Photo of Lois Ells, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lois Ells
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
It’s difficult to watch your usually thoughtful child/teen struggling with their big emotions. Your child who is usually wise beyond their years becomes quickly unglued. You’re pretty sure that anxiety, worries or low self-esteem are hiding under the big tears, emotional meltdowns, ‘sassy’ attitude and anger. While you desperately want to be there to support your child and help them through this turbulent time, the accumulation of stressors from the demands of life and parenting through a pandemic make it hard for you to be the parent you want to be in those moments.
It’s difficult to watch your usually thoughtful child/teen struggling with their big emotions. Your child who is usually wise beyond their years becomes quickly unglued. You’re pretty sure that anxiety, worries or low self-esteem are hiding under the big tears, emotional meltdowns, ‘sassy’ attitude and anger. While you desperately want to be there to support your child and help them through this turbulent time, the accumulation of stressors from the demands of life and parenting through a pandemic make it hard for you to be the parent you want to be in those moments.
(902) 700-5579 View (902) 700-5579
Photo of Taylor Brydges, MA, RCT-C, CCC, Counsellor
Taylor Brydges
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Hi! My areas of interest and expertise include working with people who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. Initially, I build rapport and a trusting relationship with you. One of our first tasks will involve identifying your strengths and what’s important to you; these are major components of allowing successful trauma processing and resolution to occur. I also enjoy working with adolescents; having once been a teen in need of additional support, I am able to empathize and quickly connect with young people. Other topics I support clients with are BPD, anger management, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem.
Hi! My areas of interest and expertise include working with people who have survived trauma and sexual abuse. Initially, I build rapport and a trusting relationship with you. One of our first tasks will involve identifying your strengths and what’s important to you; these are major components of allowing successful trauma processing and resolution to occur. I also enjoy working with adolescents; having once been a teen in need of additional support, I am able to empathize and quickly connect with young people. Other topics I support clients with are BPD, anger management, suicidal ideation, and self-esteem.
(226) 270-6638 View (226) 270-6638
Photo of Susan Cameron, MSW,RSW, Registered Social Worker
Susan Cameron
Registered Social Worker, MSW,RSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NS B4B
I am also interested and able to support and treat various adolescent issues and concerns.
I am a registered clinical social worker and I have had the pleasure of working with youth and families for over 20 years. I use a collaborative approach in treatment to individual youth and to families grounded in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as well as Structural Family Therapy. These approaches respect the client/family and the therapeutic relationship. I support the values of the individuals and families and the expertise they bring while working together toward their desired goals.
I am also interested and able to support and treat various adolescent issues and concerns.
I am a registered clinical social worker and I have had the pleasure of working with youth and families for over 20 years. I use a collaborative approach in treatment to individual youth and to families grounded in evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as well as Structural Family Therapy. These approaches respect the client/family and the therapeutic relationship. I support the values of the individuals and families and the expertise they bring while working together toward their desired goals.
(782) 492-0157 View (782) 492-0157
Photo of undefined - Imagine Therapy, OT Reg, Occupational Therapist
Imagine Therapy
Occupational Therapist, OT Reg
Verified Verified
Fall River, NS B2T
Are you looking for a practical, individualised and creative approach to tackling mental health difficulties for you or your child? Perhaps you have not found traditional talking therapies a good fit for you. Perhaps your teen needs support to break cycles of anxiety or depression. Perhaps your child has Autism or ADHD and struggles with their behaviour, attention, emotions or sensory processing. You might be looking for parenting support. You may want to incorporate nature, arts or other meaningful activity into your therapy journey. One size does not fit all. Imagine what change looks like for you.
Are you looking for a practical, individualised and creative approach to tackling mental health difficulties for you or your child? Perhaps you have not found traditional talking therapies a good fit for you. Perhaps your teen needs support to break cycles of anxiety or depression. Perhaps your child has Autism or ADHD and struggles with their behaviour, attention, emotions or sensory processing. You might be looking for parenting support. You may want to incorporate nature, arts or other meaningful activity into your therapy journey. One size does not fit all. Imagine what change looks like for you.
(782) 312-0096 View (782) 312-0096
