About the Nurtured Heart Approach

A strengths-based method designed to help children and families cultivate inner wealth, resilience, and positive self-concept through intentional relationship-building.

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The Nurtured Heart Approach is a relationship-focused methodology originally developed to support children facing behavioural and emotional challenges. Rather than focusing on problems or deficits, this approach emphasizes recognizing and celebrating positive qualities, helping individuals build what practitioners call "inner wealth"—a strong foundation of self-worth and confidence. The approach may be particularly supportive for families navigating intense emotions, attention difficulties, or relationship struggles.

Therapists trained in the Nurtured Heart Approach use specific strategies to shift energy away from negative behaviours and toward moments of success, no matter how small. This approach often supports improved communication within families, greater emotional regulation, and stronger parent-child connections. While our network of Nurtured Heart practitioners in Canada is growing, you may also find value in exploring related approaches such as play therapy or family therapy that share similar child-centred, strengths-based principles.

Ariella Boehm

Registered Psychotherapist
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Offers In-Person (Toronto, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON, AB, BC, MB, NL, NT, NU, SK, and YT.
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Ariella Boehm

Ariella Boehm

Registered Psychotherapist
she/her
$180/session
ADHD, Anxiety, Familial and social relationships, Anger Management, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Confidence, Court Mandated Counselling, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Effective communication, Family issues, Goal Setting, Intergenerational trauma, Interpersonal dynamics, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Maternal mental health, Motivation, Navigating challenging relationships, Negative thinking and ruminating, Parenting, Personal Growth, Relationships, Self-Criticism, Self-esteem, Self-Regulation, Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal)
ADHD, Anxiety, Familial and social relationships, Anger Management, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Confidence, Court Mandated Counselling, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Effective communication, Family issues, Goal Setting, Intergenerational trauma, Interpersonal dynamics, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Maternal mental health, Motivation, Navigating challenging relationships, Negative thinking and ruminating, Parenting, Personal Growth, Relationships, Self-Criticism, Self-esteem, Self-Regulation, Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal)
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Michal Goldstein

Registered Social Worker
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Offers In-Person (Toronto, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Michal Goldstein

Michal Goldstein

Registered Social Worker
$190/session
Children/Teens, Parenting, Relationships, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Behavioural Issues, Building Self-Care Routines, Caregiver burnout, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Effective communication, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Navigating challenging relationships, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Grief and Loss
Children/Teens, Parenting, Relationships, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Behavioural Issues, Building Self-Care Routines, Caregiver burnout, Dealing with difficult or narcissistic personalities, Effective communication, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Navigating challenging relationships, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Grief and Loss
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What is the Nurtured Heart Approach?

The Nurtured Heart Approach is a strengths-based methodology that focuses on building "inner wealth" and positive self-concept. Originally developed to support children with intense behaviours, it helps individuals recognize their inherent value through intentional relationship-building and strategic responses to both positive and challenging moments.

Who can benefit from the Nurtured Heart Approach?

While originally designed for children experiencing behavioural or emotional intensity, the Nurtured Heart Approach may support anyone seeking to build stronger self-worth and healthier relationships. It is often used with families, in educational settings, and with individuals of all ages who want to shift toward a more strengths-focused mindset.

How does the Nurtured Heart Approach differ from other therapies?

Unlike approaches that focus primarily on reducing negative behaviours, the Nurtured Heart Approach emphasizes energizing positive moments and qualities. Practitioners intentionally withdraw energy from problematic behaviours while actively celebrating successes, helping individuals internalize a stronger sense of their own capabilities and worth.

What happens in a Nurtured Heart Approach session?

Sessions typically involve learning specific techniques for recognizing and responding to positive behaviours, setting clear boundaries without giving excessive energy to rule-breaking, and practicing ways to build inner wealth through everyday interactions. Family sessions often include coaching for parents and caregivers to implement these strategies at home.

How long does it take to see results with the Nurtured Heart Approach?

The timeline varies depending on individual circumstances and consistency in applying the approach. Some families notice shifts in dynamics within a few weeks of consistent practice, while deeper changes in self-concept and relationship patterns may develop over several months. Your therapist can help set realistic expectations based on your specific situation.

Are there Nurtured Heart Approach therapists available in Canada?

Our network of therapists trained in the Nurtured Heart Approach is growing across Canada. You can browse available practitioners on First Session, where each therapist has an intro video so you can get a sense of their style before booking. If you don't find a Nurtured Heart specialist in your area, consider exploring therapists who offer related child-focused or family therapy approaches.