At Stone Silo Counselling & Wellness, our Child-Centred Play Therapy (CCPT) sessions give children the freedom to express themselves through play, their most natural form of communication. In this calm and accepting space, children can explore emotions, build confidence, and make sense of their experiences while our trained therapists gently follow their lead.
We recognize that each young person is unique, so we work to create a treatment plan that addresses their specific needs. Our team of licensed therapists specializes in helping youth navigate issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship challenges, and more.
CCPT is a play-based form of therapy designed especially for children ages 3 to 10 who may be struggling with emotional, social, or behavioural difficulties. It is based on the understanding that children often communicate through play. Using toys, art, and imagination, they can express feelings that are too difficult to put into words.
In each session, the therapist provides a consistent, safe environment where your child feels accepted and understood. Through play, they can work through big feelings, practice problem-solving, and discover healthier ways to express themselves. The therapist’s role is to be fully present, observant, and supportive, allowing the healing process to unfold naturally within the therapeutic limits the therapist sets when necessary.
Child-Centred Play Therapy offers numerous therapeutic benefits for children struggling with various emotional and behavioural challenges:
In CCPT, children have full control over each session. The therapist does not correct, guide, or steer the play but follows the child’s lead. This freedom allows imagination and emotional expression to unfold naturally within the therapeutic limits that help keep the space safe. In CCPT, therapists follow clear therapeutic guidelines that prioritize the child’s pace and choices without adding structure unless safety requires it.
Integrative Child Therapy, on the other hand, offers a bit more direction. Therapists may gently introduce topics, offer guidance, or help build skills when it feels supportive. Some children benefit from this added structure, while others do best with fewer limits and more open-ended play. The amount of guidance depends on what your child needs and the therapeutic approach the therapist uses. Both approaches value your child’s voice, but CCPT focuses more on allowing the child to lead the process fully.
If you’re unsure which approach is right for your child, we offer free consultations. This gives you a chance to ask questions, understand the process, and choose the kind of support that fits your child’s needs and comfort level.
Our Stone Silo team includes dedicated Child-Centred Play Therapists who specialize in helping children navigate big emotions and life changes through play. We provide a warm, non-judgmental space where children can feel safe, understood, and supported to grow. With locations in Waterloo and Listowel, we are here to help families across the region find care that fits their needs.
My specialties: Client-centred therapy, Tabletop RPG therapy (Game to Grow Method), Attachment, Autism, Emotional regulation, Life transitions, Sexuality & gender identity, Grief
Age Group: 3 – 35 year olds
Serving: Waterloo
Price: $180 for individual therapy, $190 for Play-based Therapy
I’ve always been drawn to people’s stories: their struggles, strengths, and everything in between. It’s a true honour to hold space for vulnerability and growth in therapy, whether I’m working with a child, teen, or adult. My goal is to meet you where you’re at and walk alongside you through the journey of self-discovery, reflection, and meaningful change.
I take an integrative, client-centred approach to therapy, tailoring each session to what works best for you or your child. I offer both talk-based and play-based therapy, and often incorporate creative tools such as art, sand tray, and tabletop role-playing games, including Dungeons & Dragons. These methods are not only fun but also powerful ways to explore identity, build social and emotional skills, and navigate life’s challenges in a safe and supported space.
Outside of individual sessions, I also facilitate therapeutic role-playing groups designed to support social flourishing, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and self-expression.
I’m a neurodivergent-affirming and 2SLGBTQIA+ friendly therapist, and I strive to create a space where you feel respected, accepted, and empowered.
My specialties: Child-Centred Play Therapy, Expressive Arts, Children’s Therapy
Age Group: 3-12 year olds
Serving: Listowel
Price: Individual – 50 minutes – $180
I use a person-centred approach to therapy to create a safe and secure space for children to explore, process, and heal. My work is rooted in a non-directive, child-centred play therapy approach, allowing children the freedom to process their experiences and learn in the way that feels most natural to them.
I place great value on the client-therapist relationship—building a strong, trusting connection is essential, as it provides the foundation for meaningful change to take place.
With years of experience supporting children in a variety of settings, I’ve developed a deep passion for helping them feel understood and connected.
If you feel I might be a good fit for your child, I invite you to book a consultation so we can explore how I can support your family.
My specialties: Child-Centred Play Therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Alternatives to Talk Therapy for Adolescents, Therapeutic Support for Parents and Children affected by neurodiversity, Child & Adolescents/Teen Mental Health
Age Group: 3+ year olds
Serving: Listowel
Price: Individual – 50 minutes – $225
I also offer 80-minute sessions
Meet Jennifer, a therapist characterized by her exuberance, compassion, and warmheartedness. She possesses a unique ability to make therapy enjoyable, captivating, and, above all, effective.
Jennifer is a playful, warm therapist that works exclusively from research and evidence-based approaches. She delights in supporting people as they navigate the more challenging parts of life and is a fierce advocate and confidant. She admires the uniqueness of each person and prioritizes individual needs, preferences and pace.
When Jennifer is not at work, you will find her spending time with her cherished children, partner, people or many critters. Jennifer loves to learn and live outside the conventional box.
If you're looking for a fresh and engaging approach to wellness for you or your child, we highly recommend booking a free 15-minute consultation with Jennifer. She's just the kind of person you want assisting you.
Jennifer Nanweganbow (28 reviews)
My specialties: Child-Centred Play Therapy, Sandtray Therapy, Expressive Arts, Applied Behaviour Analysis, and Spiritual Care
Age groups I work with: 3-11 year olds
Serving: Waterloo
Price: Individual – 50 minutes – $170
Katie is a Registered Social Worker with a heart full of compassion and a passion for helping children. With a Master’s degree in Developmental Psychology and a Graduate Diploma in Spiritual Care & Psychotherapy, she brings warmth and expertise to her practice. As a Certified Play Therapist through the Canadian Association for Play Therapy, Katie has dedicated herself to guiding children through emotional and behavioural challenges.
Using a blend of person-centred, attachment-based, and Jungian theories, Katie’s approach is based on connecting with children on their level. She primarily uses Child-Centred Play Therapy, a wonderful method that taps into children's natural capacity for growth and healing. Katie has helped many young ones overcome trauma, abuse, grief, and anxiety. She is particularly knowledgeable about the effects of trauma on children’s nervous systems, making her a beacon of support for those in need.
Katie works with children aged 3-11, and she believes in involving caregivers every step of the way. From the initial intake session to regular parent/caregiver meetings, she ensures that everyone feels supported and engaged in the healing process.
Creating a warm, inviting, and therapeutic space is at the heart of Katie’s practice. She finds joy in watching children express themselves freely and work through their challenges in a safe environment. Katie loves supporting children and their caregivers, helping them heal and grow stronger together.
Katie Bauer (5 reviews)
If your child is finding it hard to manage emotions, handle transitions, or connect with others, Play Therapy can help. Our team at Stone Silo is ready to provide the understanding and support your family needs.
Book an appointment today and take the first step toward helping your child build emotional strength through play.
