Photo of Synergia Counselling and Consulting, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Synergia Counselling and Consulting
Counsellor, RCC, MA, MREM
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
I draw from a range approaches depending upon your needs and preferences. Among them are cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiological ideas, family systems therapy, and attachment theory. It is common for clients to arrive with issues identified only to discover that there are other deeper and more fundamental issues which underlie them. I work at a pace compatible with your ability to integrate change. I am gentle and encouraging, but firm and forthright. I provide a free initial consultation so you can determine whether you feel comfortable with me. My aim is for you to feel welcome, safe and comfortably challenged.
I draw from a range approaches depending upon your needs and preferences. Among them are cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal neurobiological ideas, family systems therapy, and attachment theory. It is common for clients to arrive with issues identified only to discover that there are other deeper and more fundamental issues which underlie them. I work at a pace compatible with your ability to integrate change. I am gentle and encouraging, but firm and forthright. I provide a free initial consultation so you can determine whether you feel comfortable with me. My aim is for you to feel welcome, safe and comfortably challenged.
(888) 743-1028 View (888) 743-1028
Photo of Shannon MacGregor, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Shannon MacGregor
Counsellor, RTC, MTC, CLC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8S  (Online Only)
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
My goal as a Transpersonal Therapist, is to help you uncover your true potential & lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand & resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches & techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns, or negative perceptions, that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling & meaningful life. If you're looking for additional support & guidance through a challenging situation, or just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you.
(249) 501-9178 View (249) 501-9178
Photo of Tara Anne Poole, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Tara Anne Poole
Counsellor, BEd, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8V
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), codependency, addiction, autism, body image issues, family and parenting difficulties, self-harm, and eating disorders. My goal is to assist individuals in achieving improved emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction. My approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, and I prioritize creating a safe, support, and trusting counselling environment.
I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I offer compassionate, evidence-based therapy for a wide range of mental health concerns, including mood disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), anxiety, depression, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), codependency, addiction, autism, body image issues, family and parenting difficulties, self-harm, and eating disorders. My goal is to assist individuals in achieving improved emotional well-being and overall life satisfaction. My approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, and I prioritize creating a safe, support, and trusting counselling environment.
(506) 307-6935 View (506) 307-6935
Photo of Tanya Marie Switucka, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Tanya Marie Switucka
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that the way we thinks and feel affects the way we behave.
Currently accepting new clients (teens and adults) for in person and virtual sessions. I offer a direct and action-oriented approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment and Person Centered therapy. My goal is always to capture a client’s inner wisdom and strength, even when they don’t realize they possess these qualities! I have worked as a counsellor with youth, families and adults for over 20 years in settings that include schools, the community and the public sector. www.tanyamtherapy.com
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy based on the idea that the way we thinks and feel affects the way we behave.
Currently accepting new clients (teens and adults) for in person and virtual sessions. I offer a direct and action-oriented approach, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment and Person Centered therapy. My goal is always to capture a client’s inner wisdom and strength, even when they don’t realize they possess these qualities! I have worked as a counsellor with youth, families and adults for over 20 years in settings that include schools, the community and the public sector. www.tanyamtherapy.com
(579) 977-1272 View (579) 977-1272
Photo of Sandra Ledwidge Counselling & Therapy, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Sandra Ledwidge Counselling & Therapy
Counsellor, BSc, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8T
Throughout the counselling/therapy process, I integrate aspects of various therapies and approaches such as Emotion-focused, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB), Self-Compassion practice, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Brief Solution-Focused, Narrative, & Family Systems.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are you having a tough time dealing with loss or significant life change? Do you feel defeated by failed attempts to make positive changes? Are people in your life worried about you? Seeking help when in need is both a courageous step and an expression of hope. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor in private practice, I offer counselling and therapy to individuals and couples. Together, we explore how your beliefs and behaviour patterns may be limiting you from reaching your goals and finding fulfilment in your relationships.
Throughout the counselling/therapy process, I integrate aspects of various therapies and approaches such as Emotion-focused, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Neurobiology (IPNB), Self-Compassion practice, Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Brief Solution-Focused, Narrative, & Family Systems.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are you having a tough time dealing with loss or significant life change? Do you feel defeated by failed attempts to make positive changes? Are people in your life worried about you? Seeking help when in need is both a courageous step and an expression of hope. As a Registered Clinical Counsellor in private practice, I offer counselling and therapy to individuals and couples. Together, we explore how your beliefs and behaviour patterns may be limiting you from reaching your goals and finding fulfilment in your relationships.
(855) 232-0548 View (855) 232-0548
Louise C Fennell
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8W
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.
(778) 766-4507 View (778) 766-4507
Photo of Jennifer Mann-Bracke, Pre-Licensed Professional in Victoria, BC
Jennifer Mann-Bracke
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8V
Incorporating techniques from mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and strengths-based approaches, I aim to create a holistic and personalized therapeutic environment for each individual I work with.
In my practice, I place great emphasis on fostering self-compassion as a means to well-being. Through non-judgmental and inclusive care, I aim to help my clients challenge self-limiting beliefs, cultivate self-acceptance, and foster more compassionate relationships with themselves. I bring an empathetic and understanding approach to sessions, ensuring that my clients feel safe and supported as they explore their emotions, thoughts, and concerns.
