About Us

Unified Expertise: Crafting Solutions Together

about us

Welcome to Wordplay Therapy Services Inc., a small and dedicated practice in Penticton, BC. We are committed to providing individualized care for residents across the lifespan in the South Okanagan region. Founded by speech-language pathologist Amanda Locke in 2022, Wordplay has evolved into a dynamic, interdisciplinary clinic devoted to realizing clients’ aspirations in speech, language, voice, play/engagement, motor skills, sensory processing, and daily living activities through comprehensive speech and occupational therapy interventions. Beyond our clinical services, Wordplay actively engages in community initiatives and professional development endeavors, empowering individuals, parents and childcare providers with invaluable insights into how to care for themselves and others.

Mission Statement:

Our mission is to enrich the lives of our clients by nurturing independence, resilience, and meaningful connections with neurodiversity-affirming, culturally sensitive and functional care within our community.

OUR TEAM

Meet the vibrant professionals that make up the Wordplay Team!

Speech Language Pathologists

Amanda Locke

Amanda established Wordplay Therapy Services Inc. in January 2022. Originally from Ontario, she graduated first in her class in Linguistics and Psychology at Western University before completing her master’s in Speech Language Pathology at the University of Toronto. Amanda’s adventurous spirit led her to her first SLP position in Trinidad and Tobago, followed by a move to Penticton in 2019 where she now lives with her family.

A significant concussion in 2020 prompted Amanda’s reflection on her clients’ challenges, inspiring the establishment of Wordplay Therapy Services Inc. Her practice is characterized by flexibility and tailored solutions, aiming to meet clients’ unique needs with culturally sensitive and neurodiversity affirming practice solutions.

Amanda’s clinical work focuses on serving Indigenous communities, supporting individuals recovering from concussion or brain injury, and providing expert care for children on the spectrum. She collaborates with daycares, family centers, and schools to provide functional and meaningful solutions. Amanda also conducts training seminars on communication topics for families and professionals seeking further understanding.

Carly Winzinowich

Carly’s journey in the field of communication disorders and child development began in Calgary, where she gained valuable experience in various child development centers while pursuing her undergraduate degree in Psychology. In 2020, she ventured eastward to further her education, obtaining her Master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Western Ontario.

Carly’s dedication to enhancing communication extends across all age groups, as she applies her expertise to both children and adults alike. With a holistic approach rooted in neurodivergence and functionality, Carly is deeply committed to working with children and their families. She applies this ethos to her work with adults as well, focusing on client-centered approaches to enhance communication skills. Her expertise includes assisting individuals recovering from stroke, traumatic brain injury, and managing voice disorders.

Now calling Penticton home, Carly finds solace in nature, often found climbing, hiking, and biking in the picturesque Okanagan alongside her family.

Jaeda Stanhope

Jaeda was born and raised in the Okanagan. She attended Simon Fraser University and completed her Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics and Psychology while playing for the varsity women’s basketball team. She then went on to complete her Master’s in Speech Language Pathology at the University of British Columbia.

Jaeda’s approach to therapy is rooted in play and connection, recognizing the profound impact these elements have on children and their families. She firmly believes in the power of parental involvement and strives to empower parents to play an active role in their child’s development journey. With a special interest in supporting autistic children and their families, Jaeda adopts a neurodiversity-affirming lens, fostering understanding and acceptance.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Jaeda resides in Penticton with her husband and three children. Together, they relish in exploring the great outdoors, indulging in activities such as rock climbing, sailing, hiking, and skiing, creating cherished memories amidst the natural beauty of their surroundings.

Occupational Therapists

Ashton Banfield

Ashton, a native of St. John’s, Newfoundland, brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role at WordPlay Therapy Services Inc. She obtained her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Memorial University of Newfoundland in 2016, followed by a master’s degree in occupational therapy from McGill University in 2019.

In 2020, Ashton embarked on a new chapter in Penticton, BC, drawn by the mild climate and her partner’s career in the wine industry. With over four years of experience in private practice, specializing in pediatric care from infancy to early adulthood, Ashton is dedicated to delivering client-centered interventions. She places a strong emphasis on utilizing a neurodiversity-affirming approach, informed by the voices of the neurodivergent community.

Joining WordPlay Therapy Services Inc. in July 2023, Ashton thrives in collaborating with a close-knit team of speech-language pathologists. Outside of work, Ashton enjoys exploring the outdoors through biking and hiking, indulging in wine tasting experiences, and satisfying her wanderlust through travel adventures.

Angel Oliver

Angel has lived across Canada and made British Columbia her home in 2010. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Victoria in 2020, she went on to complete a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy at McGill University in 2023. She settled in Penticton in September 2024.

