Child & Play Therapy
A safe, happy place for
your child to grow
When your child is struggling, it can feel lonely. Arms Open Counselling offers warm, playful, evidence-based therapy for children ages 5-17 so they can feel understood, build resilience and thrive.
Registered Child Therapist
In-person & Virtual
Ages 5 through 17
Is this your child?
Some things parents tell us …
“My child just isn’t themselves lately.” If any of these feel familiar, you are in the right place.
Worry that won’t switch off
Refusing school, panic, clinginess, or fears that get in the way of everyday life.
Grief or big life changes
Divorce, bereavement, moving schools - transitions that shake a child’s world.
Sadness & withdrawal
Pulling away from friends, losing interest in things they used to love and enjoy.
Social Struggles
Bullying, loneliness or difficulty making and keeping friends.
Emotional outbursts
Meltdowns, anger or behaviour that feels hard to manage at home or school.
Keeping feelings inside
A child who shuts down, won’t talk, or seems to be carrying something heavy.
You found the right place, now what?
Arms Open Counselling works with children using play, creativity and conversation - because kids communicate best when they feel safe and free to just be themselves.
Parents are partners in this, too. We will keep you informed and give you the tools you require to support your child’s progress at home and school
Play & Expressive Arts Therapy
Children express through play what they can’t always say in words
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Age-appropriate tools to help children understand and manage their thoughts
Trauma-informed & Attachment Care
Gentle, sensitive support for children who have been through some hard things in life.
Getting Started is as easy as 3 simple steps
1
Free 15 Minute Chat
We talk through what is going on, answer your questions and see if we are a good fit.
2
A Plan Just For Your Child
Sessions are designed around your childs age, need and goals - you will be involved every step of the way
3
Sessions Begin
Weekly or bi-weekly Sessions in a warm, fun setting - in person or virtual. Parent sessions are required to ensure a full team approach for your child’s wellness.
Our Child & Play
Therapy Team
Meet Alyssa
Registed Psychotherapist- Qualifying
Meet Samantha
Registered Social WorkerYour Questions, Answered
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Children go through normal ups and downs, but therapy may help if concerns feel ongoing or are affecting daily life. You might notice:
Big emotions that seem hard to manage
Anxiety, fears, or frequent worries
Behavioral challenges at home or school
Withdrawal or changes in mood
Difficulty with friendships or social skills
Seeking child therapy in the Niagara Region doesn’t mean something is “wrong”—it can be a proactive way to support your child’s emotional wellbeing.
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Child therapy is a supportive, age-appropriate approach that helps children understand and express their thoughts and feelings. Depending on the child’s age, sessions may include conversation, creative activities, or play-based techniques to build coping skills and confidence.
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Play therapy is a specialized form of child therapy that uses play as the primary way children communicate. Since many children don’t yet have the words to express complex feelings, play becomes a natural and effective way to process emotions and experiences.
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Child therapy can support:
Anxiety and stress
Emotional regulation and anger
Behavioral concerns
Family changes (divorce, separation, new sibling)
Grief and loss
Social skills and friendships
Self-esteem and confidence
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Sessions are tailored to your child’s needs. They may include play, art, storytelling, and gentle conversation. The goal is to create a safe, supportive space where your child can express themselves and develop healthy coping strategies.
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Yes. Parent involvement is an important part of the process. You’ll receive guidance, updates, and practical tools to support your child at home, while also respecting your child’s privacy within sessions.
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The length of therapy depends on your child’s needs and goals. Some children benefit from short-term support, while others may continue longer for deeper or ongoing concerns.
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Confidentiality is important in building trust with your child. Information is shared with parents in a way that supports progress, while also respecting your child’s sense of safety in the therapy space.
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We provide child therapy and play therapy in the Niagara Region, Our offices are located in Beamsville and Dunnville, servicing the surrounding communities.
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Getting started is simple. Reach out to book an initial consultation where we’ll discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and determine the best next steps for your child and family.
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Yes, in many cases child and play therapy services may be covered by extended health insurance benefits when provided by a licensed therapist. Coverage depends on your specific insurance plan and policy details.
Most insurance providers will reimburse sessions when therapy is deemed medically necessary and delivered by a regulated mental health professional. Play therapy is typically billed under standard psychotherapy codes, meaning it is often included under general “mental health” or “outpatient counselling” benefits.
We always recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to confirm what your plan includes for child counselling and psychotherapy services.