Learn more about our THERAPY services: 

How will the first therapy intake session be structured:

All sessions begin with a 50-minute virtual intake; the intake is crucial to developing an in-depth foundation and understanding of the client's history, experiences, and goals before beginning the therapeutic process. 

The first meeting is held with parents only if the intake session is for a child or youth. Children/youth are not included in our initial intake session to allow the parents and therapist to speak freely and honestly about goals, struggles, history and details before welcoming the child into the process. 

For teens, families would decide how much (if any) involvement parents would have in sessions. Families can choose to have a parent-only intake, split the intake between the parent and teen, or that their teen will participate in the intake and process without their involvement.

We do not work directly with children under the age of four; we recommend parent coaching until your child can benefit and engage in the process. A therapist may also suggest parent coaching for families with children over 4 if they believe it may be a more beneficial or productive approach for your family. 

All relevant parties can be involved in the intake for a parent or couple session. Partners and parents may also request individual intake sessions to speak freely before coming together if preferred. Please note this preference when booking; our intake coordinator can help facilitate this request. 

For family sessions, depending on goals, the therapist may suggest a mixture of individual sessions in addition to family sessions; family sessions focus on a dyad or multiple dyads within the family unit. The structure and approach would be discussed further with the therapist you are matched with. 

Family, couple and parent sessions are billed out at a different fee as these sessions are approached differently and require more planning time.

Naturally, sessions for adults would have the individual doing their intake and sessions independently.  

What happens in the intake session:

In the intake session, we ask that you share openly and honestly all relevant details regarding all areas of life: home, school (or work), social, emotional, behavioural, academic, health history, habits, assessments, diagnosis, significant life events etc. This intake is to tell us about your story, experiences and needs so we clearly understand what has led you to therapy and how to move forward. 

In addition, we will discuss therapeutic goals, approaches, and all other administrative details, including policies, procedures and any other questions you may have. Please ensure you are signing into the JANE platform before the intake to create a profile and fill out all required forms for the initial virtual meeting. It is helpful to be detailed in your intake forms, which are reviewed before the intake and explored further in the meeting. Policies and procedures must also be signed before the intake; sessions can only occur if these forms are signed. If you need help filling out the online forms, please email our office, and we can troubleshoot the issue with you (info@behaviourmatters.ca). 

Once the intake is complete, we will work towards the agreed-upon therapeutic goals in each follow-up session. We recommend booking weekly (or bi-weekly) sessions on a consistent day and time to create routine and structure (especially in the beginning). 

Our therapists are social workers and psychotherapists; our clinic is open seven days a week for your convenience, offering therapy virtually and in person (after the initial intake) based on therapist availability.

Click here to learn more about child, youth, adult, couples, parents therapy or coaching.

How do I approach the conversation about therapy with my child/teen:

Many parents wonder how to approach the conversation about therapy with their children. They might state concerns such as, "I don't want them to feel like something is wrong with them." While this is understandable, therapy is usually a lot more anxiety-producing for parents than it is for their children. Most children follow your lead, and if you normalize the experience, they will likely see the process as positive and not something negative. Click here to learn how to start the conversation…

How will follow up therapy sessions be structured:

All follow-up sessions are also 50 minutes; the method (virtual or in person) will be discussed and confirmed in your initial virtual intake.

If your sessions are to be held virtually, you will receive a session reminder and link 30 minutes before meeting your therapist in a virtual room. Please keep in mind Safari does not always support the JANE app; we suggest using an alternative browser to log in. If you are having technical difficulties, emailing your therapist directly is recommended to request a support call back. Please save your therapist's direct email for all correspondents moving forward, as our general mailbox may respond slower than you need it. 

If your sessions will be held in person, you will still receive a virtual reminder with a link. This is done only to provide you with a backup option if you need to move your session virtually for any reason (illness, weather, etc). Please email your therapist if you need to make this change and then join the room for your session. Otherwise, you can disregard the virtual reminder and link and go to the office for your session date and time. We suggest giving yourself some extra time to find the office on your first visit; if you get lost, please email your therapists for a support call back.

Please ensure you have your therapist's direct email and be aware that when they call it will be from a blocked number. 

All follow-up sessions will have a specific goal that is being worked towards; therapists will use a variety of modalities and methods to achieve this goal. Modalities and approaches can include CBT, solution-focused therapy, behavioural therapy, narrative therapy, art therapy, play therapy, social-emotional skill development, etc. Sessions typically start with a check-in, followed by some type of therapeutic activity to assist in learning and developing a new concept or skill, finishing off with a plan for implementation and/or review of what we uncovered in the session. 

