Child Therapists in Dartmouth, NS

Photo of Natalie Mansvelt, Counsellor, RCT, CCC, MA
Natalie Mansvelt
Counsellor, RCT, CCC, MA
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
Natalie helps parents and children work through behaviour, emotional dysregulation, and major life transitions.
Each client will work with Natalie to build a personalized treatment plan. Together they will examine the biological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual elements of their life to develop strategies to help them live a healthier, more peaceful life.
Natalie helps parents and children work through behaviour, emotional dysregulation, and major life transitions.
Each client will work with Natalie to build a personalized treatment plan. Together they will examine the biological, psychological, sociological, and spiritual elements of their life to develop strategies to help them live a healthier, more peaceful life.
(782) 202-0074 View (782) 202-0074
Photo of Leah Elizabeth Blackwood, Counsellor, MA
Leah Elizabeth Blackwood
Counsellor, MA
5 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2X
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, you don’t have to face these challenges alone.
I have experience in working with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma, life changes, BPD, Grief and more as well as extended education in working with children who are neuro-divergent, individuals with chronic pain, and in Autplay therapy. I work from a trauma-informed lens.
Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or your child, you don’t have to face these challenges alone.
I have experience in working with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, Trauma, life changes, BPD, Grief and more as well as extended education in working with children who are neuro-divergent, individuals with chronic pain, and in Autplay therapy. I work from a trauma-informed lens.
(782) 222-8438 View (782) 222-8438
Photo of Emily Miller, Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC
Emily Miller
Counsellor, MA, RCT, CCC
6 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2X
My clients are often children(5yrs+), adolescents, or young adults who are having difficulties with anxiety, emotion regulation, attachment difficulties, trauma, or general mental health challenges.
I work from a trauma-informed lens with an emphasis on attachment. I use interventions from emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and play therapy.
My clients are often children(5yrs+), adolescents, or young adults who are having difficulties with anxiety, emotion regulation, attachment difficulties, trauma, or general mental health challenges.
I work from a trauma-informed lens with an emphasis on attachment. I use interventions from emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, mindfulness and play therapy.
(782) 312-0166 View (782) 312-0166
Photo of Chris Wellwood, Registered Psychotherapist
Chris Wellwood
Registered Psychotherapist
Dartmouth, NS B2W
Do you or your child need support managing anxiety, anger, or social difficulties?
In a warm, calm, and nonjudgmental space, therapy draws from CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, and play therapy to meet your specific goals. Whether it’s reducing anxiety, improving family relationships, or gaining more emotional control, Chris tailors each session to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Do you or your child need support managing anxiety, anger, or social difficulties?
In a warm, calm, and nonjudgmental space, therapy draws from CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, and play therapy to meet your specific goals. Whether it’s reducing anxiety, improving family relationships, or gaining more emotional control, Chris tailors each session to help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
(782) 801-9622 View (782) 801-9622
Photo of Tanya Groundwater, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Tanya Groundwater
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Currently accepting virtual clients for individual and/or couples therapy and parenting consults.
Currently accepting virtual clients for individual and/or couples therapy and parenting consults.
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Photo of Grace Atkinson, Counsellor, BEd , MACP
Grace Atkinson
Counsellor, BEd , MACP
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2W
I work with children (ages 6 and up), teens, and adults who are navigating the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioural concerns, stress, emotional regulation, life transitions, anger and conflict management, career burnout, self-esteem, shame, and relationship concerns.
In my office, we are a team, and we will work collaboratively toward your goals. Whether that be establishing boundaries, fostering secure connections, changing self-talk, or identifying barriers and patterns that hinder your ability to experience a fulfilling and balanced life. “Be messy and complicated and afraid and show up anyway”. -Glennon Doyle.
I work with children (ages 6 and up), teens, and adults who are navigating the impacts of trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioural concerns, stress, emotional regulation, life transitions, anger and conflict management, career burnout, self-esteem, shame, and relationship concerns.
In my office, we are a team, and we will work collaboratively toward your goals. Whether that be establishing boundaries, fostering secure connections, changing self-talk, or identifying barriers and patterns that hinder your ability to experience a fulfilling and balanced life. “Be messy and complicated and afraid and show up anyway”. -Glennon Doyle.