Photo of undefined - Larkspur Counselling Therapy, CCC, RCT-C, KYT, Counsellor
Larkspur Counselling Therapy
Counsellor, CCC, RCT-C, KYT
Verified Verified
Whether you are a child, pre-teen, adolescent or young adult, all stages of life have different challenges. Currently my work focuses on supporting children, adolescents and young adults who are experiencing emotional difficulties and other feelings of psychological distress that may lead to feeling isolated, stressed, sad, anxious, and overwhelmed. The overall goal is to help recognize and verbalize feelings, identify typical behavior patterns, defenses and inner conflicts in order to reduce symptoms, provide insight and improve daily functioning and quality of life.
Whether you are a child, pre-teen, adolescent or young adult, all stages of life have different challenges. Currently my work focuses on supporting children, adolescents and young adults who are experiencing emotional difficulties and other feelings of psychological distress that may lead to feeling isolated, stressed, sad, anxious, and overwhelmed. The overall goal is to help recognize and verbalize feelings, identify typical behavior patterns, defenses and inner conflicts in order to reduce symptoms, provide insight and improve daily functioning and quality of life.
(782) 820-4143 View (782) 820-4143
Photo of Wendy Digout, MA, Psychologist
Wendy Digout
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Antigonish, NS B2G
Being a child, teen or young adult can be difficult in todays world.
I work primarily with children, youth, families and young adults (college, university aged). I have diverse experience working with children, parents and young adults in university/college who are dealing with anxiety, depression, school, family or life stressors. I have a particular interest in working with children to young adults who are managing living with concussions or illness (themselves or in within their family). My approach is to work with my clients to come up with goals based on a combination of their concerns and my clinical assessment to help find a therapeutic plan that will be most helpful for my clients.
Being a child, teen or young adult can be difficult in todays world.
I work primarily with children, youth, families and young adults (college, university aged). I have diverse experience working with children, parents and young adults in university/college who are dealing with anxiety, depression, school, family or life stressors. I have a particular interest in working with children to young adults who are managing living with concussions or illness (themselves or in within their family). My approach is to work with my clients to come up with goals based on a combination of their concerns and my clinical assessment to help find a therapeutic plan that will be most helpful for my clients.
(902) 909-5595 View (902) 909-5595
Photo of Susan Young, MEd, RCT-C, Counsellor
Susan Young
Counsellor, MEd, RCT-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I work primarily with teen and adult clients.
Anxiety, relationship issues, or depression can be overwhelming to navigate alone. There are times in life when it's difficult to know how to move forward. I believe that we all need support as we walk our unique life journey. Coming to counselling is an act of self-compassion, connection and hope. By using a trauma informed approach, we will focus on goals to support your mental well-being and develop skills that promote personal empowerment and resilience.
I work primarily with teen and adult clients.
Anxiety, relationship issues, or depression can be overwhelming to navigate alone. There are times in life when it's difficult to know how to move forward. I believe that we all need support as we walk our unique life journey. Coming to counselling is an act of self-compassion, connection and hope. By using a trauma informed approach, we will focus on goals to support your mental well-being and develop skills that promote personal empowerment and resilience.
(782) 800-5760 View (782) 800-5760
Photo of Robyn Jackman, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Robyn Jackman
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3S
I have the privilege of helping clients with a wide range of issues including emotional issues and relationship challenges. These could include anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, shame, self-esteem and relationship conflicts. My goal is to support and strengthen your relationship with yourself and your other relationships. I have experience working in the school setting and treating adult and adolescent mental health & addiction. I will support you with what you’re struggling with, what direction you want your life to take, and what steps to take to get there. I will help you gain a sense of control over yourself and your life.
I have the privilege of helping clients with a wide range of issues including emotional issues and relationship challenges. These could include anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, shame, self-esteem and relationship conflicts. My goal is to support and strengthen your relationship with yourself and your other relationships. I have experience working in the school setting and treating adult and adolescent mental health & addiction. I will support you with what you’re struggling with, what direction you want your life to take, and what steps to take to get there. I will help you gain a sense of control over yourself and your life.
(902) 903-2684 View (902) 903-2684
