4 Highly Recommended Oakville Child Psychologists & Social Workers

At The Therapy Centre, we offer dedicated therapy services to children, adolescents, and families, helping them navigate life’s challenges and promoting mental well-being. Our experienced and compassionate child psychologists in Oakville specialize in supporting children through anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and a range of other psychological disorders. Whether it’s through Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), family therapy, or other evidence-based treatments, we’re here to help your child build coping strategies and develop the skills needed for a fulfilling life.

Supporting your child’s mental health 

At The Therapy Centre, we believe that every child deserves the support they need to thrive emotionally, socially, and academically. Our child psychologists offer a safe, nurturing space where children can learn to manage feelings of anxiety, depression, stress, and more. We focus on:

• Highly skilled and compassionate therapists: Years of experience in child therapy, specializing in mental health, anxiety, and emotional regulation.
• Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): A proven approach to help children develop positive thinking patterns and coping strategies.
• Therapeutic support for a range of issues: Including anxiety disorders, trauma, depression, school challenges, and emotional regulation.
• Family therapy options: We work with families to provide a holistic approach to supporting children through difficult times.
• Tailored treatment plans: Individualized care to address your child’s unique challenges and promote a sense of self-worth and emotional growth.

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About the Therapy Centre

The Therapy Centre is committed to delivering the highest quality mental health services to children, adolescents, and their families. Our team of registered psychotherapists, child psychologists, and registered social workers specialize in supporting children through a variety of emotional and psychological challenges. We understand that children and adolescents face unique challenges, which is why we offer specialized, compassionate care designed to help them thrive.

Our mission is to support children in developing self-esteem, emotional regulation, and coping strategies, fostering positive growth in both their personal and academic lives. Whether it’s helping a child navigate separation anxiety, coping with stress, or improving self-awareness, we’re here to guide them toward a fulfilling life.

Meet 4 Oakville child therapists ready for hire

Dr. Maria Antoniou, C.Psych. – Clinical & Counselling Psychologist

Dr. Maria Antoniou is a registered Clinical Psychologist with a Ph.D. from the University of Toronto (OISE/UT). She has extensive experience providing assessment and treatment for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Dr. Antoniou primarily works within a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach to treat anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, self-esteem difficulties, and behavioural problems. She has a special interest in the treatment of individuals with eating disorders, with over 10 years of experience in this area. Dr. Antoniou has worked at The Hospital for Sick Children and the Bulimia Anorexia Nervosa Association and was the Chair of the Body Image Coalition of Peel. She is a member of The College of Psychologists and Behaviour Analysts of Ontario (CPBAO) and the Canadian Psychological Association.

• Credentials: Clinical Psychologist
• Clientele: Children, Adolescents, Families
• Location: Oakville, ON
• Virtual Therapy Available? Yes

Ashley Petrie, MSW, RSW – Registered Social Worker

Ashley Petrie is a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree from Wilfrid Laurier University. She works in private practice supporting children, adolescents, adults, and parents experiencing a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, grief, self-esteem, life transitions, perfectionism, parenting challenges, and school and behavioural issues. Ashley has a special interest in supporting women during the perinatal period through loss, pregnancy, and postpartum. She is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Emotion-Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), and mindfulness-based approaches. Ashley practices from a trauma-informed care lens with a focus on self-compassion and healing.

• Credentials: Registered Social Worker
• Clientele: Children, Adolescents, Families
• Location: Oakville, ON
• Virtual Therapy Available? Yes

Rhonda King, MSW, RSW – Registered Social Worker

Rhonda King is a Registered Social Worker with a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Windsor. She supports children, adolescents, adults, and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, anger, poor self-esteem, family conflict, peer conflict, marital issues, and difficulties in school. Rhonda works predominantly from a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, integrating elements of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT). She has over 17 years of experience and is passionate about creating a calm, non-judgmental, safe space for clients.

• Credentials: Registered Social Worker
• Clientele: Children, Teens, Adults, Couples
• Location: Oakville, ON
• Virtual Therapy Available? Yes

Dr. Brenda Wiley, C.Psych. – Clinical Psychologist

Dr. Brenda Wiley is a Clinical Psychologist who holds a Ph.D. in School Psychology from Texas A&M University. She has worked in various settings, including community mental health centres, private practice, schools, children’s hospitals, and outpatient pediatric therapy centres. Dr. Wiley specializes in psychoeducational and psychodiagnostic assessments, focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and providing diagnostic differentiation on emotional and behavioural conditions. Her treatment approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), with elements of Behaviour Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Interpersonal Therapy. Dr. Wiley is committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for clients through empathy, collaboration, and genuine positive regard.

