Sari Meyerson helps families and children find resilience in the face of life’s challenges

What is the origin story of your business? Tell us how and why you started — what inspired you?

I’ve been working in the Hamilton community for over 25 years—starting out in the Jewish community as the Assistant Director at Camp Kadimah at the old JCC. That role lit a spark in me. I loved working with kids, building meaningful connections, and being part of a space that felt like home for so many families. From there, I went on to study Psychology and Criminology at the University of Western Ontario. During that time, I worked in a youth detention centre and witnessed firsthand how deeply a young person’s environment—especially their home life—can affect their emotional and mental health. That experience was a turning point for me. It led me to pursue a Master of Social Work so I could support families more directly and help kids feel seen, heard, and understood. After completing my MSW, I worked in the domestic violence field and, for the past 12 years, in school mental health with our local public board. I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside many young people during some of their hardest moments. What’s always stayed with me is the importance of safe spaces—places where kids and teens can share what’s really going on, and where families feel supported rather than judged.

What does your business do, and who is your ideal client or customer?

With nearly 15 years of experience as a registered social worker, my practice focuses on supporting children, youth, and their caregivers through life’s challenges. I work with kids who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, and big transitions—like parental separation, divorce, or blended family changes. My goal is to create a space where young people feel safe enough to open up and where caregivers feel supported in understanding and responding to what their child is going through. I believe in working collaboratively—with the child, their family, and other systems around them—because healing rarely happens in isolation. My ideal client is a child or teen who might be struggling quietly, or a parent who senses something is off but isn’t sure how to help. Often, families come to me when they’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, and together, we work on building emotional awareness, coping tools, and stronger connections. Whether it’s a 7-year-old with bedtime worries or a teen navigating school stress and identity questions, I tailor my approach to meet each child where they’re at. I use a mix of play, creativity, and evidence-based strategies like CBT to help kids make sense of their experiences in a way that feels accessible and empowering. At the heart of it all, I’m here to remind kids and families that they’re not alone—and that with the right support, things can get better.

What do you love most about running your business?

What I love most is being able to create a space where kids and teens feel truly safe to open up. There’s something incredibly powerful about watching a child slowly begin to trust, to share what’s on their mind and in their heart—especially when they haven’t felt like they could do that anywhere else. Running my own practice allows me to build that kind of space with intention. I get to design sessions that meet kids where they’re at—whether that means talking while building Lego, drawing out feelings, or just sitting in silence until they’re ready. There’s no rush, no pressure—just support. It’s a privilege to walk alongside young people as they find their voice, make sense of their feelings, and realize they don’t have to carry everything alone. And being able to offer that not just to the child, but to the whole family, is something I feel deeply grateful for every day.

How can the community best support you?

The most meaningful support I’ve received has always come through word-of-mouth. When a parent, teacher, or friend shares my name with someone who might need support—that kind of trust means everything. If you've worked with me, followed along, or just believe in what I do, telling others about my practice can go a long way in helping families find the help they need. Following along on Instagram at @therapy.with.sari is another great way to stay connected. I share resources, reflections, and tips that are especially helpful for parents, caregivers, and educators supporting kids through tough emotions and big transitions. Sharing those posts or tagging someone who might benefit really helps spread the word. And of course, if someone you know is looking for support for their child or teen—or even just a space to explore what’s going on—I’m here. My practice is all about creating safe, supportive environments for children, youth, and families to feel heard and held. It takes a village to raise and support healthy kids, and I’m so grateful to be part of that in our community.

What is the biggest lesson you've learned on your entrepreneurial journey?

I’m still in the early stages of building my practice, but one big lesson I’ve learned already is the value of betting on yourself. Stepping into something new is always a little intimidating, but it’s also exciting—and I’ve come to see that doing work that feels good and meaningful really matters, especially at this stage in life. It’s easy to keep waiting for the “perfect” time or to let self-doubt creep in, but I’ve learned that growth happens when you take that first step anyway. Creating something that reflects who I am and what I care about—supporting kids, teens, and families—feels both energizing and deeply fulfilling. It’s not just about starting a business—it’s about following what feels right, and trusting that it’s okay to choose a path that lights you up.

Has your Jewish identity, values, or community experience influenced your business in any way?

Absolutely—my Jewish identity and community roots have played a huge role in shaping my business. From an early age, I was surrounded by the values of connection, compassion, and showing up for one another. Those lessons stayed with me and now sit at the heart of my work. I didn’t set out to build a big virtual clinic to connect with people who’ve never heard of me. I made a conscious decision to start a practice here, in the community I love, and with people who know me—or know of me through a camp, school, or family connection. I believe there’s something really powerful about being supported by someone local, someone who understands the community and truly cares about its well-being. Community has always been central in Jewish life, and so has emotional safety. My practice is built on both—offering a space where kids, teens, and families can show up just as they are and feel truly seen and supported. Whether it’s tikkun olam (repairing the world) or kehilla (community), those values are more than just words—they’re woven into everything I do.