Play Therapy in Chana, IL
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![Photo of Claire Maschinski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52fa8063-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My therapeutic approaches include Family Systems, CBT, Solution-Focused, Couples Therapy, Attachment, Relational Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Care.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
My therapeutic approaches include Family Systems, CBT, Solution-Focused, Couples Therapy, Attachment, Relational Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Care.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
![Photo of Melissa Gates, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/67b381a0-da63-4c50-8b76-a161fffb84d5/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
![Photo of Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc, LCSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d7e326-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
Passion for Living Counseling Services was founded in 2018 by Lorre Hunter, LCSW, whose dream was to save the world one person at a time. Now with the help of five other social workers, we work side by side our clients to help them achieve the goals they desire in therapy. We believe in a person-centered approach and meet the client where they are in life. You are the expert of your life and we would love to be part of your journey.
Passion for Living Counseling Services was founded in 2018 by Lorre Hunter, LCSW, whose dream was to save the world one person at a time. Now with the help of five other social workers, we work side by side our clients to help them achieve the goals they desire in therapy. We believe in a person-centered approach and meet the client where they are in life. You are the expert of your life and we would love to be part of your journey.
![Photo of Caroline Dress, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2357dfab-1901-4e0a-8add-5e1b6663ab0b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. My approach to treatment begins with forming mutual trust. With this foundation of support, I hope to empower clients to explore their past, build self-efficacy, and grow towards change. I consider myself an ally for clients as they seek to identify and understand the nature of their behavioral and relational patterns, and I work hand-in-hand with clients on this journey.
I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. My approach to treatment begins with forming mutual trust. With this foundation of support, I hope to empower clients to explore their past, build self-efficacy, and grow towards change. I consider myself an ally for clients as they seek to identify and understand the nature of their behavioral and relational patterns, and I work hand-in-hand with clients on this journey.
![Photo of Shannon Pociecha, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8797a343-cdd4-4372-8b26-25c51f004651/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rochelle, IL 61068
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
![Photo of Angela Johnson, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f93aab11-4e27-4a1c-b1e3-442189c87cfb/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
My name is Angela Johnson, and I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over 15 years of clinical experience working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community with Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, and Panic Attacks. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Couples Therapy, Mindfulness-Based (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma Focused during my treatments with clients. I believe it is also my job to help clients learn about themselves and determine what is important and what is not.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Morgan Marchant, MS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b100b0f-6f88-411e-8b02-b5f66d767377/2/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Marchant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
In our sessions, you'll find unwavering support, no matter the challenges you or your child face. Whether it's navigating neurodiversity, regulating emotions, or dealing with anxiety and depression, I am there to help. My profound dedication lies in encouraging children to embrace their natural inclination to play freely. Within my practice, I cultivate a secure environment where clients can let go of inhibitions, learn from mistakes, and acquire essential life skills, ultimately strengthening their resilience.
In our sessions, you'll find unwavering support, no matter the challenges you or your child face. Whether it's navigating neurodiversity, regulating emotions, or dealing with anxiety and depression, I am there to help. My profound dedication lies in encouraging children to embrace their natural inclination to play freely. Within my practice, I cultivate a secure environment where clients can let go of inhibitions, learn from mistakes, and acquire essential life skills, ultimately strengthening their resilience.
![Photo of Megan Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b44ea07c-7ea9-4e0a-aa17-1e5ab084ca4d/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Peace Within, we play, we jump, we draw, we chill, we do ALL the fidgets! We find whatever each individual needs to feel safe and comfortable enough to express themselves fully and be open to growth with evidence based supports.
Does any of this sound familiar?….”Tried deep breaths. Tried offering help and comforting. Tried consequences. Nothing is working! I’m not sure what to do or say to help…” These are words we often hear when parents come to us looking for help. You are not alone. Whether we are supporting one through parenting, grief and trauma, just a bit of rough patch, or learning to navigate life with Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, OCD, or Sensory Integration differences, we are here to help you find your way. It is privilege to witness transformation as we join our children and families on their journey towards growth and healing.
