At Stone Silo Counselling & Wellness, we’re here to offer care that truly sees and celebrates you. We believe everyone deserves a place where they feel safe, accepted, and supported in being their authentic self. Our team is proud to provide 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming mental health and wellness services in Waterloo, Kitchener, and Listowel.
We know that finding supportive care can feel especially challenging in smaller communities. That’s why we’re committed to making Stone Silo a space where you don’t have to explain or defend who you are. Stone Silo is a place that honours your unique journey and experiences.
We celebrate diversity in all its forms. We honour chosen names and pronouns, use inclusive language, and respect every identity.
We maintain a strict policy for any form of discrimination, ignorance, or prejudice. Our space is designed to be a sanctuary where everyone can access care without fear of judgment or discrimination.
Our team continues to learn about 2SLGBTQIA+ experiences, terminology, and best practices so that our care is always current, compassionate, and informed.
Coming out is a deeply personal journey that can bring both liberation and challenges. Our therapists can help any individual of any age with:
If you’re feeling afraid to come out because of judgment or your current living situation, you don’t have to face that alone. Our therapists are here to support you with compassion and care to help you explore the path that feels right for your mental health and overall well-being. In our space, you can speak freely, be yourself, and know that you’ll be met with understanding, not judgment.
We offer comprehensive support for individuals exploring their gender identity. Our services include:
Our counsellors specialize in care that validates and supports your gender identity and lived experience. Receive support in:
Relationships can be complex when navigating 2SLGBTQIA+ identity. We offer support for:
Grief isn’t only about the loss of a loved one. It can also arise from any significant change or loss in your life. Many individuals within the 2SLGBTQIA+ community experience unique forms of grief and loss, especially during the process of coming out or living authentically. Our certified grief therapists provide compassionate support for those navigating:
Coming Soon – We’re developing group therapy options that welcome all members of sexual and gender diverse communities, providing peer support and connection in a safe, facilitated environment.
Our massage therapists create a comfortable, judgement-free space where you can fully relax. We recognize that body-related concerns, including body dysmorphia, can be especially sensitive. Our team works with care and respect, always honouring your comfort levels and boundaries.
Our therapists and wellness practitioners are specially trained in 2SLGBTQIA+ affirming care. More importantly, we’re a team of real people who genuinely care about making you feel supported, respected, and celebrated for who you are.
Joy has been in the social services and counselling field for over five years. She has recently become a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) and enjoys seeing clients of all ages 8 and up. With children (and with adults that find it of interest), Joy loves to incorporate creative and expressive art into therapy, using various art mediums, toys and sand play to facilitate a client’s self-expression. With adults, Joy’s warm and compassionate approach provides a safe and therapeutic environment for a client’s exploration and laying out of the difficulties they face and hope to find solutions for and/or cope with.
Joy Writes
“Let me tell you about Joy. As lovely as my name is, it can also be a difficult one to live up to. Because, if joy (as I understand it anyway), is contentment – like, the down-to-your-very-core knowing ‘it is well with my soul’ - no matter what’s happening in my past or present circumstances - then yeah, … even my name mocks me at times. Life is hard – and it’s not easy to feel ‘joyful’ when you’re in the throes of the storms and stuff of regular life. Sometimes just surviving is a major accomplishment let alone feeling any sense of happiness or contentment. None of us can control all the variables of life or be totally prepared for the things we face. But we can explore where the cracks are forming in the foundation of our well-being– where the roots of ourselves are dry and neglected – and that - can be tended to. It would be an honour to sit with you and hear your story. We can sort through the pieces together, at your pace, and reassemble them to best represent what your new ‘joy’ could look like now (despite your circumstance, struggle, or loss). Whatever you are wrestling with, reaching out and talking about it is a really healthy step – not keeping your fears, anger, pain, or needs secret any longer is a strong step closer to finding the treasure of your own deep down in your soul, contentment.”
Joy Borutskie (23 reviews)
I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals on their unique spiritual and faith journeys. I understand that these paths can be deeply life-giving for some, while others may find them challenging or even painful. With compassion and respect for each person’s experience, I offer therapeutic support to those who are seeking, questioning, processing, or grieving changes in their lives.
In my practice, I provide a safe and empathetic space to explore and navigate life’s meaningful transitions. Whether you’re facing spiritual upheaval, wrestling with faith-based conflicts, or moving through a major life change, I am here to walk alongside you as you process, heal, and grow.
My approach is integrative and grounded in evidence-based modalities, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I am also trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), both of which support deeper exploration of the inner parts that shape our thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.
I believe healing begins with understanding, compassion, and connection—especially during seasons of upheaval. Though these moments can be incredibly difficult, they also hold space for clarity, growth, and renewal. My role is to support you through these transitions with warmth, resilience, and the reminder that healing is always possible.
Whether you're looking to rediscover your spiritual path or simply need space to process life’s changes, I’m here to offer a supportive and compassionate environment where you can reflect, explore, and heal.
My specialties: Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment-Based Practices, Psychodynamic Therapy
Age Group: 4+ year olds
Serving: Waterloo
Price: Individual – 50 minutes – $170
Relationship – 50 minutes – $190
I also offer 80-minute sessions
Sarah Allen has extensive experience supporting teens and individuals in their 20s, and she welcomes clients of all ages. She is especially passionate about working with children, youth, young adults, as well as couples and families as her practice continues to grow.
