Play Therapy in Stratford, ON
Sara Collings Wilken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
I enjoy working with children and adults of all ages and I specialize in perinatal mental health and play therapy.
Therapy offers a profound opportunity to make sense of overwhelming emotions, heal from painful relationships, and address past traumas that impact your present life. My goal is to build a relationship with you where you feel deeply accepted and genuinely understood. Through this connection, we can gently explore your inner world, helping you gain insight into your emotions and nurturing a stronger sense of self. For adults, this journey unfolds through meaningful conversations, while for children, emotions are expressed and understood through the language of play, fostering growth in a safe, supportive environment.
I enjoy working with children and adults of all ages and I specialize in perinatal mental health and play therapy.
Therapy offers a profound opportunity to make sense of overwhelming emotions, heal from painful relationships, and address past traumas that impact your present life. My goal is to build a relationship with you where you feel deeply accepted and genuinely understood. Through this connection, we can gently explore your inner world, helping you gain insight into your emotions and nurturing a stronger sense of self. For adults, this journey unfolds through meaningful conversations, while for children, emotions are expressed and understood through the language of play, fostering growth in a safe, supportive environment.
Shirley Ann Brooker
Registered Social Worker, CPTS, MSW \, RSW, RP
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
Shirley draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches that include Play & Theraplay, CBT, mindfulness approaches, EMDR, narrative therapy & family systems theory to intentionally address issues such as grief / loss, anxiety, depression, stress / anger, behaviour, and relational interruptions such as separation and divorce.
Shirley offers a relational approach to therapeutic services to young children/youth, parents, couples, and whole families. A collaborative strength-based approach is provided within a safe environment that offers growth and resilience. Experiences in therapy will empower strengths from within, build coping skills, and increase understanding of self and others to allow healing and growth.
Shirley draws from a variety of therapeutic approaches that include Play & Theraplay, CBT, mindfulness approaches, EMDR, narrative therapy & family systems theory to intentionally address issues such as grief / loss, anxiety, depression, stress / anger, behaviour, and relational interruptions such as separation and divorce.
Shirley offers a relational approach to therapeutic services to young children/youth, parents, couples, and whole families. A collaborative strength-based approach is provided within a safe environment that offers growth and resilience. Experiences in therapy will empower strengths from within, build coping skills, and increase understanding of self and others to allow healing and growth.
Jen Dobrenski
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, PGCE, MACP
Verified Verified
Stratford, ON N5A
Using evidence-based techniques, such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Play-based therapy are a sample of what may be utilised.
A warm welcome! My name is Jen and I am a psychotherapist (qualifying) with a Masters of Counselling Psychology. I have been a passionate educator for over 20 years, working alongside diverse students and their families in a range of locations and populations, including international schools in the UK and Europe. My heart is in supporting children, youth and young adults (ages 6 to 24) alongside their families, in a safe, non-judgemental space, offering warmth, empathy and a belief in the resiliency and problem solving skills of this population.
Using evidence-based techniques, such as Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Play-based therapy are a sample of what may be utilised.
A warm welcome! My name is Jen and I am a psychotherapist (qualifying) with a Masters of Counselling Psychology. I have been a passionate educator for over 20 years, working alongside diverse students and their families in a range of locations and populations, including international schools in the UK and Europe. My heart is in supporting children, youth and young adults (ages 6 to 24) alongside their families, in a safe, non-judgemental space, offering warmth, empathy and a belief in the resiliency and problem solving skills of this population.
Do you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, separation, grief/loss, family changes, anger/aggression, or Neuro-Divergence (ADHD, ASD, learning difficulties) that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, or ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or alone by the demands of work, relationships, just getting through the day, or the pressures of parenting? My name is Sarah and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT).
Do you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, separation, grief/loss, family changes, anger/aggression, or Neuro-Divergence (ADHD, ASD, learning difficulties) that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, or ability to function? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, or alone by the demands of work, relationships, just getting through the day, or the pressures of parenting? My name is Sarah and I am a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO) and a Certified Music Therapist (MTA) with the Canadian Association of Music Therapists (CAMT).
I’m a Child and Youth Counsellor with 17 years of experience working one-on-one with diverse children and youth. I meet each client where they're at, and am known for my ability to make kids feel at ease, safe and comfortable. I use a warm, empathetic and strengths-based approach. I help child and youth clients to identify strengths and goals by working alongside them and supporting their needs in a collaborative, developmentally appropriate (and often fun!) way that facilitates their growth, personal understanding and mental health journey.