Photo of Jen Carter, CYC, CYCW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jen Carter
Pre-Licensed Professional, CYC, CYCW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NS B4A
Struggling to maintain an open dialogue with your child/teen? Unsure of how to support your child/teen through difficult life transitions? Looking to find guidance and support through parenting challenges? Jen Carter may be the right "fit" for you and your family. As a trained Child and Youth Counsellor with also a background in law enforcement, Jen uses an eclectic style of psychotherapy to connect with youth in a way that communicates, is goal-oriented and provides a sense of comfort and warmth as she collaboratively builds the therapeutic relationship. "Life Happens...And Jen Can Help!" (Jen sees clients up to age 30)
Struggling to maintain an open dialogue with your child/teen? Unsure of how to support your child/teen through difficult life transitions? Looking to find guidance and support through parenting challenges? Jen Carter may be the right "fit" for you and your family. As a trained Child and Youth Counsellor with also a background in law enforcement, Jen uses an eclectic style of psychotherapy to connect with youth in a way that communicates, is goal-oriented and provides a sense of comfort and warmth as she collaboratively builds the therapeutic relationship. "Life Happens...And Jen Can Help!" (Jen sees clients up to age 30)
(902) 346-2158 View (902) 346-2158
Photo of Rosanne Coates, MEd , LCT, CCC, Counsellor
Rosanne Coates
Counsellor, MEd , LCT, CCC
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3H
Counselling specialization include relationship/ couples/ marital issues, communication/ conflict challenges, personal/ work stress, depression, anxiety, parent/ teen behaviour/ communication difficulties.
I am a counsellor at heart! I have significant education, training, and counselling experience as a former psychiatric Registered Nurse (RN) (adult and child and adolescent psychiatry), international school/student counsellor. Currently, I hold a permanent position as EFAP counsellor. I am a licensed Counselling Therapist (LCT) with the CCTNB, Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with CCPA, Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) with Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapist (NSCCT, and Registered member counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). Licensed in NB, NS and the UK.
Counselling specialization include relationship/ couples/ marital issues, communication/ conflict challenges, personal/ work stress, depression, anxiety, parent/ teen behaviour/ communication difficulties.
I am a counsellor at heart! I have significant education, training, and counselling experience as a former psychiatric Registered Nurse (RN) (adult and child and adolescent psychiatry), international school/student counsellor. Currently, I hold a permanent position as EFAP counsellor. I am a licensed Counselling Therapist (LCT) with the CCTNB, Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC) with CCPA, Registered Counselling Therapist (RCT) with Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapist (NSCCT, and Registered member counsellor with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (MBACP). Licensed in NB, NS and the UK.
(506) 908-0283 View (506) 908-0283
Photo of Deandrea McIntosh, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Deandrea McIntosh
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I work with teens, adults, and couples, who are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship issues, and more. We often need help navigating this ever-changing world, and I'm looking forward to navigating it with you! If you’ve been struggling and are ready for counselling, I’m here to help support you on your journey to mental wellbeing!
I work with teens, adults, and couples, who are struggling with things like anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people pleasing, relationship issues, and more. We often need help navigating this ever-changing world, and I'm looking forward to navigating it with you! If you’ve been struggling and are ready for counselling, I’m here to help support you on your journey to mental wellbeing!
(782) 222-1018 View (782) 222-1018
Photo of undefined - Jacqueline Milner/Breathe Mindfulness Centre, MSc, Psychologist
Jacqueline Milner/Breathe Mindfulness Centre
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
Wolfville, NS B4P
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Are you struggling in your relationships or just feeling lost with no compass in life? We are here to help. Jacqueline is the founder of Breathe and has over 30 years’ experience helping her clients overcome a variety of personal and life challenges to live a happier, more authentic life. Her team of experienced and compassionate practitioners offer results driven, evidence-based counselling and assessment services to youth, adults, couples, and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Mindfulness principles and practices are integrated in many of the services provided.
Feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed? Are you struggling in your relationships or just feeling lost with no compass in life? We are here to help. Jacqueline is the founder of Breathe and has over 30 years’ experience helping her clients overcome a variety of personal and life challenges to live a happier, more authentic life. Her team of experienced and compassionate practitioners offer results driven, evidence-based counselling and assessment services to youth, adults, couples, and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Mindfulness principles and practices are integrated in many of the services provided.
