Melanie Huffman Child & Family Counselling

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Melanie Huffman Child & Family Counselling

Being a kid can be tough. So can parenting. Together we can work to bring more joy to your family life.

11/11/2025

Today, we pause to remember.

The bravery, the loss, and the stories that still ripple through families and communities.

For those who served, and those who still carry the weight of that service. We hold space for you. May we continue to choose compassion, understanding, and peace in how we live and connect with one another.

11/06/2025

Big emotions aren’t bad emotions, but for a child, they can feel overwhelming.
In Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), children are given a safe, consistent space to express those emotions through play.

It’s not about correcting behaviour, it’s about helping them understand what they feel and find new ways to manage it.

Through play, children learn emotional language, confidence, and self-control, all without needing to explain things they don’t yet have words for.

10/30/2025

Halloween can be exciting—and overwhelming.
Between costumes, crowds, and sugar highs, it’s a lot for kids (and parents) to handle. For children with sensory challenges, it can feel even bigger.

A few tips to make it easier:

Costume comfort first. Choose soft fabrics, familiar clothes, or even a themed t-shirt instead of a full costume.

Practice the plan. Walk through what trick-or-treating looks like, or role-play at home.

Set limits early. Decide how many houses or how much candy works for your family.

Bring a backup. Headphones, comfort items, or even a change of clothes can help if it gets overwhelming.

Know it’s okay to skip. Halloween doesn’t have to mean trick-or-treating. Movie nights, pumpkin carving, or handing out candy are all great options.

Supporting your child’s comfort is what makes the holiday fun.

10/23/2025

Tip for parents:
Create a grounding ritual at home, something predictable, simple, and soothing. It could be reading the same book before bed, a short walk after school, or five quiet minutes together before starting homework. Consistency helps kids feel safe when everything else feels like it’s changing.

In play therapy, we use structure and play together to help children work through these transitions. At home, small rituals can make the shift feel easier too.

10/19/2025

Children often don’t have the words for what they feel. Play therapy meets them in their own language—through toys, art, and imagination. It’s a safe way to explore big feelings, reduce stress, and build coping skills.

For many kids, it’s the first space where their inner world feels fully understood.

09/24/2025

I used to think asking for help meant I was failing.
Then I had kids.
Now I know: The village doesn't just raise children. The village saves parents.

My village looks like:
- The neighbour who grabs my packages
- Friends who text 'How are you really?'
- The teacher who gets my kid
- Other parents who share the real stuff
- Family who shows up (even imperfectly)
- Professionals who support our family

And sometimes? The village is just me, choosing self-compassion over self-criticism.
If your village feels small right now, start with one person. One connection. One 'me too' moment.

We weren't meant to do this alone.
Where is your village? I'd love to know who's got your back.

CTA: "Who's in your village? Tag someone who's got your back or DM me if you're looking to build yours."

09/17/2025

Your mental health isn't selfish. It's essential.
You can't pour from an empty cup, but sometimes we're so focused on everyone else's needs that we forget to check our own fuel gauge.

Signs you might need support:
- Everything feels harder than it should
- You're snapping at people you love
- Sleep/appetite changes
- Feeling disconnected or numb
- Constant worry or racing thoughts
- No joy in things you usually love

Here's what helps:
- Therapy (individual or family)
- Medication if recommended
- Actual friends (not just kid-activity acquaintances)
- Movement that feels good
- Boundaries (saying no is a superpower)
✅ Professional help for your kids too, if needed

Taking care of your mental health isn't taking away from your family. It's giving them the healthiest version of you.

Your well-being matters. Full stop.
Ready to prioritize your mental health? Let's talk: (613) 530-7218

CTA: "Ready to take care of you? Call (613) 530-7218 or visit melaniehuffman.com to book."

09/12/2025

This week I:

- Lost my patience and yelled (then felt terrible)
- Googled 'is my kid normal' at 11pm
- Questioned every parenting decision I've made since 2010
- Ate my feelings (they tasted like goldfish crackers)
- Wondered if I'm screwing up my own kids while helping other families

The therapist thing? It just means I know WHY I'm struggling and that it's normal.
I still have to do the work. Every day. Just like you. The difference between knowing better and doing better? Grace, patience, and trying again tomorrow.

We're all figuring it out as we go. Even the professionals. Especially the professionals.
You're not alone in this. Ever.

What's your 'even the experts struggle with this' moment?
Let's normalize the real stuff.

09/08/2025

Sometimes parents ask me: How do I know if my child needs play therapy?

Here are some signs that Child-Centered Play Therapy might help:

Emotional signs:
- Frequent meltdowns or big emotional reactions
- Withdrawn or unusually quiet behaviour
- Difficulty expressing feelings with words
- Regression (bedwetting, baby talk, etc.)

Life transition signs:
- Adjusting to divorce or separation
- Grieving a loss or significant change
- Moving to a new home or school
- Welcoming a new sibling

Behavioural signs:
- Acting out at home or school
- Difficulty with friendships
- Sleep troubles or nightmares
- Excessive worrying or fear

The beautiful thing about CCPT?
Children don't need to explain what's wrong or why they're struggling. The play speaks for them.

In our sessions, children use toys, art, and movement to:
- Process difficult experiences
- Build emotional vocabulary
- Practice new coping skills
- Restore their sense of safety and control

Every child deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported through their challenges. Ready to give your child the gift of healing through play? 💙

📍 Kingston, ON
💻 melaniehuffman.com/playtherapy
📞 (613) 530-7218

Address

4 Cataraqui Street Unit 101
Kingston, ON
K7K1Z7

Opening Hours

Monday

12pm - 8pm

Website

http://melaniehuffman.com/

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