At Wholesome Psychology, we believe every child and youth deserves a healthy start to their emotional and mental well-being. Navigating childhood and adolescence brings challenges that can profoundly affect mental health. Our dedicated team in Edmonton and St. Albert offers specialized counseling for children, teens, and families, empowering young people to understand, express, and manage their thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more about our services or contact us for information.
Why Focus on Child and Youth Mental Health?
Childhood and adolescence are critical periods for emotional, cognitive, and social development. Stressors such as academic pressures, family changes, bullying, trauma, developmental differences, or loss can impact a young person’s self-esteem, behavior, and mental health. Common challenges include anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, low self-esteem, trauma, and difficulties adjusting to major life transitions.
Mental health support early in life builds resilience and coping skills that last a lifetime. Our counseling services in Edmonton and St. Albert are designed to help children and youth understand themselves better and to provide families with strategies to nurture growth and connection. Read more about our parenting support and family counseling offerings.
Signs Your Child or Teen May Benefit from Counseling
- Sudden changes in mood or behavior
- Difficulty concentrating at school
- Withdrawal from friends or family
- Declining academic performance
- Intense fears, sadness, or worries
- Frequent outbursts or aggression
- Trouble sleeping or changes in eating habits
- Preoccupation with death or self-harm
- Struggling after trauma, loss, or major life changes
If you notice these signs, reaching out for professional support can help your child regain well-being and confidence. Learn how our child psychologists in Edmonton and St. Albert can help.
Our Child and Youth Counseling Services
Our experienced therapists use evidence-based approaches tailored to every stage of development. We collaborate with parents, caregivers, schools, and medical professionals as needed, ensuring your child has a cohesive support system. Services available at our Edmonton and St. Albert locations include:
- Individual Therapy: One-on-one sessions help children and teens process their emotions and develop practical coping strategies. Learn about therapy options.
- Play Therapy: For younger children, play therapy creates a safe space to explore feelings and solve problems using creative techniques. Learn more about Play Therapy.
- Family and Parent Support: We empower families to foster communication, reduce conflict, and model healthy ways to manage stress. Explore our parenting support services.
- Support with Bullying or School Issues: Guidance on navigating peer relationships and school stress. See our Bullying Therapy page.
- Trauma and Stress Recovery: Specialized therapy for children affected by trauma, grief, or challenging events. Discover our approach to child and youth stress and trauma.
- Assistance with ADHD & Anxiety: We address symptoms of ADHD in children and child and youth anxiety using age-appropriate tools and interventions.
What to Expect During Child and Youth Counseling
Creating a trusting, non-judgmental space is essential. The first few sessions focus on building rapport and understanding your child’s strengths, struggles, and unique story. Our therapists carefully assess behavioral, emotional, and social concerns. For younger children, sessions may involve play, art, or games to help them express themselves. For older youth, talk therapy, skill-building, and practical exercises support their goals.
Parental involvement can be an important part of counseling, especially for younger children. We encourage parents and caregivers to be active partners and offer guidance for supporting your child at home and in the community. When appropriate, sessions may include the whole family, recognizing the impact of relationships and environment on well-being.
If you're preparing your child for therapy, visit our guide to preparing children for therapy.
Who Can Benefit from Our Child and Youth Counseling?
- Children struggling with anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues
- Youth experiencing loss, divorce, or major family transitions
- Teens dealing with peer pressure, bullying, or academic difficulties
- Children presenting behavioral concerns at home or school
- Young people processing trauma or adverse life experiences
- Children and teens with ADHD, learning, or developmental challenges
We provide affirming mental health care for children and youth from diverse backgrounds, family structures, and cultures. We value every young person’s voice and individuality, fostering their unique path to healing and growth.
Meet Our Experienced Edmonton Child Therapists
Our compassionate team of psychologists and therapists specializes in child and youth development. We are committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment where young people and their families feel heard, valued, and understood. To meet our team and find the right therapist for your child or teen, visit our Our Therapists page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child needs therapy?
Parents or caregivers may notice changes in mood, behavior, eating, or sleeping patterns. If your child seems distressed, withdrawn, or overwhelmed, therapy can provide support and professional insight.
Can parents participate in counseling sessions?
Yes! Parental involvement can be helpful, especially for younger children. Our therapists guide parents on how to support progress outside the session.
What if my teen is reluctant to try therapy?
This is very common. We work gently to build trust and engage teens at their own pace, respecting their boundaries while providing a space to talk freely.
Related Services
Book an Appointment for Your Child or Teen
If your child or teen is struggling, you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Wholesome Psychology in Edmonton and St. Albert, we’re here to walk alongside your family every step of the way. To schedule an appointment or ask questions, contact us today. Investing in your child’s mental health is investing in their bright and healthy future. You can also learn more about getting started with our services.
