Counselling
“Children do not get traumatized because they are hurt. They get traumatized because they are alone with the hurt.” —Dr. Gabor Maté
After many years as a counsellor in public and private schools, I now have a small private practice as a Registered Clinical Counsellor.
I provide counselling for children and adolescents facing mental health and identity concerns, developmental and behavioural challenges, and school-related difficulties. My approach is cognitive-behavioural, child-centred, developmentally informed and grounded in attachment theory.
Whether kids need to talk about stress, anxiety, school pressures, family/peer relationships, or big questions about identity, gender, meaning of life, and planning for the future, my aim is to help them feel understood, gain practical coping tools while building their self-awareness, resilience, confidence—and sense of personal agency. At the same time, I want to ensure that my clients—big or little—are able to better understand their inner world—and regulate their thoughts and feelings rather than being ruled by them.
Much of my work is with families during separation and divorce, supporting young people and their parents navigate change while promoting emotional resilience, and fostering relationships. Children and teens often carry feelings they don’t yet have words for—confusion, loyalty conflicts, grief, despair, loneliness-and worry about the future.
Client Testimonials
“Tessa was recommended to us by our children’s paediatrician, more than ten years ago. She has provided our children with excellent counselling, in a safe, nurturing, and comfortable environment. Tessa has navigated us through many stages and many trying times. She has been an invaluable and consistent presence and resource for our family. Thank you, Tessa!”
“Tessa Lloyd has been an exceptional support to our family. She worked closely with our young children using cognitive behavioural therapy to help them manage anxiety, navigate transitions, and reduce stress. Tessa also provided invaluable guidance in addressing complex family dynamics, supporting parents in developing a consistent and united approach to parenting. Her work has been instrumental in helping us build, strengthen, and maintain healthy relationships with one another. Throughout our time working together, she has been calm, thoughtful, and highly professional, offering practical, realistic strategies and sound relationship guidance. Tessa is also kind and genuine, and her steady, supportive manner has made a meaningful and lasting positive impact on our family.”
“Tessa is an exceptional family counsellor. She brings a calm, caring, and highly professional presence, and has a natural ability to build trust and rapport quickly, especially with children. Her approach is thoughtful and balanced, and she creates a safe, supportive environment that helps families feel heard and understood while navigating life’s challenges and transitions. I am very grateful for her guidance and would highly recommend her to any family seeking compassionate, skilled support.”
