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Counselling Services
Finding a Therapist
Parents For Children’s Mental Health Affiliated Support Groups
Why Join a Parent Support Group
Local Parent Support Groups
Social Skills Training Programs
Cognitive Behavioural Skills Training
Dialectic Behaviour Therapy
Complementary/Alternative Health Care
Infant Development – Region of Waterloo
Access Waterloo Region
Respite Services
Recreation and Camp Services

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Counselling Services

It is a myth that only “crazy” people get counselling. Many people from all areas of life benefit from counselling at some point in their lives. These people are seeking help with common life concerns. Counselling is simply a conversation between two people and requires the building of a relationship that deals with the concerns you have. Dealing with a child with mental health issues can be very difficult. You may need to talk to someone. You may wish to seek counselling for a variety of reasons including concerns about behaviour or understanding yourself and your reactions to the child with mental health issues. It’s o.k. to be depressed or worried or to feel helpless or hopeless. Counselling can help get you or your child past these issues. Support groups can not provide this service.

Counsellors can help you define the problem and decide what’s important and what to do next. It can be a safe place to express feelings and needs.

The best way of finding a counsellor is to explore some of the centres in Waterloo Region or by asking your Doctor for a referral. Please refer to “Finding a Therapist“ from the Mood Disorders Association of Ontariowww.mooddisorders.on.ca.  Also check out, www.waterlooregion.org/CounsellingServices.pdf.

There are counsellors that deal with a variety of issues for both the child and the adult in the family. These issues include anxiety, anger, stress management and sometimes Dialectic Behaviour Therapy. These services are free or have fees based on the ability to pay.  Some of the services available are listed below.  This is by no means an exclusive list.

There are also other counselling services available in the community or you may have an Employee Assistance Plan that will help you find one.

Useful resources/links for COUNSELLING SERVICES:
“Finding a Therapist” Mood Disorders Association of Ontario, www.mooddisorders.on.ca
See “What you Can Expect from a Mental Health Professional” -  - Child and Youth Mental Health Information Network (CYMHIN) -http://www.cymhin.ca/downloads/What%20to%20expect.pdf
Lutherwood Family Counselling Services (formerly Cambridge Interfaith Family Counselling Centre) – 519-622-1670
Cambridge Memorial Hospital – 519-621-2330- see also Hospitals
Front Door – 519-749-3410
Grand River Hospital Outpatient Services -519-749-3410 – see also Hospitals
Interfaith Pastoral Counselling Centre Kitchener – 519-742-6781
K-W Counselling Services - www.kwcounselling.com
Lang’s Cambridge – 519-653-1470 or Lang’s North Dumfries – 1-877-632-1229
Ontario Psychological Association – ( under referral service) www.psych.on.ca
ROOF (Reaching Our Outdoor Friends) – 519-742-2788
Shalom Counselling Services - www.shalomcounselling.org or 519-886-9690
St. Mary’s Hospital Counselling Service, Kitchener – 519-745-2585 – see also Hospitals
The Therapy Directory – (search Ontario) www.therapists.psychologytoday.com
Woolwich Counselling Centre (Elmira) - www.woolwichcounselling.org - 519-669-8651

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PCMH-Waterloo Region Affiliated Support Groups

 

“Together we can make a difference”

PCMH Parent Support Group - Cambridge

Having a child with emotional and behavioural disorders can be confusing and overwhelming. As parents, we need information so that we can make decisions that are best for our child. Emotional and practical support from other parents experiencing similar issues in a judgment-free atmosphere can be very helpful. You are not alone!

Meetings: Currently meetings are not being held. We are looking for a facilitator.  Please Contact us via email at parent.advocacy@hotmail.com

MOOD DISORDER PARENT SUPPORT GROUP OF WATERLOO REGION

We are a volunteer parent support group for families of individuals with various mood disorders (i.e. – depression, bipolar, manic depressive, panic or anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.). Parents share information and stories, coping strategies, provide support and network with others with common experiences.

