Tides Center For Counselling & Health

Bethany McDowell - Play Therapy & Family Counselling in Sylvan Lake

Training

  • Certificate in Sandplay with Special Populations using Play Therapy Skills and Techniques program – 26.5 Clinical Hours 
  • Green Stream-Foundations of Play Therapy – 80 Clinical Hours 
  • Red Stream Advanced Theories and Techniques of Play Therapy – 80 Clinical hours
  • ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP) 
  • Clinical Certificate in Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2) Toddler Module
  • Clinical Certificate in Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, 2nd Edition (ADOS-2)
  • Adult Autism & ADHD Diagnostic Assessment Training Amanda Moses Psychology 

Bethany McDowell

Registered Psychologist | Therapeutic Play Practitioner

Meet Bethany! I am a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and a certified Therapeutic Play Practitioner with the Rocky Mountain Play Institute. I specialize in supporting children and families navigating anxiety, depression, family transitions (including high-conflict divorce and separation), domestic violence, grief, and developmental trauma.

As Gary Landreth beautifully stated, “Toys are children’s words and play is their language.” This philosophy is central to my approach in creating a safe, child-centered therapeutic environment.

In addition to therapeutic services, I am trained and experienced in working with individuals—children, adolescents, and adults—who have experienced domestic abuse and relational trauma. I have worked as a domestic violence therapist in Central Alberta and understand the ongoing need in our communities for accessible, compassionate mental health care.

At Tides Center, I also offer comprehensive psychoeducational assessments for individuals aged six and older, including college and university students. These assessments help identify learning disabilities, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental concerns, providing clients and families with meaningful insights and practical recommendations to support success in both academic and everyday life.

Above all, I strive to create a welcoming and supportive space where clients and their families feel seen, heard, and empowered in their healing journey.

  • Psychoeducational assessments
  • ADHD evaluation (child & adult)
  • Play therapy
  • Learning disabilities 
  • Child trauma
  • Family transitions (high-conflict divorce – with children)
  • Domestic violence
  • Emotional regulation

Get in Touch