Play Therapy in Lisle, IL
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.
I also utilize play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques.
At a young age, you can feel overwhelmed and misunderstood; I am here to walk with you along the way and provide a safe space for you, your experiences, and your vulnerability. I am passionate about helping you heal and grow as an individual by allowing you to share your story in a nonjudgmental setting with grace and compassion. I hope that I can make a positive impact on your journey.
I also utilize play therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and solution-focused techniques.
At a young age, you can feel overwhelmed and misunderstood; I am here to walk with you along the way and provide a safe space for you, your experiences, and your vulnerability. I am passionate about helping you heal and grow as an individual by allowing you to share your story in a nonjudgmental setting with grace and compassion. I hope that I can make a positive impact on your journey.
Molly Kathleen Maffeo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I offer play therapy for children, innovative and creative interventions for clients of all ages, exposure therapy for OCD/PTSD and meal time and challenge snack appointment for clients with eating disorders.
Have you been feeling invalidated, like no one is taking the time to really listen to what you're going through? The most important focus I have for my clients is to ensure I meet them right where they are at, and they feel safe and validated. I am LGBTQiA+ affirming, a member of WPATH and the Gender Affirming Collaborative Coalition of Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago. I am committed to the long-term evolution and healing of all people regardless of race, sex, gender, gender identity or ethnicity. I work with my clients in an empowering atmosphere where they are able to explore all of the moving pieces.
I offer play therapy for children, innovative and creative interventions for clients of all ages, exposure therapy for OCD/PTSD and meal time and challenge snack appointment for clients with eating disorders.
Have you been feeling invalidated, like no one is taking the time to really listen to what you're going through? The most important focus I have for my clients is to ensure I meet them right where they are at, and they feel safe and validated. I am LGBTQiA+ affirming, a member of WPATH and the Gender Affirming Collaborative Coalition of Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago. I am committed to the long-term evolution and healing of all people regardless of race, sex, gender, gender identity or ethnicity. I work with my clients in an empowering atmosphere where they are able to explore all of the moving pieces.
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.
Tammi C. Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I offer CBT therapy, trauma informed therapy and use tools such as: meditation, journaling and play therapy as well as others.
I look forward to working with individuals that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and re-balancing their life. There comes a time in all of our lives where we need the compassion and support of a therapist that truly is present and cares. I will offer you a safe space to process and work through your challenges. Life is but a journey and it is meant for us to enjoy our lives. Yes, there will be some challenges, but we can get through the challenges when we have the tools and a support system to help us along our path.
I offer CBT therapy, trauma informed therapy and use tools such as: meditation, journaling and play therapy as well as others.
I look forward to working with individuals that are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and re-balancing their life. There comes a time in all of our lives where we need the compassion and support of a therapist that truly is present and cares. I will offer you a safe space to process and work through your challenges. Life is but a journey and it is meant for us to enjoy our lives. Yes, there will be some challenges, but we can get through the challenges when we have the tools and a support system to help us along our path.
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532 (Online Only)
As an Art Therapist/Play Therapist, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner I offer you the freedom to create art, engage in sand tray exploration, and mindfulness to discover your gifts and strengths within.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
As an Art Therapist/Play Therapist, and Somatic Experiencing Practitioner I offer you the freedom to create art, engage in sand tray exploration, and mindfulness to discover your gifts and strengths within.
Are you an adult who is trying to manage a traumatic experience, process grief or anxiety/depression at this time in your life? Are you a parent that is looking for an experienced clinician to support you and your child to navigate overwhelming emotions both at home and in school? I am here for you! I am passionate about journeying alongside you with compassion, creating a safe place where you can discover your creative self, and focused upon supporting you as you work towards your unique treatment goals.
I assist clients with changing the narrative of their stories. The client is the expert regarding their life; however, I guide and/or challenge each client by refocusing them back to their targeted goals.
I assist clients with changing the narrative of their stories. The client is the expert regarding their life; however, I guide and/or challenge each client by refocusing them back to their targeted goals.
“Our greatest need is to be seen.” Marianne Williamson. My goal as a counselor is to be someone who sees and understands. We are all individuals and have many complexities. Our needs and struggles are unique.
“Our greatest need is to be seen.” Marianne Williamson. My goal as a counselor is to be someone who sees and understands. We are all individuals and have many complexities. Our needs and struggles are unique.
