Hi, I’m Stefanie! I help young people boost their self-esteem, connect with their authentic selves and work with their challenges and difficult life experiences to reach their goals. Children are the experts in themselves, and what they need comes to light through play. I honour their uniqueness and autonomy to help them shine.

Neuroaffirming care

Neurodivergent children and teens can struggle with traditional talk therapy. Many are high masking and struggle with the intense demands placed on them. I offer specialized care that highlights autonomy while incorporating special interests through play therapy and art-based therapy. For many of the children I work with, I offer a rare opportunity for them to just be and feel deeply seen, understood and supported.

Support for parents of extraordinary children

Parenting and caregiving can be rewarding and tough! If you’re caring for a child or teen with autism, ADHD, learning disability or other neurodivergent profile, you may sometimes feel like you’re walking on eggshells. You may even wonder if you’re doing something wrong. You may feel isolated in your experience and don’t know where to turn.

As a parent with deep lived experience and extensive knowledge and education in neurodivergence, I can sit with you and the complex and competing feelings you may have. You don’t have to do it alone! I am here to support caregivers in restoring alignment and harmony within themselves and within their family.

Qualifications

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Masters of Arts in Counselling Psychology

Northern Studies Diploma

Credentials

BA, MA

Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC), Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association

Member, Canadian Association for Play Therapy (CAPT)

Training

Specialized Play Therapy Training and Member of the Canadian Association for Play Therapy, pursuing registration as a Certified Play Therapist.

Autism and Neurodiversity in Primary Care (University of British Columbia)

Working with Neurodivergent Children and Youth (Wilfred Laurier University)

Neurosequential Model in Education and Ready to Learn Schools (Government of Yukon)

Trauma-informed Care (Alberta Health Services)

WPATH Mental Health Provider Training (World Professional Association for Transgender Health)

Child Rights Impact Assessment (Child and Youth Advocate Office)

Childhood Apraxia of Speech (Apraxia Kids)

Technology/ AAC - Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Students with Diverse Learning Needs (Athabasca University)

Pathological Demand Avoidance/Pervasive Drive for Autonomy/Declarative Language/Parental Burnout (PDA Society)

Developmental Coordination Disorder (CanChild)