Play Therapy in Dekalb, IL

Photo of Candice Riles-Daniels - Healing Crown Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Crown Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Therapeutic treatment approaches include CBT, DBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, holistic therapy, and other client centered approaches.
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
Therapeutic treatment approaches include CBT, DBT, play therapy, motivational interviewing, holistic therapy, and other client centered approaches.
Candice has worked with clients who have struggled with mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, grief and loss, substance abuse, LGBTQ Issues, personality disorders, and PTSD. Her specialties include struggles with intimate and family relationships, personality disorders, criminal thinking, anger management, poor self image, depression, and trauma. Candice prioritizes the therapeutic relationship and rapport that is developed with each of her clients. She is passionate about helping clients draw strength from their experiences; to live a better quality of life and reach personal fulfillment.
(779) 252-7348 View (779) 252-7348
Photo of Jordan Prebys, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, RSP
Jordan Prebys
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, RSP
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I am an alternative therapist who believes talk therapy alone is simply not enough. This is why I have gone to great lengths over my 20 years of experience to develop and grow as a therapist to learn more, do more, and provide more, to both my adult and child clients. In addition to talk therapy I also integrate the mind, body, and spirit into treatment through the use of sandplay therapy (for adults and children), play therapy, dream work, art, and hypnotherapy. These approaches bring the whole brain into treatment. Simply put, no one wants to simply exist, we are meant to thrive. Let's move beyond coping.
I am an alternative therapist who believes talk therapy alone is simply not enough. This is why I have gone to great lengths over my 20 years of experience to develop and grow as a therapist to learn more, do more, and provide more, to both my adult and child clients. In addition to talk therapy I also integrate the mind, body, and spirit into treatment through the use of sandplay therapy (for adults and children), play therapy, dream work, art, and hypnotherapy. These approaches bring the whole brain into treatment. Simply put, no one wants to simply exist, we are meant to thrive. Let's move beyond coping.
(815) 605-5913 View (815) 605-5913
Photo of Jessica Rojas - DB Counseling Services, MA, MS, LCPC, Counselor
DB Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I use a variety of treatment modalities including dialectical-behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, and play therapy to nurture positive attachment and develop lasting interpersonal skills.
Trouble getting along with others? Are you constantly finding yourself irritable, down in the dumps or struggling with panic attacks? Do you feel as if no one gets you or understands what you are going through? I can help. Call and schedule an appointment for an assessment and corresponding therapy. I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. As a graduate from Benedictine U., I have extensive knowledge in mood disorders and relationship problems. I implement evidenced-based practice and client-centered therapy to work with you and your loved ones to explore the root cause.
I use a variety of treatment modalities including dialectical-behavioral, cognitive-behavioral, and play therapy to nurture positive attachment and develop lasting interpersonal skills.
Trouble getting along with others? Are you constantly finding yourself irritable, down in the dumps or struggling with panic attacks? Do you feel as if no one gets you or understands what you are going through? I can help. Call and schedule an appointment for an assessment and corresponding therapy. I am an experienced, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. As a graduate from Benedictine U., I have extensive knowledge in mood disorders and relationship problems. I implement evidenced-based practice and client-centered therapy to work with you and your loved ones to explore the root cause.
(815) 599-1617 View (815) 599-1617
Photo of Catherine Tiberi, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Catherine Tiberi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I incorporate art, play, strength based, motivational techniques to nurture learning and how to make the most effective decisions for your life.
Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders are just some of the diagnoses I have worked with. Through skill building, processing upsetting events, gaining insight into behaviors and allowing yourself to heal, the positive power of the therapy experience is rewarding. I take an approach that is welcoming, empathetic, and non judgmental to assist with creating a safe place for you.
I incorporate art, play, strength based, motivational techniques to nurture learning and how to make the most effective decisions for your life.
Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders are just some of the diagnoses I have worked with. Through skill building, processing upsetting events, gaining insight into behaviors and allowing yourself to heal, the positive power of the therapy experience is rewarding. I take an approach that is welcoming, empathetic, and non judgmental to assist with creating a safe place for you.
