CATALYST
COUNSELING
Empowering Young Minds Through Positive Psychology
WELCOME TO CATALYST
Welcome to Catalyst - where we equip children with evidence-based tools for a confident future, helping them build the kind of resilience that lasts a lifetime.
Discover our research-based programs & tools, designed specifically to inspire and engage kids and teens while supporting their learning and development.
OUR MISSION
To equip children with practical tools for emotional resilience, helping them navigate today's complex world with confidence and optimism.
OUR
STORY
Catalyst was founded on a simple yet powerful belief: Every child has the capacity to thrive, even in the face of challenges.
We believe that when children are given the right tools and support, they can transform potential struggles into strengths, & build lifelong skills that set them up for a lifetime of well- being and confidence.
Our approach combines key insights from child psychology, education, and neuroscience to create engaging, effective workshops that build these skills.
THE CATALYST FRAMEWORK FOR FLOURISHING
At Catalyst, we equip children with the tools to navigate their unique journeys confidently, focusing on the following skills:
EMOTIONAL MASTERY
Helping children name, understand, and manage their emotions, so they can face their fears and express themselves effectively.
OUR
APPROACH
Discover the Science Behind Our Work
We draw on principles from psychology, education, and neuroscience to design impactful, engaging workshops that nurture resilience and social-emotional skills.
Neuroplasticity:
The Brain's Superpower
Children's brains are remarkably adaptable. Our workshops leverage this neuroplasticity to strengthen neural pathways for emotional control, cognitive function, and positive thinking patterns. MRI studies show that SEL practices improve brain structure and function, enhancing memory, stress management, and relationship skills.
Prevention Over Treatment:
Research consistently shows that prevention is more effective than treatment. By equipping children with resilience skills early (ages 7-16), we help them develop healthy patterns before challenges become overwhelming. This critical window of development offers the greatest opportunity for lasting impact.
The Integration of SEL and Positive Psychology:
The Integration of SEL and Positive Psychology:
Our curriculum combines the best of Social-Emotional Learning (focusing on emotional management and social skills) with Positive Psychology (emphasizing strengths and well-being). Together, these approaches don't just prevent problems—they promote flourishing.
Understanding Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) & Positive Psychology
Why Are Some Children More Resilient Than Others?
The answer lies in Social & Emotional Learning (SEL) & Positive Psychology
Social & Emotional Learning
EMOTIONS
Social and Emotional Learning helps children recognize, express, and regulate their emotions in healthy ways, leading to better self-awareness and self-management.
EMPATHY
SEL nurtures the ability to understand others' perspectives and emotions, fostering empathy that builds stronger social connections and reduces conflict.
RELATIONSHIPS
Children develop skills to create and maintain positive relationships with peers and adults, learning effective communication and conflict resolution.
GOALS
Children learn to establish meaningful positive goals and develop the skills needed to work toward them with persistence and focus.
DECISION-MAKING
SEL equips children with critical thinking skills to make responsible decisions that consider ethical standards, safety concerns, and social norms.
POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY
WELL-BEING
Children learn to build genuine well-being by focusing on their strengths. Rather than just addressing problems, this approach teaches children to actively cultivate the skills and mindset needed for lasting happiness and resilience.
OPTIMISM
Children learn to develop optimism and resilience, helping them bounce back from challenges and maintain a positive outlook.
STRENGTHS
Positive psychology helps children discover and nurture their unique strengths and talents, building confidence and self-efficacy.
GROWTH
Children learn to embrace challenges and see effort as a path to mastery, developing a growth mindset that supports continuous improvement and learning.
THE EVIDENCE IS CLEAR
Early SEL Investment Creates Lifelong Positive Impact
Research consistently shows that early exposure to positive interventions and social-emotional learning (SEL) creates a powerful foundation for lifelong success. These evidence-based approaches yield benefits that extend far beyond childhood, positively impacting individuals throughout their entire lives.
Hover over each card to learn more
Academic &
Career Success
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Stronger leadership capabilities.
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11% increase in academic achievement.
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3.66% income increase per point of increase in SEL skill at age 12.
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Enhanced emotional intelligence improves professional performance through better interpersonal and self-management skills.
Mental Health & Wellbeing
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Significant reduction in mental health diagnoses.
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Greater psychological resilience.
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50% lower risk of adult physical health issues.
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Prevention of anxiety & depression through accurate cognitive styles, problem-solving skills & supportive relationships.
Life
Outcomes
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Higher quality relationships in adulthood
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Significantly greater life satisfaction, productivity & well-being
WHY INVEST IN SEL?
Children today face growing emotional, social, and mental pressures. through our workshops, we equip them with the skills to cope, connect, and thrive.
What challenges do you observe in your children's daily lives?
Digital Age
Pressures
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Social media driven anxiety.
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Digital validation seeking & low self-esteem
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Screen addiction
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24/7 cyberbullying exposure
Academic and
Future Pressures
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High-stakes testing and college admission pressure.
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Performance anxiety & parental expectations.
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Extra-curricular overload.
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Rapidly changing job market & AI automation concerns.
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Career readiness pressure and future uncertainty.
Family
Challenges
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Changing family structures (single-parent, blended, cross-cultural families).
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Limited family time and generational gaps.
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Work-life imbalance.
Social
Pressures
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Peer conformity and fear of exclusion.
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Popularity and social status anxiety.
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Social media group dynamics and online peer politics.
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Pressure to engage in risky or age-inappropriate behavior.
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Friendship drama
OUR WORKSHOPS
Our engaging, evidence-based workshops are designed for children ages 7-16. Each workshop theme focuses on specific aspects of emotional intelligence and resilience, using age-appropriate activities, discussions, and practical tools.
Workshop Formats
Individual Sessions
One-on-one coaching for personalized skill development.
Small Group Workshops
6-8 participants for optimal engagement and personalized attention.
Workshop AGE GROUPS
We offer tailored workshops for:
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Ages 7-10: Foundations of SEL – learning emotional awareness and social skills.
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Ages 11-14: Resilience & Emotional Regulation – managing stress and building confidence.
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Ages 15-18: Future Readiness – self-motivation, goal-setting, and overcoming challenges.
Workshop THEMES
Emotional Intelligence Series
Kids learn to understand and manage emotions, build empathy, and strengthen mental health and relationships.
Coping & Resilience Series
Helps kids handle challenges with confidence by building problem-solving skills, emotional strength, and a positive mindset.
Social Skills & Friendship Series
Kids build confidence, kindness, and “people smarts” to make friends, communicate well, and handle conflicts.
Thinking Skills
Series
Develop resilient thinking by learning to recognize unhelpful thoughts, challenge unhelpful patterns, and build more balanced, optimistic mental habits.
Self-Esteem & Identity Series
Build genuine confidence and self-worth from the inside out. Kids learn self-compassion, how to manage their inner critic, and discover what makes them uniquely valuable.
Character Strengths & Values Series
Discover personal strengths, clarify core values, and connect to a sense of purpose. Learn to make choices that align with what matters most.
Digital Wellness & Balance Series
Kids develop healthy digital habits rooted in respect, safety, and self-worth—learning to use technology in ways that support their values and relationships, & academics. Covers online safety, mindful tech use, and social media smarts.
School & Academic Pressure Series
Transform academic stress into academic success. Learn to manage test anxiety, overcome perfectionism, organize effectively, and maintain motivation.