• Credentials: Clinical Psychologist
• Clientele: Children, Adolescents, Families
• Location: Oakville, ON
• Virtual Therapy Available? Yes

How to start child therapy in Oakville

1. Contact Us
   Reach out to us via phone or our online contact form to schedule a consultation. We’ll answer any questions you have and discuss how therapy can benefit your child.
2. Schedule a Free Consultation
   Book a free consultation to understand your child’s needs better. During this meeting, you’ll get a sense of how our therapists can support your child’s emotional journey.
3. Create a Personalized Treatment Plan
   After an assessment, we’ll work with you to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your child’s unique needs. We utilize evidence-based practices, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), to provide the best possible support.
4. Begin Therapy
   Once the plan is in place, your child will begin therapy sessions with one of our experienced therapists. We provide a safe and welcoming space for them to explore their emotions and develop coping strategies.

Why work with us

1. Experienced Team of Child Psychologists: Our team is highly experienced in providing therapeutic support for children, adolescents, and families. We specialize in managing anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, and school challenges.
2. Tailored Approach to Therapy: We understand that every child is unique. Our therapists create personalized treatment plans, integrating methods such as cognitive behavioural therapy and family therapy to address your child’s specific concerns.
3. Safe and Supportive Environment: We prioritize creating a space where children feel comfortable, supported, and heard. Our goal is to help children cope with their challenges and build a positive self-image.
4. Family-Centered Care: We recognize the importance of family in a child’s healing process. That’s why we offer family therapy to address the dynamics that may be contributing to your child’s difficulties.
5. Comprehensive Services for All Ages: From childhood through adolescence, we offer therapy that grows with your child’s emotional and psychological needs.

Common reasons why parents seek therapy for their child

• Anxiety Disorders: Many children struggle with anxiety, whether it’s separation anxiety, social anxiety, or generalized anxiety. Therapy can help children manage their worries, develop coping mechanisms, and build confidence.
• Depression: Children experiencing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or isolation may benefit from therapy to explore their emotions, develop emotional regulation skills, and restore a sense of joy.
• Emotional Regulation: Children who struggle with emotional regulation may feel overwhelmed by their emotions. Therapy helps them develop tools to manage their feelings in a healthy, constructive way.
• School Challenges: Children experiencing school stress, social difficulties, or learning disabilities can find support in therapy. Our team works with children to address school-based challenges, promote self-esteem, and develop better coping strategies.
• Trauma and Grief: Trauma and loss can deeply affect children’s emotional well-being. Therapy offers a safe environment to process grief, heal from trauma, and regain a sense of safety and control.

When another practice might be a better fit for your needs

1. Severe Psychological Disorders: If your child’s needs require more intensive treatment, such as hospitalization or residential care, we can provide resources and assist you in finding the appropriate support.
2. Medical Needs: If your child requires medical intervention for a physical condition related to their emotional struggles, we recommend consulting a pediatrician or psychiatrist for guidance and support.
3. Need for Specialized Services: If your child’s challenges require specialized services such as occupational therapy or speech therapy, we can offer referrals to trusted professionals in those fields.

FAQs about child therapy

What is the difference between a child therapist and a child psychologist?

Child therapists are trained professionals who provide therapeutic interventions, such as talk therapy or CBT. A child psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree and may conduct psychological assessments in addition to providing therapy. Pychologists can also provide a diagnosis if needed. Our clinicians are trained and experienced in both therapy and assessments. Our team can also offer full psychoeducational assessments, autism and ADHD assessments.

What type of therapy is best for kids?

Common therapeutic modalities for children include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), play therapy, and family therapy. Our therapists use a combination of these approaches to meet each child’s specific needs.

Is therapy free for kids in Canada?

While therapy for children is not typically covered by public health insurance, some services may be covered under extended health benefits or private insurance. We offer a range of payment options and are happy to assist you with navigating insurance.

Start working with one of our Oakville child psychologists today

At The Therapy Centre, we are dedicated to helping children, teens, and families overcome emotional challenges and build healthier, happier futures. Our child psychologists are here to provide the support, guidance, and healing your child needs. Reach out to schedule your consultation and begin your child’s journey toward emotional well-being today.