Johanna Simmons

I believe that families are the foundation of any society. As parents you create the future through your children. Occasionally we encounter challenges and need some encouragement to overcome these. I can provide guidance and support for parents to help strengthen the family unit and create a new dynamic within your family. Supporting parents in helping them support their children with behavioural issues is an area that I have become very passionate about. I have developed an effective framework called Neuro-Informed™ parenting combining tried and true parenting programs with the latest in brain science and child development and attachment theory. Parents have reported great success in using this framework.

I hold a Masters degree in Counselling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology, where I am adjunct faculty. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor Supervisor as well as a BC Registered Play Therapist. Additionally, I have a certificates in Expressive Play Therapy, am a BC registered Play Therapy Supervisor and a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor and Consultant. I have worked for over 40 years with children and families in different capacities.

I am the author of the parenting book titled: Parenting in the 21st Century: The Neuro-Informed Parent. 

We all encounter times of stress when our mental health may be of concern. I can help support you through these times and provide you with tools and strategies to use. 

I can offer you and your family the following: 

• Parenting support for childhood behaviours

 • Child play therapy for many issues including adoption and attachment                                                                                                                                                                       

• Support for school issues                                                                                   
• Support for parents
• Teen counselling
• Support with transitions
• Counselling for individuals for a variety of issues
• EMDR
• Brainspotting

I also counsel adults in the following areas: (This is just a sample of some of the issues.)

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• Life Transitions
• Self-esteem
• Trauma
• LGBTQIA2+ Issues

I am a member in good standing of BCACC and the BCPTA.  Apart from my other trainings, I hold a certificate in Expressive Play Therapy, level 1 training for EMDR, Bodynamics Foundation Training and Brainspotting. I am also a trained facilitator of the Roots of Empathy Program, the Systematic Training for Effective Parenting (STEP) program and a certified Positive Discipline Parent Educator.  I am currently the president  of the BC Play Therapy Association.  Additionally, I am an adjunct instructor at Adler University.