~Every child is unique, every child is valued, every child can learn.~
The purpose of counselling is to provide a safe place for expression, exploration, and growth. This is achieved by applying strategies used in: Person-Centered Therapy, Play-Based Therapy, and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
Person Centered Therapy: Views every individual as unique and respects the qualities of that individual. The underlying philosophy is centred around empathetic understanding and unconditional positive regard.
Play Therapy: Uses play as a medium of communication between the counsellor and child. Play is the child’s language and when he or she is given the opportunity to express him or her self, play is used to communicate those thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: Is structured around the relationships between thoughts and behaviours. This includes the role of these factors and how thoughts and behaviours contribute to the individual’s feelings.
The benefits of counselling:
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A greater ability to identify and recognize the feelings and emotions of self and others.
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A greater sense of self-awareness.
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The ability to process and reflect on daily experiences.
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The ability to appropriately apply coping and relaxation strategies.
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The ability to adapt to unpredictable and challenging circumstances.
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Strengthened communication skills.
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Heightened self-esteem and self-concept.
It may be time for counselling when your child:
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Can clearly communicate, yet has difficulty doing so when faced with emotional challenges.
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Has difficulty identifying and recognizing his or her own emotions as well as those of others.
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Withdraws or acts aggressively when faced with certain challenges or demands.
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Suffers from anxiety and/or depression.
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Has experienced one or more traumatic events and /or any dramatic changes and is finding it challenging to cope.
Please contact our office at (604) 232-4122 or email joseph@abacentre.ca
Vanessa Hercun, B.A., M.A.C.P. Candidate
Counsellor
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