I’m a Child and Youth Counsellor with 17 years of experience working one-on-one with diverse children and youth. I meet each client where they're at, and am known for my ability to make kids feel at ease, safe and comfortable. I use a warm, empathetic and strengths-based approach. I help child and youth clients to identify strengths and goals by working alongside them and supporting their needs in a collaborative, developmentally appropriate (and often fun!) way that facilitates their growth, personal understanding and mental health journey.
Reclaim & Rise Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N5A
We are so glad you're here! We know looking for a counsellor can be overwhelming and we are here to help. We are a dedicated group of psychotherapists who are passionate about supporting your healing and journey to mental wellness. Using evidence-based modalities we provide individual, couples, and youth counselling both in-person and virtually on a secure online platform. All of our therapists are Master's level Registered Social Workers (RSW's) and are accepted by most insurance companies and benefit packages. Our cozy therapy spaces are located at 206 Ontario Street in Stratford.
We are so glad you're here! We know looking for a counsellor can be overwhelming and we are here to help. We are a dedicated group of psychotherapists who are passionate about supporting your healing and journey to mental wellness. Using evidence-based modalities we provide individual, couples, and youth counselling both in-person and virtually on a secure online platform. All of our therapists are Master's level Registered Social Workers (RSW's) and are accepted by most insurance companies and benefit packages. Our cozy therapy spaces are located at 206 Ontario Street in Stratford.
Currently Accepting New Clients for Virtual Appointments Only. Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, nervousness, racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty relaxing, exhaustion, or burn out? Having overcome my own struggle with anxiety as a young person, I have developed a strong passion for assisting others who are suffering from similar challenges. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
Currently Accepting New Clients for Virtual Appointments Only. Do you suffer from feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, nervousness, racing thoughts, panic attacks, difficulty relaxing, exhaustion, or burn out? Having overcome my own struggle with anxiety as a young person, I have developed a strong passion for assisting others who are suffering from similar challenges. Let’s work together to transform your struggles into stepping stones, leading you towards a peaceful and empowered life. No challenge is too big or too small – I’m dedicated to helping you find your way and ensuring you no longer feel held back by your troubles.
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
Life is difficult. Complex circumstances hit us all, often resulting in a diminished ability for us to live life to its fullest. Unresolved emotional pain and trauma can give rise to depression, anger, anxiety, low self-esteem, and abuse of self and others. By Peaceful Waters therapists combine our professional training and our Christian faith to bring healing and restoration to spiritual, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, and relational hurts. We offer a safe, non-judgmental and empathetic environment, nourishing hope and healing, in which the whole person is valued, affirmed and empowered, not just to survive but to thrive.
Lalita Bains
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BA Hons
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N4Z
Waiting list for new clients - Evening & Weekend sessions. I understand, for some, the thought of attending therapy can bring about daunting feelings. In our time together, building a professional, and therapeutic relationship allows reflection upon your presenting concerns. As your psychotherapist, I will assist you to explore your experiences, by providing a safe space for you to develop a greater understanding and awareness of these concerns. This allows you to consider choices to develop meaningful changes in your life and/or within yourself.
Waiting list for new clients - Evening & Weekend sessions. I understand, for some, the thought of attending therapy can bring about daunting feelings. In our time together, building a professional, and therapeutic relationship allows reflection upon your presenting concerns. As your psychotherapist, I will assist you to explore your experiences, by providing a safe space for you to develop a greater understanding and awareness of these concerns. This allows you to consider choices to develop meaningful changes in your life and/or within yourself.
Shalyn Dussiaume Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Stratford, ON N4Z
Shalyn Dussiaume-Good is a Registered Psychotherapist and is currently working with a wide variety of clients with varying life issues. Her therapy models include using CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
Shalyn Dussiaume-Good is a Registered Psychotherapist and is currently working with a wide variety of clients with varying life issues. Her therapy models include using CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy).
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Managing difficult mornings or evenings, challenges and stress that occurs during the day can feel better. You can strive to live the life of your dreams and feel better about how you respond to challenges. My passion and the reason I provide therapy services is to support people to live the life of their dreams - with as much ease as possible.
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Managing difficult mornings or evenings, challenges and stress that occurs during the day can feel better. You can strive to live the life of your dreams and feel better about how you respond to challenges. My passion and the reason I provide therapy services is to support people to live the life of their dreams - with as much ease as possible.