(779) 222-2712 View (779) 222-2712
Photo of Maga Passos-Hoke, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maga Passos-Hoke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Through a family perspective, using the power of play, emotions, and at the moment experiences, I help kids from 0-18, families, and couples to address conflict, depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, abuse, anger, sexual abuse, trauma, divorce, and major life changes.
I help parents, children, families, and couples who are frustrated, angry, and hurting to heal and connect in a healthy way, rebuilding their relationships to bring harmony to themselves and their families.
Through a family perspective, using the power of play, emotions, and at the moment experiences, I help kids from 0-18, families, and couples to address conflict, depression, anxiety, behavioral challenges, abuse, anger, sexual abuse, trauma, divorce, and major life changes.
I help parents, children, families, and couples who are frustrated, angry, and hurting to heal and connect in a healthy way, rebuilding their relationships to bring harmony to themselves and their families.
(630) 949-3739 View (630) 949-3739
Photo of Anxiety And Depression Therapy Chloe Udell, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Anxiety And Depression Therapy Chloe Udell
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I'm here to guide you in building self-growth and healthier relationships with others. Understanding how our backgrounds and the world influence our relationships is important for everyone, regardless of age or background. Whether you're a teen struggling with self-identity or a parent looking to strengthen your bond with your child, I'm here to provide guidance and support.
I'm here to guide you in building self-growth and healthier relationships with others. Understanding how our backgrounds and the world influence our relationships is important for everyone, regardless of age or background. Whether you're a teen struggling with self-identity or a parent looking to strengthen your bond with your child, I'm here to provide guidance and support.
(815) 339-8671 View (815) 339-8671
Photo of Amanda Ruppert, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Ruppert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
(779) 222-2709 View (779) 222-2709
Photo of Jayne A Braden - Braden Counseling Center, P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Braden Counseling Center, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Braden Counseling Center (BCC) specializes in counseling individuals, couples and families in various stages of life. With flexible scheduling, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Elgin locations, and a free initial consultation, BCC makes it easy for you to make the first step toward change. We accept various insurance types, and also offer a sliding scale for those who qualify.
Braden Counseling Center (BCC) specializes in counseling individuals, couples and families in various stages of life. With flexible scheduling, Sycamore, Rochelle, and Elgin locations, and a free initial consultation, BCC makes it easy for you to make the first step toward change. We accept various insurance types, and also offer a sliding scale for those who qualify.
(815) 401-1212 View (815) 401-1212
Photo of Shannon Pociecha, MA, LCPC
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
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.
(815) 406-6057 View (815) 406-6057
Photo of Renee C Fischer, LCPC, MS, Counselor
Renee C Fischer
Counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
We all know life is hard. We were never promised it would be easy. Whatever trial you are struggling through, whether a life long struggle or adjusting to a new stage of life, I would be honored to help you successfully get through this time and help you get where you want to go! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Divorce Mediator.
We all know life is hard. We were never promised it would be easy. Whatever trial you are struggling through, whether a life long struggle or adjusting to a new stage of life, I would be honored to help you successfully get through this time and help you get where you want to go! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Certified Divorce Mediator.
(847) 512-8957 View (847) 512-8957
Photo of Debra K Hirschberg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra K Hirschberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
(847) 513-9160 View (847) 513-9160
Photo of Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc, LCSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Passion For Living Counseling Services Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
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.
(815) 242-4735 View (815) 242-4735
Photo of Dr. Jessica Swenson, PhD, LCPC, CCTP, SOTP
Dr. Jessica Swenson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CCTP, SOTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
"Should I stay or should I go?" This is the age old question asked to me, for the last 10 years by just about every couple experiencing distress that I've sat with. If you are reading this, my guess is that you asked yourself the exact same question at some point...Stay? Or Go? If you are struggling to find the right path for you in this relationship - I can help. As Psychologist, Clinical Therapist & an expert in the science of love, I specialize in helping people rebuild their attachment w/ each other, reduce conflict, repair trust, create positive feelings, and take control of emotional & physical symptoms that hold you back.
