Katherine Yao

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

Provide Services to:

Preschoolers (3-5), Children (6-10)

Specialties:

Children & Youth Therapy and Parent Support

Degrees and Credentials:

Art Psychotherapy Diploma from the Canadian International Institute of Art therapy (CiiAT) and a Bachelors of Design in Illustration from the Ontario College of Art and Design (OCAD U)

Languages:

Mandarin & English

Katherine’s experience working with children aged 3–4 is rooted in over two years of teaching art to children aged 3–18. During this time, she integrated art therapy-informed approaches into her teaching practice while completing her training in art therapy.

Katherine works with children who may be experiencing emotional dysregulation, sensory challenges, or communication difficulties – often related to neurodiversity. With a background in visual arts and over two years of experience as an art teacher, she offers creative spaces where young clients can explore their emotions and develop both emotional and somatic regulation through art.

Drawing from her art therapy training and person-centered approach, Katherine integrates the Expressive Therapies Continuum (ETC) model to support each child’s unique needs and goals. She specializes in working with neurodiverse children through a combination of art-based exploration, emotional regulation strategies, and sensory-focused interventions. With a strong foundation in both fine arts and child-centred teaching, Katherine is committed to fostering self-expression and creativity in every child she supports.

Katherine believes that a supportive and nurturing environment is key to fostering emotional growth and healing. By offering a warm and creative setting, she hopes to help young clients feel seen, and understood. Through expression and meaningful connection, she supports children in discovering authentic ways to express themselves.

Official copy of logo for Sparkling Seeds Children & Youth Therapy and Development Centre in the Greater Toronto Area