Clinical Services

Psychotherapy & Counselling

Our clinics provide specialized psychotherapeutic and counselling services.

Psychotherapy and counselling

"Neurodivergent minds are not broken they're beautifully unique and deserving of care that truly honors how their brain works."

Second Nature About
About Our Counselling

A Safe Place to Heal & Grow

Nurture the Soul, Nurture the Mind, Nurture the Body.

Our Kemptville and Ottawa therapy clinics provide specialized psychotherapy and counselling services for children, youth, families, and adults. Nestled in a calming, nature-inspired environment, our team specializes in trauma-informed, neurodiversity-affirming care.

We offer comprehensive mental health support for children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental needs, using an attachment-based, strengths-based, and child-led approach.

We also provide parent coaching, family therapy, and adult counselling for anxiety, stress, trauma, and relationship concerns. Whatever you're navigating, we walk alongside you.

WHO WE SUPPORT

Counselling For Every Stage Of Life

Whether you are seeking child therapy, family counselling, parent support, or individual psychotherapy, we have a place for you.

Children

Supportive, play-based therapy for children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and behavioral challenges.

Youth & Teens

A non judgmental space for teenagers navigating identity, social challenges, school stress, trauma, and mental health.

Families

Family counselling to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and build resilience together through life’s challenges.

Adults

Individual psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, grief, burnout, and relationship concerns.

Our Methodology

How We Work With You

Every session is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

Attachment-Based Care
OUR SPECIALIZATIONS

Areas We Support

Our therapists are experienced across a wide range of mental health needs and neurodevelopmental conditions.

Child-Led Sessions

Neuro-affirming support for autistic children, teens, and adults.

ADHD & ADD

Practical strategies for focus, emotional regulation, and self-esteem.

Anxiety & Worry

Evidence-based support to reduce worry and build confidence.

Couples Psychotherapy

Couples therapy offers a confidential and supportive therapeutic environment for relationship care.

Trauma & PTSD

Safe, trauma-informed processing to move toward healing and stability.

Behavioral Challenges

Understanding the root of difficult behaviors and supporting regulation.

Sibling Counselling

Designed for siblings, incorporating behavioral therapy techniques.

Parenting Support

Coaching for caregivers navigating the demands of raising complex kids.

Grief & Loss

Gentle, supportive space to process loss and transition in all its forms.

YOUR JOURNEY

What To Expect

Starting therapy can feel uncertain. Here is what the process looks like with us.

01

Reach Out

Book online or call us. We'll match you with the right therapist based on your needs and availability.

02

Initial Intake

A warm, relaxed conversation to understand your goals, history, and what you're hoping to build.

what to expect
03

Tailored Sessions

Ongoing therapy sessions adapted to your pace, in-person or virtual, weekly or bi-weekly.

04

Grow Together

We celebrate milestones with you and adjust our approach as you evolve and thrive.

Testimonials

second nature school testimonials

Quotes

Second Nature has been a lifeline for our family. For the first time, our daughter felt truly seen, not fixed, not labelled. Just celebrated for exactly who she is.

Parent of a client – Ottawa

We finally found a place where our child felt understood and supported. The care, patience, and kindness made all the difference for our family.

Parent of a client – Toronto

From day one, we felt heard. The team created an environment where our child could grow with confidence and feel proud of who they are.

Parent of a client – Vancouver

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

A Gentle Haven Where Every Family Is Celebrated.

We are here to listen, guide, and empower you with strategies that truly fit your life. Together, we will navigate your path to healing, balance, and lasting wellness right here in Ottawa and Kemptville.

Therapist sitting on the floor
left-flowerright-flower
OUR TEAM

Professionals With Real Life Experience

Our compassionate therapists provide personalized psychotherapy and counselling to support your mental health and well-being at every age and stage.

Anastasia Machan
Adja Nixon
Becca Palmer
Esther Rapoport
Maria Yakovlev
Gabriella Nosita
Sara Behring
Chelsea Wallace
Amanda Running
Indyanna Turner
Kadija Said
Carol Nehme
Lisa Guerrero
Fadwah Hares
Tanja Skanes

Becca Palmer

Director of Human Resources

Qualified Professionals Recognized By:

physotherapy-matters
CRPO
Psychology Today
OAMHP
Inclusive Pride
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FAQS

Frequently Asked Questions

Have something else on your mind? We're always happy to chat before you book.

Yes! We offer both virtual and in-person sessions. Our secure virtual sessions are available across Ontario, along with in-person sessions at our Ottawa and Kemptville locations. We can discuss which format works best for you during our intake call.

We help guide you based on your needs, goals, and preferences. During the initial inquiry, we can recommend the best fit for your situation.

It depends on your goals and the type of support you need. Some clients benefit from short-term support, while others prefer longer-term care.

Coverage depends on your insurance provider and plan. We recommend checking your benefits for psychotherapy, counselling, or related services. View More Info

This depends on the child's age, needs, and therapeutic goals. In many cases, parent involvement is an important part of the process.

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