Specialized Child & Youth Counselling in Coquitlam, BC
Children and adolescents don't always have the words to explain what they're going through. Their struggles may show up in their behaviour, relationships, schoolwork, play or changes in mood.
At Bright Minds Counselling in Coquitlam, our child and teen counsellors have specialized training in developmentally appropriate approaches, including play, expressive and talk-based therapies. We tailor counselling to each young person's age and needs, helping them build emotional awareness, coping skills and confidence.
When Your Child is Struggling
Families may seek counselling when a child or teen is experiencing:
Anxiety or excessive worry School-related stress
Emotional dysregulation and big reactions Family changes, separation or divorce
Behavioural challenges Trauma or difficult experiences
ADHD and executive-function difficulties Grief and loss
Self-esteem or confidence concerns Anger or aggression
Social or relationship difficulties Difficulty coping with emotions or everyday challenges
Children communicate differently depending on their age and development. Younger children may express themselves through play and behaviour, while older children and teens may prefer conversation or a combination of approaches.
Therapy is tailored to each young person's communication style, needs and goals. Parents and caregivers may also be involved to help support progress outside sessions.
Play, Expressive & Synergetic Therapy in Coquitlam
Play can be a child's natural language. In therapy, however, play is more than simply an activity or a way to keep a child occupied.
Specialized child and youth therapists use play and expressive activities intentionally to observe, connect, communicate and support therapeutic goals. Depending on the child, this may include toys, art, creative activities, movement, storytelling, sensory experiences or conversation.
Play Therapy: Helps children express feelings, work through experiences and develop coping skills through play.
Expressive Arts Therapy: Uses creative activities such as art, storytelling and movement to help children explore and communicate their experiences.
Synergetic Play Therapy: Integrates play therapy, neuroscience, attachment and nervous system regulation to support children's emotional and relational development.
Therapy at Different Ages
Early Childhood
Therapy may focus on play, attachment, co-regulation, emotional development and caregiver involvement. Parents and caregivers are often an important part of the therapeutic process.
School Age
Sessions may combine play, expressive activities and conversation to support emotional awareness, coping skills, behaviour and relationships.
Teens
Teen counselling may combine conversation, expressive activities and practical strategies to address anxiety, ADHD, emotional regulation, relationships, school stress and other challenges.
What Does a Child & Youth Session Look Like?
Sessions may include play, expressive arts, conversation or creative activities, depending on your child's age and goals. Your counsellor actively observes, responds and uses therapeutic interventions throughout the session.
Caregivers may be involved at the beginning or end of sessions, and separate parent check-ins can help you understand your child's progress and support their goals at home.
Parents Are Part of the Process
Depending on your child's needs, parent support may include:
Caregiver intake and check-in sessions
Parent coaching and education
Understanding developmental needs and behaviour
Co-regulation strategies
Communication tools
Practical strategies for home
Support with routines, boundaries and emotional regulation
Coming Soon: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Specialized parent coaching for children ages 2–7
Sarah MacDonell is completing specialized training and certification in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), an evidence-based approach for young children experiencing behavioural challenges.
PCIT involves live coaching while parents interact and play with their child, helping strengthen their relationship and build positive parenting skills.
PCIT sessions coming soon. Join the waitlist to express your interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use play or expressive therapy instead of talk therapy?
Children do not always have the developmental ability or comfort to explain their internal experiences through conversation. Play, creative expression and experiential approaches can give children additional ways to communicate, explore emotions and work through challenges.
How many sessions will my child need?
There is no fixed number of sessions. The length of counselling depends on your child's needs, goals and progress. We review goals throughout the process and adjust the approach as needed.
Can parents receive support without their child attending counselling?
Yes. Parent support sessions can be helpful when caregivers want guidance around their child's behaviour, emotional regulation, development, communication or family circumstances. Your child does not necessarily need to attend counselling for parents to seek support.
Fees
50-minute Child & Youth Counselling Session $160
50-minute Parent Intake Session $160
Not Sure Which Counsellor Is the Right Fit?
Book a complimentary 20-minute phone consultation to discuss your concerns and help determine which counsellor and approach may best suit your child.
Direct billing is available for many extended health plans, including Pacific Blue Cross, Canada Life, Desjardins, Manulife, Beneva, Equitable and others.
Located in Coquitlam, Bright Minds Counselling serves families and individuals throughout Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities. Online counselling is also available throughout British Columbia for eligible clients and services.