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Dr. Carla Smith
Child & Adolescent Psychology

About Dr. Carla

I am a psychologist, registered for clinical practice with children, adolescents, and their families in the Province of Ontario. I obtained my Ph.D. from the Clinical-Developmental Psychology program at York University after completing training across school, community mental health, live-in treatment (residential), and behavioural classroom settings.

I have over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and families, addressing a range of clinical issues – including anxiety, depression, trauma, parent-child relationship issues, disruptive behaviour problems, ADHD, autism spectrum, learning and language disorders, and developmental disabilities.

My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and integrated with other evidence-based theories and practices. My approach is also guided by a child/youth- and family-centred, strength-based, solution-focused perspective. In other words, I believe that each child/youth and family is unique, and that it is important to recognize and make use of individual and family strengths in order to best understand and address areas of challenge or difficulty.

Here to help.

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Every child, adolescent, and family faces challenges at some point. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, behavioural concerns, or family struggles, seeking support can make a meaningful difference. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where young people and their caregivers can explore concerns, build on strengths, and develop practical strategies for lasting change.

With over 20 years of experience, I use a compassionate, evidence-based approach tailored to each child’s unique needs. My work is grounded in Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and integrated with other therapeutic methods, including mindfulness, attachment theory, and play-based interventions.

Whether you are looking for therapy or a comprehensive assessment, I am here to help you better understand and address the challenges your child is facing. Together, we can work toward improving emotional well-being, relationships, and overall functioning at home, school, and in the community.

  • Impulsiveness
  • Hyperactivity
  • Relationships
  • Communication
  • Learning Disabilities
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • Anger
  • Trauma
  • Depression
  • Grief
  • Anxiety
  • Autism
  • ADHD
  • Sadness
  • Aggression
  • Arguing
  • Worrying
  • Avoidance

Therapy & Assessment Services

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Child/Adolescent Therapy

I provide therapy to help young people and caregivers understand, discuss, and manage difficult thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My primary approach is Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, which focuses on the connection between thoughts, emotions, and actions. I also integrate trauma-informed care, attachment theory, mindfulness, and creative activities like play or art when beneficial.

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Parent Consultation

Parent consultation involves meetings between therapists and parents/guardians to focus on supporting the adults in a child or teen’s life in supporting adults in developing and implementing tools for supporting their child or teen’s Such sessions may focus on co-parenting, behavioural management, parent-child attachment, psychoeducation about parenting a child in relationship to specific social-emotional, behavioural, or developmental concerns.

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Psychological Assessment

Psychological assessments help identify strengths and needs to support success at home, school, and in the community. The formal assessments I offer are Psychoeducational (learning and school-related needs), Social-emotional (mental health and behavior), and Comprehensive. Even without a diagnosis, recommendations are provided to address identified needs and promote well-being.


Location

I am based in London, Ontario. I offer therapy primarily through secure video conferencing, making services accessible to families across the province; however, in-person therapy sessions may be scheduled based on need and availability. Assessments are provided as an in-person service.