Child Therapists in Victoria, BC
We work to empower and support adults, children, parents, couples and families through mutual respect, empathy, and effective therapeutic practices.
We have been serving individuals, couples and families with compassion and care for over 10 years at Heartwood Family Wellness. Our clinicians have established a strong reputation in the community doing exceptional work with adults, children, youth, parents, couples, and families. We help people of all ages and life stages with anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, self-esteem, self-worth, family transitions, parenting skills, grief and loss, and neurodiversity.
We work to empower and support adults, children, parents, couples and families through mutual respect, empathy, and effective therapeutic practices.
We have been serving individuals, couples and families with compassion and care for over 10 years at Heartwood Family Wellness. Our clinicians have established a strong reputation in the community doing exceptional work with adults, children, youth, parents, couples, and families. We help people of all ages and life stages with anxiety, depression, life transitions, divorce, self-esteem, self-worth, family transitions, parenting skills, grief and loss, and neurodiversity.
My expertise is in Neuropsychology and Child and Adolescent Mental Health.
I provide psychological, psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments for children, youth and adults. An assessment can be useful in order to understand the nature of an individual's learning needs, certain behaviours, and/or emotional challenges. It can provide specific diagnoses (e.g. ADHD, Specific Learning Disabilities, Anxiety), or simply help to identify a person's strengths and any weaknesses. Ultimately, the goal of an assessment is to make recommendations that will promote wellbeing and help an individual to be successful. In addition to assessments, I also offer some individual therapy and parenting support.
My expertise is in Neuropsychology and Child and Adolescent Mental Health.
I provide psychological, psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments for children, youth and adults. An assessment can be useful in order to understand the nature of an individual's learning needs, certain behaviours, and/or emotional challenges. It can provide specific diagnoses (e.g. ADHD, Specific Learning Disabilities, Anxiety), or simply help to identify a person's strengths and any weaknesses. Ultimately, the goal of an assessment is to make recommendations that will promote wellbeing and help an individual to be successful. In addition to assessments, I also offer some individual therapy and parenting support.
Trying to understand your child's struggles and issues can be hard.
Is your child struggling at school? Are teachers raising concerns that they may have a learning issue, or attention problems, or other issues that are interfering with their ability to be successful at school? Or is your child showing signs of emotional issues, and you wonder if it's normal or whether it might be something more serious, like depression, an anxiety disorder, or distorted thinking?
Trying to understand your child's struggles and issues can be hard.
Is your child struggling at school? Are teachers raising concerns that they may have a learning issue, or attention problems, or other issues that are interfering with their ability to be successful at school? Or is your child showing signs of emotional issues, and you wonder if it's normal or whether it might be something more serious, like depression, an anxiety disorder, or distorted thinking?
I am a psychologist who has made it my life's work to help young people and adults using research-based approaches. I specialize in working with children and adolescents as well as adult veterans and their families, and I have specialized training in psychological assessment (such as psycho-educational assessment) and therapy (such as cognitive-behavioural therapy). I have worked with thousands of people, including with gifted, autistic, and otherwise exceptional children. I also have significant experience working with teachers, police, military and veterans, first responders, and physicians.
I am a psychologist who has made it my life's work to help young people and adults using research-based approaches. I specialize in working with children and adolescents as well as adult veterans and their families, and I have specialized training in psychological assessment (such as psycho-educational assessment) and therapy (such as cognitive-behavioural therapy). I have worked with thousands of people, including with gifted, autistic, and otherwise exceptional children. I also have significant experience working with teachers, police, military and veterans, first responders, and physicians.
I am also experienced in navigating the Autism world and Autism Funding System in BC, and therefore love to support parents and children in that realm.
My passion is to support neurodiverse and any children/youth who are just trying to grow up and figure out life in their own unique way. We are all complex and different, so I strive to honor that along with build upon our own strengths. No one is perfect, but there is always room to grow. If we can build these tools early, what is more fulfilling than seeing our young ones find their true selves and flourish to their full potential? Let's cultivate resilient souls, in a harsh world. I additionally love to support parents who just want the best for their children, along with anyone trying to find their way through this life journey.
I am also experienced in navigating the Autism world and Autism Funding System in BC, and therefore love to support parents and children in that realm.
My passion is to support neurodiverse and any children/youth who are just trying to grow up and figure out life in their own unique way. We are all complex and different, so I strive to honor that along with build upon our own strengths. No one is perfect, but there is always room to grow. If we can build these tools early, what is more fulfilling than seeing our young ones find their true selves and flourish to their full potential? Let's cultivate resilient souls, in a harsh world. I additionally love to support parents who just want the best for their children, along with anyone trying to find their way through this life journey.
Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions run high—for you and your child.
