Meet Tabitha Dovell - Therapy Intern and Child and Youth Practitioner!
Today we’re getting to know Tabitha Dovell, MA CYC Candidate from Toronto Metropolitan University. Tabitha is completing her internship practicum with us working primarily with children and youth. She supports issues like trauma, family dynamics, bullying and peer pressure, self-esteem and more. We’re thrilled to share more information with you so you can get to know her while she’s with us!
What drew you to working with children and youth?
There are many things that drew me to working with young people. I think that young people are very resilient and have a cool way to look at and interpret things. One thing that I often think about is how difficult elementary and high school can be. Not only is there a learning part but there is also navigating social and personal pieces all while developing and creating the individual self. I can only imagine that it all feels like a lot
What's something you want the parents of youth you work with to know?
One thing that I would like parents of young people I work with to know is that everyone learns and grows at different stages. As a parent a lot of pressures can build in watching your young person grow and learn. Some young people may just need that extra time or a supportive person along the way.
How would you work with someone who finds it hard to talk in session?
Talking to someone about tough feelings and experiences can be difficult. A message that I find important while working with young people is that the session is their’s. We can talk about what feels most comfortable for them to share and go at a pace that feels right for them. Sessions might not always be about talking but perhaps about connecting through an interest of a game or expression through art or toys.
What's your favourite way to spend time on the weekends?
My favourite ways to spend my weekends are with people I enjoy and my dog. I find these two things relaxing in knowing that I am surrounded by people (and my dog) that enjoy me and I them.
What do you tell kids who are having trouble making friends?
When young people are having difficulty making friends, I usually explore this feeling with them. Often looking at what a friend means to them and the type of person they might want to call a friend. I sometimes will explore if there is anyone that they might know from a class or program that they can see being a friend with, exploring why this person might seem like a good friend. Often if we see excited or interesting things in people it’s because we also have exciting or interesting things about ourselves. One thing that I find about making friends is knowing that we are worth being a friend!
What's something you want people to know about you?
Some thing that I would like people to know about me is that I may not know every answer but that I try to listen and care for the feelings people have. I find it important that people know that I am there, respectful and want to support them how they might need me.
If you’d like to know more about Tabitha and her approach to therapy, or would like to book a free 15 minute consult with her for you or your children, you can reach out to our office. You can also view her full profile here!