Child and teen therapy is a specialized form of counselling designed to help young people navigate the emotional, psychological, and social challenges they face during critical stages of their development. Unlike adult therapy, which typically focuses on verbal communication, therapy for children and teens (Ages 4+) often uses a variety of age-appropriate techniques to engage young clients. These may include play therapy, talk therapy, art, role-playing, and even movement to help kids express their feelings, process experiences, and learn new ways to cope with difficulties.
Therapy Can Benefit Your Child or Teen If...
They struggle to express their emotions...
Children and teens often find it difficult to put their feelings into words, leading to frustration, anger, or withdrawal. Therapy can provide them with the tools to identify and articulate their emotions in a healthy way, helping them better manage their feelings.
They are experiencing anxiety or excessive worry...
Whether it's about school, social situations, or their future, anxiety can be overwhelming for young people. Therapy helps kids and teens develop coping mechanisms, build resilience, and learn strategies to manage anxiety and reduce stress.
They are struggling with low self-esteem or self-worth...
Teenagers and children often go through phases of questioning their self-worth. Whether due to peer pressure, body image issues, or family dynamics, therapy can help build confidence, improve self-esteem, and foster a more positive self-image.
They are having trouble with peer relationships or social skills...
Social difficulties, such as bullying, difficulty making friends, or navigating peer pressure, are common in childhood and adolescence. Therapy can help your child or teen build better communication skills, learn how to form healthy friendships, and manage conflicts in a constructive way.
They are struggling with behavioral or emotional regulation...
If your child or teen is exhibiting disruptive behaviors, like acting out, defiance, aggression, or emotional outbursts, therapy can help them understand the root causes of these behaviors and learn ways to better regulate their emotions and actions.
They are navigating
identity & self-discovery...
As children and teens explore who they are and how they fit in the world, they may experience confusion or conflict about their identity, including their gender or sexual orientation. Therapy offers a supportive space to explore these aspects of their identity, build self-acceptance, and address any struggles they may face.
They have experienced trauma or abuse...
Children and teens who have experienced trauma—whether physical, emotional, or psychological—may struggle with feelings of fear, guilt, or anger. Therapy provides a safe and supportive environment for them to process their experiences, heal, and develop healthier ways of coping with trauma.
They are facing family changes or conflict...
Family transitions, like divorce, remarriage, or family conflict, can be difficult for children and teens to navigate. Therapy can help them process these changes, improve communication within the family, and maintain healthy relationships despite challenging circumstances.
Discover the Benefits for Your Child or Teen
Therapy offers your child or teen more than just a space to talk—it provides them with the tools to navigate life’s challenges with confidence and resilience. Through therapy, young people can gain a deeper understanding of their emotions, build healthy coping strategies, and learn essential skills for managing stress, relationships, and self-esteem. Whether it's overcoming anxiety, improving social skills, or processing trauma, by providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment, therapy fosters self-awareness, encourages personal growth, and equips your child with the skills they need to thrive now and in the future.
Who We Help
We offer therapy for children and teens dealing with a wide range of challenges, including but not limited to...
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Children and Teens Navigating Mental Health
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Children experiencing Trauma and PTSD
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Children with Special Needs
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Navigating Identity
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Academic Stress
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Life transitions
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Teens in Crisis or Struggling with Self-Esteem
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Boundaries, communication, and emotional regulation
Why Choose STAR?
At STAR, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate, effective therapy for children and teens in a welcoming environment. Our team of experienced therapists specializes in working with young clients and understands the unique challenges they face. We create a safe, confidential space where your child or teen can feel comfortable exploring their emotions and developing healthy coping strategies.
We work closely with parents to ensure that the therapy process is collaborative, transparent, and supportive, providing guidance and resources that can be used at home to reinforce progress made in therapy.
Experienced Therapists
Our team brings warmth, professionalism, and a wide range of evidence-based approaches to every session.
Client-Centered Care
We tailor each session to your needs, goals, and pace. You’re the expert on your life—we’re here to support, not direct.
Flexible Therapy Options
In-person, virtual, phone, or walk-and-talk—we make it easy to get support in a way that fits your lifestyle.
In-Person Sessions
Join us at our Vaughan office for a calming, confidential space to engage in therapy face-to-face. In-person sessions allow for deeper presence and a grounded environment away from the distractions of home
Phone Sessions
Prefer a voice-only session? Phone therapy offers privacy, ease, and accessibility—no video required. It’s a great option if you're camera-shy, on the move, or just need a flexible, low-pressure way to talk. All you need is a quiet space and a phone.
Virtual Session
Secure, convenient, and just as effective as in-person sessions, virtual therapy allows you to connect from wherever you're most comfortable. Ideal for busy schedules, parents, or anyone looking for flexibility across the GTA. All sessions are conducted through a secure, encrypted platform.
Walk-and-Talk
This unique and dynamic approach to therapy takes your session outside the traditional office and into nature. Walk-and-talk therapy allows you to engage in meaningful conversation with the combination of light physical activity,