Marja Kates Ph.D. R.Psych

Practice information:

I am a Registered Psychologist (#1195) who has studied, trained, and worked with children for over 20 years. Children who have experienced or are experiencing anxiety, stress, grief, trauma, and/or illness need a gentle, patient, and sensitive approach to healing. Direct, verbal approaches can be overwhelming for many children.  I provide holistic expressive play therapy which is child centred and person oriented.  My goal is to help the child find his/her own path to healing through play, which includes art and craft activities, imaginary play, sand play, puzzles, stories, to name a few.  Please note that I do not provide diagnosis and assessment services, and I do not provide custody and access information or assessments.

My practice is in Port Moody, at St. Johns Health and Wellness Professional Centre, at 2226 St. Johns St.  There is a parking lot in back, as well as 2-hour street parking.  I work on Fridays and Saturdays. My office is on the lower level of the blue house, with the entrance off of Elgin St.  There is a waiting room where I meet parents and children before bringing them to my office.

Although children have within them the power to find the healing path, they may need encouragement and guidance from adults to find this path.  Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in the therapeutic process for the child.  In my practice, they are encouraged to be a part of the initial therapy sessions to ensure the child feels safe, supported, and comfortable. This is especially important for younger children and for children who are very sensitive to unfamiliar people and places.  I wish to provide a safe and nurturing environment for younger and older children to build coping skills and self-confidence, to gain strength, and to heal. 

My background and training include:

• Ph.D. in Psychology from University of Toronto in 1994
• Registered Psychologist in BC since 1995
• Psychologist in the Neonatal Follow-Up Program at BC's Children's Hospital from 1997 to 2012
• Certificate in Holistic Expressive Play Therapy from the Justice Institute of BC in 2014