Louise Deal

Hi, I’m Louise! I am a Registered Counselling Therapist-Candidate with the Nova Scotia College
of Counselling Therapists. I hold a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology and have
specialized training in Child-Centred Play Therapy (both non-directive and directive
approaches), as well as Theraplay® and MIM Assessment, through the Canadian Association
for Play Therapy and Theraplay Canada.

I am passionate about helping parents gain a fresh perspective on both their own and their
children’s behaviours, bringing deeper understanding, healing, and connection within their
families. At the heart of my work is supporting children in developmentally appropriate ways to
express themselves, process big emotions, and build resilience.

In Play Therapy, children learn about their world, strengthen their confidence, and develop
healthy coping and relationship skills. Theraplay® takes this a step further by involving the
whole family in playful, nurturing activities that strengthen the bond between caregivers and
child. These shared therapeutic experiences help children feel seen, understood, and secure,
while caregivers grow in confidence and feel more equipped to meet their child’s emotional
needs.

In addition to my work with children and families, I also support adolescents and adults using
evidence-based cognitive and mindfulness-based approaches, drawing from Acceptance and
Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioural
Therapy (CBT). These approaches, together with a strong therapeutic relationship, help
individuals understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, build coping skills, and make
meaningful, lasting change.

When I’m not in the office, I love sunshine, trail walks, and the kind of laughter that makes life
feel lighter!