Online Therapists
My approach includes diverse modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, spiritual therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
Are you motivated to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Are you going through challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and seeking support to navigate life's complexities? Do you need a safe space to express yourself authentically? Do you want to achieve a greater sense of well-being, and improved mental health?
My approach includes diverse modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness techniques, spiritual therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and play therapy.
Are you motivated to embark on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth? Are you going through challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and seeking support to navigate life's complexities? Do you need a safe space to express yourself authentically? Do you want to achieve a greater sense of well-being, and improved mental health?
Daniella Haddad
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BFA, DKATI, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R (Online Only)
I believe in the transformative power of connection, seeing healing as inherently relational. My approach emphasizes community, creativity, and play, promoting curiosity and openness. I also understand how well-being is linked to context, environment, and history, alongside systemic factors. As an Arab woman, my cultural identity and lived experience guide my commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, culturally sensitive care as I walk beside you. While using a range of tools (e.g., art, somatic and breath work), I aim to co-create a safe, supportive space that empowers you to reframe challenges and find new paths to wellness.
I believe in the transformative power of connection, seeing healing as inherently relational. My approach emphasizes community, creativity, and play, promoting curiosity and openness. I also understand how well-being is linked to context, environment, and history, alongside systemic factors. As an Arab woman, my cultural identity and lived experience guide my commitment to trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, culturally sensitive care as I walk beside you. While using a range of tools (e.g., art, somatic and breath work), I aim to co-create a safe, supportive space that empowers you to reframe challenges and find new paths to wellness.
I specialize in supporting caregivers and youth with anxiety, behaviour challenges, emotion dysregulation, and other mental health challenges. I have extensive experience working with autistic, ADHD, 2e children and am neurodiversity affirming. I strive to see each child for who they are, honouring their unique strengths and interests as I support them in addressing areas of emotional and behavioural functioning that impact opportunities for fulfillment. Drawing from a variety of approaches, including CBT, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and play therapy, I work with children and parents in a collaborative, lighthearted manner.
I specialize in supporting caregivers and youth with anxiety, behaviour challenges, emotion dysregulation, and other mental health challenges. I have extensive experience working with autistic, ADHD, 2e children and am neurodiversity affirming. I strive to see each child for who they are, honouring their unique strengths and interests as I support them in addressing areas of emotional and behavioural functioning that impact opportunities for fulfillment. Drawing from a variety of approaches, including CBT, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and play therapy, I work with children and parents in a collaborative, lighthearted manner.
Amanda Stemplowski
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Catharines, ON L2R
I use the Integrative Trauma and Attachment Model as well as additional modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Welcome! I am glad you are here as I understand it can be difficult to reach out. As a Trauma Therapist, I work with children, teens, and adults while offering a safe space where we’ll heal the root issues to make a lasting change. Working together, we will find an approach that best fits your needs. My goal is to meet my clients where they are at, while guiding and empowering them to make positive changes in their life.
I use the Integrative Trauma and Attachment Model as well as additional modalities such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-Focused and Play Therapy.
Welcome! I am glad you are here as I understand it can be difficult to reach out. As a Trauma Therapist, I work with children, teens, and adults while offering a safe space where we’ll heal the root issues to make a lasting change. Working together, we will find an approach that best fits your needs. My goal is to meet my clients where they are at, while guiding and empowering them to make positive changes in their life.
I have skills and knowledge in how to engage clients in treatment and incorporate strategies and techniques from a variety of modalities (talk therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, CBT).
Hi! My name is Kayla and I am a registered Social Worker in Ontario and Saskatchewan. I completed my Masters of Social Work at the University of Toronto and have been working in the field of Mental Health as a Clinical Therapist since 2018. I have worked from a young age with youth, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and environments that has helped me develop diverse and unique skills to work collaboratively and effectively with these population. My work within different environments varying needs and how to ensure a client-centered approach to treatment.
I have skills and knowledge in how to engage clients in treatment and incorporate strategies and techniques from a variety of modalities (talk therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, CBT).
Hi! My name is Kayla and I am a registered Social Worker in Ontario and Saskatchewan. I completed my Masters of Social Work at the University of Toronto and have been working in the field of Mental Health as a Clinical Therapist since 2018. I have worked from a young age with youth, adolescents and adults in a variety of settings and environments that has helped me develop diverse and unique skills to work collaboratively and effectively with these population. My work within different environments varying needs and how to ensure a client-centered approach to treatment.
