Our Approach

The services provided at Prime Connections are based on four core principles that help us collaborate with our clients.

1. Therapeutic Alliance

The relationship developed between psychologist and client (therapeutic alliance) is central to any work done. In fact, research has shown that it is the most important contributing factor to the effectiveness of therapy. Whatever approach (e.g., cognitive-behaviour therapy) a psychologist takes, it is essential to be aware of the uniqueness that each child, adolescent and family brings. At Prime Connections, psychologists use curiousity, playfulness, empathy, flexibility and acceptance to develop rapport and tune into the client’s needs. When a therapeutic alliance is strong, the therapist and client believe in each other and share the responsibility for the client changing and growing.

2. Relationships

Interpersonal relationships and the relationship one has with oneself are often the substance of assessment and treatment. As the social lives of children and adolescents expand, interactions with others can act as a mirror for self-discovery. They learn how to think, understand, communicate, behave, show emotions and develop social skills. Relationships also affect how children and adolescents perceive and react to what they notice about themselves (e.g., traits, talents, values, etc.) and those around them. At Prime Connections, we consider it essential to support children and adolescents through whatever unfolds both in their inner and outer worlds.

3. Neurodevelopment

At a neural level, the brains of children and adolescents are developing, forming connections that help establish cognitive, academic and social-emotional functioning and a sense of self and resilience. We think of ‘neurons that fire together wire together’, meaning that interactions and experiences shape or prime how pathways in the brain are formed and reinforced to help children become the people they grow up to be.

4. Community

We take a holistic approach to understanding and supporting children, adolescents and families. This involves considering the communities in which they are embedded. As part of this, Prime Connections strives to be a part of the fabric of these communities, modelling best practices, mobilizing partnerships with other professionals and acting as a resource in order to build the capacity of children and youth.