(782) 800-5369 View (782) 800-5369
Photo of undefined - Aulakh Psychological & Counselling Services, Psychologist
Aulakh Psychological & Counselling Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Halifax, NS B3K
We are a team of experienced Registered Psychologists offering compassionate, collaborative and personalized care consistent with best practices. Together we offer services to clients of various ages and developmental stages. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, parents and couples. We also work closely with individuals who work in or have worked in high risk settings such as veterans, first responders and corrections officers.
We are a team of experienced Registered Psychologists offering compassionate, collaborative and personalized care consistent with best practices. Together we offer services to clients of various ages and developmental stages. We work with children, adolescents, young adults, adults, parents and couples. We also work closely with individuals who work in or have worked in high risk settings such as veterans, first responders and corrections officers.
(902) 812-0609 View (902) 812-0609
Photo of Holly Sher, SSW, BA(h), MA, RP, RCT, Registered Psychotherapist
Holly Sher
Registered Psychotherapist, SSW, BA(h), MA, RP, RCT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H
BLUE Cross direct billing now available! If you are struggling, you are not alone… I would be honored to walk beside you on your journey to greater wisdom, and freedom. Our sessions can include counseling (for instance setting goals, developing tools to assist with managing difficult thoughts and feelings), as well as deeper emotion-focused work aimed at getting at what is on the inside; our deepest needs and truths. This is done not only through talking, but through learning to tap into our felt-sense; a powerful place where healing occurs. My work draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches.
BLUE Cross direct billing now available! If you are struggling, you are not alone… I would be honored to walk beside you on your journey to greater wisdom, and freedom. Our sessions can include counseling (for instance setting goals, developing tools to assist with managing difficult thoughts and feelings), as well as deeper emotion-focused work aimed at getting at what is on the inside; our deepest needs and truths. This is done not only through talking, but through learning to tap into our felt-sense; a powerful place where healing occurs. My work draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches.
(902) 510-1535 View (902) 510-1535
Photo of Erin Lecky, MA, RCT-C, Counsellor
Erin Lecky
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society. -Krishnamurti Although things are getting better in some regards, outdated societal pressures and norms, as well as modern technology and newly implemented ways of living are weighing heavy on many of us. Anxiety is at an all-time peak, addiction continues to climb and although we have more comforts than at any time in history, we are increasingly unhappy. If you're feeling the strain of this, want to connect to something deeper within yourself, or are finding yourself more dysregulated than ever (with all the associated difficulties), let's connect.
It is no measure of health to be well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society. -Krishnamurti Although things are getting better in some regards, outdated societal pressures and norms, as well as modern technology and newly implemented ways of living are weighing heavy on many of us. Anxiety is at an all-time peak, addiction continues to climb and although we have more comforts than at any time in history, we are increasingly unhappy. If you're feeling the strain of this, want to connect to something deeper within yourself, or are finding yourself more dysregulated than ever (with all the associated difficulties), let's connect.
(782) 400-0694 View (782) 400-0694
Photo of Zipporah Doiron, MA, RCT, CCC, Counsellor
Zipporah Doiron
Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3K
Waitlist for new clients
Clients come to me when they (or their loved ones) are dealing with anxiety, depression, behavioural challenges, mood swings, challenging life events, flash backs, PTSD, or childhood trauma. I use Brainspotting, EMDR, Creative Arts therapy and other strength-based approaches to help clients build confidence, self-understanding, and concrete strategies to manage the challenges of daily life. My clients learn about the brain-body connection of their distress and challenges, building positive skills to be able to manage life’s stresses and become less overwhelmed by emotional triggers.
Clients come to me when they (or their loved ones) are dealing with anxiety, depression, behavioural challenges, mood swings, challenging life events, flash backs, PTSD, or childhood trauma. I use Brainspotting, EMDR, Creative Arts therapy and other strength-based approaches to help clients build confidence, self-understanding, and concrete strategies to manage the challenges of daily life. My clients learn about the brain-body connection of their distress and challenges, building positive skills to be able to manage life’s stresses and become less overwhelmed by emotional triggers.
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Photo of Jennifer S Peddle, RCT-C, Counsellor