At Peace Within, we play, we jump, we draw, we chill, we do ALL the fidgets! We find whatever each individual needs to feel safe and comfortable enough to express themselves fully and be open to growth with evidence based supports.
Does any of this sound familiar?….”Tried deep breaths. Tried offering help and comforting. Tried consequences. Nothing is working! I’m not sure what to do or say to help…” These are words we often hear when parents come to us looking for help. You are not alone. Whether we are supporting one through parenting, grief and trauma, just a bit of rough patch, or learning to navigate life with Anxiety, Autism, ADHD, OCD, or Sensory Integration differences, we are here to help you find your way. It is privilege to witness transformation as we join our children and families on their journey towards growth and healing.
![Photo of Karen Roach, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ecec6ea-8ebb-48b6-a1a6-3650fb3f4db2/1/320x400.jpeg)
When I work with the kids, we use interactive strategies and play-therapy-informed techniques to keep them engaged.
Do you go to bed each night promising tomorrow will be better? Do you promise you will have more patience, the kids will behave better, and you will enjoy the day?But then tomorrow comes and it just felt like a repeat of yesterday. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years experience working with kids and families (especially moms!) through private practice and in public schools. Over the last two decades, I've helped countless kids, both directly by working with them and indirectly by working with the adults important to their lives; we've changed behavior, improved relationships, and answered: "What is wrong with them?"
When I work with the kids, we use interactive strategies and play-therapy-informed techniques to keep them engaged.
Do you go to bed each night promising tomorrow will be better? Do you promise you will have more patience, the kids will behave better, and you will enjoy the day?But then tomorrow comes and it just felt like a repeat of yesterday. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years experience working with kids and families (especially moms!) through private practice and in public schools. Over the last two decades, I've helped countless kids, both directly by working with them and indirectly by working with the adults important to their lives; we've changed behavior, improved relationships, and answered: "What is wrong with them?"
![Photo of Christina Vargas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75c4e391-772f-4bb2-ac91-518bc3562650/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
However, my speciality, and a part of my work that I truly love, is engaging youth and families in play therapy/art therapy.
Hi, I'm Christina Vargas, but you can refer to me as Christy! I'm a psychotherapist, but you might also call me a self-care/self-love advocate working towards eliminating the stigma of mental illness. I help people who long to feel emotionally safe and secure but are buried under mental obstacles. I guide them to commit to their journey of self-love, so that they can live their full potential and be the best version of themselves that they can be. I know from my own path to wellness and from helping many youth that investing in your mental health is so worth it and that you deserve to be happy.
However, my speciality, and a part of my work that I truly love, is engaging youth and families in play therapy/art therapy.
Hi, I'm Christina Vargas, but you can refer to me as Christy! I'm a psychotherapist, but you might also call me a self-care/self-love advocate working towards eliminating the stigma of mental illness. I help people who long to feel emotionally safe and secure but are buried under mental obstacles. I guide them to commit to their journey of self-love, so that they can live their full potential and be the best version of themselves that they can be. I know from my own path to wellness and from helping many youth that investing in your mental health is so worth it and that you deserve to be happy.
![Photo of Jamie Renee Wagner - HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dc03911-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
HOPE Child and Family Counseling/Teen & Adult Tx
Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roscoe, IL 61073
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
The counselors at HOPE - Child and Family Counseling/Adolescent and Adult Therapy specialize in therapy to promote emotional healing across the lifespan. We provide an atmosphere of acceptance and hope. Our skills are grounded in interpersonal connections and current interventions in neurobiology, attachment, cognitive-behavioral, trauma, family systems, child/play therapy, drug and alcohol treatment, and more. We apply principles that treat the whole person while knowing that the body, mind, and social world can interplay with how we feel, think, and navigate through life. Locations: Roscoe, IL, Gurnee, IL, and Janesville, WI.
![Photo of Jena Nicole Stombaugh, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4ee2372-bf1f-4cd0-a579-9988a0e2e409/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jena Nicole Stombaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134 (Online Only)
Additionally, I am trained to work with transitional anxiety, career support, family difficulties, parenting, personal development, and play therapy.
