People of the OCQ: Sian
“The best part of my job is seeing families transform and thrive. Whether it’s a child developing confidence, a parent learning new strategies, or a family strengthening their connection, those moments are incredibly rewarding,” says Sian Trombley, founder of Thrive Family Co.
Taking experiences from her work as a former elementary teacher, web designer, school counselor and child and adolescent therapist, and as a parent herself, Sian utilizes all the tools and lessons of her journey in her life to create a meaningful practice rooted in positive psychology, creativity, education and therapy.
Seeing firsthand how many families struggled with finding the right support for their child’s emotional needs, Sian has created a multifaceted approach to how she delivers support to families.
“Every family has different needs, and I want to meet them where they are. Schools are often the first place emotional and behavioural challenges surface, so my role as a school counsellor allows me to provide early intervention and support. My private practice offers a more personalized, in-depth approach, and my online platforms ensure that families beyond my local area can access expert-driven resources,” she explains.
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Thrive Family Co. offers an online platform of practical, expert-led parenting courses as well as Thrive Family Magazine, a digital publication featuring parenting tips and mental health resources. With a background in design and a passion for photography, these resources allow Sian to indulge in her creativity. She also incorporates photography in her therapy practice as a reflective tool for her clients.
“Personally, photography has always been a deeply grounding and expressive practice for me. It allows me to be present, observant, and creative, which are all essential for maintaining emotional balance and well-being. Whether in my professional work or personal life, therapeutic photography is a meaningful way to connect with emotions and cultivate self-expression,” she explains.
Sian also includes animal therapy in her in-person sessions in schools and at her office. Her therapy animal of choice is a rabbit.
"Bunnies are gentle, intuitive animals that teach us the power of calm presence. Their quiet nature encourages mindfulness, emotional regulation, and connection—offering a soothing space for children to feel safe, seen, and supported."
Although Sian supports families from all over, she has made the Old City Quarter her home-base for her in-person therapy sessions. Her office is uniquely vibrant with children’s colourful artwork written on the glass walls, an abundance of toys to promote play therapy, and rabbits for additional comfort. The place is welcoming and playful, matching perfectly with Sian’s approach to therapy.
“The Old City Quarter is a vibrant, creative, and community-driven neighbourhood, and I love being a part of it. There’s a strong sense of connection and support among local businesses,” she explains. “t. It’s also a place that values creativity and innovation, which aligns with my own approach to therapy and family support. Being in the Old City Quarter allows me to collaborate with other professionals and be part of a community that fosters well-being and personal growth.”
Sian hopes to continue growing Thrive Family Co. as a trusted mental health resource for families by providing more workshops and online resources.
“Whether through individual therapy, parent coaching, or self-guided courses, my mission is to equip families with tools to build stronger, more connected relationships.”