Are you a parent overwhelmed by emotional outbursts, power struggles, or a constant cycle of frustration and guilt? Managing your own emotions while helping your child with theirs can feel challenging, especially with anxiety, anger, or stress at play. You may feel uncertain about responding calmly to intense moments and wish for more peace in your home. Parents I work with want lasting solutions for greater calm, connection, and confidence. Whether you need parenting support or resources for your child, we can help you find your way through the chaos and back to calm.
Parenting can feel overwhelming, especially when emotions run high—for you and your child.
Are you a parent overwhelmed by emotional outbursts, power struggles, or a constant cycle of frustration and guilt? Managing your own emotions while helping your child with theirs can feel challenging, especially with anxiety, anger, or stress at play. You may feel uncertain about responding calmly to intense moments and wish for more peace in your home. Parents I work with want lasting solutions for greater calm, connection, and confidence. Whether you need parenting support or resources for your child, we can help you find your way through the chaos and back to calm.
Maxine (Fisher) Saunders
Counsellor, MEd, RCC, MTA, Music, Therapy
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8X
Healthy change is possible and you do not have to face challenges alone. It can be very difficult to seek help and reach out during hard times. If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step towards well being. Finding a counsellor who you feel comfortable with is an essential part of the healing process. I would be happy to talk with you. Supporting individuals, families, youth and children for over 24 years. This is the time to take the best care of ourselves and our loved ones. Triggers arise now more than ever and support is available.
Healthy change is possible and you do not have to face challenges alone. It can be very difficult to seek help and reach out during hard times. If you are reading this then you have already taken the first step towards well being. Finding a counsellor who you feel comfortable with is an essential part of the healing process. I would be happy to talk with you. Supporting individuals, families, youth and children for over 24 years. This is the time to take the best care of ourselves and our loved ones. Triggers arise now more than ever and support is available.
Just when we think things are going well, something can happen to shift everything off balance... Even at the best of times, we are dealing with all kinds of stress (ex. money, family, work). And this is why I got into counselling; because I truly believe that with 1:1 support we are provided freedom to explore those feelings, emotions, behaviours, and find practical tools to experience relief. While I counsel adults and couples, I also really enjoying counselling children and youth. I'm accepting new clients, so please feel free reach out and schedule a free consultation!
Just when we think things are going well, something can happen to shift everything off balance... Even at the best of times, we are dealing with all kinds of stress (ex. money, family, work). And this is why I got into counselling; because I truly believe that with 1:1 support we are provided freedom to explore those feelings, emotions, behaviours, and find practical tools to experience relief. While I counsel adults and couples, I also really enjoying counselling children and youth. I'm accepting new clients, so please feel free reach out and schedule a free consultation!
I am here to support and guide you through the journey of understanding your child's needs.
Understanding the challenges of being a parent with a child who struggles in school can be overwhelming, especially when an assessment is recommended. As a Registered Psychologist specializing in child assessment and counselling, I provide clarity and support through these complex times. My practice is dedicated to helping you navigate this journey, ensuring your child receives the comprehensive care they need to thrive academically and personally. Let's work together to turn these challenges into stepping stones for success.
I am here to support and guide you through the journey of understanding your child's needs.
Understanding the challenges of being a parent with a child who struggles in school can be overwhelming, especially when an assessment is recommended. As a Registered Psychologist specializing in child assessment and counselling, I provide clarity and support through these complex times. My practice is dedicated to helping you navigate this journey, ensuring your child receives the comprehensive care they need to thrive academically and personally. Let's work together to turn these challenges into stepping stones for success.
I feel passionate about working with children, utilizing practices that align with their developmental needs, and supporting them and their families through the journey of learning, healing, and growth.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor committed to working with people to support them through the challenges that life brings, and to nurture personal growth through practices that feel right for each individual client. I bring gentle curiosity to my practice, fostering an environment of empathy, safety, and empowerment where clients may share the unique and intricate pieces of themselves. I also aim to bring a sense of lightness to my work, by creating an atmosphere where humour and joy can co-exist with hardships.
I feel passionate about working with children, utilizing practices that align with their developmental needs, and supporting them and their families through the journey of learning, healing, and growth.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor committed to working with people to support them through the challenges that life brings, and to nurture personal growth through practices that feel right for each individual client. I bring gentle curiosity to my practice, fostering an environment of empathy, safety, and empowerment where clients may share the unique and intricate pieces of themselves. I also aim to bring a sense of lightness to my work, by creating an atmosphere where humour and joy can co-exist with hardships.
With attention and compassion, as well as effective tools, we can process what feels difficult for you and your child so that you experience greater peace, connection and joy in your life.
The best feeling is knowing who we are and feeling safe to be ourselves in the world. I love working with parents and caregivers on the challenges you face, and with you and your child on the underlying reasons for their behaviour. Children do what they do in order to get a need met. Once we understand the protective system of ourselves and our children we can meet our children where they need us most. Health in the early years is linked to health across the lifespan and therapy can lay the foundation for your child's well-being over time.
