It is often difficult for children to accurately communicate what they are feeling and why. The most well meaning and attentive parents can feel helpless when confronted with their child’s constant meltdowns, debilitating anxiety, or resistant behaviours. Children do not have the ability to fully process and cope when faced with complicated situations or stressors. This may lead to various emotional and behavioural issues. Child psychotherapy is about addressing the child’s underlying difficulties and building resilience for the future. Although Dr. Leon can work directly with children (especially ages 10 to 13), she mostly works with parents. Child psychotherapy services include a thorough psychological and psychodiagnostic assessment, treatment planning and psychotherapy or parent coaching.

Dr. Leon can help with the following concerns:

• Fear, worry, anxiety, and stress
• Tantrums, anger, and difficulty regulating emotions
• Parenting style and effective discipline techniques
• Problems with attention, concentration, and hyperactivity
• School avoidance and refusal
• Low mood, irritability, and depression
• Bedtime battles and sleeping difficulties
• Adjustment to life events (e.g., parental divorce)

The following services are not offered:

• Assessment or treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Assessment or treatment of disordered eating conditions
• Family therapy