Calgary Parent’s Guide: When to Seek Counselling for Your Child or Teen

A Supportive Resource for Families Navigating Emotional Well-Being
Core Psychology | Marda Loop | Child, Teen & Family Counselling

Why This Guide Matters

Parenting comes with seasons of joy, challenge, uncertainty, and growth. As parents, you are often the first to notice subtle shifts in your child’s mood, behaviour, or well-being. This guide is designed to help you navigate the often difficult question: Is it time to seek counselling for my child or teen?

At Core Psychology, we work closely with Calgary families to provide evidence-based counselling tailored to the unique needs of children, teens, and families. This resource offers helpful signs to watch for, reassurance about what therapy involves, and guidance on how to access support.

When Big Feelings Are Hard to Navigate

It’s normal for children and teens to experience ups and downs as they grow and develop. However, some challenges may signal that additional support could be helpful. Early intervention can provide your child with tools for emotional resilience and ease stress for the whole family.

You may consider reaching out for support if you notice:

Emotional Signs:

  • Ongoing sadness, tearfulness, or mood swings

  • Persistent worry, anxiety, or frequent fears

  • Withdrawal from family, friends, or activities they previously enjoyed

  • Emotional outbursts or frequent irritability

  • Feelings of hopelessness, low self-esteem, or excessive self-criticism

Behavioural Signs:

  • Changes in sleep or appetite

  • Difficulty concentrating or a sudden drop in school performance

  • Avoidance of school, activities, or social situations

  • Increased clinginess or separation anxiety (in younger children)

  • Risk-taking behaviours, substance use, or self-harm (in teens)

Physical Signs:

  • Frequent headaches, stomach aches, or unexplained physical complaints

  • Fatigue or ongoing complaints of not feeling well

Family & Life Transitions:

  • Parental separation or divorce

  • Loss or bereavement

  • Relocation or major school changes

  • Medical issues or chronic illness

  • Bullying or social exclusion

The Benefits of Early Counselling Support

Seeking counselling is not a sign of failure; it is an act of care and prevention. Early therapeutic support can:

  • Help your child build emotional awareness and coping skills

  • Improve communication within the family

  • Reduce emotional distress before it escalates

  • Equip your child with tools to manage future stressors

  • Support healthy identity development and confidence

  • Strengthen family bonds during challenging times

Children and teens often respond well to counselling when they feel heard, safe, and respected. Therapy creates space to explore feelings, develop problem-solving skills, and foster resilience.

What Therapy Involves at Core Psychology

Our experienced clinicians provide developmentally appropriate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and families. Therapy may include:

  • Individual counselling sessions

  • Parent support and coaching

  • Family therapy sessions when helpful

  • Emotion regulation and coping skills development

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety, depression, or mood challenges

  • Play-based interventions for younger children

  • Support for navigating social, academic, and relational challenges

  • Collaborative care with schools, physicians, and other providers as needed

We create a welcoming environment where children and families feel safe and supported throughout the counselling process.

How to Start: Reaching Out for Support

You don’t have to wait for things to become “serious” before seeking help. If you feel uncertain, it’s perfectly appropriate to schedule a consultation simply to explore whether counselling might be helpful.

Contact Information:
Phone: 403-488-8912
Email: admin@corepsychology.com
Location: Marda Loop, Calgary
Website: www.corepsychology.com

Self-referrals are welcome, and no physician referral is required. We also regularly collaborate with pediatricians, schools, and other professionals as part of integrated care.

You Are Not Alone

Many parents feel unsure about when to seek help or worry about what counselling means for their child. Reaching out for support is a proactive step that can open the door to growth, healing, and stronger family relationships.

At Core Psychology, we are here to walk alongside you and your child, providing warm, professional care grounded in evidence-based approaches and deep respect for your family’s unique story.