MEET YOUR THERAPIST
Certified Play Therapist & Registered Psychotherapist in St. Thomas, Ontario
The power of play isn’t just fun — it’s how kids (and parents) heal and reconnect.
Specialized training and a caring approach
When families reach out to me, it’s usually after months (or even years) of trying everything they can think of — parenting books, advice from friends, strategies from school — only to still feel stuck. It’s exhausting, and it can leave you wondering if things will ever get better.
I want you to know there’s nothing “wrong” with you or your child. What you need isn’t more parenting advice — it’s a safe, supportive space where your child can make sense of big feelings through play, and where you can feel truly understood and guided every step of the way.
As the only Certified Play Therapist in St. Thomas, I bring years of specialized training and experience. But more importantly, I bring compassion, curiosity, and a commitment to walking alongside your family so you don’t have to carry this alone.
My Story
Hi! I’m Kristi.
Even as a child, I had a sense that I was meant to work with kids. I was the friend people felt comfortable opening up to, and those one-on-one conversations sparked in me a deep desire to make sure others felt seen, heard, and valued. Counselling became the perfect path.
Over the years, that early passion grew into a strong commitment to early intervention and to working alongside parents. I’ve pursued extensive training so I can bring the very best to the families I work with — because you deserve more than generic advice. You deserve specialized, thoughtful care.
When I discovered play therapy, it immediately felt like home. As Gary Landreth wrote, “Toys are children’s words and play is their language.” I believe play is the most natural way for a child to communicate, and it’s a privilege to meet kids in their world, giving them the safe distance they need to process hard things and the support they need to heal.
After years in Alberta, my family and I returned to my hometown of St. Thomas, Ontario. Now I’m honoured to serve this community while raising three wonderful (and wonderfully wild) kids of my own. When I’m not in the office, you’ll usually find us biking, hiking, or soaking up time at Port Stanley Beach.
LET’S CONNECT [link to Contact page]
Professional Designations and Specialized Training
Registered Psychotherapist (RP)
Canadian Certified Counsellor (CCC)
Certified Play Therapist (CPT)
I’ve completed specific training in play therapy, trauma-focused approaches, and parent–child relational therapies. That means I can tailor support to your child’s unique needs and your family’s strengths — and you can feel confident knowing your care is both specialized and evidence-based.
Every child is unique, and every family has its own story
I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all advice or quick fixes. My approach blends advanced training with genuine compassion, so your child feels safe to be themselves and you feel supported every step of the way. When we work together, that looks like:
Meeting you with empathy
Big feelings can feel messy, but they’re never “too much.” I meet both kids and parents with kindness and respect, creating space where you can feel heard and understood without judgment.
Being real and honest
I’ll always be clear about what I see and how I can help. You won’t get jargon or sugarcoating — just honest, professional guidance.
Working together
Therapy works best when we’re a team. Whether it's the intake, regular parent check-ins, or parent support sessions, I'll make sure you feel included, informed, and equipped to support your child at home.
Continually learning for your family
I’m committed to ongoing training and consultation, so you can trust that the strategies and support you receive are grounded in the latest research and best practices.
I believe it’s a courageous act for any parent to reach out for help
My role is to honour that step with thoughtful, evidence-based support tailored to your family’s needs.