Angel’s professional journey began with years of experience as a nanny, supporting children with diverse abilities. This work ignited her passion for helping children thrive, ultimately leading her to specialize in pediatric occupational therapy. Today, she focuses on supporting children from infancy through their early years, helping them build essential skills for daily life and development.

As a member of an Indigenous community in Ontario, Angel is deeply committed to working with local Indigenous communities to provide culturally sensitive, early intervention services. She strives to create a safe, inclusive, and client-centered practice rooted in a neurodiversity-affirming approach.

Outside of work, Angel embraces the outdoors through activities like hiking, rock climbing, and downhill skiing. She also loves reading, attending concerts, and traveling to explore new destinations.

Catherine Talastas

Catherine was born and raised in the Philippines, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from the University of the Philippines. During the pandemic, she relocated to Penticton to be with her family during this challenging time. Committed to her professional development, she subsequently completed a master’s degree in occupational science at Dalhousie University. Following her academic pursuits, Catherine shared her expertise by presenting at numerous conferences and publishing a research study in a peer-reviewed journal.

Catherine has been practicing as an occupational therapist in Canada since 2022, where she has gained valuable experience in acute care, neurological rehabilitation, physical rehabilitation, mental health, and working with the geriatric population. She is now eager to transition into the role of pediatric occupational therapist at Wordplay. Catherine is committed to her professional development and has actively sought further education to enhance her skills in sensory integration and to embrace a neurodiversity-affirming approach in her practice.

When she’s not at work, Catherine immerses herself in her passion for baking, often experimenting with new recipes ranging from decadent cakes to artisan bread. She also prioritizes her fitness by committing to a regular workout routine, which includes everything from weight training to yoga sessions. Additionally, Catherine has a genuine wanderlust, eagerly seeking out opportunities to travel. She delights in exploring new places and countries and immersing herself in different cultures.

Rehabilitation assistants

Bree van Mierlo

Bree grew up in a close-knit, large family in a small town in Manitoba, which instilled in her a deep appreciation for connection and community. With a strong passion for helping children navigate complex challenges, Bree specializes in supporting kids with autism and ADHD. Over the years, she has had the privilege of working with many incredible families and is excited to continue making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Bree has experience working in both the health and educational sectors, where she has honed her skills in creating meaningful, supportive environments for children facing diverse challenges. This journey has fueled her commitment to improving lives and empowering families.

In addition to her professional work, Bree is an animal lover with a special passion for rescuing cats and kittens across the Okanagan. She dedicates her time to helping these animals find loving homes, bringing the same sense of care and compassion she shows to families in her work.

Outside of work, Bree is the proud parent of four grown children and three grandchildren, who are her greatest joy.

In her free time, Bree enjoys hiking in the mountains and spending time outdoors during the summer. During the winter months, she embraces the coziness of being by the fire, enjoying quiet moments with loved ones.

Admin

Emily Krahulic

Emily Krahulic is our administrator extraordinaire. She keeps the office organized so our therapists have more time to help you. Emily has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Linguistics and has always been interested in the science of communication, including executive function, language development, and preventing isolation through building community. She worked as a business analyst, legal assistant, and caregiver before starting her own business as a freelance administrator. Emily lives in Mohkínstsis (Calgary) but visits the Okanagan whenever she can.

CAREERS

At Wordplay, our tight-knit team thrives on collaboration, leveraging our expertise to meet the growing needs of our community through speech-language pathology and occupational therapy services. As we expand, we eagerly seek talented individuals who share our dedication to delivering exceptional care to clients with diverse needs.

In clinical roles, you’ll enjoy full autonomy to craft your schedule with unlimited flexibility, ensuring it aligns with your personal and family commitments. Whether you prefer full-time or part-time positions, we’ll tailor your workload, clients, and opportunities to suit your needs.

Whether you’re an experienced speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist, or enthusiastic newcomer, we invite you to explore career opportunities with us. Join our dynamic team of clinicians and make a meaningful impact on the beautiful South Okanagan region!

Current Opportunities:

Speech Language Pathologists

Occupational Therapists

Rehabilitation Assistants

To express your interest, submit your resume using the form in this section. Our team is excited to review your application and discuss potential roles within our practice.

contact us

Contact us today, and let’s start a conversation about how we can support you on your journey to improved speech, language, and occupational well-being.

wordplay therapy services Inc.

Professional Accreditation

Rest assured, our Speech Language Pathologists and Occupational Therapists are licensed with the College of Health and Care Professionals of British Columbia (Phone: 604-742-6715). Should you ever encounter concerns that persist, our commitment to your well-being extends to reporting such matters to the corresponding regulatory body.