Bullying and Kids: How Counselling Can Help Children in Kelowna
Bullying is something many parents hope their child will never experience—but for too many families, it becomes a painful reality. Whether it happens at school, online, or within peer groups, bullying can have a lasting emotional impact on children and teens if it’s not addressed early and supportively.
If you’re a parent in Kelowna wondering how to help your child cope with bullying, counselling can play a powerful role in healing, building confidence, and restoring a sense of safety.
What Does Bullying Look Like Today?
Bullying isn’t always obvious. It can be overt or subtle, and many children struggle to put words to what they’re experiencing.
Common forms of bullying include:
Name-calling, teasing, or verbal harassment
Exclusion or social isolation
Physical intimidation or aggression
Online bullying through social media, texts, or gaming platforms
Manipulation or threats within friendships
Children may not always say “I’m being bullied,” but their behaviour often tells the story.
Signs Your Child May Be Experiencing Bullying
Parents often notice changes before children talk about what’s happening. Some common signs include:
Sudden reluctance or refusal to go to school
Frequent stomach aches or headaches with no clear medical cause
Increased anxiety, sadness, or emotional outbursts
Changes in sleep, appetite, or mood
Withdrawal from friends or activities they once enjoyed
Drop in confidence or negative self-talk
If you’re noticing these shifts, it’s important to trust your instincts and explore support early.
How Counselling Helps Children Who Are Being Bullied
Counselling provides children with a safe, neutral space where they can talk openly—without fear of getting in trouble or making things worse.
Child and youth counselling can help by:
Supporting emotional regulation and reducing anxiety
Helping children process hurt, fear, shame, or anger
Rebuilding self-esteem and confidence
Teaching coping skills and assertive communication
Supporting healthy boundaries and friendships
Helping children feel less alone in their experience
For many kids, simply being believed and supported is incredibly healing.
Counselling for Parents: You’re Part of the Process Too
When a child is being bullied, parents often feel helpless, angry, or unsure how to respond. Counselling can also support parents by helping them:
Understand what their child is experiencing emotionally
Respond in ways that are supportive rather than overwhelming
Navigate communication with schools or other caregivers
Reduce their own stress and worry
Learn practical tools to support their child at home
A collaborative approach helps children feel safer and more supported across all areas of their life.
Tips for Parents Supporting a Child Who Is Being Bullied
While counselling is an important piece, there are things parents can do right away:
1. Listen Without Jumping to Fix
Let your child share at their own pace. Try to listen calmly and validate their feelings before problem-solving.
2. Avoid Minimizing
Phrases like “just ignore it” or “they’re just being kids” can unintentionally shut kids down.
3. Reassure Them It’s Not Their Fault
Many children internalize blame. Repeated reassurance matters.
4. Focus on Safety First
If there is physical harm, threats, or severe emotional distress, immediate action and support are essential.
5. Seek Professional Support Early
Early counselling can prevent longer-term anxiety, depression, or school avoidance.
Bullying Counselling in Kelowna: You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
If your child is experiencing bullying, support is available. Counselling can help children regain confidence, feel empowered, and develop tools that support them well beyond the bullying experience itself.
At Lakeside Clinical Counselling, we offer child and youth counselling in Kelowna, with clinicians experienced in supporting kids and families through bullying, peer challenges, anxiety, and self-esteem concerns.
If you’re unsure where to start, we’re happy to help you find the right fit for your child.
Ready to learn more or book a session?
Contact us today or complete our Best Fit Form and we’ll guide you through the next steps.