Hello, my name is Elena and I am a Certified Child Life Specialist who provides therapeutic interventions to children and youth at Valley Connections Counselling in Dundas. Child Life Specialists utilize evidence-based approaches to provide developmentally and psychologically appropriate interventions to help infants, children, and adolescents cope with psychosocial issues including physical and mental illness, grief, trauma, disability, injury, and distress. I obtained my master’s degree at McMaster University in Child Life and Pediatric Psychosocial Care and completed two clinical internships at McMaster Children’s Hospital and Queen Elizabeth Hospital.

As a Child Life Specialist, I provide interventions through therapeutic play, art, and other creative expressive forums. My goal with children and youth is to build emotional literacy, provide opportunities for emotional expression, teach effective coping skills, and overall to build resilience and happiness. I believe in creating a safe and welcoming environment where children and youth feel heard, supported, and can freely express difficult emotions. Building a trusting therapeutic relationship is of the utmost importance to me, which is why developing a strong rapport is a priority in all of my interactions and interventions.

While I specialize in child and youth development, I am a firm believer in family-centered-care, which means I am an advocate for the entire family’s needs, including parents and siblings. When one person of the family is in distress, it impacts the unit as a whole, which is why I ensure support and guidance is available to all members.

My therapeutic approach is holistic, compassionate, and fun! I would love to work with you or your child if you think I am the right fit for you! 

If you would like to work with me, I offer a complimentary consultation to determine if I am the right fit for you. I would be honoured to support you along your journey. 

Elena's fees are eligible for insurance coverage under extended health benefit plans that cover the services of Registered Psychotherapists.