Certified Counsellor
375-1855 Kirschner Rd (Stewart Centre)
Kelowna, BC V1Y 4N7
T: (250) 864-8664
E: maryellenmc@gmail.com
W: maryellenmcnaughton.com
Fees: TBD
Separation and Divorce can be a confusing and emotional time for children. It is a time of uncertainty when profound change can and often does result in their lives. Sometimes they feel caught in the middle and like they have no say in what is happening. Although children do not decide what happens in these situations nor should they have that responsibility, one of the biggest gifts you can give them during this often, tumultuous time is to listen to them and really be willing to hear what they think and how they feel. This is not always easy when you may be dealing with confusion and emotional turmoil yourself.
Hear the Child is a process of focused listening done by a third party that can be helpful. Children having their thoughts and feelings not only heard but noted and passed on to their parents and sometimes an arbitrator or the court lets them know that their feelings and perspectives are valued and will at least be considered when decisions are made. I believe that hearing a child’s thoughts and feelings, in their own words can also provide clarity and perspective to those who are making the decisions.
I spend approximately an hour with your child and then meet with them a second time to make sure I got it right. I then report the outcome of my interview with a transcribed copy of my questions and their responses. It is a privilege for me to do this work and I am often amazed at the insight and wisdom that emerges from the mouths of children!
I have a Masters in Counselling Psychology from the University of British Columbia and I am certified by the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association CCPA.
I have been a counsellor since 1997.
