Occupational Therapy in Kitchener & Waterloo
Occupational therapy in Kitchener & Waterloo supports growth, independence, and participation at home, school, and in the community. By focusing on play, self-regulation, self-care skills, sensory processing, and fine- and gross-motor development, pediatric occupational therapy helps kids overcome physical, cognitive, or emotional challenges. Through individualized, engaging interventions, OT empowers children and teens to thrive in daily life.
- Sad about being "different" or struggling with tasks that seem easy for others.
- Like it's hard to make friends or understand others.
- Embarrassed or self-conscious about what others may think of them.
- Frustrated or upset about needing extra help.
- Overwhelmed with different sights, sounds, textures, or tastes.
- Uncomfortable with changes or transitions.
- Like they can't control their feelings or impulses.
- Unsure of where to start or how to help your child/teen.
- Overwhelmed by your child/teen's frequent meltdowns.
- Anxious about your child/teen's development or future.
- Concerned that your child/teen won't be able to keep up with their peers.
- Responsible for your child/teen's difficulties, like you could have done something differently
- Worried that your child/teen won't have a "typical" childhood.
- Alone or unsupported in helping your child/teen.
Small Steps,
Big Achievements
Daily Living Skills
Executive Functioning
Sensory Processing Assessments
Specialized evaluations (e.g., Sensory Profile) help us understand how your child processes sound, touch, movement, and more. Your pediatric occupational therapist then designs sensory strategies for comfort, attention, and participation at home, school, and in the community.
Self Regulation
Skills for managing emotions, behaviour, and attention across settings. We teach co-regulation tools and sensory routines often used in autism OT (i.e., OT for autism) and OT for ADHD.
Social Skills
Sharing, taking turns, listening, expressing feelings, and reading social cues. We practise real-life scripts and games so progress shows up with friends and in class.
Gross & Fine Motor Skills
Meet Our Team
Our Occupational Therapists in Kitchener-Waterloo
Elizabeth Scanlon
BPH, M.Sc. (OT), OT Reg. (Ont.)
Occupational Therapist
Naomi Stager
M.Sc. (OT), OT Reg. (Ont.), B.Sc., AEC
Occupational Therapist
Melissa Aguto
M.Sc. (OT), OT Reg. (Ont.)
Occupational Therapist
Katie George
M.Sc. (OT), OT Reg. (Ont.)
Occupational Therapist
Andreea Sindiescu
M.Sc. (OT), OT Reg. (Ont.)
Occupational Therapist
Our compassionate team supports children, teens, and families. Our team of psychologists, counsellors, and occupational therapists in Waterloo works together under one roof, so you don’t have to piece together care. Using neuro-affirming, whole-person approaches to guide each unique path toward healing.
Occupational Therapy in Kitchener & Waterloo
Occupational Therapy FAQs
Do you offer private Occupational Therapy?
Does your clinic offer Occupational Therapy (OT) sessions for adults, or only for children?
Our main focus is providing occupational therapy for children, helping them develop the skills they need for everyday life. However, we understand that adults may also benefit from occupational therapy support. Some of our Occupational Therapists are able to offer sessions for adults, depending on their training and experience. If you or a loved one are interested in Adult Occupational Therapy, please take a look at our therapists’ bios to see who provides these services. You are also welcome to contact us directly, we are happy to help you find the right therapist for your needs.
Why is it called "Occupational" Therapy?
The word “occupational” in Occupational Therapy does not mean a job, it means the daily tasks, or “occupations”, and routines that are important for growing, learning, and living life to the fullest. For children, these occupations include things like playing, going to school, getting dressed, eating, and making friends. Occupational Therapists help children build the skills they need to do these important activities as independently as possible.
Do you offer occupational therapy for toddlers?
Yes. We see toddlers and preschoolers for early occupational therapy for toddlers (e.g., play and sensory routines, fine-motor and feeding skills, transitions). We’ll show you simple home activities so progress continues between visits. Some of our therapists also offer home visits!
What happens during an OT session?
While sessions often look like play, each activity is thoughtfully chosen to help your child develop important skills. We may use games, arts and crafts, obstacle courses, or hands-on activities to work on goals such as improving coordination, building strength, enhancing attention, or developing social skills. Throughout the session, we will encourage your child, offer guidance, and make adjustments to ensure activities are both fun and beneficial.
Are parents/caregivers involved in sessions?
Absolutely! Parents and caregivers play a vital role in the OT process. We welcome your participation and want you to feel like an active partner in your child’s progress. Depending on your child’s needs and comfort level, you may be invited to observe sessions, join in certain activities, discuss your child’s strengths and challenges, and share updates about your child’s progress with the Occupational Therapist. We will also teach you strategies and activities you can use at home to ensure that the skills your child learns during OT sessions carry over into their everyday life, making therapy more effective and meaningful.
Does needing OT mean something is “wrong” with my child?
Not at all. Every child grows and develops at their own pace, and it is completely normal for some children to need extra support in certain areas. It simply means that they may benefit from some additional guidance and practice to help them reach their fullest potential. OT is about supporting your child’s unique abilities and helping them feel successful and independent as they grow and learn.
How long does my child need OT?
The length of time your child will need OT varies based on their unique needs, strengths, and goals—some children benefit from just a few months, while others may need longer-term support. We will work with you to set goals, regularly monitor progress, and keep you updated about any changes. As your child improves, their therapy plan may be adjusted or sessions reduced. Therapy will continue only as long as it is helpful for your child’s development, and your input will always be valued in the decision-making process.
Have more questions? See All FAQs
Colibri NeuroWellness
How To Get Started
You deserve to feel supported and understood, and connecting with us is simple. You can reach out in the way that works best for you.
Book a free 20-minute consultation online, send a message through the form, or contact us by phone or email.
226-212-4842
info@colibrineurowellness.com
826 King Street North, Unit 17, Waterloo, Ontario, N2J 4G8
We provide in-person therapy in Waterloo and surrounding communities, including Kitchener, Cambridge, Elmira, and St. Jacobs. For those across Ontario, we also offer secure virtual therapy so you can access support from the comfort of your home.