Sarah provides neurodivergent-affirming therapy and creates a safe, inclusive space for individuals who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+. In her work with children, she views play as their natural language—a powerful way to express and make sense of their world. She honours this process by fostering a supportive and creative environment where children feel understood.
Her approach is client-centred and integrative, drawing from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, psychodynamic therapy, attachment-based practices, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. She takes a holistic view of well-being, considering the connections between mind, body, and—when relevant—spiritual or religious aspects of identity.
In sessions, Sarah gently guides clients in exploring early memories to better understand current patterns, gain insight, and co-create a healing life narrative. She works with a range of concerns, including grief and loss, eating disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and complex trauma. Sarah places a strong emphasis on emotional exploration, helping clients connect with their feelings and express their internal experiences—whether through language, art, play, music, or other meaningful forms of expression.
My specialties: Deep Tissue Massage, Neck Work, Trauma-Informed Care, Pain Alleviation, Functional Improvement
Age Group: All Ages
Serving: Waterloo
Philip is a Registered Massage Therapist who graduated from Trios College in 2023, bringing a unique blend of skills and experiences to his practice. His professional journey is enriched by his volunteer work with Victim Services, which has deepened his understanding of trauma-informed care and reinforced the importance of empathy and trust in therapeutic relationships.
Specializing in deep tissue massage, Philip has a passion for neck work and treating clients with complex needs. His approach is methodical and compassionate, aiming to alleviate pain, improve functionality, and promote long-term well-being. Philip's commitment to holistic well-being allows him to integrate mental and physical health considerations into his treatments, tailoring each session to meet individual needs.
Whether clients are seeking relief from tension, rehabilitation, or simply relaxation, Philip provides a supportive and professional environment to help them achieve their health goals. His dedication to ongoing education ensures that he remains at the forefront of massage therapy techniques, offering the best possible care to his clients.
Philip's unique combination of professional training, volunteer experience, and specialized skills makes him well-equipped to address a wide range of client needs. His trauma-informed approach and focus on building trust create a safe and comfortable space for healing and relaxation.
My specialties: TMJ, Deep Tissue, Pain Management, Rehabilitative Treatment
Age Group: 5+ year olds
Serving: Waterloo
Raven is an experienced Registered Massage Therapist (RMT) who embarked on a journey in the field of therapeutic massage after graduating from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy (CCMH) in the early summer of 2011. Since then, her dedication has been unwavering, as she devotes her practice to making a positive difference in the lives of her clients.
Raven's passion lies in the art of helping individuals navigate through pain and discomfort, focusing on symptom management, rehabilitative treatments, and the profound benefits of deep tissue work. Her commitment to the well-being of her clients goes beyond her professional expertise; it's deeply rooted in her personal journey.
Being a proud member of the LGBTQ2S+ community, Raven understands firsthand the importance of understanding care. She knows that finding supportive care can sometimes be a challenge, and she is determined to create a safe and welcoming space for all. Raven's unique perspective and personal experience empower her to offer not just an exceptional therapeutic massage but also a compassionate and empathetic approach to her clients' needs.
Raven's journey as an RMT is driven by her desire to provide holistic healing and support to those seeking relief and comfort. Her practice is not just about treating the body; it's about nurturing the spirit and creating an environment where everyone, regardless of their background or identity, can find the care and understanding they deserve.
Raven Parkinson (61 reviews)
Shannon is a skilled Registered Massage Therapist, having completed her studies at CCMH in 2019. She is driven and determined to excel in her profession, with a particular expertise in providing effective therapy for mental health and deep tissue issues.
She is continually seeking to expand her knowledge and skillset to assist a broader range of clients with diverse conditions. Shannon is a personable and humorous individual who values building connections with her clients. Her warm and friendly nature fosters a comfortable and safe environment, enabling her to provide tailored treatment to each client.
We also believe in connecting you with broader community support. Here are a few trusted local and national resources:
Waterloo region support groups and local events, including groups for specific identities, social hangouts, and community events.
Comprehensive Waterloo region resources organized by age group, including youth programs, parent support, and mental health resources in partnership with Camino Wellbeing.
National organization providing resources for 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, families, and support networks, plus advocacy and education services across Canada.
Province-wide directory of 2SLGBTQIA+ welcoming healthcare providers and comprehensive education resources for both individuals and service providers.
As part of the Waterloo and Listowel areas, we understand the unique strengths and challenges of smaller communities.
From therapy and massage to life coaching, we offer holistic wellness support under one roof.
Our therapists have specialized training in 2SLGBTQIA+ issues and ongoing education in best practices.
From the first phone call to the waiting room, we’ve built our practice around inclusion and affirmation.
We understand that reaching out can feel vulnerable. Whether you’re exploring your identity, going through a transition, working through family or relationship challenges, or just looking for someone who understands, you don’t have to do it alone.
At Stone Silo, you’ll find care that honours your whole self. You deserve to be supported, affirmed, and celebrated — and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about our services or to book an appointment with one of our therapists.