Incorporating techniques from mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, and strengths-based approaches, I aim to create a holistic and personalized therapeutic environment for each individual I work with.
In my practice, I place great emphasis on fostering self-compassion as a means to well-being. Through non-judgmental and inclusive care, I aim to help my clients challenge self-limiting beliefs, cultivate self-acceptance, and foster more compassionate relationships with themselves. I bring an empathetic and understanding approach to sessions, ensuring that my clients feel safe and supported as they explore their emotions, thoughts, and concerns.
(343) 321-6312 View (343) 321-6312
Photo of Rebecca Wood, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Rebecca Wood
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A
Are you wanting to build skills to manage distress, emotionally regulate, and improve your interpersonal communication? Do you want to be more present in your life? Are you committed to self-development through learning new skills and applying them in your daily life outside of therapy? Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) may be what you are looking for if you are ready to put this hard work into action. I am currently accepting new clients for DBT groups, and running a waitlist for individual services.
Are you wanting to build skills to manage distress, emotionally regulate, and improve your interpersonal communication? Do you want to be more present in your life? Are you committed to self-development through learning new skills and applying them in your daily life outside of therapy? Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) may be what you are looking for if you are ready to put this hard work into action. I am currently accepting new clients for DBT groups, and running a waitlist for individual services.
(548) 490-1559 View (548) 490-1559
Photo of Jonathan Watters, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Jonathan Watters
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
*Accepting new clients* Hi there, my name is Jonathan. Helping people work on the challenges they want to work on so that they can become a better version of themselves is my work. By using an integrative approach, I support people by helping them discover and explore practical solutions for their life circumstances and their relationships. What works best for you is what is important, not following a set of instructions or trying to fit you into a prescribed way of life. Counselling is about working together to improve well-being and focusing our efforts to do so, so let's work together.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Gottman's Couples Therapy.
*Accepting new clients* Hi there, my name is Jonathan. Helping people work on the challenges they want to work on so that they can become a better version of themselves is my work. By using an integrative approach, I support people by helping them discover and explore practical solutions for their life circumstances and their relationships. What works best for you is what is important, not following a set of instructions or trying to fit you into a prescribed way of life. Counselling is about working together to improve well-being and focusing our efforts to do so, so let's work together.
(778) 745-4039 View (778) 745-4039
Photo of Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor
Counsellor, BA, MFA, RTC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R
It's important to me that I help clients identify the power within themselves to overcome loss, family of origins trauma and neglect, and negative thought and behavior patterns so they can begin the process of healing.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
It's important to me that I help clients identify the power within themselves to overcome loss, family of origins trauma and neglect, and negative thought and behavior patterns so they can begin the process of healing.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
(672) 202-3647 View (672) 202-3647
Photo of Robyn Dickson, Registered Psychotherapist in Victoria, BC
Robyn Dickson
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V9A  (Online Only)
I use IFS to promote cognitive and behavioral transformation by considering distress as part of a larger whole.
Currently accepting new clients as part of the “Money Mapping Group” (see below). Do you tell yourself “I’m bad with money"?  Are you accumulating debt?  Do you avoid looking at your finances?  Do you undercharge and overspend?  Does the word “bank” make you feel uneasy?  Do you find yourself teetering between the feeling that money is evil but also, that you’re not worthy of money? These are common disordered financial behaviors; not only because we find ourselves in a capitalist society, but also because money can be both a source and a response to trauma.
I use IFS to promote cognitive and behavioral transformation by considering distress as part of a larger whole.
Currently accepting new clients as part of the “Money Mapping Group” (see below). Do you tell yourself “I’m bad with money"?  Are you accumulating debt?  Do you avoid looking at your finances?  Do you undercharge and overspend?  Does the word “bank” make you feel uneasy?  Do you find yourself teetering between the feeling that money is evil but also, that you’re not worthy of money? These are common disordered financial behaviors; not only because we find ourselves in a capitalist society, but also because money can be both a source and a response to trauma.
(613) 800-6986 View (613) 800-6986
Photo of South Island Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
South Island Counselling
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8P
We draw from a variety of different counselling approaches and theories including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Spiritual Direction and so much more.
South Island Counselling is a team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors, who offer counselling services to individuals, couples and families in the Greater Victoria area. We can offer a unique experience to our clients as we have 10 clinical counsellors who can be matched to your specific needs. Our approaches can help with anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns and so much more.
We draw from a variety of different counselling approaches and theories including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills, Bowen Family Systems, Internal Family Systems, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Mindfulness Based Practices, The Gottman Method, Spiritual Direction and so much more.
South Island Counselling is a team of Registered Clinical Counsellors and Canadian Certified Counsellors, who offer counselling services to individuals, couples and families in the Greater Victoria area. We can offer a unique experience to our clients as we have 10 clinical counsellors who can be matched to your specific needs. Our approaches can help with anxiety, depression, stress, addictions, trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, marital conflict, sexual, emotional or physical abuse, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, mood changes, gender identity, spiritual concerns and so much more.
(672) 202-1356 x101 View (672) 202-1356 x101
Photo of Debbie Leung, Psychologist in Victoria, BC
Debbie Leung
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8Z
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
I am a Registered Psychologist and director of Wise Mind Centre, a Vancouver-based service that provides primarily cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and comprehensive dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to adolescents and adult clients and their loved ones. I work with clients who struggle with a variety of psychological problems, including anxiety, OCD, stress, depression, substance use, life transitions, parenting difficulties, self-harm behavior, suicidal ideations, PTSD, interpersonal difficulties, emotion regulation difficulties, and borderline personality disorder. My service could be offered in both English and Chinese.
