Sarah Allen

Sarah is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) who holds a Master of Arts in Theology: Spiritual Care and Psychotherapy from Wilfrid Laurier University. She also completed an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science at the University of Toronto, with focused studies in Psychology and Buddhist Psychology and Mental Health.

Sarah brings over 16 years of experience supporting children, youth, and families across a wide range of community and therapeutic settings. She has worked closely with children and caregivers in roles that include childcare, family support, parent education, and structured therapeutic environments. Through this work, Sarah has developed a strong understanding of child development, family systems, and the diverse emotional and behavioural needs that can emerge at different stages. Parents often appreciate her calm, thoughtful presence and her ability to build meaningful, trusting relationships with children and families.

Sarah values early intervention and is passionate about creating therapeutic spaces where curiosity, creativity, meaning-making, and a sense of agency are nurtured. She works intentionally to help children and youth feel safe to express and release big emotions, slow their bodies and minds, and develop greater nervous system regulation and internal calm.

Sarah commonly supports children and youth experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief and loss, trauma (C-PTSD/PTSD), emotion regulation difficulties, and attachment-related challenges. She provides neurodivergent-affirming care and is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and affirming space for individuals and families who are 2SLGBTQIA+. Her warm, gentle approach is shaped by both professional training and lived experience, allowing her to walk alongside clients with compassion and attunement.

When working with children, Sarah views play as their natural language and a powerful way to explore emotions, experiences, and inner worlds. She uses a child-centred, play-based approach that honours each child’s developmental stage, curiosity, and innate capacity for healing. Sessions may include the use of toys, sand tray, art materials, therapeutic games, conversation cards, or shared storytelling. Sarah meets each child where they are, supporting growth, learning, and emotional expression within a supportive and understanding environment.

Sarah’s work is informed by a range of evidence-based and relational approaches, including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based practices, Narrative Therapy, Existential Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), psychodynamic, and attachment-based frameworks. She takes a holistic view of well-being, honouring the interconnectedness of mind, body, and—when relevant—spiritual or religious aspects of identity.