Welcome, I’m Tania Bryan – founder of Help for Families Canada – Counseling and Consulting. About Tania – Child & Family Therapist begins with over 30 years of experience working alongside children, youth, and families. My work spans schools, mental health programs, and community services. I offer therapy that is both compassionate and grounded in real-world experience.
But this work isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal.
My Journey: About Tania – Child & Family Therapist
A Personal Calling Rooted in Childhood
Driven by my childhood longing for acceptance and understanding, I discovered a profound passion for helping children navigate their own journeys.
Growing up, I had an “okay” childhood. Still, I often felt different. I was quiet, sensitive, and calm—while others around me were louder, more dramatic, and sometimes harsh. I frequently felt like the odd one out.
Navigating Teen Years and Family Dynamics
As a teenager, I struggled with parent-teen conflict. I experienced criticism and carried feelings of unworthiness. I learned to silence my thoughts and emotions. Like many children of my generation, I absorbed the message that kids should be “seen and not heard” and simply “do as they’re told.”
To cope, I became the perfectionist, the people-pleaser, and the peacekeeper. I played the role of the “golden child.” On the surface, I appeared to be doing well. But inside, I felt confused, lonely, and anxious.
A Turning Point Through Education
Adulthood brought a shift. While studying social work, I began to see my family through a new lens—one shaped by generational patterns, cultural expectations, and unspoken emotional pain. I came to understand that the emotional distance I had felt wasn’t due to a lack of love. It stemmed from parents who had never learned how to express it. That realization was deeply healing.
As I unpacked these family dynamics, I grew. I found new ways to connect and rebuild relationships I once thought were beyond repair. That healing process revealed my purpose: walking with children and families through their struggles isn’t just a profession—it’s my calling.
My Professional Training and Experience
My professional journey began with a Teacher’s Certificate in Special Education. There, I learned how children process information, express themselves, and navigate their learning environments. I also gained skills in curriculum development—tools I now use to create personalized, strengths-based treatment plans tailored to each child and family.
Next, I completed a Bachelor of Science in Social Work. This training gave me a deeper understanding of family systems, child development, and the importance of advocacy and support.
Finally, I earned a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Simon Fraser University. This step deepened my clinical knowledge and sharpened my therapeutic skills—allowing me to guide families through even the most complex emotional experiences.
What Sets My Approach Apart
This unique blend of educator, social worker, and therapist allows me to support families with a holistic, compassionate approach. I see the full picture: the emotional, relational, and developmental pieces that shape a child’s experience.
I don’t just treat symptoms—I walk alongside families to understand what’s underneath, so true healing and growth can take place.
Helping Families Heal and Thrive
Today, a central focus of my work is helping parents understand, support, and connect with their children in deeper and more meaningful ways. I believe healing begins with being seen, heard, and understood—and that every family has the potential to grow closer, stronger, and more resilient.
My Qualifications
– Supported the transformation of thousands in 15 years of post-graduate child & family therapy.
A Certified Canadian Counsellor (C.C.C.) with – Canadian Counselling & Psychotherapy Association
- Member of the Association of Counselling Therapist of Alberta – #1947
– A member of the Canadian Association of Play Therapy (CACPT)
- CAPT Certification Levels 1, 2 & 3 completed
- 15 years of professional development Play therapy courses via BCPTA & CAPT
- Persuant of registration as a Registered/Certified Play Therapist
My Treatment Approach
Offering child & family therapy services in Edmonton and across Canada, I’m here to help at Help for Families Canada. My specialized support includes Child & Adolescent Play Therapy, Parental Coaching, and Family Therapy. I also warmly welcome adults seeking help with their emotions and relationships. For your convenience, I offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments.
A Whole-Family Approach
I view each person within the context of their family. Even when I’m working with one individual, I consider the impact on the whole system. This is known as a family systems approach, and it allows for more meaningful, lasting change. When appropriate, I invite family members into the process so that healing can be shared.
Evidence-Based & Creative Therapies
I draw on a range of evidence-based therapies—methods backed by research and proven effectiveness. These include:
- Play therapy (directive and non-directive)
- Art therapy
- Attachment-based therapy for children and youth
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Body-based approaches for teens and adults
- Gottman Method Couples Therapy for couples
Each approach is selected with care to meet your specific needs.
A Safe Space for Faith-Based Support
I also offer pastoral counselling for those seeking a faith-based approach. While I bring my own spiritual grounding, I fully respect all beliefs and ensure a safe, inclusive space for everyone. My personal spirituality supports, but never interferes with, your unique journey.
Support Tailored to You
No two people or families are the same. That’s why I work collaboratively with you to understand your goals and needs—and adapt my approach accordingly. My commitment is to walk with you toward healing, growth, and lasting change.
Where’s Tania? (And Why You Don’t See My Face Here)
I’m a private person. Over the years, I’ve learned ways to manage—and sometimes mask—my shyness and social anxiety. Even so, I remain deeply uncomfortable with being in the public spotlight.
I’m sharing this now because my marketing advisor recently told me something that gave me pause. They said that some prospective clients and partners might feel “turned off” because they don’t see my face on my website or social media.
I sighed.
The truth is simple: I don’t post personal photos because I’m not comfortable doing so. It’s not about hiding. It’s not because I’m fake or trying to be someone I’m not.
I’m living in alignment with my values—and I do so with confidence.
The best way to get to know me is through connection, not photos—so I warmly invite you to book a free inquiry call.
Let’s Talk
I invite you to schedule online a time to talk with me about your concerns. Please express any reservations you have about starting therapy.
.
More Personal Stuff About Me:
I am also
- Wife to the man who I met as a friend and grew to love, and continue to love for 20+ years
- Mother to 2 children who are my teachers, testing ground, and inspiration. The elder is now entering the zone of puberty and adolescence. The younger is bridging out of the princess phase and becoming…
- I am recovered from a major critical disease. I am still fighting other health impairments today. However, I know my life has purpose. Therefore, I refuse to be restrained or limited. Consequently, I practice and preach self-care to everyone, especially to sensitive, care-giving, women and mothers.
- A fiercely loyal friend. I am with you through everything. I only have minimal friends in my circle of intimacy.
- Finding the right therapist is a big decision, and feeling comfortable with that person is key. I truly get that. To help you feel more at ease, I’ve shared a bit about my own journey with you. But I believe the best way to know if we’re a good fit is to connect directly.
- Try Before You Buy: Book a free phone consult
- So, I’d love to invite you to a free and relaxed phone chat. Think of it as a chance to say hello and get a real feel for how I listen and how I care. In just about 30 minutes, you can experience my empathy firsthand and hopefully feel a sense of trust that I will provide the support you need. There’s no pressure at all. I genuinely look forward to connecting with you and seeing if we are a good team.