(782) 824-2526 View (782) 824-2526
Photo of Kayla Warren, Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, CYCW, MA, RCT-C
Kayla Warren
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, CYCW, MA, RCT-C
3 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
Waitlist for new clients
I work with children, teens, and adults to process experiences, build resilience, and find strategies that truly fit—so life feels calmer, more connected, and more manageable.
I help kids, teens, and adults who feel stuck, stressed, or disconnected find more calm, confidence, and connection. Using an interpersonal neurobiology approach, I create a safe, supportive space to make sense of experiences, build resilience, and grow in ways that feel meaningful and authentic.
I work with children, teens, and adults to process experiences, build resilience, and find strategies that truly fit—so life feels calmer, more connected, and more manageable.
I help kids, teens, and adults who feel stuck, stressed, or disconnected find more calm, confidence, and connection. Using an interpersonal neurobiology approach, I create a safe, supportive space to make sense of experiences, build resilience, and grow in ways that feel meaningful and authentic.
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Photo of Sonia Clark, Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
Sonia Clark
Counsellor, MA, RCT-C
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I support children, youth, adults, couples and families with a variety of challenges and experiences as they work towards better mental health and healthier relationships.
I can support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, personality disorder, grief & loss, divorce, co-parenting challenges, behaviour issues, stress, low self-esteem, parenting, pre & post natal anxiety and depression, trauma, rejection, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
I support children, youth, adults, couples and families with a variety of challenges and experiences as they work towards better mental health and healthier relationships.
I can support individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, personality disorder, grief & loss, divorce, co-parenting challenges, behaviour issues, stress, low self-esteem, parenting, pre & post natal anxiety and depression, trauma, rejection, and interpersonal relationship challenges.
(902) 209-1618 View (902) 209-1618
Photo of Majeda Tarabain, MA, RCT-C
Majeda Tarabain
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B3B
I work with adults, and young children, but also have experience working with teens.
I have experience working with a variety of different ethnic and religious backgrounds.
I work with adults, and young children, but also have experience working with teens.
I have experience working with a variety of different ethnic and religious backgrounds.
(782) 825-5985 View (782) 825-5985
Photo of Christina Rodrigue, MA, RCT, CCC, PTI
Christina Rodrigue
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work to offer warm, client-centred counselling for individuals and families of all ages, with a special focus on kids, teens, and neurodivergent folks.
I’m passionate about working collaboratively and believe the heart of therapy lies in the relationship we build. I honour each person’s uniqueness and aim to create a warm, welcoming space where you can feel safe to show up just as you are.
I work to offer warm, client-centred counselling for individuals and families of all ages, with a special focus on kids, teens, and neurodivergent folks.
I’m passionate about working collaboratively and believe the heart of therapy lies in the relationship we build. I honour each person’s uniqueness and aim to create a warm, welcoming space where you can feel safe to show up just as you are.
(782) 482-0018 View (782) 482-0018
Photo of Derry MacKichan, Psychologist, MA, BCBA
Derry MacKichan
Psychologist, MA, BCBA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have worked in the public P-12 school system and provided services to children, adolescents, and young adults in the areas of learning difficulties, ADHD, study skills, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorders.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults to teach skills to help manage their emotions. I also work with parents and caregivers to teach techniques to help reduce problematic behavior while increasing skilled behavior.
I have worked in the public P-12 school system and provided services to children, adolescents, and young adults in the areas of learning difficulties, ADHD, study skills, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorders.
I work with children, adolescents, and young adults to teach skills to help manage their emotions. I also work with parents and caregivers to teach techniques to help reduce problematic behavior while increasing skilled behavior.
(902) 701-0148 View (902) 701-0148
Photo of Terra Sawlor, Psychologist, MA, MEd
Terra Sawlor
Psychologist, MA, MEd
Serves Area
I’m a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families through private practice and my previous work within the school system.
I also provide assessments for learning disabilities, intellectual delays, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I am dedicated to delivering clear, practical recommendations that support success at home and at school.
I’m a Registered Psychologist with over 20 years of experience supporting children, teens, and families through private practice and my previous work within the school system.
I also provide assessments for learning disabilities, intellectual delays, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). I am dedicated to delivering clear, practical recommendations that support success at home and at school.