For children and youth, therapists typically reserve time at the end of the session to provide a quick parent update on how the session went, what was done and how to support your child moving forward. Again, For teens, families would have decided on how much involvement they would have in session during the intake (a therapist may still request a parent session or check-in if needed/relevant). 

For a parent, couple, or family session, the therapist would work with the parties involved together on their goals. The therapist may also suggest individual sessions if needed/relevant throughout the process.  

Naturally, sessions for adults would have the individual doing their intake and sessions independently.  

Family, couple and parent sessions are billed out at a different fee as these sessions are approached differently and take more planning time.

Will I receive coverage for therapy:

Coverage may apply depending on your insurance plan or funding requirements. We strongly suggest confirming your eligibility for social work and psychotherapy coverage before commencing. We also recommend submitting receipts promptly to avoid unforeseen reimbursement issues or delays.

Behaviour Matters is not responsible for coverage, reimbursement or any issues clients may face with third-party insurance or funding providers. Coverage and funding are the sole responsibilities of the client, but we, of course, provide detailed receipts with registration numbers, designations, or anything else that may be needed (within reason). It’s relevant to note that many clients have also been known to submit receipts as medical expenses during tax season.

How long will I/we have to be in therapy:

There is not a one-size-fits-all approach or answer to this question. Families can be with us for at least a few months or even years. Some families may turn to therapy to work on something specific and, when it is solved, no longer see a reason to continue. Others see therapy as a lifelong personal development commitment and enjoy the therapeutic process and growth that comes with it. We typically recommend a commitment of 12 sessions at a minimum, with an understanding that therapy can take more time and can continue with no end date in mind. Many of our families also update their goals as we achieve others, or as their children grow, mature, change, and new goals emerge.

How long will I have to wait for an appointment:

We try to provide a suitable option as soon as possible, but it helps if clients are flexible in timing and delivery methods (virtual vs. in-person). For 1:1, there may be a waitlist; wait times can vary. Please confirm with our clinic regarding the most recent wait times.

We may also suggest alternative services in the interim, please feel free to inquire about what else we have as options if 1:1 is not readily available.

Do I need a referral:

Referrals are unnecessary for our services, and we do not enforce a catchment area.

Learn more about our GROUP PROGRAMS services:

What are the details and structure of the group programs:

Group programs focus on developing social skills, emotional awareness and regulation, mindfulness, anxiety or leadership. Our group programs run for 8-week blocks for 90 minutes once a week, on Saturday or Sunday; we also open a few weekday options based on interest per term.

In addition to our regular programming, we run week-long half-day programs during March and Summer Break.

How many participants are in a program:

At a minimum, a group would need 4 participants to run; we find groups typically fill and close with 6-7 participants.

Do all children have a diagnosis:

No, not all participants have a diagnosis, and one is not needed to register. With that said, many of our participants do have a diagnosis of autism or ADHD; in addition, participant goals are typically related to improving social skills, emotional awareness/regulation or managing behaviours. Our group environment is an excellent place for your child to build their empathy and perspective-taking skills as they learn to understand, respect, and admire one another’s differences while strengthening and developing their abilities in the process.

What does it mean not to be group ready and what happens if this is the case:

A child may be deemed not group-ready if they are likely to exhibit aggression towards other participants and facilitators or escapism tendencies to the point that they create safety concerns.

We address group readiness during the program interview; it may be evident to the program coordinator that the information collected indicates that the child needs more support to be group-ready. If this is the case, alternatives may be suggested, such as working 1:1 with a therapist in our clinic to build group readiness skills before registering.

Occasionally, group readiness is missed in the program interview but is apparent in the group once it begins. Facilitators may attempt to support the child on a conditional basis for one more week; if the supports are unsuccessful, the child will be removed from the program, and a credit will be provided towards 1:1.

How do I register for a group program:

Our programs tend to fill up quickly; we strongly suggest scheduling an interview (for new clients) or registering ASAP (if a current or past client) to avoid disappointment and longer wait times.

A 30-minute assessment interview with our Program Coordinator is mandatory for new clients. This interview is to assess your goals for the program and get to know your child better from your perspective. We require that your child be present for a short portion at the beginning of the interview simply for a quick meet and greet and to assess group readiness and fit when considering all other participants in a group.

Once assessed, our Program Coordinator will suggest the best group fit and next steps. A non-refundable deposit must be made to secure your child or teen's spot in the group; confirmation and details will follow accordingly. 

Clients typically register in 1-3 rounds of the program, moving up in the curriculum or taking refreshers as needed.

Please click here for options for a social-emotional child or teen program or specialty anxiety, leadership or camp program.