Meetings: 3rd Monday (Sept – June) please call or email and request a calendar
email support available
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Extend-a-Family, 91 Moore Avenue, Kitchener – entrance and parking at rear
Contact email: kidsmood@gmail.com

Tourette’s Syndrome Support Group
Dedicated to helping families, educators, the community, and individuals with Tourette Syndrome and related disorders, through programs of: education, advocacy, self-help and the promotion of research. Join us for Speakers, Videos, Parent sharing, Child and Youth & Family Events. We have a resource lending Library and provide in-service presentations.

Meetings: 3rd Thursday of Month
(Sept. – June)
7:00 – 9:00 pm
Extend-a-Family, 91 Moore Avenue; Kitchener – entrance and parking at rear
Contact: Tina Blanchette 519-880-8715 or email tina.blanchette@sympatico.ca

Not sure where your child’s needs might best be met? Call kidsLINK at 519-746-5437 and ask for the PCMH representative or email us at parent.advocacy@hotmail.com and someone will help you decide which group might best be able to help. The parent support groups are not substitutes for medical professionals. We do not provide treatment services.

For a more extensive listing of Local Support Groups see below.

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Why Join a Parent Support Group?

  • You will meet other people who are having similar experiences, which can also lead to lasting friendships for you and your child
  • You can ask questions and clarify things you may not understand
  • You can see and hear guest speakers on relevant subjects
  •  You will learn about workshops and seminars that are pertinent to you
  • You can learn about the newest technologies to accommodate your child, or breakthroughs in the medical treatments or alternative therapies that are successful
  • Some groups offer resources such as libraries from which you may sign out books, DVDs, etc. for yourself and your child
  • You may receive handouts on parenting tips, or tips for teachers & schools
  • Some groups offer in-service. In-service consists generally of an accredited person (someone the group recommends, either from within the group, or a professional) providing through assemblies in school, or at a staff meeting, a speaker to address the issues around the child’s disability or disorder
  • Some groups offer workshops or courses that teach parents new skills, from dealing with a child with a disability to advocating for that child in school
  • You can share your stories with other adults without judgment
  • you can learn advocacy skills.
  • Your group may have representation on your school board’s Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC). Hearing from you can help your representative advocate for all children’s needs.

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Local Parent Support Groups

General Mental Health Support Groups
Mood Disorder Parent Support Group of Waterloo Region - kidsmood@gmail.com
Parents for Children’s Mental Health (PCMH), Waterloo Region – email parent.advocacy@hotmail.com

Addictions/Substance Abuse
Al-Anon and Adult Children of Alcoholics and Alateen Kitchener-Waterloo - 519-896-5678
Al-Anon and Alcoholics Anonymous and Alateen Cambridge – 519-658-8222
Golden Triangle Area Narcotics Anonymous – 519-651-1121
Teen Challenge – 519-744-4744

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Cambridge AD/HD Support Group – 519-624-7312, email: canadian.kruger@rogers.com
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Parent Support Group of Kitchener Waterloo – 519-648-2942,www.adhdparentsupportgroupkw@com

Autism
Autism Ontario,
Waterloo Region Chapter – 519-742-1414 (answering machine)

Bipolar Disorder - See general mental health support groups
Bullying - See general mental health support groups
Conduct Disorder - See general mental health support groups
Cutting/Self Harm - See general mental health support groups
Depression - see general mental health support groups

Dual Diagnosis - Waterloo Region Family Network - 519-804-1786 or email:admin@waterlooregionfamilynetwork.com

Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders Awareness Coalition – website: www.Edacwr.com ,  519-745-4875
Overeaters Anonymous -  519-886-9975
Trellis Mental Health & Developmental Services- Regional Eating Disorders Services – 519-576-2333

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder
Waterloo Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Support Group – 519-341-0295

General Mental Health Support Groups
Mood Disorder Parent Support Group of Waterloo Region - email: kidsmood@gmail.com
Parents for Children’s Mental Health – email: parent.advocacy@hotmail.com

Learning Disabilities
The Learning Disabilities Association of K-W – 519-743-909, ldakw@golden.net