With attention and compassion, as well as effective tools, we can process what feels difficult for you and your child so that you experience greater peace, connection and joy in your life.
The best feeling is knowing who we are and feeling safe to be ourselves in the world. I love working with parents and caregivers on the challenges you face, and with you and your child on the underlying reasons for their behaviour. Children do what they do in order to get a need met. Once we understand the protective system of ourselves and our children we can meet our children where they need us most. Health in the early years is linked to health across the lifespan and therapy can lay the foundation for your child's well-being over time.
15 Second Videos
Does your life feel out of balance? Do you struggle to slow down? Are anger or sadness too present in your life? Is your child or teen struggling and you just don’t know how to help them? You are not alone. With 20 years of mental health counselling experience, I can confidently offer you a safe, and supportive space in which to explore and work through challenges. Sometimes we all hold on to issues longer than we need too - but in the context of a healthy therapeutic relationship, it is amazing how much healing can take place. When you feel ready, please reach out.
Does your life feel out of balance? Do you struggle to slow down? Are anger or sadness too present in your life? Is your child or teen struggling and you just don’t know how to help them? You are not alone. With 20 years of mental health counselling experience, I can confidently offer you a safe, and supportive space in which to explore and work through challenges. Sometimes we all hold on to issues longer than we need too - but in the context of a healthy therapeutic relationship, it is amazing how much healing can take place. When you feel ready, please reach out.
At Calm Kids Counselling, I provide support for children, youth, and families experiencing challenges related to school and/or home. Using a child-centered approach, I work with families to build balance and connection through a focus on strengths, problem-solving and coping skills, and play. My areas of practice include social and emotional difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, school avoidance and anxiety, parenting skills, prenatal and postpartum health, and peer and family relationships.
At Calm Kids Counselling, I provide support for children, youth, and families experiencing challenges related to school and/or home. Using a child-centered approach, I work with families to build balance and connection through a focus on strengths, problem-solving and coping skills, and play. My areas of practice include social and emotional difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, school avoidance and anxiety, parenting skills, prenatal and postpartum health, and peer and family relationships.
Her work experience has spanned from group homes for youth and transition homes, to working with youth in high schools, and children and staff as a School District Elementary Counsellor, to over a decade with the Provincial Government in Child Protection and Child & Youth Mental Health direct service delivery and public policy.
Leanne was born and raised in the Lower Mainland, and has lived and worked in communities across Northern and Central British Columbia. She currently resides in Victoria, where she is active in the community supporting many initiatives, having run various programs and projects supporting youth and the community at large. Leanne holds a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology, and a Bachelor of Arts in Child & Youth Care, with numerous diplomas and certificates acquired over years of experience in the field of mental wellness.
Her work experience has spanned from group homes for youth and transition homes, to working with youth in high schools, and children and staff as a School District Elementary Counsellor, to over a decade with the Provincial Government in Child Protection and Child & Youth Mental Health direct service delivery and public policy.
Leanne was born and raised in the Lower Mainland, and has lived and worked in communities across Northern and Central British Columbia. She currently resides in Victoria, where she is active in the community supporting many initiatives, having run various programs and projects supporting youth and the community at large. Leanne holds a Masters Degree in Counselling Psychology, and a Bachelor of Arts in Child & Youth Care, with numerous diplomas and certificates acquired over years of experience in the field of mental wellness.
I provide therapeutic support for children and youth using cognitive behavioral and person centered approaches.
I offer psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments primarily for children to young adults. I specialize in learning disorders, ADHD, executive function challenges, as well as the impact of complex developmental and neurological issues on learning and behavior. I do not provide diagnostic assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, however I believe that a comprehensive assessment to outline how an individual on the spectrum learns best can be extremely helpful.
I provide therapeutic support for children and youth using cognitive behavioral and person centered approaches.
I offer psycho-educational and neuropsychological assessments primarily for children to young adults. I specialize in learning disorders, ADHD, executive function challenges, as well as the impact of complex developmental and neurological issues on learning and behavior. I do not provide diagnostic assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders, however I believe that a comprehensive assessment to outline how an individual on the spectrum learns best can be extremely helpful.
Is your past affecting your present or your parenting? Is your child explosive or anxious? Do you wish your a startle reflex wasn't so strong? Want to explore your identities or have them understood so you can work on other issues at hand? Have you tried other therapy and is has helped but you didn't feel like you were getting enough out of it, or you have great coping skills but you want to thrive rather than cope? Maybe EMDR, Animal Assisted Interventions, Emotion Focused Family Therapy or Play Therapy is right for you!