What is the success rate of a group program and what is the feedback from parents:

Mostly, families see improvements after one group and celebrate wins and growth throughout the program. Families typically enjoy the progress they are experiencing and sign up for follow-up programs to continue the work. Most participants enjoy coming to the program, the facilitators, activities and making new friends and connections! It is recommended to enrol in a follow-up session or two, as well as revisit programs when children experience another developmental leap. For example, it is common to see a child participate between the ages of 6 to 9 and return between the ages of 10 to 13 as they begin to navigate new developmental stages and new life challenges.

How long will I have to wait to start a program:

Our group programs run every eight weeks; clients may start within a week to eight weeks, depending on where we are in the group cycle and availability. We also offer online modules and at-home resources that can be started anytime while you wait for therapy or groups to begin.

Do I need a referral:

Referrals are unnecessary for our services, and we do not enforce a catchment area.

Learn more about our PARENT PROGRAMS services: 

What do I need to know about the parent programs:

If you are interested in our parent programs, we have many parenting topics for you to pick from anxiety, behaviours, social-emotional skills, depression, autism, ADHD, parenting foundations, etc. These are self-led skills-based modules you can start at any point and time; click the topics above to review program deliverables and sign up online.

We also offer LIVE virtual parent programs and workshops. Our programs run 4-8 weeks, and workshops run on a one-time basis. If you are interested in learning more about our parent programs or our one-off workshops, please email our intake coordinator at info@behaviourmatters.ca to receive an updated offerings list. 

Learn more about our AT HOME RESOURCES: 

What at-home/in-school resources do you provide:

If you are interested in at-home or in-class resources, we have two great options:

1. Push For Happy Interactive Book. To learn more, click here.

2. Mindful Masters Social-Emotional Tool Kit & Program. To learn more, click here.

Learn more about our COMMUNITY services:

If you are interested in community workshops or training, we work directly with students, parents, educators/support staff or corporations.

We can run these workshops or training virtually or in person, as a one-time workshop, or a series on various topics.

Click here to learn more about student workshops, teacher or parent workshops, and corporate trainings.

To schedule a discovery call, please email our care coordinator at info@behaviourmatters.ca to be connected with the appropriate parties.

Learn more about why this MATTERS:

Why are Social Skills important:

Our world is a social place, and we spend most of our time as members of social groups. We all use our social skills everywhere we go. Social skills are about sharing space with others and getting along with people in various settings. An individual’s social success is based on the quality of social interactions. To have positive social interactions, an individual must be socially competent and have strong social learning skills.

A large body of research indicates that learning and strengthening social skills help ensure short- and long-term academic and personal success. It also shows that your child’s social skills are one of the most essential factors in their success.

Why are Emotional Regulation Skills important:

“Emotion Regulation” is a term generally used to describe a person’s ability to manage and respond to an emotional experience effectively. People unconsciously and consciously use emotion regulation strategies to cope with stressful situations often daily. Most of us use a variety of emotion regulation strategies and can apply them to different situations to adapt to the demands of our environment. Some of these are healthy; some are not. Some of us have a difficult time managing and regulating our emotions, which can cause us internal stress, getting stuck or fixated on outcomes, getting physical, aggressive, or hurtful towards others, amongst other things. When we can’t regulate our emotions, it typically causes more issues or adverse reactions, heightening our already heightened emotions and dysregulation. A large body of research indicates that learning and strengthening emotional regulation skills help ensure short- and long-term academic and personal success. It shows us that regulating our emotions improves our mood and attitude and decreases our stress levels, which puts us in the right mindset to succeed.

Why is Mental Health important:

In the same way, you cannot function at total capacity if your physical health is not a priority; you can also not function because your mental health is not a priority. Our bodies need healthy food and exercise; our minds need calm, positivity, connection, and mental stimulation. It all starts with our mindset, mental capacity, and overall mental wellness. You must see the benefits of taking care of your physical health, mental health is just as important as physical health, and we should all put effort and care into our psychological well-being as early on as possible to build good habits. Everyone needs to prioritize their mental health before having mental health issues; by doing this, we can avoid many stressors and be able to deal with any mental health issues more effectively.

What are the benefits of learning social skills and emotional regulation skills:

Children and teenagers will be more socially equipped and successful in handling daily interactions; they will also be better able to manage, understand, process and utilize emotions to benefit them and their goals. Social-emotional development is one of the most essential skills, if not the most important, your children will ever learn. If we can succeed in our daily interactions and regulate our emotions, not much can stand in the way of success or happiness.