(877) 594-7727 View (877) 594-7727
Photo of Retreat Cove Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Retreat Cove Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8N
I practice from a trauma-informed, person-centered perspective including techniques from both cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and emotion focused therapy.
Getting support to heal and thrive takes courage! At Retreat Cove Counselling, I offer an environment that is direct, transparent, caring, and nonjudgmental. I believe that the role of the counsellor is one of facilitation and collaboration. I am interested in working alongside individuals, families, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and people in a variety of relationship structures. I aim towards an anti-oppressive framework and welcome feedback. I draw on a variety of approaches to support people in developing skills and strategies that are practical and creative.
I practice from a trauma-informed, person-centered perspective including techniques from both cognitive behavioural therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy and emotion focused therapy.
Getting support to heal and thrive takes courage! At Retreat Cove Counselling, I offer an environment that is direct, transparent, caring, and nonjudgmental. I believe that the role of the counsellor is one of facilitation and collaboration. I am interested in working alongside individuals, families, neurodiversity, 2SLGBTQI+ folks, and people in a variety of relationship structures. I aim towards an anti-oppressive framework and welcome feedback. I draw on a variety of approaches to support people in developing skills and strategies that are practical and creative.
(604) 337-1342 View (604) 337-1342
Photo of Evan Quinn, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Evan Quinn
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8R
Whether you're dealing with emotions, thoughts, life changes, addiction, trauma, loss or grief, I am here to provide a safe, compassionate and non-pathologizing space where you can explore who you are and work towards healing. I invite you to take a moment and reflect on what led you here. What areas of your life seem out of balance, and what does balance look like for you? I would love to hear more about your story and how I can support you on your journey.
Whether you're dealing with emotions, thoughts, life changes, addiction, trauma, loss or grief, I am here to provide a safe, compassionate and non-pathologizing space where you can explore who you are and work towards healing. I invite you to take a moment and reflect on what led you here. What areas of your life seem out of balance, and what does balance look like for you? I would love to hear more about your story and how I can support you on your journey.
(587) 848-3459 View (587) 848-3459
Photo of Andree Hurl, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Andree Hurl
Counsellor, RPC, MPCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
As a Registered Professional Counsellor and a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, I look at therapy through a holistic lense, focusing on all aspects of your wellbeing. By tapping into your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, I can help you identify and understand feelings that you may be experiencing. Working together, we will cultivate new tools specific to your nature that you can then put into practice, creating the change you hope to see.
As a Registered Professional Counsellor and a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling, I look at therapy through a holistic lense, focusing on all aspects of your wellbeing. By tapping into your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, I can help you identify and understand feelings that you may be experiencing. Working together, we will cultivate new tools specific to your nature that you can then put into practice, creating the change you hope to see.
(778) 400-6737 View (778) 400-6737
Photo of Ellen Ivity, Psychologist in Victoria, BC
Ellen Ivity
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8R  (Online Only)
Hello, I am currently accepting new clients for counseling, as well as for assessment for ASD and AD/HD. I offer an individualized approach to therapy to support you in achieving your goals. I integrate several psychotherapeutic modalities including Family Systems therapy, CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness practices.
Hello, I am currently accepting new clients for counseling, as well as for assessment for ASD and AD/HD. I offer an individualized approach to therapy to support you in achieving your goals. I integrate several psychotherapeutic modalities including Family Systems therapy, CBT, DBT, and Mindfulness practices.
(778) 745-6069 View (778) 745-6069
Photo of Surrender To Hope Counselling, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Surrender To Hope Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ADACR
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V9A
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
(587) 848-3279 View (587) 848-3279
Photo of Burn Bright Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Victoria, BC
Burn Bright Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Victoria, BC V8P
Accepting New Clients! Life brings many challenges and we believe you aren't meant to do the work of healing from these challenges alone. Being here at this page is a courageous first step for you on the path to getting the support you deserve. Burn Bright Counselling provides confidential and compassionate support to folks who are experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, grief and a diminished sense of hope. We work with you to build a tailored support service to meet your individual needs during our time together. We specialize in working with LGBTQ2S+ and allied youth, young adults, couples and parents.
Accepting New Clients! Life brings many challenges and we believe you aren't meant to do the work of healing from these challenges alone. Being here at this page is a courageous first step for you on the path to getting the support you deserve. Burn Bright Counselling provides confidential and compassionate support to folks who are experiencing emotional distress, relationship conflict, grief and a diminished sense of hope. We work with you to build a tailored support service to meet your individual needs during our time together. We specialize in working with LGBTQ2S+ and allied youth, young adults, couples and parents.
(506) 700-6542 View (506) 700-6542
Photo of Deborah Pawar, Counsellor in Victoria, BC
Deborah Pawar
Counsellor, BA, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
Victoria, BC V8W
Deborah has been living and working in B.C. including Northern B.C., and the Lower Mainland for over 20 years. She currently resides in South Vancouver Island with her family, where she embraces the beautiful surroundings of the Lekwungen People’s territory. Deborah applies a strength-based and holistic approach to her clinical practice, and is trained in evidence-based individual, couples and family therapies to help children, youth, adults and families find their path toward healing and wellness.
Deborah has been living and working in B.C. including Northern B.C., and the Lower Mainland for over 20 years. She currently resides in South Vancouver Island with her family, where she embraces the beautiful surroundings of the Lekwungen People’s territory. Deborah applies a strength-based and holistic approach to her clinical practice, and is trained in evidence-based individual, couples and family therapies to help children, youth, adults and families find their path toward healing and wellness.
(778) 588-9520 x3 View (778) 588-9520 x3

