Dana Orton, Registered Psychotherapist In Ontario

Dana Orton

MACP, RP

Registered Psychotherapist

In-Person, Virtual
Daytime, Evenings, Weekends
Accepting New Clients

Client Focus:

Children (10 and under) Parents & Caregivers

Areas of Support:

ADHD Attachment Behavioural Concerns Bullying Depression Emotional Regulation Family Reunification Grief & Loss Parenting & Family Difficulties Post Partum Support Prenatal Support Self-Esteem Self-Harm Separation Anxiety Sexualized Behaviours Significant Life Stressors Suicidal Ideation Trauma

Session Fees:

$175/hr

Reaching out for support, whether it’s for yourself, your child, or your family, can feel overwhelming. As a psychotherapist specializing in child therapy and parenting support, I offer a warm, supportive environment where families can work together to better understand emotions, strengthen relationships, and develop healthy coping skills. Whether you are dealing with big life changes, challenging child behaviours, difficult situations at home, or simply looking for parenting guidance, I am here to help. My goal is to help your child and family feel closer, stronger, and ready to handle whatever comes your way.

I specialize in working with young children, from infants to preteens, through a variety of difficulties. My experience includes supporting children with emotional regulation (such as tantrums), concerning behaviours (including unsafe or self-harming actions), ADHD, anxiety, trauma, grief, bullying, and issues with self-esteem. I also support parents who are processing a new diagnosis for their child, helping everyone in the family understand and figure things out together.

Support can begin even before a baby is born, by helping parents who feel worried or stressed during pregnancy. I also help new parents and their partners as they adjust to life with a new baby, drawing on not only my professional education and training, but also my personal experience as a mother. I understand how important postpartum support is, and I am dedicated to helping new mothers feel confident and strong. In addition, I assist families as older siblings get used to changes at home, and work with parents/caregivers to communicate and find common ground with their children.

Through my work as a Mental Health Clinician in the CMHA’s Children’s Mental Health Program (Ages 0-10), I have developed a strong background in supporting attachment (a sense of security and safety) and bonding (the feeling of love and tenderness). I help families stay close and connected, especially when big changes happen – such as a child returning home after being away, when parents separate or divorce, moving between homes, or while a child starts school. I often use the Circle of Security Parenting Program (COSP), which helps parents and caregivers understand and respond to their child’s needs, particularly during times of distress.

My approach is all about teamwork and making sure everyone feels safe and supported, especially if they have been through tough times. I encourage parents and caregivers to be involved in their child’s care. In our sessions, we will build on what you already do well and learn new skills to support your child and family. During sessions with children, I use creative activities like play and art so they will feel comfortable to talk about their challenges or frustrations.

I believe that when children and their families feel safe, supported, and close to each other, it is easier to go through difficult times together and feel better emotionally. If you or your family need some help or advice, I am here to help you take the next step.

 

Language Spoken: English

Approaches Used
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Art & Play Based Therapy
Attachment-Based Perspective
Circle of Security Parenting Program (COSP)
Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
Narrative Therapy
Neuro-Affirming Approach
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy
Strength-Based Approach
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
  • Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology – Yorkville University
  • Practicum Component of Masters Degree – KW Counselling Services
  • Bachelor of Arts (Honours), Major in Psychology – Wilfred Laurier University
  • Thesis in Applied Community Psychology – Centre for Community Research, Learning, and Action (CCRLA)
  • Trauma-Focused CBT
  • Introduction to Sandplay Therapy – Canadian Association for Sandplay Therapy (CAST)
  • Zones of Regulation Training
  • Tools for Life Training
  • Advanced Training for Mental Health Providers – Autism Ontario
  • Circle of Security Facilitator Training
  • ASIST Training
  • Non-Violent Crisis Intervention Training – Crisis Prevention Institute
  • Standard First Aid CPR/AED Level C – Canadian Red Cross
  • Psychological First Aid (Caring for Others) – Canadian Red Cross
  • Behaviour Management Systems – WRDSB
  • Safe TALK Training – Ontario Association for Suicide Prevention
  • Assessment training (including Ages and Stages, Sensory Profile, and Devereux Early Childhood Assessment)
  • Mental Health Clinician in the CMHA’s Children’s Mental Health Program (Ages 0-10)

When I am not working, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, capturing memories through scrap-booking, and getting lost in audiobooks – especially thrillers and horror stories. I also love being outdoors, whether it’s for a walk or just soaking up nature.

Dr. Smolewska & Associates is now Colibri NeuroWellness!

Same trusted team and quality therapy and assessment services to help you find clarity, strength, and balance.