Individual and Family Therapy
Depending on the issues identified at the time of intake, individual or family counselling may be appropriate. We offer counselling to children, adolescents and adults, making use of different techniques such as cognitive behavioural therapy, expressive arts techniques and mindfulness and relaxation training. The therapeutic techniques chosen will be dependent upon each client's needs and, for child clients, developmental level will be considered. In addition, we recognize the family as being an important support system for the child and are available to assist parents in understanding and meeting their child's needs, or in understanding themselves. Supportive counselling is also available to parents of children with extraordinary needs. Trauma or attachment-informed approaches are utilized when clinically indicated.
Concerns that might be addressed through individual or family counselling include:
anxiety, including social anxiety, separation anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
depression or low mood
acting out behaviours, including anger management
family conflict
divorce or separation
school refusal
issues of trauma or loss
post-separation reconciliation
Voice of the Child Reports
These reports assist parents in understanding the needs and wants of their children from their child’s perspective and can be used to create parenting plans and/or resolve custody/access related issues. Information is obtained in a non-judgmental, neutral environment, where the child is comfortable expressing themselves. The reports can be used in mediation, negotiation and court related scenarios.
Consultation & Coaching
We are able to offer direct consultation to families for a variety of concerns. Typically, consultations are time-limited and focused on a specific topic. For example, following comprehensive assessment, parents may request consultation regarding the development of the Individual Education Plan or assistance in navigating school and community supports available to their child. Parents may choose to seek out consultation to determine if psychological assessment is necessary. Consultations with school staff are also available upon request. We are also able to offer consultation to parents regarding positive parenting and behaviour management strategies.
Parent coaching is also available, in home or in our office. Our staff can work with parents to better understand their child’s needs and how to respond to those needs, and offer demonstration and guided practice of strategies that work.
Advocacy
Families often require support to navigate through the challenging tasks of obtaining government funding or other services for their children. We are able to assist families who may need some additional guidance. We are also available to support parents as they access the educational system, particularly in times of transition or when attempting to secure services for their children.
Groups and Information Sessions
Some people benefit from learning within a group context. We offer opportunities for children and adults to participate in educational groups to build upon their social skills and emotional regulation. In the future, we also hope to open our office for information sessions, where parents and community members can learn about specific topics and have an opportunity to ask questions of our clinicians and selected guest speakers. Topics under consideration include positive parenting strategies, self-regulation, anxiety, screen time guidelines, learning disabilities and navigating the school system as a parent of a child with extra needs. When available, these opportunities will be announced on our website and Facebook page.
Workshops and Presentations
We are able to offer educational workshops and presentations on a variety of topics, including typical and atypical patterns of child development, learning disabilities, mental health disorders, positive parenting supports and behaviour management strategies. Mrs. Shoebottom is a Registered Circle of Security Parent Facilitator. Please contact us for further information.
Psychological Assessments
Kaleidoscope Child and Family Care is once again offering Psychological assessments in partnership with Paragon Psychological Services. If your child, adolescent or teen is struggling at school with inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity or concerns with lagging behind their peers we can help clarify the causes and provide diagnosis and recommendations for use at school and at home. Reports will be provided for you to share with your child’s school and involved professionals to facilitate planning for best outcomes for your child.