What is Counselling?

Counselling is an intervention for when children or youth have mental health and behaviour challenges that disrupt their social, physical, intellectual or spiritual wellness. A trained and registered psychotherapist or social worker can support children, adolescents and adults by talking about and working through their behaviours, beliefs, feelings, or relationship issues that may be impacting your mental health or well being. These counsellors are there to listen to you in a non-judgemental and compassionate way. They create a safe space for you to open up at a pace you feel comfortable with and will offer you appropriate feedback.

Counselling will help clients to learn about taking control of their life in a way that is positive and meaningful, and to respond to challenging situations with healthy coping skills and strategies. In psychotherapy, the relationship with the therapist is confidential, except in situations where there is a disclosure of self harm to themselves or another.

What is a Registered Psychotherapist or Social Worker?

A Registered Psychotherapist or Social Worker is a trained practitioner who is in good standing with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario or Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.

How do I know if a child needs Counsellor?

Your child may benefit from counselling if they struggle with one or more of the following:

  • Feelings such as anger, sadness, fear, frustration and/or depression
  • Difficulty speaking up in class, constant worrying, self doubt
  • Disruptive behaviour not listening, getting angry or aggressive and bullying
  • Substance Abuse
  • Stress or worries about life, school
  • Poor school achievement or attendance issues
  • Social issues such as feeling like you do not fit in and poor relationships
  • Negative thoughts about yourself and life, or suicidal thoughts.
  • Experienced trauma such as a sudden death or sexual assault or abuse
  • Grieving the death of a loved one, friendship loss, parents separating or going through a divorce or illness.
  • Self harm
  • Sexually acting out
  • Family Concerns

How do I refer a child or youth for Counselling?

To learn more, or refer a child or youth for counselling, please complete the online referral form or contact the special education team at your child’s school.