As a Licensed Clinical Therapist and founder of T.E.A.M. Focus Counseling, I aim to meet my clients where they are and assist them in achieving their treatment goals. As a seasoned professional with more than 15 yrs. experience providing counseling to adolescents, adults and the re-entry population. Therapy Evokes Achievement and Motivation within a person.
As a Licensed Clinical Therapist and founder of T.E.A.M. Focus Counseling, I aim to meet my clients where they are and assist them in achieving their treatment goals. As a seasoned professional with more than 15 yrs. experience providing counseling to adolescents, adults and the re-entry population. Therapy Evokes Achievement and Motivation within a person.
When life is overwhelming, I want to give you tools that can bring immediate relief. My approach is to tailor our work to your needs. Although I have worked with many clients with varying issues of all ages, my specialties include issues of grief/loss, chronic medical illnesses (cancer, diabetes), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ and fertility issues. I strive to help you concentrate on the present, focus on the future and explore the past to understand current behaviors and coping. I create a safe place where you can share and acquire more coping tools to adjust to life changes.
When life is overwhelming, I want to give you tools that can bring immediate relief. My approach is to tailor our work to your needs. Although I have worked with many clients with varying issues of all ages, my specialties include issues of grief/loss, chronic medical illnesses (cancer, diabetes), depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQ and fertility issues. I strive to help you concentrate on the present, focus on the future and explore the past to understand current behaviors and coping. I create a safe place where you can share and acquire more coping tools to adjust to life changes.
Mullas Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532 (Online Only)
I specialize in children, adolescents and adults. Experienced with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD and adjustment disorders. My ideal client is open to the possibility that therapy can bring change, hope that life can get better and trust that I can provide a safe and respectful space to process the challenges and vulnerabilities life brings.
I specialize in children, adolescents and adults. Experienced with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD and adjustment disorders. My ideal client is open to the possibility that therapy can bring change, hope that life can get better and trust that I can provide a safe and respectful space to process the challenges and vulnerabilities life brings.
My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself YOU want to be. I provide a positive, compassionate, judgment-free environment, allowing you to be yourself from the first session. When you are in a session with me, you can expect to feel respected, heard, and understood, all while continuing to address your needs. Every session will be catered to you and your specific challenges at that time. I can help you manage anxiety, symptoms of depression, relationship challenges, workplace struggles, or just the stressors of daily life, along with anything else in between. Together, we will make you better.
My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself YOU want to be. I provide a positive, compassionate, judgment-free environment, allowing you to be yourself from the first session. When you are in a session with me, you can expect to feel respected, heard, and understood, all while continuing to address your needs. Every session will be catered to you and your specific challenges at that time. I can help you manage anxiety, symptoms of depression, relationship challenges, workplace struggles, or just the stressors of daily life, along with anything else in between. Together, we will make you better.
Taking the first step towards change is often the most crucial yet also the most challenging journey. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or seeking a better path forward, I'm here to guide you. I aim to create a safe, empathetic environment where you can explore your challenges, find clarity, and move towards a more fulfilling life. My passion lies in empowering children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, trauma, academic concerns, adjusting to adverse life events (immigration, divorce, loss of loved ones), body image issues, grief, self-esteem issues, sleep problems, and social isolation.
Taking the first step towards change is often the most crucial yet also the most challenging journey. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or seeking a better path forward, I'm here to guide you. I aim to create a safe, empathetic environment where you can explore your challenges, find clarity, and move towards a more fulfilling life. My passion lies in empowering children, teens, and adults facing depression, anxiety, trauma, academic concerns, adjusting to adverse life events (immigration, divorce, loss of loved ones), body image issues, grief, self-esteem issues, sleep problems, and social isolation.
Karen Southwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I have over 24 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My initial training was child and adolescent focused, however, I have worked extensively with adults, young adults and couples over the last 12 years. I have 16 years experience working for a non-for profit agency. This experience included working in adolescent group homes, specialized foster care, and consultation in a high school, summer camp, and elementary school. I received training at Loyola University's Sex Clinic for couples. This program focused on education, as well as opening lines of communication between partners.