As your therapist, I will provide you with support, guidance, and a safe and trusting environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. There is a basic set of expectations for both parties to work together in harmony to create healthy coping skills that will stay with you for years to come. I welcome any client, regardless of recent struggles, who are dedicated to working towards the next steps in their lives.
Additionally, I am trained to work with transitional anxiety, career support, family difficulties, parenting, personal development, and play therapy.
As your therapist, I will provide you with support, guidance, and a safe and trusting environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. There is a basic set of expectations for both parties to work together in harmony to create healthy coping skills that will stay with you for years to come. I welcome any client, regardless of recent struggles, who are dedicated to working towards the next steps in their lives.
![Photo of Anna Jimenez, LCSW, ICDVP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac54e478-a629-42ed-80bf-896a7954d1cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Jimenez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ICDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402
I practice trauma-informed therapeutic approaches using client-centered, CBT, Solution-focused, motivational interviewing, play therapy, art therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker. I am a strong believer that your mental health deserves the same treatment and commitment as your physical health. Before starting a counseling relationship, it is crucial to assess your therapist and ensure feeling comfortable with them. You must decide who you trust to be vulnerable in processing your emotions. Together we can explore your experience and find lifelong coping skills that will forever empower you.
I practice trauma-informed therapeutic approaches using client-centered, CBT, Solution-focused, motivational interviewing, play therapy, art therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social worker. I am a strong believer that your mental health deserves the same treatment and commitment as your physical health. Before starting a counseling relationship, it is crucial to assess your therapist and ensure feeling comfortable with them. You must decide who you trust to be vulnerable in processing your emotions. Together we can explore your experience and find lifelong coping skills that will forever empower you.
![Photo of Katharina Klakus, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3063257e-a990-4584-84be-ed3303adc95b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katharina Klakus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate evidence-based modalities that specifically address a client's age, need, and treatment goals, including CBT, DBT, ACT, play, art, and music.
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
I integrate evidence-based modalities that specifically address a client's age, need, and treatment goals, including CBT, DBT, ACT, play, art, and music.
I am a licensed child psychologist with extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, emerging adults, and families. My specialization lies in helping clients navigate through various challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, peer and family stress, learning, behavioral and attention difficulties, life transitions, trauma, separation, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, I offer guidance to parents, helping them understand their children's challenges and strengths more deeply, enhance family communication and connection, and learn effective parenting and coping skills.
![Photo of Sergio Garcia, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2b98fe6-2c60-48e8-afd8-56539eda916e/3/320x400.jpeg)
My theoretical orientations are solution-focused, cognitive, play therapy, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy.
I am a bilingual therapist, providing psychotherapy to Spanish and English speaking clients. My approach is compassionate and focused on leveraging your strengths to lead towards a worthwhile life. I tailor my approach to the individual with whom I work. This includes their needs, culture, values, personality and goals. Through our work we will examine your thoughts, actions and behaviors and move towards empowering you to realize more purpose, reach higher fulfillment and build your own self esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents.
My theoretical orientations are solution-focused, cognitive, play therapy, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy.
I am a bilingual therapist, providing psychotherapy to Spanish and English speaking clients. My approach is compassionate and focused on leveraging your strengths to lead towards a worthwhile life. I tailor my approach to the individual with whom I work. This includes their needs, culture, values, personality and goals. Through our work we will examine your thoughts, actions and behaviors and move towards empowering you to realize more purpose, reach higher fulfillment and build your own self esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents.
![Photo of Tracy Nieman, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2db0b83a-db66-4fd3-abf2-45ca35b9f687/2/320x400.jpeg)
I would like to provide you with a warm and caring therapeutic space where you feel heard and understood. I bring genuineness, compassion, humor, and unconditional acceptance into my work. I have a passion to support adolescents, emerging adults, and adults. I am a relational, collaborative, and person-centered therapist. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, mindfulness-based approaches, and play therapy interventions to help my clients facilitate meaningful growth and change.
