Elena Thai, MSW, RSW

When one person is struggling, the impact is rarely felt by just one member of the family. Parents may find themselves feeling worried, exhausted, or unsure of how to help, while children and adolescents may feel overwhelmed, misunderstood, or disconnected from the people who care about them most. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where children, adolescents, and families feel heard, respected, and understood as they navigate challenges and work toward greater connection and well-being together.

I work with children and adolescents experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional regulation and behavioural difficulties, school-related stress, identity development, substance use concerns, and challenges in peer or family relationships. I also support parents and caregivers who want to better understand their children and teens, strengthen their connection, and feel more confident responding to difficult or stressful moments. Therapy can provide a space for greater clarity, practical tools, and renewed hope when things at home feel overwhelming or stuck.

Families do not come with instruction manuals, and even strong relationships can become strained during times of stress, transition, or change. I help families strengthen communication, reduce conflict, rebuild trust, and develop healthier patterns of connection. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and grounded in the belief that meaningful change happens when families feel supported rather than judged.

One of my areas of experience is working with children, adolescents, and families facing complex or high-risk circumstances. Through extensive experience within the school and community, I have supported young people and families navigating behavioural concerns, trauma, substance use, emotional dysregulation, school challenges, and difficult life circumstances. This work has strengthened my belief in the resilience and capacity for change that exists within every family.

I bring a culturally responsive and inclusive approach to my work. I recognize that culture, identity, family values, and lived experiences shape how we understand ourselves, our relationships, and the challenges we face. I am committed to creating a space where clients from all backgrounds feel respected, understood, and accepted, with particular awareness of the experiences of racialized communities and multicultural families. My goal is for you to feel comfortable showing up as yourself and knowing that you will be met with curiosity, compassion, and without judgment.

My therapeutic approach is individualized and evidence-based, drawing from Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT), Family System Therapy, Triple P – Positive Parenting Program, and Circle of Security. Together, we explore the experiences and patterns contributing to current challenges while developing practical strategies to support emotional regulation, resilience, confidence, and healthier relationships. I tailor therapy to each individual and family, recognizing that there is no single approach that works for everyone.

Reaching out for support takes courage, and finding a therapist you feel comfortable with can make a meaningful difference. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where children, adolescents and families feel heard, understood, and respected from the very first session. Whether you are navigating a difficult period, feeling stuck in patterns that are no longer working, or simply hoping for a better way forward, you do not have to navigate it alone.