Play Therapy in Mahomet, IL

Photo of Erin Brodbeck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Brodbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, I have over 15 years of social work experience in the medical, school and therapy settings. I am passionate about helping children ages 5-18 navigate the unique challenges at school and in their everyday lives. I also have experience working with autism and behavioral challenges. I received my Master of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eastern Illinois University.I utilize many different therapeutic techniques including CBT, play therapy, DBT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, I have over 15 years of social work experience in the medical, school and therapy settings. I am passionate about helping children ages 5-18 navigate the unique challenges at school and in their everyday lives. I also have experience working with autism and behavioral challenges. I received my Master of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Eastern Illinois University.I utilize many different therapeutic techniques including CBT, play therapy, DBT, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy. I am also trained in EMDR.
(217) 863-1372 View (217) 863-1372
Photo of Kaity Taylor-Johnson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaity Taylor-Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and young adults utilizing a variety of therapy techniques such as Directive and Non-Directive play, Art Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy and Strengths-Based Therapy.
I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois with a concentration in mental health and a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Purdue University. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, crisis and therapy. My goal is to prioritize your comfort during our sessions by providing a safe, relaxing and laid-back experience.
I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and young adults utilizing a variety of therapy techniques such as Directive and Non-Directive play, Art Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy and Strengths-Based Therapy.
I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois with a concentration in mental health and a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Purdue University. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, crisis and therapy. My goal is to prioritize your comfort during our sessions by providing a safe, relaxing and laid-back experience.
(217) 886-8181 View (217) 886-8181
Photo of Terri Ilene Medwed - Clarity Counseling Services, LCPC, Counselor
Clarity Counseling Services
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I have advanced training in play therapy, art therapy and mindfulness training to help clients access core issues and work towards making a change.
At one time or another we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Whether you are looking to make a significant change in your life, need some assistance with coping skills or someone kind who will listen and be there for you counseling is the right path. My clients describe me as a warm, understanding and easy-going individual who is easy to talk to. Clients begin to rediscover what they really need to feel happier and more content with themselves and move on to become more productive and at peace with their lives.
I have advanced training in play therapy, art therapy and mindfulness training to help clients access core issues and work towards making a change.
At one time or another we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Whether you are looking to make a significant change in your life, need some assistance with coping skills or someone kind who will listen and be there for you counseling is the right path. My clients describe me as a warm, understanding and easy-going individual who is easy to talk to. Clients begin to rediscover what they really need to feel happier and more content with themselves and move on to become more productive and at peace with their lives.
(217) 728-1626 View (217) 728-1626
Photo of Lisa Hayasaki, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Hayasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
We all have unique needs and goals and I am pleased to be part of a process which can bring positive change and healing. I've been privileged to know and help people from all walks of life w/diverse backgrounds and experiences. My background: community mental health, substance abuse, trauma work, student population, and overseas with US military families. I'm comfortable working w/people of all ages. I provide short-term, solution focused counselling, long term intensive therapy, play therapy, couples and family counseling.
We all have unique needs and goals and I am pleased to be part of a process which can bring positive change and healing. I've been privileged to know and help people from all walks of life w/diverse backgrounds and experiences. My background: community mental health, substance abuse, trauma work, student population, and overseas with US military families. I'm comfortable working w/people of all ages. I provide short-term, solution focused counselling, long term intensive therapy, play therapy, couples and family counseling.
(217) 718-3632 View (217) 718-3632
Photo of Deanna Morelli, LCPC, Counselor
Deanna Morelli
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
Also, when engaging in play therapy with children, I enjoy using musical expression which can be implemented into sessions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
Also, when engaging in play therapy with children, I enjoy using musical expression which can be implemented into sessions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
(866) 420-3256 View (866) 420-3256
Photo of Gayle J Lewis, MAT, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gayle J Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAT, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
Some of the counseling modalities I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Meditation, Mindfulness, Yoga, Self-Compassion, Solution-focused, Aspects of Life Coaching, and Play Therapy.
Hi. My name is Gayle Lewis, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. My deepest passion is to help people heal from past experiences that have hindered growth and kept them from thriving emotionally, relationally, or professionally. I do this by taking a client-centered, strengths-based approach, listening with empathy and unconditional positive regard. While prioritizing your strengths and desires, I will walk alongside of you as we together, map out a pathway forward.
Some of the counseling modalities I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Meditation, Mindfulness, Yoga, Self-Compassion, Solution-focused, Aspects of Life Coaching, and Play Therapy.
Hi. My name is Gayle Lewis, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. My deepest passion is to help people heal from past experiences that have hindered growth and kept them from thriving emotionally, relationally, or professionally. I do this by taking a client-centered, strengths-based approach, listening with empathy and unconditional positive regard. While prioritizing your strengths and desires, I will walk alongside of you as we together, map out a pathway forward.
