Sharon Siuto, PhD, RPsych

I work primarily with parents and caregivers of emotionally sensitive, anxious, neurodivergent, or behaviourally reactive children. Many families come feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to best support their child through meltdowns, anxiety, emotional outbursts, school stress, or family conflict. I wonder alongside you, asking 'What is this behaviour telling us?' rather than jumping to fix it, because understanding what's underneath is where real change begins.

My approach is warm, collaborative, reflective, and neurodiversity-affirming. I integrate attachment-based, developmental, family systems, CBT, compassion-focused, and strength-based perspectives to help parents better understand the emotional and relational needs driving a child's behaviour. I use concrete tools like the flip-lid hand model to explain what's happening in the brain during a meltdown, and I help caregivers build practical, sustainable strategies that strengthen connection and co-regulation over time. Sessions are tailored to each family's unique strengths, challenges, and goals.

Parenting a child with big emotions or complex needs can feel exhausting and isolating. Many parents are trying incredibly hard while still feeling stuck or uncertain. My goal is to create a supportive, non-judgmental space where caregivers feel understood and better equipped to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. I also work directly with children and teens, using play, narrative, and exposure-based approaches to help them build emotional vocabulary, frustration tolerance, and social skills.

I offer parent consultation and psychological support in-person in Toronto and virtually across Ontario and BC. I speak English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. I offer a free 15-minute consultation, so feel free to reach out.