Alma Garcia-Barajas (Attunement Psychotherapy)
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, CCATP, CATP, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakville, ON L6M
My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, such as EMDR, Somatic Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), and Play Based Therapy; which empower clients to develop healthier coping strategies.
As an empathetic, trauma certified psychotherapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and transitions. With personal experience in overcoming family struggles and profound personal losses, I am passionate about providing a safe and supportive space for my clients to heal, grow, and create fulfilling lives. If you are seeking guidance in processing trauma, managing grief, or adapting to life in a foreign country; I am here to support you every step of the way.
My approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, such as EMDR, Somatic Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT), and Play Based Therapy; which empower clients to develop healthier coping strategies.
As an empathetic, trauma certified psychotherapist, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and transitions. With personal experience in overcoming family struggles and profound personal losses, I am passionate about providing a safe and supportive space for my clients to heal, grow, and create fulfilling lives. If you are seeking guidance in processing trauma, managing grief, or adapting to life in a foreign country; I am here to support you every step of the way.
Approaches integrative approach to therapy utilizing several well-researched and highly recommended approaches including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - DBT- Imago Therapy -Acceptance and commitment Therapy (ACT) Gestalt Therapy -Schema Therapy (ST)- Eclectic Therapy - Play Therapy- Mindfulness.
Self-knowledge, including moods, emotions, finding the roots of some habits, thoughts and attitudes,behaviors and reactions, going through the path of growth and evolution in the journey of life, increasing life skills, creating effective relationships with people around you, choosing a spouse and life partner, having Mental health and life skills along with peace and tranquility, effective decision-making, parenting and safe conversation skills can be achieved along with determined and effective companionship and patient facilitation.I will be an effective companion in this way. I have a postdoctoral position as a family counseling
Approaches integrative approach to therapy utilizing several well-researched and highly recommended approaches including: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) - DBT- Imago Therapy -Acceptance and commitment Therapy (ACT) Gestalt Therapy -Schema Therapy (ST)- Eclectic Therapy - Play Therapy- Mindfulness.
Self-knowledge, including moods, emotions, finding the roots of some habits, thoughts and attitudes,behaviors and reactions, going through the path of growth and evolution in the journey of life, increasing life skills, creating effective relationships with people around you, choosing a spouse and life partner, having Mental health and life skills along with peace and tranquility, effective decision-making, parenting and safe conversation skills can be achieved along with determined and effective companionship and patient facilitation.I will be an effective companion in this way. I have a postdoctoral position as a family counseling
I engage children using a variety of play based strategies including board books, art, sandtray, and therapeutic stories.
Balance is the key to wellbeing. Life brings its ups and downs and there are times we struggle to keep our balance and harness our inner strength. If you or someone else in your life is going through a difficult time, emotionally or in relationships, I am able to provide therapeutic support. I use a combination of evidence based and creative approaches, that are effective in addressing a variety of concerns.
I engage children using a variety of play based strategies including board books, art, sandtray, and therapeutic stories.
Balance is the key to wellbeing. Life brings its ups and downs and there are times we struggle to keep our balance and harness our inner strength. If you or someone else in your life is going through a difficult time, emotionally or in relationships, I am able to provide therapeutic support. I use a combination of evidence based and creative approaches, that are effective in addressing a variety of concerns.
With younger clients, art therapy and play therapy techniques are utilized to help them engage.
Psychotherapy can be a scary thing, so my goal is always to help make my clients feel comfortable and safe to be vulnerable with me. I work with all types of individual; children (ages 7+), teens and adults, who are coming in with a variety of mental health concerns including; Anxiety, Depression, Self-Harm, Trauma, ADHD, ODD, OCD, and other complex mental health issues. I take joy in helping my clients make breakthroughs in their individualized goals and treatment.
With younger clients, art therapy and play therapy techniques are utilized to help them engage.
Psychotherapy can be a scary thing, so my goal is always to help make my clients feel comfortable and safe to be vulnerable with me. I work with all types of individual; children (ages 7+), teens and adults, who are coming in with a variety of mental health concerns including; Anxiety, Depression, Self-Harm, Trauma, ADHD, ODD, OCD, and other complex mental health issues. I take joy in helping my clients make breakthroughs in their individualized goals and treatment.
See more therapy options for Stratford
Play Therapy Counsellors
Who is play therapy for?
Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.
Why do people need play therapy?
Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behaviour and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.
What happens in play therapy?
A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.
What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?
Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.
How long does play therapy last?
Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behaviour.