(782) 800-6923 View (782) 800-6923
Photo of Catherine Small, Counsellor, MEd, RCT-C
Catherine Small
Counsellor, MEd, RCT-C
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work with children (4+), teens, young adults, and parents navigating challenges with emotion regulation, trauma, attachment, anxiety, self-esteem, and parenting.
I offer a warm, client-centered approach rooted in trauma-informed and attachment-based care. Because every person is unique, I draw from a variety of modalities including Play Therapy, EMDR, IFS, Self-Compassion, and mindfulness, to tailor support to your needs. Together we’ll craft an approach that feels safe, collaborative, and just right for you.
I work with children (4+), teens, young adults, and parents navigating challenges with emotion regulation, trauma, attachment, anxiety, self-esteem, and parenting.
I offer a warm, client-centered approach rooted in trauma-informed and attachment-based care. Because every person is unique, I draw from a variety of modalities including Play Therapy, EMDR, IFS, Self-Compassion, and mindfulness, to tailor support to your needs. Together we’ll craft an approach that feels safe, collaborative, and just right for you.
(782) 800-5754 View (782) 800-5754
Photo of Jean-Paul Crickard - Youthentic Counselling, Counsellor, BEd, MO, RCT-C
Youthentic Counselling
Counsellor, BEd, MO, RCT-C
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you or your child are amid a tough chapter or looking to start a new one, I offer compassionate, professional support for children, adolescents, and young adults.
In addition to supporting youth, I offer focused therapy for men, drawing on my experience facilitating men’s groups. I provide a safe, personalized space for men to explore their identity, relationships, and personal growth. Whether you’re feeling stuck, facing uncertainty, or seeking change, I’m here to guide you through your unique journey.
Whether you or your child are amid a tough chapter or looking to start a new one, I offer compassionate, professional support for children, adolescents, and young adults.
In addition to supporting youth, I offer focused therapy for men, drawing on my experience facilitating men’s groups. I provide a safe, personalized space for men to explore their identity, relationships, and personal growth. Whether you’re feeling stuck, facing uncertainty, or seeking change, I’m here to guide you through your unique journey.
(782) 222-5929 View (782) 222-5929
Photo of Jeff MacDonald, Counsellor, RCT, CCC
Jeff MacDonald
Counsellor, RCT, CCC
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
Life is filled with struggles and challenges and they can seem difficult to overcome or even meet. Counselling helps people recognise the strengths that they already have to not only address life's challenges, but come out the other side stronger.
Life is filled with struggles and challenges and they can seem difficult to overcome or even meet. Counselling helps people recognise the strengths that they already have to not only address life's challenges, but come out the other side stronger.
(782) 312-0193 View (782) 312-0193
Photo of Linda Al-Jokhadar McLeod - Hadi Counselling , Counsellor, MAHN, MACP
Hadi Counselling
Counsellor, MAHN, MACP
Dartmouth, NS B3A
I also offer counselling services to children through a Non-Directive and Directive Play Therapy model.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist with the NSCCT. My approach to Counselling is a holistic one that utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I am always looking for new growth opportunities, with my recent focus being on Play Therapy training and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (Basic).
I also offer counselling services to children through a Non-Directive and Directive Play Therapy model.
I am a Registered Counselling Therapist with the NSCCT. My approach to Counselling is a holistic one that utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I am always looking for new growth opportunities, with my recent focus being on Play Therapy training and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (Basic).
(782) 825-8365 View (782) 825-8365
Photo of Shelley Fillmore, Counsellor, MEd , CCC, RCT
Shelley Fillmore
Counsellor, MEd , CCC, RCT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting New Clients - Clients are brave to come to the counselling arena" I can offer over 20 years of counselling experience to assist with a deeper understanding of self. Counselling can provide shifts in perspective that can help alleviate suffering and increase coping skills in life. Through a greater understanding clients can start the healing process towards a stronger sense of healthier happier self by overcoming past hurts and refocusing on the hear and now.
Accepting New Clients - Clients are brave to come to the counselling arena" I can offer over 20 years of counselling experience to assist with a deeper understanding of self. Counselling can provide shifts in perspective that can help alleviate suffering and increase coping skills in life. Through a greater understanding clients can start the healing process towards a stronger sense of healthier happier self by overcoming past hurts and refocusing on the hear and now.