Is your past affecting your present or your parenting? Is your child explosive or anxious? Do you wish your a startle reflex wasn't so strong? Want to explore your identities or have them understood so you can work on other issues at hand? Have you tried other therapy and is has helped but you didn't feel like you were getting enough out of it, or you have great coping skills but you want to thrive rather than cope? Maybe EMDR, Animal Assisted Interventions, Emotion Focused Family Therapy or Play Therapy is right for you!
This creates accessibility for parents to counselling, cancelling the need for child care.
Located near Uvic, my practice continues to be working with children, youth and adults who are experiencing anxiety, ADHD, trauma and the behavioural outcomes that accompany these experiences. This includes working with families and the family system to create treatment and interventions that can aid the client and their family to develop a greater understanding of the causes and effects of their dynamics. I often build my counselling relationships with all family members, either individually or in small group sessions, to create a clear picture of the family dynamic we will be working with.
This creates accessibility for parents to counselling, cancelling the need for child care.
Located near Uvic, my practice continues to be working with children, youth and adults who are experiencing anxiety, ADHD, trauma and the behavioural outcomes that accompany these experiences. This includes working with families and the family system to create treatment and interventions that can aid the client and their family to develop a greater understanding of the causes and effects of their dynamics. I often build my counselling relationships with all family members, either individually or in small group sessions, to create a clear picture of the family dynamic we will be working with.
As a former teacher and school counsellor, I have a great deal of experience supporting children and adolescents' mental health, particularly in the context of school-based challenges.
I love to provide inclusive counselling for children and adolescents. My clients are usually between the ages of 6 to 19. My priority is practicing neurodiversity-affirming care in a kind, safe, and accepting space where strengths and differences are celebrated. The goal is not to change the person, but to adapt the systems around them and develop coping strategies that promote well-being and authenticity. Self-understanding, self-compassion, and sensory-based regulation are the priority.
As a former teacher and school counsellor, I have a great deal of experience supporting children and adolescents' mental health, particularly in the context of school-based challenges.
I love to provide inclusive counselling for children and adolescents. My clients are usually between the ages of 6 to 19. My priority is practicing neurodiversity-affirming care in a kind, safe, and accepting space where strengths and differences are celebrated. The goal is not to change the person, but to adapt the systems around them and develop coping strategies that promote well-being and authenticity. Self-understanding, self-compassion, and sensory-based regulation are the priority.
EMDR and playful EMDR for children helps people process their traumatic incident without a great need to discuss in detail.
Children, youth and young adults, who are dealing with past or present trauma with PTSD or c-PTSD symptoms that include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, anxiety, and sleep problems and disociative symptoms. I also work with depression, aggression or mood swings and disordered eating.
EMDR and playful EMDR for children helps people process their traumatic incident without a great need to discuss in detail.
Children, youth and young adults, who are dealing with past or present trauma with PTSD or c-PTSD symptoms that include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, anxiety, and sleep problems and disociative symptoms. I also work with depression, aggression or mood swings and disordered eating.
You’re looking for a counsellor who can help both you & your child with making sense of the big reactions – the ones that sometimes seem saved just for home.
What a time we are all having right now! How are you doing? Something is bothering you – which is why you’re here. You have a lot going on, time is something that you have no problem filling, in fact, slowing down & quieting your constantly moving brain can pose a challenge. Maybe you’re concerned about your child; you thought it was going to get better, but it hasn’t & now you worry it’s going to get worse. You need help. You want solutions – for yourself, your child/teen & your family. You’ve consulted family, friends, Oprah & your Instagram feed & you’ve run out of ideas. It’s time for a change.
You’re looking for a counsellor who can help both you & your child with making sense of the big reactions – the ones that sometimes seem saved just for home.
What a time we are all having right now! How are you doing? Something is bothering you – which is why you’re here. You have a lot going on, time is something that you have no problem filling, in fact, slowing down & quieting your constantly moving brain can pose a challenge. Maybe you’re concerned about your child; you thought it was going to get better, but it hasn’t & now you worry it’s going to get worse. You need help. You want solutions – for yourself, your child/teen & your family. You’ve consulted family, friends, Oprah & your Instagram feed & you’ve run out of ideas. It’s time for a change.
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Child psychologists in Victoria, BC provide mental health therapy to children and are experts in child development.
Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.
The best child therapists in Victoria build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.
Every comprehensive review of therapy with children shows that all credible approaches, when performed by a competent mental health clinician, produce almost the same results. About half of all kids will get better. Of those that improve, 80% will show progress in a relatively short time, while the remaining 20% will need longer-term support.
The best child therapists in Victoria build great relationships with the child and the parent. They also see the child's strengths and are open to hearing the child's possible solutions to the challenges the child faces. Finally, a good therapist appreciates the child's culture and is sensitive to the values of the child's community.