Mood Disorders - See general mental health support groups

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder-
OCD Support Group – 519-744-7645 Ext. 319

Oppositional Defiant Disorder - See general mental health support groups

Psychosis
Trellis Mental Health & Developmental Services – Regional Eating Disorders Services – 519-576-2333

Re-active Attachment Disorder (RAD) - See general mental health support groups
Schizophrenia - See general mental health support groups
Schizoaffective Disorder - See general mental health support groups
Sensory Integration/Dysfunction - See general mental health support groups
Stress- See general mental health support groups

Tourette Syndrome
Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada Waterloo Wellington Chapter – 519-576-7957, email tourettewellingtonwaterloo@gmail.com

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Social Skills Training

School-based Programs

To our knowledge, there are several school-based social skills training programs running in the region.  One of these is called the “FRIENDS” program, coordinated by the Canadian Mental Health Association and the other is called the “Tools for Life” program by kidsLINK.

The FRIENDS service operates in partnership with local school boards to develop self-esteem and social skills with children between the ages of 4 and 15 years.  Friends matches trained adult volunteers (16 years of age or older) with children and youth who are experiencing significant difficulties in their lives. Children may be experiencing issues related to social, emotional, behavioural, developmental or mental health concerns. Volunteers act as positive role models and confidantes to provide emotional support to children and assist them to build/enhance their self-esteem and confidence while developing strong social skills. (available in Waterloo Region only) For more information on the Friends Service, please call (519) 744-7645 ext. 229 or visit www.cmhawrb.on.ca.

 

Tools for Life®: Relationship-building Solutions is a training curriculum and set of tools for adult use with 3 to 10 year olds to teach positive language and behaviour that help build strong relationships and resilience. The program is designed with complementary versions for use in schools, Early Childhood Care & Learning, community organizations and in the home. The program progressively develops more sophisticated skills in the areas of self understanding, self management, interpersonal communication, and relationship problem-solving. Through the use of common language and consistent strategies. Tools for Life provides the foundation for character development, conflict resolution, peacemaking, and anti-bullying.

For more information on the Tools for Life program, please go to their website www.toolsforlife.ca  orwww.kidsLINKcares.com , the EIEI (Early Identification, Early Intervention) Program, or call 519-741-1122 ext. 237 or e-mail: info@toolsforlife.ca .

Note  Not all schools are participating in the above two programs.  Firstly, there has to be a need in the school for such a program, and secondly, volunteers and/or staff are needed to support  these programs.

By Referral

ASPEN is a 10-week social skills training group for 12-17 year old youth with a diagnosis on the Autism Spectrum including Asperger’s Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, Pervasive Develop-mental Disorder (PDD) or Non-verbal learning disability. ASPEN is provided at no cost to families and is funded by The Ministry of Children and Youth as well as the Lutherwood Child and Family Foundation.  Sessions typically run during school breaks; Summer, December and March breaks. Please contact Front Door at 519-749-2932 Mon. to Fri., 8:30 am to 4:30 pm for more information about accessing this program.

Note:  PCMH encourages parents to advocate for social skills training through any agencies you may be involved with, whether it is through occupational therapy, mental health agencies or treatment centres.  Any of these centres may offer training if parents of children in similar age ranges can band together and request this support for their children.

 

Useful resources/links for SOCIAL SKILLS TRAINING:
Canadian Mental Health Association - www.cmhawrb.ca - “Friends”
Developmental Services Resource Centre (DSRC) - www.dscwr.com or call 519-741-1121
Front Door – (519) 749-2932 ASPEN Group - www.lutherwood.ca
kidsLINK - www.kidslinkcares.com , “Tools For Life”
KidsAbility Centre For Child Development - www.kidsability.ca  - 519-886-8886

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 Cognitive Behavioural Skills Training

Children with mental health concerns often have challenges in the areas of social skills, problem-solving and managing their frustration.  Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) is based on scientific research, and is the process of teaching people the skills and attitudes necessary to associate with others in ways that are mutually satisfactory and gratifying.  CBT involves learning how to change your thoughts (or cognitions) and your actions (or behaviours), which is why it is called Cognitive Behavioural Therapy.  CBT was primarily developed out of behaviour therapy, cognitive therapy andrational emotive behaviour therapy and has become widely used to treat various kinds of mental health concerns, including mood disorders and anxiety disorders and has many clinical and non-clinical applications.

