Play Therapy in Bolingbrook, IL

Photo of Emilie Brazinski, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emilie Brazinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
I practice play therapy, trauma informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and have training to treat trauma and work with survivors of abuse and domestic violence.
I provide psychotherapy for children, teens and adults. I have expertise in providing counseling for issues such as anxiety, OCD, low self esteem, dependency issues, depression, and PTSD. I provide a team approach to counseling that is tailored to meet each individual client's needs while creating a safe and validating environment to help client's grow and achieve their potential.
I practice play therapy, trauma informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and have training to treat trauma and work with survivors of abuse and domestic violence.
I provide psychotherapy for children, teens and adults. I have expertise in providing counseling for issues such as anxiety, OCD, low self esteem, dependency issues, depression, and PTSD. I provide a team approach to counseling that is tailored to meet each individual client's needs while creating a safe and validating environment to help client's grow and achieve their potential.
(630) 593-0594 View (630) 593-0594
Photo of Joanna Inserra, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanna Inserra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Immediate daytime openings. I believe we are all here to become the best version of ourselves. Together we can work to continue to grow your strengths while taking a look into behaviors and thoughts that shape your choices. I believe in building a strong rapport in a safe environment to reach your full potential. I focus on person-centered growth while using therapeutic techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, person centered, play therapy, and interpersonal therapy to empower all individuals through the process of healing and understanding.
Immediate daytime openings. I believe we are all here to become the best version of ourselves. Together we can work to continue to grow your strengths while taking a look into behaviors and thoughts that shape your choices. I believe in building a strong rapport in a safe environment to reach your full potential. I focus on person-centered growth while using therapeutic techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, person centered, play therapy, and interpersonal therapy to empower all individuals through the process of healing and understanding.
(630) 528-1915 View (630) 528-1915
Photo of Rachel Weeks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Weeks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
I have experience utilizing play therapy, art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and Person Centered therapy models.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I love working with children, adolescents and young adults. Focusing primarily on ages 8 through 40, I work best with those struggling with life transitions, trauma, behavioral issues, mood disorders, anxiety or those currently and/or have a history of crisis, such as experiencing thoughts or actions of self harm or suicidal thoughts. I tend to connect well with teens experiencing mood dysregulation, family or peer conflict and those in crisis. Those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as those who struggle with eating disorders or substance use are also encouraged to reach out!
I have experience utilizing play therapy, art therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, motivational interviewing, and Person Centered therapy models.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I love working with children, adolescents and young adults. Focusing primarily on ages 8 through 40, I work best with those struggling with life transitions, trauma, behavioral issues, mood disorders, anxiety or those currently and/or have a history of crisis, such as experiencing thoughts or actions of self harm or suicidal thoughts. I tend to connect well with teens experiencing mood dysregulation, family or peer conflict and those in crisis. Those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as those who struggle with eating disorders or substance use are also encouraged to reach out!
(630) 206-4243 View (630) 206-4243
Photo of Lauren Brymer, MA, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Lauren Brymer
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
We are able to utilize tools like Psychodynamic, Exposure Therapy, IFS, CBT, Play Therapy, and many more ways to serve our client's.
Just as we exist within an external system; family, work environments, neighborhoods, school community, we have a personal internal system within each of us. These two systems influence each other throughout every day of our lives. Just as our minds need to understand our external systems like the rules at our office or school, we need to understand the interaction of the parts within ourselves. This may be a difficult concept to wrap your mind around because we live in a world with such external rules. What would it be like if we lived by the knowledge of the internal and external systems ?
We are able to utilize tools like Psychodynamic, Exposure Therapy, IFS, CBT, Play Therapy, and many more ways to serve our client's.
Just as we exist within an external system; family, work environments, neighborhoods, school community, we have a personal internal system within each of us. These two systems influence each other throughout every day of our lives. Just as our minds need to understand our external systems like the rules at our office or school, we need to understand the interaction of the parts within ourselves. This may be a difficult concept to wrap your mind around because we live in a world with such external rules. What would it be like if we lived by the knowledge of the internal and external systems ?
(708) 620-2157 View (708) 620-2157
Photo of Keith Levasseur, LCPC, Counselor
Keith Levasseur
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
In my work with children I use play therapy and have used EMDR with children as well.
