Child Therapy in Kingston

I provide a safe, supportive space for children aged 6 and up to work through anxiety, self-regulation, low self-esteem, family changes, and school stress. Using age-appropriate, evidence-informed approaches, I help them build resilience, confidence, and healthier ways to cope and connect.

CHILD COUNSELLING IN KINGSTON

Helping Kids Feel Their Best

My approach is grounded in non-directive, play-based therapy using toys, stories, and art to create a safe space for kids to express and process their feelings in their own way.

Support that works for your family:
  • After-school appointment options
  • No referral needed
  • No waitlist
  • Easy online booking
  • Regular communication with parents/guardians
  • Centrally located in Kingston with convenient 401 access
  • Free on-site parking

Why Choose Michelle

Early Childhood Educator

I’ve studied child development and understand that the early years are critical for shaping not only cognitive and social skills, but also emotional well-being and mental health, laying the foundation for regulation, resilience, and healthy relationships.

Ontario Certified Teacher

I’ve worked in schools across the province, gaining insight into the stress, social pressures, and identity challenges many kids face. These experiences have shaped my awareness of how school impacts mental health, self-esteem and sense of belonging.

20+ Years of Experience

My experience supporting young people spans a range of settings including domestic violence shelters, refugee and immigrant resettlement services, municipal recreation and arts programs, summer camps, after-school programs and sports teams.

MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Therapeutic Focus Areas for Children

I help children develop emotional regulation and coping skills, navigate life changes, and build confidence and social connections. I work within my professional competencies and refer to other specialists when additional support is required.

A thoughtful child plays with a toy at a wooden table, conveying a sense of introspection.
Emotional Regulation & Coping Skills

Big emotions like anxiety, frustration, and sadness can feel overwhelming for children. Through therapy, kids learn how to regulate emotions, express their feelings, and develop coping strategies to manage stress.

Family scene with mother and daughter in a warm, cozy kitchen setting.
Navigating Life Changes

Major life transitions such as divorce, moving to a new home, or losing a loved one can be confusing and difficult for children. Therapy provides a safe space for kids to process these changes, adjust to new dynamics, and build emotional resilience.

Smiling children enjoying a joyful birthday celebration indoors with colorful balloons.
Building Confidence & Social Connection

Self-esteem and social skills help children thrive. Therapy supports kids in developing confidence, making friends, improving communication, and navigating relationships with greater ease and emotional intelligence.

Session Details

Each appointment is 50 minutes long and follows a consistent structure:

  • 5-minute check-in: A brief conversation with the parent or guardian at the beginning of the session.
  • 40 minutes of individual therapy: Dedicated one-on-one time with your child. Parents or guardians are asked to remain on-site throughout the appointment.
  • 5-minute check-out: A brief conversation with the parent or guardian to share general updates, discuss progress, and identify any next steps.

This structure encourages ongoing communication and collaboration with parents and guardians while ensuring your child has a safe, supportive space to build trust and engage in therapy.

All about Child Therapy
Frequently Asked Questions

Child therapy is a specialized form of counselling designed to help children understand and manage their emotions, behaviours, and relationships. It provides a safe space where they can express themselves and develop healthy coping skills.

Since children cannot always express their thoughts and emotions verbally, child therapy uses play, art, and storytelling as developmentally appropriate ways to engage them in therapy. These approaches help children process experiences, express themselves, and navigate challenges in a way that aligns with their stage of development. Therapy focuses on building emotional awareness, improving communication, and developing resilience in age-appropriate ways.

Children may benefit from therapy if they experience ongoing emotional, behavioural, or social difficulties that impact their daily life. Signs to look for include excessive worry, sadness, difficulty managing anger, changes in sleep or appetite, trouble at school, or withdrawing from friends and family. Therapy can also help children adjust to major life changes, such as divorce, relocation, or loss.

Sessions vary based on a child’s age and needs but often include a combination of talking, play-based activities, art, or structured skill-building exercises. The therapist helps the child explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and practice problem-solving in a supportive and developmentally appropriate way.

While sessions are one-on-one with the child, I invite parents/guardians for a brief 5-minute check-in before and a 5-minute check-out after each session. This provides an opportunity to share updates, address any concerns, and discuss strategies to support progress at home.

Yes, I will provide general updates and guidance for parents/guardians during the 5 minute check-out at the end of the child therapy session. Specific details of what a child shares in therapy remain confidential unless there is a safety concern.

Confidentiality is essential in therapy, but there are limits when it comes to a child’s safety. Therapists must share information if a child is at risk of harm, if there is suspected abuse or neglect, or if required by law. Otherwise, what children share in sessions remains private, helping them feel safe and supported.

The length of therapy depends on the child’s needs, goals, and progress. Some children benefit from short-term therapy (a few sessions), while others may require longer-term support. I will assess progress regularly and collaboratively discuss next steps with parents/guardians.

It’s best to keep the conversation simple and positive. Explain that therapy is a place where they can talk, play, and learn ways to handle big feelings. Avoid framing therapy as a punishment, let them know it’s a supportive space to help them feel better and solve problems.

The first step is to schedule an appointment by clicking on Book Now. Please note that child therapy is offered in-person at my office in Kingston, Ontario and parents/guardians must remain on-site in the waiting room during the appointment.

When Specialized Support May Be Needed

While I support children experiencing a range of emotional, social, and behavioural challenges, some concerns may require more specialized assessment or treatment than I currently offer.

At this time, my practice is not equipped to provide specialized treatment for:

  • Significant behavioural challenges, including persistent aggression, destructive behaviours, or serious conduct-related concerns.
  • Complex or severe trauma requiring intensive, specialized trauma treatment.
  • Complex developmental or intellectual needs that would benefit from specialized neurodevelopmental services.
  • Severe OCD, phobias, or compulsive behaviours requiring intensive Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy.
  • Behavioural intervention programs, such as Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).

If you’re unsure whether my services would be appropriate for your child, please feel free to contact me to discuss their needs.

Assessment & Diagnosis

As a Registered Psychotherapist, I do not provide formal diagnoses for ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, or other neurodevelopmental conditions. My role is to help clients explore their experiences, develop a better understanding of their strengths and challenges, and complete appropriate screening tools when clinically indicated.

If a formal diagnosis is needed, I encourage clients and families to consult their primary care provider or a psychologist to explore assessment options.

Please contact me if you have any questions.

Office Location

Address

2263 Princess St.
Kingston, ON K7M 3G1

My office is centrally located in the historic Beamish House at the corner of Princess Street and Sydenham Road. The office is easily accessible from Highway 401, John Counter Boulevard and Taylor Kidd Boulevard.

Enter through the door with the blue awning.

The Waiting Room

The waiting room is the first room as you enter. Please take a seat in one of the chairs and I’ll meet you when it’s time for your appointment.

Washrooms are located downstairs, just down the spiral staircase.

My Office

My office is tucked away in a quiet corner on the main floor, offering a spacious and comfortable setting for therapy. Built-in shelving holds toys, games, and therapeutic materials for clients to explore, with plenty of options for younger clients. Free Wi-Fi, snacks, and refreshments are available.

Google Maps

Address

2263 Princess Street
Kingston, ON K7M 3G1

Text

613-329-5066

Email

info@michellelehoux.com

Ready to Book?

You can book a psychotherapy appointment anytime through the secure client portal. Choose a time that fits your schedule, no back-and-forth emails needed. Evening and weekend appointments are available to accommodate busy schedules.

I’m here when you’re ready to begin.

Book Now

Still have questions?

Check out Frequently Asked Questions or contact me.