"Should I stay or should I go?" This is the age old question asked to me, for the last 10 years by just about every couple experiencing distress that I've sat with. If you are reading this, my guess is that you asked yourself the exact same question at some point...Stay? Or Go? If you are struggling to find the right path for you in this relationship - I can help. As Psychologist, Clinical Therapist & an expert in the science of love, I specialize in helping people rebuild their attachment w/ each other, reduce conflict, repair trust, create positive feelings, and take control of emotional & physical symptoms that hold you back.
(331) 225-1762 View (331) 225-1762
Photo of Michael W. Elgersma, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michael W. Elgersma
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
Life can be difficult and frustrating. Our lives can become messy and complicated. But there is hope. I am dedicated to walking alongside of others to help them find hope and make some sense of their life and experiences. I sincerely believe that counseling gives an individual the opportunity to experience significant growth and healing through a greater personal awareness and understanding of themselves and the world around them.
(815) 981-3239 View (815) 981-3239
Photo of Brandon Johnson, ALMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brandon Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have well-rounded training in working with couples, families, and individuals. Some of my specialities include but are not limited to anxiety, relationship issues, depression, men's issues, family issues, communication, grief, life transitions, and behavioral issues. I work with clients to become stronger in their understanding of their emotional experiences and the development of a stronger set of skills necessary for navigating life.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have well-rounded training in working with couples, families, and individuals. Some of my specialities include but are not limited to anxiety, relationship issues, depression, men's issues, family issues, communication, grief, life transitions, and behavioral issues. I work with clients to become stronger in their understanding of their emotional experiences and the development of a stronger set of skills necessary for navigating life.
(815) 559-5805 View (815) 559-5805
Photo of Rebecca Viereckl, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Viereckl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with my clients to explore their relationships to address the challenges they may be facing. This includes exploring; feeling disconnected, deep rooted conflict, communication, blending families, parenting, life transition, and low relationship satisfaction. I also work with clients who struggle with depression, gender identity, mood management, self-esteem, sexual orientation, stress, and trauma.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with my clients to explore their relationships to address the challenges they may be facing. This includes exploring; feeling disconnected, deep rooted conflict, communication, blending families, parenting, life transition, and low relationship satisfaction. I also work with clients who struggle with depression, gender identity, mood management, self-esteem, sexual orientation, stress, and trauma.
(815) 240-8023 View (815) 240-8023
Photo of Caroline Dress, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Dress
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
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.
(815) 406-6823 View (815) 406-6823
Photo of Daniel Essenpreis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel Essenpreis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
If you problem is like a mountain, I can't carry you up it. But I can walk with you every step of the journey. Hi, I’m Dan. I’m a licensed psychotherapist with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have also worked as a school counselor and as a behavior therapist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I believe in making therapy as easy as possible and creating a therapeutic environment in which my clients feel comfortable; sessions with my clients are always a safe space.
If you problem is like a mountain, I can't carry you up it. But I can walk with you every step of the journey. Hi, I’m Dan. I’m a licensed psychotherapist with experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples. I have also worked as a school counselor and as a behavior therapist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I believe in making therapy as easy as possible and creating a therapeutic environment in which my clients feel comfortable; sessions with my clients are always a safe space.
(773) 322-1347 View (773) 322-1347
Photo of Raychael Ayres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raychael Ayres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that each person has a different story and many complexities that make them who they are. My clinical approach includes examining a person’s life from a systems perspective to identify all the factors influencing the individual. My clinical experience has included treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and life stressors.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I understand that each person has a different story and many complexities that make them who they are. My clinical approach includes examining a person’s life from a systems perspective to identify all the factors influencing the individual. My clinical experience has included treating children, adolescents, young adults, and families who are experiencing behavioral issues or symptoms of ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and life stressors.
(815) 240-8513 View (815) 240-8513
Photo of Sarah Klein, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples' therapy. While working with these modalities of treatments, I help clients that are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, behavioral issues, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Clients with these symptoms or situations face many challenges which I love helping them overcome through compassionate understanding and establishment of trust and rapport.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples' therapy. While working with these modalities of treatments, I help clients that are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, behavioral issues, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Clients with these symptoms or situations face many challenges which I love helping them overcome through compassionate understanding and establishment of trust and rapport.
(815) 281-5218 View (815) 281-5218
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.