Clinical Counselling

Clinical Counselling in Victoria BC

We offer clinical counselling in Greater Victoria and the Gulf Islands

Clinical counselling for children and families is a supportive, collaborative process that helps children and their caregivers better understand emotions, behaviors, and relationships. From a neuroaffirming stance, it recognizes that differences in how children think, learn, communicate, and experience the world are natural and valid, not problems to be fixed. Counselling focuses on understanding each child’s unique strengths, needs, and ways of being, while supporting families in building connection, communication, and practical strategies that work for their everyday lives. The goal is to create a space where children feel safe and accepted, and where families feel empowered to support their child in ways that honour who they are.

We offer Clinical Counselling in Victoria, B

LITTLE STEPS’ COUNSELLOR:

Rylie Jepson

Her passion for learning and supporting children’s emotional growth has guided me to this rewarding role. She brings experience in mindfulness, emotional regulation, and sensory integration, and strives to create a neuroaffirming and trauma-informed environment where every child feels safe, understood, and valued.

She takes an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based practices to meet each child and family’s unique needs. Her goal is to foster resilience, build coping skills, and empower children to thrive in their everyday lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is pediatric clinical counselling?

Pediatric clinical counselling is a specialized form of therapy that supports children and youth with their emotional, behavioral, and mental health. It helps children understand their feelings, build coping skills, and navigate challenges in a safe and supportive environment.

What ages do you work with?

We typically work with children and adolescents ranging from early childhood through the teen years. Services are tailored to each child’s developmental stage.

We can also support parents and caregivers.

What concerns can counselling help with?

Pediatric counselling can support a wide range of concerns, including:

Anxiety and worries
Emotional regulation and big feelings
Behavioral challenges
ADHD and attention difficulties
Social skills and friendships
School-related stress
Family changes (divorce, moves, new siblings)
Grief and loss
Self-esteem and confidence

How do I know if my child needs counseling?

You may consider counselling if your child is:

Struggling with strong emotions or frequent meltdowns
Showing changes in behavior, sleep, or appetite
Having difficulty at school or with peers
Appearing withdrawn, anxious, or overwhelmed
Experiencing a major life change or stressful event

If you’re unsure, we’re happy to consult and help guide next steps.

What happens during a counselling session?

Sessions are tailored to your child’s age and needs. They may include:

Play-based therapy (for younger children)
Talk therapy (for older children and teens)
Creative activities like drawing or storytelling
Skill-building exercises for coping and regulation

The goal is to help your child feel comfortable, understood, and supported.

Will I be involved in my child’s therapy?

Yes—parent/caregiver involvement is an important part of the process. Depending on your child’s age and needs, this may include:

Parent check-ins or feedback sessions
Strategies to support your child at home
Occasional joint sessions

It is important to note that session notes are private and confidential, they are not shared with caregivers unless required by law.

How long does counseling take?

The length of counselling varies depending on your child’s goals and needs.

Is counselling confidential?

Confidentiality is an important part of therapy. Information shared by your child is kept private, with some exceptions:

Safety concerns (risk of harm to self or others)
Legal requirements

We also work with families to ensure appropriate communication while respecting your child’s trust.

Do I need a referral?

No, a referral is not required. You can contact us directly to book an initial consultation.

Are services covered by insurance?

Many extended health plans cover services provided by registered clinical counsellors. Coverage varies, so we recommend checking with your provider.

What if my child is nervous about coming?

This is very common. Our therapists are trained to create a welcoming, low-pressure environment. We go at your child’s pace and use engaging, age-appropriate approaches to help them feel comfortable.