You can ask your family physician, your psychologist or your psychiatrist about CBT and they can direct you to a health care professional dealing specifically in this area.  The principles of CBT have also been incorporated in some self-directed resources (i.e. self-help books, computer programs, DVDs).

Some parenting and teaching strategies to help change behaviour and promote problem-solving are:

  • A presentation called “Cognitive-Behavioural Brake Jobs” by Dr. B. Duncan McKinlay, psychologist. To view his presentation slides, visit www.cpri.ca and type in the upper Search Box ‘cognitive-behavioural’.
  • A DVD called “Leaky Brakes: What they are. What they AREN’T” by Dr. Duncan McKinlay, psychologist. This DVD can be purchased online at www.cpri.ca and type in the upper Search box “DVD” or call 1-519-858-2774 ext. 2074.This DVD is an excellent resource for parents, children and youth, educators and medical professionals. This DVD is also available at the KidsLink Resource Centre – 519-741-1122 Ext. 225.
  • A DVD or book called “The Explosive Child” by Dr. Ross Greene. Almost everyone knows an explosive child, one whose frequent, severe fits of temper leave his or her parents standing helpless in their fear, frustration, and guilt. Most of these parents have tried everything – reasoning, behaviour modification, therapy, medication – but to no avail. Throughout this compassionate book, Dr. Greene demonstrates why traditional treatments don’t work for these kids and offers a new conceptual framework for understanding their behaviour, along with new language to describe it. He explains the latest neuroscience findings about the importance of flexibility, and, most important, he shows parents specific, practical ways they can recognize the signs of an impending explosion, defuse tension, and reduce frustration levels for the entire family. This DVD is available at Kitchener Public Library and Waterloo Public Library as well as through the KidsLink Resource Centre.
  • A book called “Lost at School: Why Our Kids with Behavioral Challenges are Falling Through the Cracks and How We Can Help Them” by Dr. Ross Greene. Emphasizing the revolutionarily simple and positive notion that “kids do well if they can”, Dr. Greene persuasively argues that kids with behavioral challenges are not attention-seeking, manipulative, limit-testing, coercive, or unmotivated, but that they lack the skills to behave   adaptively. And when adults recognize the true factors underlying difficult behavior and teach kids the skills in increments they can handle, the results are astounding:  the kids
    overcome their obstacles; the frustration of teachers, parents, and classmates diminishes; and the well-being and learning of all students are enhanced. In Lost at School, Dr. Greene describes how his road-tested, evidence based approach – called Collaborative Problem Solving – can help challenging kids at school. Available through Waterloo Public Library or KidsLink Resource Centre.

    • A book called “Teaching the Tiger” by Marilyn Dornbush, Ph.D. and Sheryl Pruitt, M.Ed.
    • Provides information to teachers and parents to aid in the teaching of students with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, Tourette Syndrome or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Available at Kitchener Public Library and kidsLINK Resource Centre.
    • “Educators Resource Kit” by the Tourette Syndrome Foundation of Canada. This kit contains a DVD, an Interactive Workbook, a Facilitators Guide, Symptom Checklists, and a copy of Understanding Tourette Syndrome: A Handbook for Educators, 2nd Edition! This handbook provides a comprehensive overview of Tourette Syndrome and other neurological disorders such as Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity (ADHD). It is an invaluable guide for educators looking for strategies to use in the classroom. Available through kidsLINK Resource Centre.

