Child and Teen Counselling in Richmond Hill: Free Sessions for Eligible Families
Finding support for your child can feel overwhelming. You may notice more worry, frustration, withdrawal, or difficulties at school—and wonder whether counselling could help.
Dawn Therapy offers counselling in English for children and teens aged 7–16 with Alice Yang, a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and practicum student working under clinical supervision. Appointments are available in person in Richmond Hill and online across Ontario.
Free sessions are available for eligible families. Contact our office to check availability.
Dawn Therapy’s playroom. This photo has been digitally enhanced, including added wall posters.
When might your child benefit from counselling?
Emotional ups and downs are part of growing up. Professional support may be helpful when difficulties persist, cause distress, or interfere with school, friendships, or family life. You do not need to wait for concerns to become severe before asking for help.
Frequent worries or fears that affect everyday activities.
Ongoing irritability or emotional outbursts.
Withdrawal from friends or favourite activities.
Changes in sleep, energy, or school participation.
Difficulty adjusting to stressful experiences or family changes.
These signs do not necessarily mean your child has a mental health condition. An assessment can help clarify their needs. New or persistent physical symptoms should also be discussed with your child’s healthcare provider.
Practical ways parents can support children’s mental health
Listen before offering solutions
Choose a calm moment to check in. Try saying, “I’ve noticed things have felt difficult lately. Would you like to tell me about it?” Give your child time to respond without interrupting. Reflecting what you hear—“That sounds disappointing”—can help show that you understand. The CDC recommends active listening and regular conversations to strengthen connection with young people.
Keep everyday routines predictable
Consistent routines for meals, bedtime, and time together can provide a dependable structure. Explain upcoming changes where possible and keep expectations appropriate for your child’s age. The American Academy of Pediatrics identifies supportive relationships and regular routines as building blocks for healthy emotional development.
Stay involved while respecting independence
Younger children and teenagers may need different kinds of support. Ask what would help: talking, spending quiet time together, or working through a problem. Caregiver involvement can be an important part of treatment, with the approach adapted to the young person’s age and needs. Your clinician can explain how parents participate while respecting consent and confidentiality.
How can counselling help?
Counselling can offer a supportive space to explore concerns, practise coping skills, and work toward meaningful goals. Treatment should fit the young person’s developmental stage and specific difficulties. Evidence supports particular approaches for particular concerns—for example, cognitive behavioural therapy can help with childhood anxiety. During intake, ask which approaches are available and how progress will be reviewed.
Counselling with Alice Yang
Alice Yang is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and Yorkville University Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology practicum student completing her clinical training under supervision. Her background as an Ontario Certified Teacher informs her work with children and families.
Before sessions begin, we explain her role, supervision arrangements, consent, and confidentiality. Our team will discuss whether this service is a suitable fit for your child’s needs.
In-person and online appointments
Ages: 7–16.
Language: English.
In person: Unit 204, 13085 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill.
Online: Across Ontario, when appropriate for your child’s needs.
Free sessions: Available for eligible families.
Contact our office to check availability, or book online.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need a diagnosis?
No existing diagnosis is needed to inquire. Our team will discuss whether the service fits your child’s needs.
Will parents attend sessions?
Parent or caregiver involvement is discussed during intake and depends on the young person’s needs, consent, and treatment approach.
Is online counselling suitable for every child?
No. Suitability depends on factors such as age, attention, privacy, and support needs. We can discuss whether online or in-person appointments may be a better fit.
Are all sessions free?
Free sessions are available for eligible families. Contact our office to check availability.
What if my child needs urgent help?
This service is not emergency care. If your child is in immediate danger or cannot stay safe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.
Contact Dawn Therapy or book online
To ask about counselling with Alice Yang, contact our office to check availability or use our online booking system. For questions about free sessions, please contact the office.
Please use the website form for callback coordination only. Our team can explain how to share sensitive information securely.
This article provides general information and does not replace an individual assessment. Sources checked November 3, 2026.
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