Parenting Emotionally Intense Children (6-12)
Virtual Group Therapy
Parenting a child with big emotions can feel like you’re walking on eggshells. One minute they’re fine, the next they’re overwhelmed, melting down, or lashing out. You’re trying your best, but it’s exhausting. This 10-week virtual group therapy program is designed to help.
“Parenting Emotionally Intense Children” offers a supportive, structured space where caregivers of children ages 6 to 12 can build the skills, insight, and confidence they need to parent with more calm and connection.
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A quick word from Dr. Zia
What This Parenting Group Offers
Led by Cassandra Harmsen, M.A., Ph.D. Candidate, this group combines practical teaching, evidence-based parenting strategies, and peer connection. You’ll learn how to better understand your child’s emotional world, respond more effectively in high-stress moments, and create a home environment that supports your child’s emotional well-being.
Many parents of emotionally intense children also find that screen time amplifies meltdowns, emotional outbursts, and difficulty with transitions. Understanding the impact of early smartphone and social media exposure can be an important part of supporting your child’s regulation. Visit our Unplugged Canada page to learn more.
We focus on helping parents of emotionally intense or highly sensitive children develop tools for emotional regulation, communication, and conflict resolution.
What You’ll Learn
- How to identify and understand emotional dysregulation in children
- Mindful parenting techniques for high-stress moments
- Communication and problem-solving skills that foster connection
- Emotion coaching tools to build your child’s resilience
- Strategies to stay calm and consistent during explosive behaviours
Each session includes:
- Teaching and discussion led by a trained facilitator
- Practical tools you can implement at home
- Opportunities to connect with other parents who understand what you’re facing
- A brief individual consultation with Cassandra Harmsen for personalized guidance
Is The Parenting Emotionally Intense Children Program Right for You?
This is for you if:
- You’re raising a child who is highly sensitive, reactive, or easily overwhelmed
- You want to reduce conflict and emotional outbursts at home
- You’re looking for evidence-based tools and compassionate support
- You’re ready to feel more confident in handling your child’s big feelings
This may not be right if:
- You’re looking for 1:1 therapy for yourself or your child
- You’re not open to exploring new strategies or perspectives
Group Details
- Start Date: October 14, 2026
- Schedule: Wednesdays from 12:00pm to 1:00pm
- Length: 10 sessions, 1 hour each
- Format: Virtual through a secure platform
- Group size: 10
- Fee: $95 per session, $950 total for the full 10-week series
- Facilitator: Cassandra Harmsen
Sessions are covered by most extended health insurance plans.
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About Cassandra Harmsen & the FFEW Team
Cassandra Harmsen specializes in helping families navigate overwhelming emotions and challenging behaviours through evidence-based, client-centred therapy that empowers both parents and children. As an aspiring child psychologist with 10 years of experience working with families and training at leading institutions like CAMH, she creates safe, non-judgmental environments where families can build stronger relationships and develop effective strategies to meet their shared goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions parents ask about this service—so you can feel more confident about what to expect.
What if my child doesn’t have a diagnosis?
You do not need a diagnosis to join this group. If your child frequently experiences intense emotions, meltdowns, or has trouble calming down, this group can help.
Will my child attend the sessions with me?
No, this is a caregiver-only group. The focus is on equipping parents with tools and strategies they can implement at home.
What if I miss a session?
We understand that life happens. While we encourage full attendance, you’ll still receive materials and guidance if you need to miss a session.
Is this covered by insurance?
Group therapy may be covered under extended health benefits. We can provide invoices under the supervising clinician’s license.
I’m not sure if group therapy is right for me—can I talk to someone first?
Absolutely. Booking a free consultation is the best way to explore whether this program is a good fit for your family.