(902) 906-5192 View (902) 906-5192
Photo of Jean Mason, Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, BA, MA, RCT-C
Jean Mason
Registered Counselling Therapist Candidate, BA, MA, RCT-C
Dartmouth, NS B2Y
I specialize and have been trained in working with neurodivergent individuals, with a focus on ADHD; as well as kids and teens.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic methods to help my clients. My first objective is always establishing relationship and goals. I use solution-focused therapy, talk therapy, CBT, and art therapy to help ease anxiety and take steps towards the clients desired therapeutic goals.
I specialize and have been trained in working with neurodivergent individuals, with a focus on ADHD; as well as kids and teens.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic methods to help my clients. My first objective is always establishing relationship and goals. I use solution-focused therapy, talk therapy, CBT, and art therapy to help ease anxiety and take steps towards the clients desired therapeutic goals.
(782) 400-0307 View (782) 400-0307
Photo of Felicia Burchell - Spectrum Therapeutic Solutions, Counsellor
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from others? Are you a parent worried about your child who may be having challenges? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more lovingly in your relationship? Are you a person who wants to improve your health? You are in the right place. Our goal is to help you through difficult experiences, and we offer counselling therapy, occupational therapy and naturopathic medicine for children, teens, adults, couples and families. Book a free 20-minute consultation. You can email us, or you can go to our website and book now!
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from others? Are you a parent worried about your child who may be having challenges? Are you a partner wanting to learn to communicate and connect more lovingly in your relationship? Are you a person who wants to improve your health? You are in the right place. Our goal is to help you through difficult experiences, and we offer counselling therapy, occupational therapy and naturopathic medicine for children, teens, adults, couples and families. Book a free 20-minute consultation. You can email us, or you can go to our website and book now!
(782) 825-6823 View (782) 825-6823
Photo of Darlene Messervey, Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Darlene Messervey
Counsellor, MEd, CCC
Dartmouth, NS B3B
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with children and families involved with Child Protective services for 15 years, and published a book on attachment disruptions titled "No Place Called Home" , with extensive knowledge on attachment, particularly in young children.
Please note my practice is now full until January. Thank you! As a psychotherapist, her core belief is that every individual possesses the inherent capacity for growth and healing, and she feels her role is to support them in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and insight. With a deep commitment to understanding the complexities of the human experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, self-discovery, and personal empowerment, regardless of age.
I have worked with children and families involved with Child Protective services for 15 years, and published a book on attachment disruptions titled "No Place Called Home" , with extensive knowledge on attachment, particularly in young children.
Please note my practice is now full until January. Thank you! As a psychotherapist, her core belief is that every individual possesses the inherent capacity for growth and healing, and she feels her role is to support them in navigating life’s challenges with compassion and insight. With a deep commitment to understanding the complexities of the human experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve emotional well-being, self-discovery, and personal empowerment, regardless of age.
(902) 710-7349 View (902) 710-7349

See more therapy options for Dartmouth

Child Counsellors
Do I need to attend therapy with my child?
Parents are an integral part of a child’s therapy, but the specifics of their involvement vary. If your child is young, you may attend most or all sessions; if your child is older, you may attend a few sessions or none; sometimes a therapist may ask you to have a session on your own. Whatever the arrangement, you should expect to work collaboratively with the therapist, your child, and your family members to take steps to help support your child.

How long are sessions with child therapists?
Children’s therapy sessions can last 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes. The length of the session may depend on your child’s age and the type of therapy practiced. You can discuss this with therapists you consult and the one you ultimately move forward with.

How do I get a child to agree to seek therapy?
The best approach is to have an open-ended conversation with your child about how they’re doing and what they might be struggling with. When you raise therapy, discuss the concept in an age-appropriate way, for example explaining that a therapist’s job is to help kids handle their hard or uncomfortable feelings. Frame therapy positively, as an opportunity to explore and build emotional skills—it’s an important tool in the toolbox to help kids feel their best.

How can I tell if a therapist is a good fit for my child?
A child needs to feel comfortable opening up about their thoughts and feelings, so if your child feels a sense of comfort, ease, and trust with their therapist, that’s a great sign. In addition, a therapist is a good fit for your child if the two can communicate well together; a clinician should be able to communicate clearly, effectively, and in an age-appropriate manner.