    Useful resources/links for COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL SKILLS TRAINING:
    Child and Parent Resource Institute – www.cpri.ca – or 519-858-2774 for information on the Brake Shop and Leaky Breaks 101
    Dr. Ross Greene, Ph.D. – “The Explosive Child” book, video or DVD or “Lost at School” book  -
    “Teaching the Tiger” available online at Chapters.ca or Amazon.ca or www.parentbooks.ca
    “Educators Resource Kit” available online www.tourette.ca
    KidsLink Resource Centre – 1770 King Street East, Unit  1, Kitchener – 519-741-1122 x225

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Dialectic Behavioural Therapy

Dialectic Behaviour Therapy (herein referred to as DBT) is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy.  Its main goal is to teach the client skills to cope with stress, regulate emotions and improve relationships with others. It is often used with those who have experienced complex/developmental trauma.

It is comprised of three fundamentals

  • 1. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
  • 2. Validation of the client’s behaviour and responses as understandable in relation to the current life situation, and showing an understanding of the difficulties and suffering.
  • 3. Dialectics

DBT is derived from a process called dialectics. The concept of dialectics is

  • 1. All things are interconnected
  • 2. Change is constant and inevitable
  • 3. Opposites can be used to form a closer approximation of the truth.

DBT  is based on the fact that some children react differently to emotional stimulation. This could be due to genetic, environmental or traumatic experiences.Their arousal goes up much more quickly, peaks higher and takes more time to return to baseline. It is often used to treat Borderline Personality Disorder and self-harmful behaviours.

DBT requires that the person take responsibility for their behaviours and helps them examine how they deal with conflict and negative emotions.

DBT often involves a combination of group and individual sessions.

Useful resources/links for DIALECTIC BEHAVIOUR THERAPY:

About.com - http://depression.about.com/od/psychotherapy/a/dialectical.htm

American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) - www.aacap.org

Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - www.camh.net

DBT Self Help - www.dbtselfhep.com

 

 

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Complementary/Alternative Health Care

There are a wide variety of treatments available in the field of alternative or complementary therapies.  Complementary therapies are those that are used to complement traditional medicine.  Alternative therapies can be used instead of traditional medicine.

Canadians are visiting alternative and complementary health care providers more and more as the population ages.  Some commonly used practices in this country include:  chiropractic, body/energy therapies, relaxation techniques, massage, prayer, herbal therapies, special diet, folk remedies, acupuncture, yoga, self-help groups, lifestyle diets and homeopathy.

This approach to health care focuses on prevention, rather than “reactive” care.  Practitioners take a holistic approach, that is, the whole person (mind, body and spirit) is considered when treating a health issue.

Most complementary therapies are not covered under OHIP, but are sometimes covered under private health insurance benefits.  Make sure that you are dealing with a qualified and registered practitioner.

There are many practices originating from many different cultures.  While we cannot make a comprehensive list here of all the services you can find of this nature, we should point out that other ways of healing are important also.  Examples include; meditation, laughter, music, art, play, diet, sleep, nutrition, exercise, and spirituality.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese art based on the theory that Chi or Qi energy flows along meridians in the body, and can be unblocked or re-programmed by inserting fine needles at specific points.  Acupuncture is used to treat conditions such as, but not limited to asthma, addiction, allergies, arthritis, anxiety, blood pressure, depression, problems with the digestive system, etc.

Aromatherapy involves the use of essential oils (extracts or essences) from flowers, herbs, and trees to promote health and well-being.  Aromatherapy can help with symptoms, can affect your mood, or help alleviate or temporarily eliminate stress or other psychological factors.

Ayurveda (meaning “the science of life”) is an alternative medical system that has been practiced primarily in the Indian subcontinent for 5,000 years.  Ayurveda includes diet and herbal remedies and emphasizes the use of body, mind, and spirit in disease prevention and treatment.  It does this through a variety of cleansing and rejuvenating treatments and practices that can include diet, exercise, meditation and massage.  Yoga is part of the ayurvedic tradition, too – when you perform some yoga positions, you’re engaging in a physical and spiritual exercise that is rooted in ayurvedic philosophy.

Chiropractic (word comes from ancient Greek word for “done by hand”) is a system that focuses on the relationship between bodily structure (primarily that of the spine) and function, and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health.