I would like to provide you with a warm and caring therapeutic space where you feel heard and understood. I bring genuineness, compassion, humor, and unconditional acceptance into my work. I have a passion to support adolescents, emerging adults, and adults. I am a relational, collaborative, and person-centered therapist. I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, mindfulness-based approaches, and play therapy interventions to help my clients facilitate meaningful growth and change.
![Photo of Austin Knott, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/156ac3e1-4d94-4222-884b-3eb464967113/1/320x400.jpeg)
Austin Knott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I utilize a range of evidence based techniques including motivational interviewing, psycho-dynamic, strengths based and play therapy.
I’m Austin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes working with kids, teens, and young adults. With a deep commitment to support clients through life’s challenges, I specialize in helping those grappling with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, self esteem and relationship difficulties. I also have experience working with fellow therapists as I am aware of the unique challenges that people in helping professions face. I have worked in a number of different clinical settings including community mental health focusing on trauma informed therapy for kids and adolescents and private practice providing individual
I utilize a range of evidence based techniques including motivational interviewing, psycho-dynamic, strengths based and play therapy.
I’m Austin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who specializes working with kids, teens, and young adults. With a deep commitment to support clients through life’s challenges, I specialize in helping those grappling with life transitions, stress, anxiety, depression, self esteem and relationship difficulties. I also have experience working with fellow therapists as I am aware of the unique challenges that people in helping professions face. I have worked in a number of different clinical settings including community mental health focusing on trauma informed therapy for kids and adolescents and private practice providing individual
![Photo of Elizabeth Marie Davy - Elizabeth M Davy, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fd43afea-d6d1-4bea-9477-6202b49ecf29/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth M Davy, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sugar Grove, IL 60554
In addition to treating children, adolescents and adults with depression and anxiety, I have extensive training and experience in play therapy, particularly with children who have witnessed or directly experienced trauma (including childhood sexual abuse, parental murder, parental suicide, and child pornography), and chronic illness including childhood cancer and diabetes. I am developing an expertise with children who express gender variance. I enjoy working with women around issues of stress and life balance. I am passionate about therapy and supervision work with other therapists who are experiencing compassion fatigue.
In addition to treating children, adolescents and adults with depression and anxiety, I have extensive training and experience in play therapy, particularly with children who have witnessed or directly experienced trauma (including childhood sexual abuse, parental murder, parental suicide, and child pornography), and chronic illness including childhood cancer and diabetes. I am developing an expertise with children who express gender variance. I enjoy working with women around issues of stress and life balance. I am passionate about therapy and supervision work with other therapists who are experiencing compassion fatigue.
![Photo of Karli Bigler, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b18609e-dd29-4f09-911e-f64fbe623557/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karli Bigler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I am in the process of completing an extensive Child Centered Play Therapy certificate program and enjoy working with young children.
Starting therapy can feel scary and intimidating. You are looking for someone to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with that will not judge you. I am here to help make that process easier. You deserve to have a space that is safe and supportive with a therapist that you know will fully accept you. I want to work with you to create a space infused with empathy, unconditional acceptance, and genuineness. You are welcome to show up just as you are and that is more than enough.
I am in the process of completing an extensive Child Centered Play Therapy certificate program and enjoy working with young children.
Starting therapy can feel scary and intimidating. You are looking for someone to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with that will not judge you. I am here to help make that process easier. You deserve to have a space that is safe and supportive with a therapist that you know will fully accept you. I want to work with you to create a space infused with empathy, unconditional acceptance, and genuineness. You are welcome to show up just as you are and that is more than enough.
![Photo of Alexander Serrano, MS Ed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d84670-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexander Serrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS Ed, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60302
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
I strive to be authentic, genuine and transparent with all of my families. If you feel lost or have become frustrated with your child, I'm here to listen and help. Together, lets figure out a solution that works for both you and your family. Speaking of transparency, I'm a kid at heart. I play Mario Kart, 90% of the pictures on my phone are of my dog and still get a little bummed out when I lose at UNO. I tell you this upfront because I expect us to be open and honest with each other throughout this process. In addition to working with young children and adolescents, I also work with adults who are diagnosed on the spectrum.
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.