Behaviour Therapy

Wholistic Counselling Services

Services offered

  • Individual Sessions
  • Parenting & Family
  • Groups
  • Specialization in Autism

SPECIALIZATIONS

  • Withdrawn behaviours
  • Disruptive behaviours
  • Violent and/or unsafe behaviours
  • Challenging social behaviours

Populations

  • Children aged 3-12 years old

Practice

  • Autism and Behavioural Science

Behaviour isn’t ‘good’ or ‘bad’

What is Behaviour Therapy

Behaviour therapy focuses on changing patterns of behaviour that are causing difficulties in a person’s life. This approach is based on the idea that behaviours are learned responses to stimuli, and can therefore be unlearned and replaced with more adaptive behaviours. Behaviour therapists work collaboratively with clients to identify goals and develop a plan to achieve them. Techniques such as exposure, reinforcement, and modelling may be used to modify behaviour. Behaviour therapy can be effective for a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, and phobias. It is often a relatively brief and structured form of therapy.

Autism and Behavioural Science is used to understanding and support the needs of people with autism spectrum disorder and behavioural challenges. It combines elements from psychology, psychiatry, neurology, education and other related areas to develop interventions and services that can help improve the quality of life. The goal is to create an environment where individuals are able to interact successfully in society, as well as to teach them the skills needed for independent living. Support is directed for those with autism spectrum disorder, as well as understanding how it impacts their behaviour, to improve their functioning across many areas of life.

Benefits

Behaviour therapy can be beneficial for individuals looking to improve their relationships, work productivity, and overall well-being. In contrast to other forms of therapy that may concentrate on uncovering the root cause of negative emotions, behaviour therapy strives to teach individuals practical skills and techniques to modify behavioural patterns that may be causing distress. Individuals can learn to overcome challenging situations and effectively manage stressors, leading to improved mental and physical health.

Behaviour therapy can be helpful for those who are dealing maladaptive behaviours that affect their well-being and quality of life. Children and adolescents can benefit from behaviour therapy to address behavioural concerns or learning difficulties. Behaviour therapy is a versatile and effective form of treatment that can help people from all walks of life to improve their mental health and wellbeing.

What to expect at the initial session

The initial appointment for therapy can be an intimidating experience, but it’s important to remember that it is the first step in making positive changes and finding the help you need. During this session, you’ll be able to discuss your goals and expectations with your therapist, as well as discuss any issues that have prompted you to seek out counseling or therapy. Your therapist will take the time to get to know you, learn about your history, and understand what kind of help you need. The more open and honest you can be during this appointment, the more tools your therapist will have to begin helping you on your journey. Be prepared for some thoughtful questions about yourself and don’t hesitate to ask your own questions about how the therapeutic process works. The initial therapy appointment marks an important milestone in moving towards a brighter future.

How long will I need to attend therapy sessions for?

Deciding how long to attend therapy sessions can be difficult. While some people may feel better and be ready to quit after a few sessions, others may need to attend more for months or years. It’s important to keep in mind that healing takes time and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Everyone’s situation is different, so the length of treatment will depend on your individual needs, availability of resources and support, along with your therapeutic goals. The best thing you can do is work with a therapist and adjust the plan as necessary based on how you are feeling. Although it may take longer than expected to experience lasting improvements, the rewards of therapy make it well worthwhile.

Specializations & Practice Focuses

Children and Youth

Therapeutic specialization for children and youth can offer incredible benefits in terms of mental health, allowing them to develop healthy coping strategies for their unique issues. Working with experienced counsellors, children and young people can explore their feelings and thoughts openly, developing a greater understanding of who they are and the environment they find themselves in. Specialization also allows professionals to create an individualized approach that helps children discover ways to express their emotions appropriately, build self-confidence and break down negative or unhealthy patterns of behaviour. Ultimately, therapeutic interventions provide the safe space children need to understand their difficulties and develop the skills they need to make positive life choices into adulthood.


Withdrawn behaviourS
(shyness, rocking, staring, anxiety, school phobia, truancy, social isolation or hand flapping)

Behaviour therapy has been proved to be an effective method of treating withdrawn behaviours such as shyness, staring, social isolation, and hand flapping. This therapy aims to identify and change the maladaptive behaviours and reinforce positive ones through a series of techniques, including relaxation training, social skills training, and exposure therapy. By gradually exposing the individual to the situations they fear or avoid, they learn to cope, and anxiety levels decrease. The therapist helps to develop coping strategies that can be used outside of therapy sessions, improving the individual’s ability to manage their withdrawn behaviours in real-life situations. These therapies provide promising results that can lead to a positive change in individual’s behaviors and promote their involvement in society.