See more therapy options for Victoria

Behavioural Issues Counsellors

What happens in therapy for behavioural issues?

No matter the type of therapy, individuals form an alliance with the therapist; that connection is often therapeutic in itself, plus it becomes an instrument of change. Individuals learn to identify situations that are especially troublesome for them and acquire new patterns of thinking and behaving. In therapy for ADHD, one of the most common behaviour issues for children, individuals learn how to improve frustration tolerance, control impulsivity, manage attentional focus, and gain skills of self-organisation.

What therapy types help with behavioural issues?

Many types of therapy have been found effective, each targeting one or more areas of dysfunction. Perhaps best-known and most widely tested is cognitive and behavioural therapy (CBT), in which individuals learn new behavioral strategies and curb reactivity to frustrating or distressing situations that trigger disruptive behaviour. Anger, anxiety, mood disorders, impulse control problems are commonly addressed in CBT. Family therapy or parent management training is often helpful to reduce parent-child conflict and behavioral difficulties at home.

How long does therapy last for behavioural issues?

Among popular approaches to treating behavioural concerns, CBT is considered a short-term therapy intended to be administered in 15 to 20 weekly sessions. Parent training in behaviour management, often used when the underlying cause of behaviour issues is ADHD in children under 12, usually occurs in weekly sessions for 8 to 16 weeks. When behavioural issues stem from persistent aggression or defiance, therapy may last for months, and usually targets both children and their parents.

How effective is therapy for behaviour issues?

Studies show that therapy for behaviour issues in children is highly effective and may prevent the development of antisocial behaviour later in life. Family intervention—parent management training or family therapy, both of which involve parents and children together—is considered most effective, notably for children under age 12 who persistently engage in aggressive, defiant, rule-breaking or other disruptive behaviour. Whether provided alone or in combination with medication, CBT is highly effective in helping people regulate their emotions, and for people with ADHD, it addresses impulsiveness, hyperactivity and attentional focus.