(217) 216-1793 View (217) 216-1793
Photo of Ariel Warner, MA, QMHP, LPC, Counselor
Ariel Warner
Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
While my overall view of therapy most closely aligns with RCT, I also utilize CBT, person-centered, and play therapy tools in my sessions in order to best fit my clients’ needs.
I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
While my overall view of therapy most closely aligns with RCT, I also utilize CBT, person-centered, and play therapy tools in my sessions in order to best fit my clients’ needs.
I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
(217) 773-5783 View (217) 773-5783
Photo of Kimberly Kendall, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Kendall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I am a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Many therapeutic modalities, such as talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, trauma-informed practice, and play therapy, are available to support clients on their healing paths. I draw from a combination of these techniques uniquely combined and applied according to each client’s needs.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Many therapeutic modalities, such as talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, trauma-informed practice, and play therapy, are available to support clients on their healing paths. I draw from a combination of these techniques uniquely combined and applied according to each client’s needs.
(217) 395-5763 View (217) 395-5763
Photo of Emily M Young, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily M Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.
I have experience working with a wide variety of age groups and a diverse population of people. I specialize in working with teens, adults, and families, treating anxiety, life adjustments, chronic illness, problems at school and life transitions. I mainly work with CBT but also incorporate play therapy, strengths-based approaches, and mindfulness.
(217) 908-8905 View (217) 908-8905
Photo of Jessica McClellan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica McClellan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with many differing experiences in the field of mental health and emotional well-being. I have experience working with families, couples, and individuals of all ages. I am passionate about supporting First Responders, Veterans, and their families. My goal is to help First Responders and their families in reducing stress, processing compounded trauma, and live a productive life that is not overshadowed by their professions. I also work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Illinois, with many differing experiences in the field of mental health and emotional well-being. I have experience working with families, couples, and individuals of all ages. I am passionate about supporting First Responders, Veterans, and their families. My goal is to help First Responders and their families in reducing stress, processing compounded trauma, and live a productive life that is not overshadowed by their professions. I also work with individuals that are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and personality disorders.
(217) 712-4190 View (217) 712-4190
Photo of Mary Jo Anastasia, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jo Anastasia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning and growth. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. Through my experience, I have come to learn that counseling is most beneficial when possibilities of hope, healing, and action are developed through meaningful conversations. My focus is on helping clients manage their distressful symptoms, identify learned patterns and unhelpful ways of thinking, rewire their brains, reprocess trauma, and access their strengths to use as leverage to work through their upsetting events, fears, anxiety, and blindspots.
I provide a warm, nurturing, collaborative environment to foster healthy emotional functioning and growth. My goal is to assist you in creating a healthier sense of self. Through my experience, I have come to learn that counseling is most beneficial when possibilities of hope, healing, and action are developed through meaningful conversations. My focus is on helping clients manage their distressful symptoms, identify learned patterns and unhelpful ways of thinking, rewire their brains, reprocess trauma, and access their strengths to use as leverage to work through their upsetting events, fears, anxiety, and blindspots.
(217) 996-9531 View (217) 996-9531
Photo of Dawn Taylor, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
Do you need someone to just listen to you or provide additional support for what you're going through? Do you feel like no one understands you or what you are experiencing? Do you feel overwhelmed, numb, burnt out, guilty, or lost? I would like to offer you a safe and confidential space to meet you where you currently are. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can be overwhelming, and I want to strive to help those experiencing such difficult feelings. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois, and am a Licensed Social Worker.
Do you need someone to just listen to you or provide additional support for what you're going through? Do you feel like no one understands you or what you are experiencing? Do you feel overwhelmed, numb, burnt out, guilty, or lost? I would like to offer you a safe and confidential space to meet you where you currently are. Depression, anxiety, and trauma can be overwhelming, and I want to strive to help those experiencing such difficult feelings. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois, and am a Licensed Social Worker.
(217) 636-5257 View (217) 636-5257
Photo of Madison Duncan, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
I recently graduated with my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois after completing my internship with Keri Powell Therapy. I already have experience in the field with a history of working with adults of all ages. I am certified in Dementia Care. I’m interested in continuing care with adults and am open to working with younger individuals.
I recently graduated with my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois after completing my internship with Keri Powell Therapy. I already have experience in the field with a history of working with adults of all ages. I am certified in Dementia Care. I’m interested in continuing care with adults and am open to working with younger individuals.
(217) 335-4974 View (217) 335-4974
Photo of Jacob Holthoff, LPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jacob Holthoff
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
It is no secret that mental distress can be a devastating roadblock in life. It is my hope that together, we can create a completely safe and understanding environment in which we can work together toward achieving balance, implementing healthy coping strategies, and navigating life’s many obstacles toward growth. Therapy can be quite a daunting step to take for many, but I have no doubt in my mind that together, we can lay the foundation for personal growth.
(217) 590-4178 View (217) 590-4178
Photo of Katie Hensold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Hensold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
I really enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I love helping others realize their strengths and focus on reaching their goals. I often approach therapy with the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools although I am able to incorporate other interventions as needed. Providing a warm and inviting environment where individuals can feel safe and comfortable is very important to me in treatment. Christian faith-based therapy is something else I provide when clients want to utilize their spirituality in their treatment.