I have worked as a counselor for over 20 years. I see people of all ages from 4 years old to 60 years of age. Much of my practice focuses on treating issues of trauma and anxiety. I enjoy seeing the transformation in many of my clients when I treat their trauma issues with EMDR. I also specialize in working with children and families. I treat many types of childhood issues, including behavior problems, depression, ADHD, and abuse issues.
In my work with children I use play therapy and have used EMDR with children as well.
I have worked as a counselor for over 20 years. I see people of all ages from 4 years old to 60 years of age. Much of my practice focuses on treating issues of trauma and anxiety. I enjoy seeing the transformation in many of my clients when I treat their trauma issues with EMDR. I also specialize in working with children and families. I treat many types of childhood issues, including behavior problems, depression, ADHD, and abuse issues.
(630) 765-3801 View (630) 765-3801
Photo of Alicia M. Taylor, MA, NCC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Alicia M. Taylor
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60490  (Online Only)
As a clinically licensed, board certified counselor, I have experience in the assessment and treatment of adults, adolescents and children. I have been very successful in utilizing play therapy when counseling youth. My specialty includes working on issues ranging from relationships and parenting, to anxiety and depression, to identity and low self-esteem.
As a clinically licensed, board certified counselor, I have experience in the assessment and treatment of adults, adolescents and children. I have been very successful in utilizing play therapy when counseling youth. My specialty includes working on issues ranging from relationships and parenting, to anxiety and depression, to identity and low self-esteem.
(757) 992-8760 View (757) 992-8760
Photo of Carla Marquez Ripley, MA, LCPC, RPT, Counselor
Carla Marquez Ripley
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
I am a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT), a Prepare/Enrich facilitator.
I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.
I am a National Board Certified Counselor (NBCC), Registered Play Therapist (RPT), a Prepare/Enrich facilitator.
I strongly believe in the importance of providing a safe, authentic, and accepting space for my clients to be able to take the brave steps necessary to obtain the growth and healing they desire. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my desire to support those who have been feeling stuck in a certain area of life, are struggling with life transitions and desiring skills to actively alter their current chapter. I commit to walk alongside my clients amidst their renewed strength, understanding, resilience, and hope.
(331) 245-3667 View (331) 245-3667
Photo of Miranda Brennan, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60490
I provide direct therapy services using a strengths-based approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
I provide direct therapy services using a strengths-based approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
(815) 660-0945 View (815) 660-0945
Photo of Kelli Rexroad, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelli Rexroad
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
We cannot control everything that happens in our life but we can create more of a sense of calm within ourselves. My ideal client is someone who seeks support and desires peace within themselves.
We cannot control everything that happens in our life but we can create more of a sense of calm within ourselves. My ideal client is someone who seeks support and desires peace within themselves.
(630) 895-9247 View (630) 895-9247
Photo of Kyle Cosentino, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kyle Cosentino
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself being controlled by anxiety and worry, despite doing everything you can to try and change it? You may be fed up with feeling locked inside of yourself in everyday situations, disconnected from friends who struggle to understand, or even as if the walls are closing in on you. It is also possible that you forgot what it feels like to be relaxed, happy, and carefree. One thing for sure is is that your want to feel better. You're ready to leave your safe space and make enjoy life enjoyable again. You're ready to go out and make new connections. You're ready to be at peace with yourself and have hope for the future.
Do you find yourself being controlled by anxiety and worry, despite doing everything you can to try and change it? You may be fed up with feeling locked inside of yourself in everyday situations, disconnected from friends who struggle to understand, or even as if the walls are closing in on you. It is also possible that you forgot what it feels like to be relaxed, happy, and carefree. One thing for sure is is that your want to feel better. You're ready to leave your safe space and make enjoy life enjoyable again. You're ready to go out and make new connections. You're ready to be at peace with yourself and have hope for the future.
(708) 231-9100 View (708) 231-9100
Photo of Dr. Jessica Dennis, PsyD, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Jessica Dennis
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Dr. Jessica Dennis, PsyD, LCPC is the founder and CEO of Wise Counsel for Mental Health LLC. She and her amazing team of diverse professionals provide skilled expertise on an array of mental health disorders and issues. Go to www.WC4MH.com to read all about us or schedule an appointment!