Energy Therapy - There are a variety of approaches to healing that involve energy flow in the body.  Some are touch related (see massage therapies) and some are body and/or energy work such as biofeedback, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, and gem-stone therapy.  The general principal behind these practices is that blockages are cleared from the body’s energy meridians.  Clearing these blockages can help clear up physical and mental problems that are preventing optimum functioning.

Homeopathic medicine is a system based on the belief that “like cures like” meaning that small, highly diluted quantities of medicinal substances are given to cure symptoms, when the same substances given at higher or more concentrated doses would actually cause those symptoms.

Massage therapy or massotherapy is the manipulation of muscle and connective tissue to enhance function of those tissues and promote relaxation and well-being.  There are a variety of techniques and practitioners practicing them, for example; acupressure, bio-dynamic, chair massages, cranio-sacral, deep muscle therapy, deep tissue, healing touch, integrative manual therapy, joint mobilization, kinesiology, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, Swedish massage, therapeutic touch.

Natural Health Products are defined as vitamins and minerals, herbal remedies, homeopathic medicines, traditional medicines (such as traditional Chinese medicines), probiotics, and other products like amino acids and essential fatty acids.  Natural health products are available for self care and self selection, and do not require a prescription to be sold.  In Canada, natural health products, also referred to as complementary medicines or traditional remedies, are subject toNatural Health Products Regulations.

Naturopathic Medicine is a distinct primary health care system that blends modern scientific knowledge with traditional and natural forms of medicine.  Naturopathic medicine is the art and science of disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention using natural therapies including botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, hydrotherapy, homeopathy, naturopathic manipulation, traditional Chinese medicine / acupuncture, and lifestyle counselling.

Phototherapy (light therapy) for sufferers of Seasonal Affective Disorder and depression involves spending about 20 minutes a day in front of a light-box, particularly in the winter months when mood and energy levels can be affected by lack of light.

Yoga has been shown to alleviate stress and, at the physical level, has been seen to be useful in the treatment of those who suffer conditions that affect or are affected by posture, such as backache and arthritis.

Useful Resources/links for Complementary/Alternative Health Care
Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND) - www.cand.ca
Mood Disorders Association of Ontairo - www.mdao.ca
Government of Canada - www.canadabusiness.ca

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Infant Development – Region of Waterloo

Infant Development Program – Region of Waterloo

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Access Waterloo Region

Each year, nine community agencies, including the Waterloo Catholic District School Board and the Waterloo Region District School Board work in partnership to provide and promote the publication of the Access Waterloo Region Booklet and organize an Information Evening in April for people with disabilities. In April 2008 the Committee also launched a website to help make information and resources more accessible. The information, as well as additional links, are available for online viewing,downloading and printing at www.accesswaterlooregion.ca.

The intent of the website is to promote the great resources within Waterloo Region and to make the information concerning those resources within the booklet more accessible.  This website is the first step in creating a unique resource for the Region of Waterloo for those living, working or supporting someone with a disability. It offers an easy way to search for options and make decisions about programs that may meet needs and interests.

The Access Waterloo Region Booklet is divided into 9 sections:

Section One – Advocacy and Supports
These groups provide assistance, mutual support and information to individuals with disabilities, their families and service providers. Advocacy work often focuses on raising public awsareness and disability related issues.

Section Two – Education
Life-long formalized learning supports commencing at birth.

Section Three – Financial Assistance
Financial supports that can assist individuals and their families with costs associated with disabililties.

Section Four – Health
Specialized mental and physical health programs for people with disabilities, including therapy and conselling services.

Section Five – Personal Care and In-Home Supports
Personal support services to those who require assistance with the activities of daily living.

Section Six – Recreation
Year-round recreation, leisure and social activites within the community which are inclusive and/or specialized for individuals with disabilities.

Section Seven – Respite and Residential Programs
Respite services provide temporary relief to families and individuals from the physical and emotional demands involved in caring for a family member who has a disability.

A variety of community based residential services exist for people who have disabilities and need alternate supported living arrangements.