What social skills and emotional regulation skills will children and teenagers learn in group/program or therapy:

Children and teenagers will learn and benefit from learning:

• Reading Social Cues 

• Positive Body Language 

• Non Verbal and Verbal Communication 

• Assertive Communication 

• Communication Styles and Skills 

• Joining a Group and Successful Group Dynamics

• Introducing Self to a Group

• Active Listening 

• Perspective Taking and Point of View

• Empathy and Compassion 

• Problem Solving and Conflict Resolution 

• Emotional Awareness

• Emotional Regulation 

• Calming and Coping Strategies 

• Growth Mindset and Self Motivation 

• Resiliency 

• Understanding Personal Impact

• SMART Goals 

• Cooperation and Compromise 

• Cause and Effect

• Consequences and Choices 

• Healthy and Unhealthy Relationships 

• Ant-Bullying Techniques 

• Inner Values and Boundaries 

• Building Friendship Skills 

• Respect 

• Handling Rejection and Losing 

• Confidence and Self Worth 

• Social Media Safety 

• Sharing and Good Sportsmanship 

• Respecting Personal Space 

• Self Advocacy 

• More…

Learn more about our SERVICES:

What services do you provide at Behaviour Matters:

• Child Counselling and Therapy

• Teen Counselling and Therapy 

• Family Therapy, Parent Coaching, Couples Counselling 

• Adult Psychotherapy and/or Counselling

• Child Social Skills - Emotional Regulation Groups 

• Teen Social Skills - Emotional Regulation Groups 

• Leadership Programs and Certification 

• School Break Camps (Winter, Spring, Summer)

• Back to School Prep Camps

• School and Community Workshops or Assemblies 

• School Observations and Strategy Suggestions

• Professional Development Training

• Teletherapy and Virtual Programs 

• Emotional Regulation Tool Kit & Resources 

• Psychological and Psycho-Educational Assessments 

• Occupational Therapy 

• Corporate Wellness Programs

What type of child or teen would benefit from a social skill - emotional regulation group or individual therapy:

A child or teenager dealing with:

• Anxiety and/or Depression

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Aspergers Syndrome 

• Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD)

• Behavioural Issues

• Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues

• Learning Disabilities (Verbal and Non Verbal)

• Learning Exceptionalities

• Trauma or Life Changes

• Separation and Divorce

• Emotional Regulation Issues

• Social Struggles or Low Self Confidence

 All children would benefit from social-emotional development!

What signs and symptoms can you spot in children or teenagers who would benefit from social-emotional support:

• Extreme sadness, irritability or hopelessness

• Low mood and depression 

• Excessive fears and/or worries

• Panic attacks and/or phobias

• Self-regulation and emotional regulation difficulties

• Behaviour issues, aggression and outbursts

• Sensory or processing difficulties

• Difficulty focusing, impulsivity or hyperactivity

• Academic struggles 

• Immaturity or dependency 

• Extreme shyness and social skill difficulties

• Obsessive thoughts and rituals

• Learning challenges or exceptionalities

• Transitions and flexibility issues

• Social and peer difficulties (e.g., bullying, relationships issues)

• Low self-esteem and/or negative self-image and talk

• Isolation, withdrawal from friends, activities and interests

• Poor decision-making and risky behaviours

• Relationship problems and/or peer pressure

• Difficulty focusing or impulsivity

• Slipping grades and lack of interest in academics

• Avoidance of school and social gatherings

• Obsessive thoughts or ritual behaviour

• Perfectionistic traits and unrealistic expectations

What is the refund policy:

No refunds will be issued once an individual session or program fee has been processed. Deposits for programs are also non-refundable/transferable.

Individual session fees are processed at the beginning of the session, program fees are processed two weeks prior, and access to program materials and parent portals is granted at that point.

However, in rare program cases, when considering conditional registrations/child-readiness, a credit may be provided at the facilitators' discretion to be used towards 1:1 to build their group-readiness skills. In these cases, credits are valid for one year before expiring.

Why should I choose Behaviour Matters:

We are Young and Accomplished.

Our team members are educated, trained professionals registered with governing bodies who hold us accountable. Young adults, children, and teens will relate to us because we can relate to them. Adults and corporations will benefit from our team, who is well-versed in the most up-to-date methods and practices.

We have Personal Experience with Mental Health.

Our Clinical Director was diagnosed with a generalized anxiety disorder in her teens. Most of our team members have struggled with their mental health or that of a loved one. We get it on a personal level, not just a professional level.

We are Creative and Adaptable.

We know the world is continuously changing, and we are continually changing with it. We strive to stay ahead of the game, listen, and create what our clients need.

We are Practical and Empowering.

We keep it simple; our strategies and skills are easy to understand and easy to implement. We want you to feel confident in what we have to teach and empowered to get out there and put the skills to use so you can reap the benefits and thrive.

We provide Instant Support.

We are a private practice; no referrals are needed. We support you when you need it most. We love to celebrate you and want to be able to do that sooner rather than later.