Dr. Jessica Dennis, PsyD, LCPC is the founder and CEO of Wise Counsel for Mental Health LLC. She and her amazing team of diverse professionals provide skilled expertise on an array of mental health disorders and issues. Go to www.WC4MH.com to read all about us or schedule an appointment!
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Photo of Arielle Tovar, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Tovar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
I bring an enthusiastic, caring and understanding approach to working with my clients. I understand that taking the step to start the healing process is not always easy. I work hard to ensure my clients feel comfortable and heard during their sessions, while also making sure that we are equals working together towards your goals. I strive to create a long term solution, not just a short term one. I will help you work at the deep rooted issues so there can be a full healing process instead of a quick “band aid repair.” I tailor my approach for each individual client to meet you where you are at.
I bring an enthusiastic, caring and understanding approach to working with my clients. I understand that taking the step to start the healing process is not always easy. I work hard to ensure my clients feel comfortable and heard during their sessions, while also making sure that we are equals working together towards your goals. I strive to create a long term solution, not just a short term one. I will help you work at the deep rooted issues so there can be a full healing process instead of a quick “band aid repair.” I tailor my approach for each individual client to meet you where you are at.
(630) 534-9827 View (630) 534-9827
Photo of Dr. Audrey R Davis - H.O.P.E. Behavior Practice | Dr. Audrey Davis, EdD, MSW, LCSW, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
H.O.P.E. Behavior Practice | Dr. Audrey Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, MSW, LCSW, PEL
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60440  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Educator, I am passionate about working with individuals in K-12, their families, and young adults to foster culturally sensitive and socially acceptable coping skills, self-management skills, positive cognitions, social awareness, communication skills, interpersonal skills, self-perception, increase assertive ability, and decision-making skills. Using Psychotherapy, cognitive and behavioral models, and varying approaches, I partner with individuals and their families to develop these skills using single and multi-treatment modes. Accepting new clients.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Professional Educator, I am passionate about working with individuals in K-12, their families, and young adults to foster culturally sensitive and socially acceptable coping skills, self-management skills, positive cognitions, social awareness, communication skills, interpersonal skills, self-perception, increase assertive ability, and decision-making skills. Using Psychotherapy, cognitive and behavioral models, and varying approaches, I partner with individuals and their families to develop these skills using single and multi-treatment modes. Accepting new clients.
(630) 360-8097 View (630) 360-8097
Photo of Talk About It Llc - Talk About It LLC, Psychologist
Talk About It LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60440  (Online Only)
Growing up on the Westside of Chicago, siblings Dr. Hankerson and Mr. Moore, had a vision to make a difference in the field of mental health.  Our dream became a reality in August of 2020 when TALK ABOUT IT was established, offering a wide range of counseling and psychological services to clients.
Growing up on the Westside of Chicago, siblings Dr. Hankerson and Mr. Moore, had a vision to make a difference in the field of mental health.  Our dream became a reality in August of 2020 when TALK ABOUT IT was established, offering a wide range of counseling and psychological services to clients.
(630) 454-6985 View (630) 454-6985
Photo of Maraliz Gonzalez Rivera, MSW, LCSW, SPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maraliz Gonzalez Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SPT
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Hey there! I am glad you are here and ready to do the work! My name is Maraliz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Clinical Director of Olimene Counseling Services. My experience includes working with toddlers, children, pre-teens, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I love working with individuals who are ready to heal from the inside out and from the lowest parts of the brain up.
Hey there! I am glad you are here and ready to do the work! My name is Maraliz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Clinical Director of Olimene Counseling Services. My experience includes working with toddlers, children, pre-teens, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I love working with individuals who are ready to heal from the inside out and from the lowest parts of the brain up.
(630) 793-6505 x32 View (630) 793-6505 x32
Photo of Candice Razo, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Candice Razo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440  (Online Only)
Candice is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and adolescents. Consulting with clients and giving them professional advice while helping them understand their full potential. In addition to helping better their lives, achieve a happier life through positive changes. Influences of Family Systems Theory (IFS), Positive Parenting Solutions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Using holistic methods, such as mindfulness, meditation, & yoga, with interventions to engage individuals & families as co-facilitators of change.