Disruptive behaviours
(BEING OUT-OF-SEAT, CALLING OUT IN CLASS, TANTRUMS, SWEARING, SCREAMING OR REFUSING TO FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS)

Behaviour therapy is an effective treatment approach for children with disruptive behaviours such as being out-of-seat, calling out in class, tantrums, swearing, screaming, or refusing to follow instructions. Unlike other treatments, behavioural therapy is focused on changing specific behaviours that are causing problems in a child’s life. This form of therapy involves teaching the child new skills such as self-regulation, problem-solving, and communication that will help them manage their emotions and behaviours effectively. During therapy sessions, the therapist will work closely with the child to identify triggers for problematic behaviours and devise individualized strategies to address them. With consistent practice and guidance, children can learn to control their emotional responses and engage in positive behaviours even in challenging situations. Ultimately, behaviour therapy can help children lead happier, more fulfilling lives by giving them the tools they need to succeed in both academic and social settings.


Violent and/or unsafe behaviourS
(HEAD BANGING, KICKING, BITING, PUNCHING, FIGHTING, RUNNING AWAY, SMASHING EQUIPMENT OR FURNITURE/FIXTURES).

Behaviour therapy is a highly effective approach to addressing violent and unsafe behaviours such as head banging, kicking, biting, punching, fighting, running away, and smashing equipment or furniture/fixtures. This type of therapy focuses on identifying the root causes of such behaviours and modifying them through positive reinforcement and goal-oriented strategies. By working with a trained therapist who specializes in behaviour modification, individuals can learn new coping mechanisms, improve their communication skills, and gain a better understanding of their emotions. Ultimately, behaviour therapy can help individuals develop safer and healthier ways of interacting with the world around them, leading to a more positive and fulfilling life.


Inappropriate social behaviours
(INAPPROPRIATE CONVERSATIONS, STEALING, BEING OVER-AFFECTIONATE, INAPPROPRIATE TOUCHING, MASTURBATION)

ehaviour therapy is an effective approach towards treating inappropriate social behaviours such as inappropriate conversations, stealing, being over-affectionate, inappropriate touching, and masturbation. This therapy approach involves identifying the triggers that lead to the inappropriate behaviours, addressing the behaviours themselves and finding alternative, appropriate ways to cope with the triggers. A skilled therapist will work closely with the patient, helping them to recognize the situations where they display the inappropriate behaviours and providing them with the necessary social skills to act appropriately. Behaviour therapy has been shown to be particularly helpful for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions that may lead to these social behaviours. With the right knowledge, therapy, and support, patients struggling with inappropriate social behaviours can overcome these behaviours and lead fulfilling, positive lives.


Social-emotional & Emotional Regulation

Behaviour therapy for social-emotional learning is a widely accepted therapeutic approach to help individuals manage their emotions, navigate social situations, and improve relationships with others. Unlike traditional talk therapy, behaviour therapy focuses on learning new behaviours and changing negative patterns. The therapy aims to help individuals develop self-awareness, self-regulation, empathy and social skills. The therapist identifies and addresses specific behaviours that need modification, such as interrupting or not listening, and uses various techniques to reinforce the desired behaviours. Behaviour therapy is an effective way to enhance social-emotional learning and can be used for children, adolescents and adults alike. By understanding and controlling their emotions, individuals can improve their overall well-being, strengthen their relationships, and lead a more fulfilling life.

Behaviour therapy is a valuable tool for those struggling with emotional regulation such as anger management. Individuals can learn effective techniques for identifying and coping with their emotions in a healthy, productive manner. This may involve the development of mindfulness and relaxation skills, as well as cognitive restructuring techniques that help individuals reframe negative thoughts and emotions. With consistent practice and dedication, behaviour therapy can be a powerful tool for improving emotional regulation and leading a more fulfilling life.


Expressive Therapy (Art & Play)

Expressive Arts Therapy is an innovative and effective form of therapy. It is a wholistic approach, integrating a variety of expressive arts such as music, drama, visual art, literature, and movement. Its therapeutic concept focuses on how self-expression can be used to heal traumatic experiences and cultivate personal transformation. The main goal of this type of therapy is to help people discover their authentic voice and use creative resources to support emotional well-being. Therapists specializing in expressive arts may use techniques from different therapeutic modalities to create an individualized approach for the client. With its emphasis on self-discovery and creativity, Expressive Arts Therapy has been found to reduce stress, improve moods, and build confidence.

Play based therapy is a unique approach to counseling that incorporates games, toys, and other playful activities to help individuals address emotional and behavioral issues. Rather than relying solely on talk therapy, play-based therapy allows people to express themselves in ways that feel more natural and authentic. This approach is particularly effective with children who may have difficulty verbalizing their feelings or with adults who need to tap into their creative side to process complex emotions. By engaging in play, both the therapist and client can work together to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can learn new coping skills and build stronger relationships with others. Play based therapy is an innovative approach that is proving to be an effective addition to traditional counseling methods.


A bit about us

We are a team of dedicated professionals who strive to provide high-quality services and products to our clients. Our team is made up of experts in their respective fields. We value Wholism, collaboration, creativity, and excellence in everything we do. Our goal is to help our clients achieve success by providing them with the tools and resources necessary for success.

Mira Pisciotto B.A (C.Psy), CLS

Populations: Children 3-12, offering individual, family/parenting, and group

Amanda Desjardins  MSW, BSW

Populations: Children 3-12, offering individual, family/parenting, and group