top of page
Top
Amber Hitchen, counsellor, in front of a play house used in play therapy

I help children and youth overcome challenges impeding their quality of life, so they can find joy in their lives, participate at home, school or in social life with confidence, and strengthen their relationships.

​

I have a deep belief that children do well if they can. As the adults in their lives, we can build on their lagging skills, celebrate their successes, and help guide them toward their preferred way of living. I believe that the foundation for healthy change and growth in a child’s life is through trusted relationships.

Below are just some of the areas of practice that I frequently help my clients with, in-person or virtually. 

Is your child complaining of frequent stomach aches or headaches when they are actually healthy, or having difficulty separating from you, more irritable than usual or seeking a lot of reassurance? I provide brain science as well as tools and strategies to make anxiety smaller in childrens lives.

​

Signs you may have noticed in your child:

  • Complaints of frequent stomach aches or headaches when they are actually healthy

  • Opting out of previously preferred activities to stay home or be with you

  • Difficulty separating from you or other trusted adults

  • Irritability

  • Troubles sleeping

  • Asking a lot of “what ifs” or seeking a lot of reassurance

  • Needing to do everything “right”

  • Trying to control situations

​

Wooden eggs with faces painted on them to show different emotions
Kids at play

Does your child seem to have a lack of self awareness, struggle to make or keep friends, and frequently misread social situations? Through creative and engaging means, I support the foundations of emotional literacy such as self-awareness and regulation during times of stress.

​

Signs you may have noticed in your child:

  • Lack of self awareness

  • Frequently misreading social situations

  • Struggling to make and/or keep friends

  • Appearing “rude” in communication with others

  • Being too “hands on” in physical play or in others personal space

​

Child suffering from anxiety

Does your child express a negative view of themself, have difficulties accepting compliments, or express self-defeating thoughts after making a mistake? I create opportunities for your child to experience and develop compassion for themselves and others.

 

Signs you may have noticed in your child:

  • Expressing negative view of self

  • Difficulties accepting compliments or praise

  • Self-defeating thoughts or talk after making a mistake

Child coping with grief or loss

Has your child experienced a loss or transition that has left them expressing sadness, anger or confusion, and they seem “stuck” and you’re not sure how to help? Children experience grief differently than adults. At times they may seem devastated, and at others they may be playing happily. Allowing space and time to process the loss in a way that is meaningful to them promotes a healthy adjustment.

​

Symptoms you may have noticed in your child:

  • Sadness

  • Anger

  • Confusion

If you’re wondering whether I may be a good fit for your family, contact me for a complimentary 15 minute phone call. I offer services both in-person and virtually.

bottom of page