Section Eight – Transportation
Sprecialized/adaptive transportation for people with disabilities.

Section Nine – Work, Day Programs and Volunteer Supports
Programs that assist adults who have disabilities to participate in community, volunteering and obtaining employment, including specialized day programs.

To view the complete 2011 version click here:http://accesswaterlooregion.ca/admin/sources/editor/assets/pdfs_documents/AWR%202011%20booklet.pdf

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Respite Services

Respite Services recognize the need for parents and guardians to have a much needed break — time to regroup and recuperate away from the constant demands of caring for their child with serious social, emotional and behavioural concerns. This service provides temporary relief for families. Most children are referred through a local agency such as DSAC (Developmental Services Resource Centre), Front Door, Grand River Hospital, Family and Children’s Services, Lutherwood or kidsLINK. Most services have waiting lists and need referrals.

kidsLINK Respite Services
1855 Notre Dame Drive, St. Agatha
Phone: 519-746-5437 ext. 136
www.kidslinkcares.com
email: respite@kidsLINKcares.com
Eligibility: Children 5-15 years with mental health concerns, or diagnosed with autism.
Hours: Sat-Sun 9 am-7pm (usually 1 day per month); also Mon-Fri 9am-7pm during some of the school holidays.

The Developmental Services Resource Centre – Waterloo Region (DSRC) is the single point of access to developmental services in the Region of Waterloo. DSAC assists individuals with developmental disabilities and their caregivers in connecting with community services and supports. DSRC is administered by Sunbeam Residential Development Centre, with office space in Kitchener, Cambridge, and Elmira, Ontario. DSRC’s services are available to children and adults with developmental disabilities in Waterloo Region. www.dscwr.com

Respite Services for children/youth with Developmental Disabilities:

K-W Habilitation Services* – 519-884-8080
Parents for Community Living Kitchener-Waterloo Inc.* – 519-742-5849
Parents of Technologically Dependent Children of Ontario* – 519-651-2875
Community Living Cambridge* – 519-623-7490
Kitchener-Waterloo Extend-a-Family Association – 519-741-0190
Elmira Association for Community Living* – 519-669-3205

*must contact DSRC to access at 519-741-1121 or www.dscwr.com.

 

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Recreation and Camp Services

The Camp experience teaches children sharing, compromising, co-operationn, problem solving, and communication skills. It enhances independence and builds self-esteem. All these skills are taught in a fun-filled environment and we encourage you to seek out camps with appropriate supports for your child.

The cities of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge each publish a quarterly Activities Guide or Leisure Guide which publishes current information on Inclusion Services for children and teens.

Access Waterloo Region also has a comprehensive listing of recreational and Summer camping/playground activities available in Waterloo Region for children with disabilities.

A Personal Attendant for Leisure (PAL) Card allows registered card holders to bring an attendant with them to enable them to participate in designated programs at no charge to the attendant.  An application is required.

Children with significant impulsivity, excess energy, anxiety, difficulty transitioning, difficulty keeping focused, easily overwhelmed or frustrated, etc. often need help to be successful during recreational activities or at camp.  There are programs or camps designed with this in mind, or an Inclusion Facilitator or Leisure Buddy can be provided in order that your child may attend regular programs, with no additional fees.  This is often 1:1 support by a person trained by the City for a maximum of two weeks of support.  Regular camp fees apply.

These services are available for all City of Cambridge, City of Kitchener and City of Waterloo playgrounds, adventure programs, day camps and fun centres.  Registration for both the specific camp and the inclusion facilitator are required (two separate registrations). An inclusion Facilitator form must be filled out and submitted in April!

To obtain an application form call:

  • Kitchener-Waterloo (ages 4-17) – 519-741-2229
  • Cambridge (ages 3 – 25) – 519-740-4681 ext. 4689 or download form: www.city.cambridge.on.ca

 

Useful resources/links for RECREATION & CAMPS:
Activities Guide – City of Cambridge, City of Kitchener, City of Waterloo, published quarterly
Access Waterloo Region - www.accesswaterlooregion.com

 

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