Elaine’s extensive experience working with children began in 2013 as a special needs teaching assistant at a private elementary school. She then completed a graduate certificate in Early Childhood Studies in Special Needs, gaining hands-on experience in Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA), assessment, early intervention, adaptation, modification, and program planning through placements as a resource teacher and an early interventionist. For three years, she provided respite care for a family with a child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD. Additionally, Elaine spent two years teaching English to children aged 3-15 at a learning centre in Hong Kong.

Children and adolescents face unique stresses and emotions that can be challenging to navigate. Through a supportive environment, these young individuals can gain a deeper understanding of their inner world, learning to manage it more effectively by building essential skills and healthy coping mechanisms. This process helps them cultivate a positive sense of self and resilience as they face life’s challenges.

As a psychotherapist, Elaine supports children and adolescents, both typically developing and with varying needs, in skills development, emotional exploration and regulation, and communicating feelings, needs and wants. Drawing on her rich and diverse background and experience in psychology, early childhood, special needs, and education, she is adept at individualizing approaches to each client’s unique challenges and goals, and implementing strategies/interventions. Elaine is also skilled in resource navigation for children, adolescents, and their families and providing culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and empathetic guidance.

Elaine uses a compassionate, collaborative approach to listen and understand each child or adolescent’s individual needs and goals, and foster self-discovery. By creating a safe and comfortable environment, she guides them to build skills, develop healthy coping strategies, and in turn, empowers them to cultivate a positive sense of self, resilience, and the ability to openly express themselves. Elaine welcomes any child or adolescent and their family to reaching out and start a journey of understanding and addressing any emotional, behavioural or social challenges to enhance their overall well-being.