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We collect basic website visitor information on this website and store it in cookies. We also utilize Google Analytics to track page view information to assist us in improving our website.
From time to time, the Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) is asked to distribute information on behalf of third parties. WRFN provides general information to self-advocates and families of children with special needs. The information provided on this website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider. WRFN is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. You are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource.
KW Habilitation provides an interactive and engaging summer program. It focuses on the exploration of community resources and recreational activities. It also offers opportunities to participate in Work Readiness exercises to help gain the skills needed to be successful at school or work. Enjoy the summer fun with KW Habilitation and YEP!
YEP is not a summer camp.
Click here for more information
The Waterloo Region National AccessAbility Week Planning Committee is excited to announce the upcoming 2025 Accessibility Tradeshow and Conference. This exciting event will take place on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM at RIM Park, Waterloo.
Join us for a day of innovation and insight as we bring together industry leaders, professionals, and accessibility experts to explore the latest advancements in accessibility solutions. This event promises valuable opportunities for learning and collaboration.
Stay tuned! Additional details, including speaker announcements, registration, and event updates, will be shared soon.
For more information or to reserve your spot as a vendor, please click here
Save the Date!
AN INTRODUCTION TO AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) – VIRTUAL
Presenter: Chloe Riddell
Date: Tuesday, June 10, 2025 Time: 6 pm to 7 pm Register By: June 6, 2025
This workshop offers an introduction to the diverse spectrum of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We will discuss the unique strengths and challenges individuals with ASD navigate daily, while exploring strategies to create supportive environments.
Appropriate for: Individuals, families and professionals.
VULNERABLE PERSON’S REGISTRY AND GRAND RIVER TRANSIT – VIRTUAL SPEAKER SERIES
Presenter: Sue Simpson and Christine Strong
Date: Tuesday, May 23, 2025 Time: 12:00 pm to 1:30 pm Register By: May 9, 2025
The Vulnerable Persons Registry (VPR) is a community based policing initiative in partnership with the local Police Services and local community agencies. This workshop will answer questions related to:
The purpose of the Registry, Who can register, How to register, When to Renew, And much more.
Grand River Transit (GRT)
Learn about the roles of community partners as they support youth with autism and/or intellectual disabilities to participate and promote safety in the community.
Grand River Transit (GRT) staff will share information on training they offer to learn how to use the bus and specialized transportation options available.
APPLYING FOR AND UNDERSTANDING ODSP – VIRTUAL SPEAKER SERIES
Presenter: Jacqueline Fagan
Date: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 Time: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm Register By: May 23, 2025
Click here to register for Tuesday
OR
Date: Thursday, May 29, 2025 Time: 10:00 am to 11:30 pm Register By: May 23, 2025
Click here to register for Thursday
This workshop will discuss the following topics:
Changes in the application process
What benefits does ODSP provide
Board and Lodging vs. Basic Needs and Shelter allowance
Asset limits and gifts
ODSP and employment
Disputing ODSP decisions
When and where to get help
And more …
EMOTIONAL REGULATION – VIRTUAL
Presenter: Jennifer Jacobs
Date: Tuesday, April 15, 2025 Time: 12 pm to 1:00 pm Register By: April 11, 2025
Or
Date: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 Time: 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm Register By: May 9, 2025
Or
Date: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 Time: 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm Register By: June 13, 2025
This workshop will look at myths about emotions, explaining strategies to promote emotional regulation. This workshop would be suitable for caregivers who are struggling to help those that they care for cope with emotions. The idea that ‘all behaviour is communication’ will be explored along with ways to interpret the behaviour of nonverbal individuals.
In April-May, Woolwich Counselling Centre is offering:
Calm and Content: Adult Emotion Management Group (Small Group Therapy, Mondays, Apr. 7, 21, May 5, May 26, Jun. 9, 6:30-7:30 pm)
Be You! 2SLGBTQIA+ Support Group (Small Group Therapy, Ages 12-16. Tuesday, Apr. 8, 4-5 pm
Embracing Diversity: Parenting for an Inclusive Community (Virtual Parenting Workshop, Apr. 14, 6:30-7:30 pm)
No Need to Fret (Small Group Therapy, Ages 8-11, Wednesdays, Apr. 16-May 14, 5-6 pm)
Self-Compassion 101: What is It and How to Practice It (Adult Workshop, Apr. 24, 6:30-7:30 pm)
Building Better Boundaries Small Group Therapy for Adults, Thursdays, May 1-June 12, 6-7:30 pm)
Let’s Talk About Mental Health: Learning Skills to Support Others (In-person Adult Workshop, Monday, May 12, 6:30-7:30 pm
Skills to Move from Self-Criticism to Self-Compassion (In-person Small Group Therapy for Adults, Wednesdays, May 21-June 18, 6:30-7:30 pm)
To register, please click here.
Music Therapy
Ready to explore the therapeutic power of music? We are excited to announce the launch of Music Therapy as a new service at Woolwich Counselling Centre!
Engaging sessions with Melissa Jessop, Registered Psychotherapist, Master of Music Therapy, and Certified Music Therapist, can help with self-expression, improve emotional well-being, and build social skills.
Using music intentionally with therapeutic relationships can support development, health, and well-being. Music therapy is also beneficial in helping with:
Anxiety and depression
Grief and trauma
Memory and cognitive challenges
End-of-life and palliative care
Self-expression and communication
Music can be the catalyst for change, and it can be fun. Let’s make music a part of your journey today!
For more information, click here or please visit https://woolwichcounselling.org/music-therapy/
[Download flyers via Google Docs (Word format)]
All in for Mental Health
May is Mental Health Awareness Month!
We’re going “all in” to raise awareness and funds to support local mental health initiatives. We’re partnering with local schools, businesses, community organizations, churches and passionate individuals to create a ripple effect of care and support. Join us as we work toward making a lasting impact!
Mental Health Move-A-Thon
Join together and move for mental health with the Mental Health Move-A-Thon — a fun and friendly community fundraising and awareness event to support local mental health!
Throughout the month, participants will walk, run, swim, roll or move in anyway that makes you feel happy, for every donation received. Proceeds raised from the event will directly support our local community. Let’s come together and move for a good cause!
Community Mental Health Celebration
Join us for a fun-filled afternoon to wrap up Mental Health month on Friday, May 30th, from 2:30-6:30 pm at Gore Park (68 Arthur Street S., Elmira). This free event is a chance to come together as a community in a show of solidarity and support for mental health. With activities for all ages including, live entertainment, outdoors games, snacks and lemonade, this celebration highlights the importance of supporting one another and raising awareness about mental health.
We invite you to wear green throughout the month in support of mental health awareness!
Together, we can make a difference.
For more information about the event, or to register for the Move-A-Thon, please visit https://woolwichcounselling.org/all-in-for-mental-health/
[Download flyers via Google Docs (Word format)]
Connecting Kids: Summer Program
Connecting mind and body through relaxation techniques and body awareness can improve emotional well-being.
Led by a Certified Play Therapist (CPT) and Registered Adult and Child Yoga Teacher (RYT/RCYT), children will be introduced to yoga poses, breath work, and mindfulness through playful games, stories and activities.
Theraplay activities will provide the opportunity for children to strengthen their ability to connect with others and further develop social skills.
For more information, click here or to register please visit https://woolwichcounselling.org/upcoming-events/program-registration/
[Download flyers via Google Docs (Word format)]
Tutoring and Sports Program every Thursday 4-6 at 100 Rittenhouse Rd. Join our free weekly drop in for self-identifying for First Nation, Inuit and Metis students. We offer homework assistance from tutors and an open gym for youth to get some activity in their day.