I really enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I love helping others realize their strengths and focus on reaching their goals. I often approach therapy with the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy tools although I am able to incorporate other interventions as needed. Providing a warm and inviting environment where individuals can feel safe and comfortable is very important to me in treatment. Christian faith-based therapy is something else I provide when clients want to utilize their spirituality in their treatment.
(217) 393-6107 View (217) 393-6107
Photo of Jeffrey Boyd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Boyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
Jeffrey Boyd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois and a Master of Arts in Education from Olivet Nazarene University. He has several years of experience working as a child welfare caseworker, adult therapist, and school social worker. He has assisted clients with grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, developmental disorders, and divorce.
Jeffrey Boyd is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from the University of Illinois and a Master of Arts in Education from Olivet Nazarene University. He has several years of experience working as a child welfare caseworker, adult therapist, and school social worker. He has assisted clients with grief, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, developmental disorders, and divorce.
(217) 402-7917 View (217) 402-7917
Photo of Caitlin D Schutz, MSW, LSW
Caitlin D Schutz
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
Hi, my name is Cat Schutz. I am a licensed social worker who is a compassionate counselor specializing in supporting children, families and individuals through challenging times. With a wealth of experience in working with those who have survived tremendous trauma, life changes, and who are struggling with well-being, I'm deeply committed to empowering you to navigate life's obstacles with resilience and strength. I bring a calm and reassuring presence to my therapeutic approach, and value creating a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences.
Hi, my name is Cat Schutz. I am a licensed social worker who is a compassionate counselor specializing in supporting children, families and individuals through challenging times. With a wealth of experience in working with those who have survived tremendous trauma, life changes, and who are struggling with well-being, I'm deeply committed to empowering you to navigate life's obstacles with resilience and strength. I bring a calm and reassuring presence to my therapeutic approach, and value creating a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences.
(217) 846-9361 View (217) 846-9361
Photo of Erin Graham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
It seems like everyone else’s child has it all together and you feel scared and alone. It feels like the situation is never going to get better and you worry constantly about the future of your child. You never thought you would be in this place and you can’t seem to find your way out. All you want to do is help your child. As a parent, one of the most difficult tasks we face is to watch our children and teens struggle. Parenting an adolescent who is struggling with anxiety, depression or behavior can you leave feeling like you failed.
It seems like everyone else’s child has it all together and you feel scared and alone. It feels like the situation is never going to get better and you worry constantly about the future of your child. You never thought you would be in this place and you can’t seem to find your way out. All you want to do is help your child. As a parent, one of the most difficult tasks we face is to watch our children and teens struggle. Parenting an adolescent who is struggling with anxiety, depression or behavior can you leave feeling like you failed.
(217) 207-5596 View (217) 207-5596
Photo of Jason Givens, M Ed, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jason Givens
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
I provide a warm and unconditional space for you to feel like sharing the hardest issues going on in your life. I have been a Counselor/Therapist for over 10 years and would love to help you overcome the obstacles that you are currently facing. I specialize working with kids, teens, adults, and couples. I can help you with your ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sports and Performance Anxiety, and emotional needs. I am certified in EMDR. I can also help you with career planning, academics, and creating and following a budget for you and/or your family.
I provide a warm and unconditional space for you to feel like sharing the hardest issues going on in your life. I have been a Counselor/Therapist for over 10 years and would love to help you overcome the obstacles that you are currently facing. I specialize working with kids, teens, adults, and couples. I can help you with your ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Sports and Performance Anxiety, and emotional needs. I am certified in EMDR. I can also help you with career planning, academics, and creating and following a budget for you and/or your family.
(217) 286-1421 View (217) 286-1421
Photo of Michelle Hooks, LCSW
Michelle Hooks
Licensed Social Worker, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahomet, IL 61853
In life's whirlwind, finding a sanctuary for respite and inner peace can feel like a distant dream. You might be questioning your worth or wondering if anyone else shares your feelings. Unexpected events may have thrown you off course, leaving you grappling to move forward, feeling immobilized. Perhaps, as a parent, you've exhausted all avenues in aiding your child or teen, feeling at a loss. Whether you're striving to unleash your full potential or seeking ways to foster family well-being, you've found a supportive space here.
In life's whirlwind, finding a sanctuary for respite and inner peace can feel like a distant dream. You might be questioning your worth or wondering if anyone else shares your feelings. Unexpected events may have thrown you off course, leaving you grappling to move forward, feeling immobilized. Perhaps, as a parent, you've exhausted all avenues in aiding your child or teen, feeling at a loss. Whether you're striving to unleash your full potential or seeking ways to foster family well-being, you've found a supportive space here.
(217) 388-1099 View (217) 388-1099
1

See more therapy options for Mahomet

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.