Tamara Schwager
School Counsellor & Family Therapist
Tamara Schwager is an Elementary School Counsellor and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals and families across the lifespan. Her time working in Social Services with vulnerable populations, as well as in public and private school settings as an integration aide, teacher and counsellor throughout her career has allowed Tamara to develop a breadth of knowledge related to helping families navigate educational systems and access the support and resources they need. Holding degrees in Elementary School Education, Sociology and Family Life Education, as well as certifications in Child Behaviour and Family System Interventions, Tamara facilitates group sessions and professional development workshops in schools and organizations across the city for parents, students and staff on topics related to Friendship, Social Skills, Anxiety, Mental & Sexual Health Education as well as Grief and Loss.
Trained in the RULER method from the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, and using an approach rooted in the educational philosophies of Dr. Susan David’s Emotional Agility and Dr. Kenneth Ginsburg’s framework of Building Resilience, Tamara’s support of children and families is guided by the belief that all feelings provide us with opportunities for growing and learning.
Tamara works closely with families throughout the assessment process, supporting parents and children in recognizing their unique strengths and learning to advocate for themselves and their needs. Her areas of expertise include helping individuals to understand and navigate social dynamics and friendship challenges, hone their prosocial and emotional regulation skills, build confidence related to self-esteem & body image as well as manage fears and anxiety. Using creative arts, play, and a focus on open communication, Tamara works collaboratively with parents and children to develop strategies for forging healthier relationships with themselves and others. In all of her work, she strives to create safe and supportive spaces where children and families can connect, play and grow together.