I have over 24 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. My initial training was child and adolescent focused, however, I have worked extensively with adults, young adults and couples over the last 12 years. I have 16 years experience working for a non-for profit agency. This experience included working in adolescent group homes, specialized foster care, and consultation in a high school, summer camp, and elementary school. I received training at Loyola University's Sex Clinic for couples. This program focused on education, as well as opening lines of communication between partners.
Jodi R Metcalf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Individuals/Couples/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System, Self-Esteem/Identity Issues and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescents, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors. Clients consistently find Jodi to be supportive, understanding, accepting, and tremendously easy to talk to.
Individuals/Couples/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System, Self-Esteem/Identity Issues and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescents, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors. Clients consistently find Jodi to be supportive, understanding, accepting, and tremendously easy to talk to.
I'm a graduate student at Adler University, earning my master's in clinical mental health and counseling. I am an empathetic, warm, curious, lighthearted person. I am committed to helping individuals navigate life transitions, including grief, diagnoses, relationship changes, and identity work. My work focuses on client-centered goal setting and exploration. I believe you are the expert of your life, and I would love to collaborate with you in writing or re-writing the story you want to live.
I'm a graduate student at Adler University, earning my master's in clinical mental health and counseling. I am an empathetic, warm, curious, lighthearted person. I am committed to helping individuals navigate life transitions, including grief, diagnoses, relationship changes, and identity work. My work focuses on client-centered goal setting and exploration. I believe you are the expert of your life, and I would love to collaborate with you in writing or re-writing the story you want to live.
By leading with tenderness & vulnerability, I meet people in their struggle, eye to eye. Together, we work to get your feet on solid ground so you can thrive in the everyday hustle of work & family life and reach your goals. I help empower clients to find their growth mindset & fill in the gaps where practical skills & tools are needed. Working with me is not for the faint of heart. It takes work to change the things we don’t like about ourselves. It takes grit to face obstacles that stand in the way. It takes courage to face trauma and build resilience. And I believe every human being is worth it.
By leading with tenderness & vulnerability, I meet people in their struggle, eye to eye. Together, we work to get your feet on solid ground so you can thrive in the everyday hustle of work & family life and reach your goals. I help empower clients to find their growth mindset & fill in the gaps where practical skills & tools are needed. Working with me is not for the faint of heart. It takes work to change the things we don’t like about ourselves. It takes grit to face obstacles that stand in the way. It takes courage to face trauma and build resilience. And I believe every human being is worth it.
Donna Loza, Midwest Center for Hope & Healing, Ltd
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
Donna aligns closely with Adlerian, Cognitive behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral therapy. Adlerian theory has been shown in research for treating multiple mental health conditions: anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenic, and substance abuse disorders. Adlerian theory suggests that people are driven by a need to feel that they matter, and they belong. How do you want to grow as a person, what are your dreams and goals? Donna is passionate about offering a non-judgmental, supportive environment to men, women, couples and children; ages four and up.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed in your life and want to gain control back again? I am dedicated to helping people with the struggles they are facing by developing a caring relationship in which to work toward mutually determined therapeutic goals. I provide individual and family counseling and enjoy working with a variety of people.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed in your life and want to gain control back again? I am dedicated to helping people with the struggles they are facing by developing a caring relationship in which to work toward mutually determined therapeutic goals. I provide individual and family counseling and enjoy working with a variety of people.
Counseling research studies consistently state that one of the biggest factors for growth and healing are strongly connected to the relationship between you and your therapist. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach with my clients as we work through the life struggles and circumstances while drawing upon your unique strengths with multi-faceted, evidence-based practices. I firmly believe that we do the best we can even when we don't do or act how we wish. My relationship with clients is one of trust, collaboration and building insights and skills that lead to new, life-enhancing experiences.
Counseling research studies consistently state that one of the biggest factors for growth and healing are strongly connected to the relationship between you and your therapist. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach with my clients as we work through the life struggles and circumstances while drawing upon your unique strengths with multi-faceted, evidence-based practices. I firmly believe that we do the best we can even when we don't do or act how we wish. My relationship with clients is one of trust, collaboration and building insights and skills that lead to new, life-enhancing experiences.
See more therapy options for Lisle
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Lisle
- Aurora
- Bolingbrook
- Clarendon Hills
- Downers Grove
- Glen Ellyn
- Lemont
- Lombard
- Naperville
- Warrenville
- Westmont
- Wheaton
- Woodridge
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.