Our Approach
Our mental health care, like any care at DLST, is grounded in the following principles:
Neuroaffirming
We honor neurodiversity and do not view differences as deficits. Therapy supports understanding, regulation, and skill-building in ways that work for the individual.
Culturally Responsive and Humble
We recognize that culture, identity, race, language, family systems, and lived experience shape how people experience mental health and care. Our clinicians practice with cultural humility, continually reflecting, learning, and adapting to better support each client and family.
Collaborative and Integrated
Our clinicians work closely with speech-language pathologists and other providers when appropriate, allowing for aligned goals and holistic care.
Play-Based and Child-Centered
For children, therapy is guided by play, connection, and the child’s interests. Play is treated as a valid and powerful form of communication.
Meeting Clients Where They Are
We adapt our approach to each person’s developmental level, emotional needs, communication style, and readiness for therapy.
Services for Children and Adults
We provide mental health therapy for both children and adults, using developmentally appropriate, person-centered approaches. While the structure of sessions may look different across ages, our core values remain the same: respect, collaboration, and affirming care.
When Is a Good Time to Seek Mental Health Support for Your Child?
There is no single moment that makes therapy “necessary.” Many families reach out simply because something feels off, hard, or heavier than it used to be. That alone is enough.
At Duncan Lake Speech Therapy, we believe mental health support can be helpful both during times of challenge and as a way to build skills, insight, and emotional resilience.
You might consider mental health therapy if your child is:
- Experiencing big emotions that feel overwhelming or hard to manage
- Showing increased anxiety, worry, or withdrawal
- Having frequent meltdowns or emotional shutdowns
- Struggling with transitions, changes, or uncertainty
- Expressing frustration, low self-esteem, or feeling misunderstood
- Navigating school stress, social challenges, or peer relationships
- Showing changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Having difficulty expressing thoughts or feelings, verbally or otherwise
- Impacted by trauma, grief, or significant life changes
Therapy does not require a crisis. It can be a proactive, supportive space to help children better understand themselves and feel more confident navigating the world.
When Might Therapy Be Helpful for an Adult?
Therapy may be a good fit if you are:
- Experiencing anxiety, stress, or emotional overwhelm
- Feeling burned out or emotionally exhausted
- Navigating identity development or life transitions
- Working through relationship challenges or communication difficulties
- Seeking support around neurodivergence or mental health concerns
- Wanting a supportive space for reflection, growth, and skill-building
You do not need to be in crisis to benefit from therapy. Many adults seek support simply to better understand themselves and improve their quality of life.