Candice is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and adolescents. Consulting with clients and giving them professional advice while helping them understand their full potential. In addition to helping better their lives, achieve a happier life through positive changes. Influences of Family Systems Theory (IFS), Positive Parenting Solutions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Using holistic methods, such as mindfulness, meditation, & yoga, with interventions to engage individuals & families as co-facilitators of change.
(630) 521-3642 View (630) 521-3642
Photo of Nicky Clark, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicky Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440  (Online Only)
I know the idea of therapy can seem overwhelming or frightening at first, but you should take pride in exploring your first step. I can help ease those fears and we can work together to address whatever may be getting in your way to living a happier, more fulfilled life. Everyone needs help at times, whether it requires addressing past issues or more current problems, and therapy enables you to receive necessary support, develop skills, embrace your strengths, and make desired changes in a safe, judgment-free space. As no two individuals are exactly alike, sessions are tailored to meet your own unique needs.
I know the idea of therapy can seem overwhelming or frightening at first, but you should take pride in exploring your first step. I can help ease those fears and we can work together to address whatever may be getting in your way to living a happier, more fulfilled life. Everyone needs help at times, whether it requires addressing past issues or more current problems, and therapy enables you to receive necessary support, develop skills, embrace your strengths, and make desired changes in a safe, judgment-free space. As no two individuals are exactly alike, sessions are tailored to meet your own unique needs.
(224) 258-0532 View (224) 258-0532
Photo of Jamie Meskin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamie Meskin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
“There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t,” by John Green has always been one of my favorite quotes. As an advocate, I have continuously encouraged individuals to see a therapist. When life feels challenging it may be easy to tell yourself that there is no hope; however, it is my priority to remind you that there is. Therapy is not only for those who are managing something difficult, it can also be for someone who is adjusting to a positive change. It can be for a child starting at a new school, or an adult preparing to marry their soulmate.
“There is hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t,” by John Green has always been one of my favorite quotes. As an advocate, I have continuously encouraged individuals to see a therapist. When life feels challenging it may be easy to tell yourself that there is no hope; however, it is my priority to remind you that there is. Therapy is not only for those who are managing something difficult, it can also be for someone who is adjusting to a positive change. It can be for a child starting at a new school, or an adult preparing to marry their soulmate.
(847) 613-1489 View (847) 613-1489
Photo of Kelly McCauley, MA, LCPC
Kelly McCauley
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolingbrook, IL 60440
Hi there! Have you been struggling to ask for help? If so, I am proud of you for taking this first step! I haven’t heard your story yet, but I imagine it’s one full of strength and courage. No matter how worried, scared, hopeless, or confused you may be feeling, I am confident we can work together to bring back the joy you’ve been missing in your life.
Hi there! Have you been struggling to ask for help? If so, I am proud of you for taking this first step! I haven’t heard your story yet, but I imagine it’s one full of strength and courage. No matter how worried, scared, hopeless, or confused you may be feeling, I am confident we can work together to bring back the joy you’ve been missing in your life.
(630) 394-8380 View (630) 394-8380
Photo of Karen Vachulcik - Life Synergy, LLC, LCPC, CADC, NCC, BCC, Counselor
Life Synergy, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
Bolingbrook, IL 60490
Want to re-create your life in a positive atmosphere? At Life Synergy, LLC, we help individuals to accomplish just that. We work with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults to overcome life challenges and stressors. Together, we can address and conquer life challenges related to anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, drug abuse, depression, stress, relationship issues, and self-esteem. Creating a warm, open environment is essential for individuals to address and conquer the pressures of today's world. Taking a positive, nonjudgmental approach creates a trusting connection that is important for individuals sharing sensitive topics.
Want to re-create your life in a positive atmosphere? At Life Synergy, LLC, we help individuals to accomplish just that. We work with pre-teens, adolescents, and adults to overcome life challenges and stressors. Together, we can address and conquer life challenges related to anxiety, addiction, substance abuse, drug abuse, depression, stress, relationship issues, and self-esteem. Creating a warm, open environment is essential for individuals to address and conquer the pressures of today's world. Taking a positive, nonjudgmental approach creates a trusting connection that is important for individuals sharing sensitive topics.
(708) 954-8001 View (708) 954-8001
1

Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.