Jennifer S Peddle
Counsellor, RCT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2V  (Online Only)
I’m Jenn Peddle, a Registered Counselling Therapist in Nova Scotia - here to help you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. My relationships with clients are built on a foundation of empathy and compassion that allow you to be heard and understood in a non-judgmental environment. I care about your well-being and guarantee top-of-the-line counselling and psychological services catered to your needs. I look forward to connecting and helping you with life's big and small challenges.
I’m Jenn Peddle, a Registered Counselling Therapist in Nova Scotia - here to help you through life’s most complex and difficult matters. My relationships with clients are built on a foundation of empathy and compassion that allow you to be heard and understood in a non-judgmental environment. I care about your well-being and guarantee top-of-the-line counselling and psychological services catered to your needs. I look forward to connecting and helping you with life's big and small challenges.
(782) 800-5641 View (782) 800-5641
Photo of Lilia Daiman, MACP, RCT-C
Lilia Daiman
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, MACP, RCT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
When we reflect on our lives, we each have our own unique set of experiences. These experiences and the interconnections between our biological, psychological, and socio-environmental factors shape who we are as an individual. Exposures to different types of events at times can be difficult to process and work through on our own. My goal is to advocate for my clients by developing appropriate supports and maintaining an inclusive and culturally sensitive space, that welcomes individuals from all walks of life.
When we reflect on our lives, we each have our own unique set of experiences. These experiences and the interconnections between our biological, psychological, and socio-environmental factors shape who we are as an individual. Exposures to different types of events at times can be difficult to process and work through on our own. My goal is to advocate for my clients by developing appropriate supports and maintaining an inclusive and culturally sensitive space, that welcomes individuals from all walks of life.
(782) 828-9285 View (782) 828-9285
Photo of Kate McKenna, RCT-C, Counsellor
Kate McKenna
Counsellor, RCT-C
Verified Verified
Mahone Bay, NS B0J
My ideal client is open to the idea of therapy, but might need a patient and welcoming therapist to help them open up. They are looking for a therapist that feels like an old friend, someone they can say anything to. They might be looking to improve relationships in their life, build confidence and self-worth, or shift some long-standing habits. Maybe they are going through a transition or a loss and need support through the changes. I am particularly passionate about supporting teenagers, parents, elders, folks dealing with body image issues, and couples.
My ideal client is open to the idea of therapy, but might need a patient and welcoming therapist to help them open up. They are looking for a therapist that feels like an old friend, someone they can say anything to. They might be looking to improve relationships in their life, build confidence and self-worth, or shift some long-standing habits. Maybe they are going through a transition or a loss and need support through the changes. I am particularly passionate about supporting teenagers, parents, elders, folks dealing with body image issues, and couples.
(782) 492-0151 View (782) 492-0151
Photo of Anna von Maltzahn, MSc, MEd, RCT-C, CCC, Counsellor
Anna von Maltzahn
Counsellor, MSc, MEd, RCT-C, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Halifax, NS B3H  (Online Only)
I assist a wide range of clients navigating challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues. My work with clients often involves the development of skills in emotional awareness and regulation, self-compassion and mindfulness, empathy and emotional validation, or intra- and inter-personal conflict resolution. I also support clients in their goals toward behaviour change, personal growth, and career exploration. As a therapist, I work from a perspective that recognizes the shared human needs within all of us, as well as the uniqueness of each individual's personal story.
I assist a wide range of clients navigating challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, and relationship issues. My work with clients often involves the development of skills in emotional awareness and regulation, self-compassion and mindfulness, empathy and emotional validation, or intra- and inter-personal conflict resolution. I also support clients in their goals toward behaviour change, personal growth, and career exploration. As a therapist, I work from a perspective that recognizes the shared human needs within all of us, as well as the uniqueness of each individual's personal story.
(782) 400-6342 View (782) 400-6342

See more therapy options for Nova Scotia

Teen Counsellors

What does therapy for teenagers look like?

When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.

How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?

There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.

How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?

It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.

How do you prepare teens for therapy?

You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.