeping habits, or expressions of hopelessness or self-harm. If these concerns interfere with their daily life or well-being, seeking therapy can provide support and tools to help them thrive.

Our clinicians who specialize in working with children generally bring an assortment of skills and approaches to ensure your child’s unique needs are addressed. There isn’t a one-size fits-all approach with child therapy, as we’ve found it beneficial to be skilled in various methods.

Most of our sessions are virtual aside from VIP EMDR Retreats (some of our Associates may elect to offer the occasional in-person session, so it’s important to check with them).

While offering virtual sessions nearly exclusively may seem unorthodox, during the COVID-19 pandemic lock-down, Robert discovered virtual sessions were superior in many ways to in-person sessions.

Some reasons for this are: allowing clients to meet in the comfort of their home or office, allowed clients to reach a new level of authenticity by not needing to get “dressed up for the world;” and not needing to account for travel time was greatly appreciated by most of our clients who have busy schedules. Furthermore, virtual sessions require the therapist to attune much more deeply to their client, and having a therapist who is even more deeply attuned to their client, can only benefit treatment.

However, with that said we will check-in to ensure sessions are working for your child.

Child therapy sessions are tailored to the child’s age, needs, and preferences, creating a safe and supportive environment. Sessions often use creative, age-appropriate methods like play therapy, art activities, storytelling, or games to help younger children express emotions and process experiences. For older children and adolescents, sessions may include more structured conversations, problem-solving, and skill-building exercises. Therapists may also work on specific goals, such as managing anxiety, improving relationships, or building self-esteem, while involving parents or caregivers in the process to ensure a collaborative and supportive approach.

You can tell therapy is working for your child if you notice positive changes in their behavior, mood, or interactions. They may become more open in expressing their feelings, better able to manage emotions like frustration or sadness, or show improved relationships with family and peers. Other signs include increased confidence, reduced stress or anxiety, and progress toward specific goals set in therapy, such as improved coping skills or better school performance. Consistent communication with the therapist can also provide insights into your child’s growth and milestones during the process.

Therapy is generally a positive and supportive process, but it can sometimes bring temporary discomfort as children, youth, or adolescents explore difficult emotions or experiences. They may initially feel more emotional, tired, or resistant as they begin to process challenging issues. Additionally, discussing sensitive topics might lead to short-term changes in mood or behavior. However, these reactions are usually part of the healing process and tend to improve as they continue therapy. Open communication with the therapist can help address any concerns and ensure the child feels supported throughout their journey.

Yes, absolutely! Many children benefit from a combination of therapy and medication, depending on their specific needs. Medication can help manage symptoms that might otherwise make it hard for your child to fully engage in therapy, like severe anxiety, depression, or ADHD. Meanwhile, therapy provides tools, coping skills, and emotional support to address the root causes of their challenges and foster long-term growth.

If you’re considering this approach, it’s essential to have open communication between your child’s therapist and the prescribing doctor to ensure the treatment plan is cohesive and tailored to your child’s well-being. A collaborative approach often leads to the best outcomes!

Your child’s therapist will use a combination of approaches they are trained in that best suit the needs of your child. Each child may require a different approach, but rest assured, whichever approach is used, it will be an evidence-based approach when working with us. If you have any further questions or concerns, please speak with your child’s therapist.

Most likely. It’s important to check with your insurance carrier to determine if they cover “Registered Clinical Counselling,” “Clinical Counselling,” “Counselling,” “Mental Health Counselling,” “Psychotherapy,” “Psychological Services.”

We have conveniently included most insurance carriers where our services are accepted (although others who have not been included may still provide reimbursement). 

If you determine your carrier will accept our services in full or in part, you are required to pay in full for our services, and then seek reimbursement from your insurance carrier.

It’s important to learn which designation your insurance carrier covers prior to your consultation and then discuss this matter prior to commencing services.

It’s confusing isn’t it? Let’s bring some clarity here.

Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD’s) with a focus on mental health. They can formally diagnose and prescribe medications.

Psychologists are “doctors of psychology” but are not medical doctors. They have a PhD. They are allowed to diagnose mental health conditions, conduct psychological assessments, but cannot prescribe medications.

Psychotherapists and Clinical Counsellors are interchangeable designations where each province will have certain protected rights to use a particular designation. For example, in British Columbia, we are called either Registered Clinical Counsellors or Certified Clinical Counsellors; in Ontario the term used is Registered Psychotherapist. Counsellors/Psychotherapists (whichever term is used) generally have a MA level degree, are able to conduct psychological /counselling services but are not able to formally diagnose, assess, or prescribe medication. 

Social Workers are able to conduct counselling sessions and are governed by the College of Social Workers. They may also belong to other professional associations and conduct therapy/counselling/psychotherapy within those guidelines.

Social workers most often have a MA level degree, and like Clinical Counsellors/Psychotherapists, cannot formally diagnose, assess, or prescribe medication.

Hope that helps!

Free copy of Robert's book!

Dive deeper into EMDR and learn why You NEED Therapy!  Hint: Robert believes we all need therapy ;)

Inside you’ll discover:

  • Neurobiology of trauma
  • 30+ years of EMDR research
  • EMDR case studies and real client testimonials
  • Detailed overview of EMDR’s 8-Phase Standard Protocol
  • How to find the right EMDR therapist for you (and what to ask them)