Play Therapy in North Aurora, IL
I utilize an eclectic approach to counseling, tailoring interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Approaches, and play therapy.
I feel everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults with emotional and behavioral concerns. Conditions I commonly address include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, and trauma. I have a background in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), utilizing horses as fellow "co-therapists" to aid in treatment goals and objectives outside the traditional office setting. I am certified through the "Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship" (PATH) as an "Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning" (ESMHL).
I utilize an eclectic approach to counseling, tailoring interventions from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Approaches, and play therapy.
I feel everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and supported. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, teens and young adults with emotional and behavioral concerns. Conditions I commonly address include anxiety, depression, grief/loss, relationships, and trauma. I have a background in Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP), utilizing horses as fellow "co-therapists" to aid in treatment goals and objectives outside the traditional office setting. I am certified through the "Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship" (PATH) as an "Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning" (ESMHL).
Lauryn Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
In my practice, I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including play therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients explore how their experiences shape their lives.
Since 2022, I have been providing mental health services in outpatient and in-home settings, specializing in supporting individuals, groups, and families facing a range of challenges, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, sensitive, and practical, emphasizing mutual respect and the importance of meeting clients where they are in their journey. I believe that the counseling process begins by creating shared goals that reflect each person’s vision for their life and unique story.
In my practice, I utilize various therapeutic modalities, including play therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to help clients explore how their experiences shape their lives.
Since 2022, I have been providing mental health services in outpatient and in-home settings, specializing in supporting individuals, groups, and families facing a range of challenges, including adjustment disorders, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and relationship difficulties. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, sensitive, and practical, emphasizing mutual respect and the importance of meeting clients where they are in their journey. I believe that the counseling process begins by creating shared goals that reflect each person’s vision for their life and unique story.
Morgan Hacker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
My empathetic and supportive approach provides direct therapy services using acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
I believe in the power of self-awareness and personal growth, and am dedicated to helping clients develop the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength. Therapy is a collaborative process, where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental space. I have experience working with children/youth with special healthcare needs; and have worked closely with other professionals such as Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Specialty Physicians and Schools to provide a holistic approach.
My empathetic and supportive approach provides direct therapy services using acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
I believe in the power of self-awareness and personal growth, and am dedicated to helping clients develop the tools they need to navigate life's challenges with resilience and strength. Therapy is a collaborative process, where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a safe and non-judgmental space. I have experience working with children/youth with special healthcare needs; and have worked closely with other professionals such as Speech Therapists, Occupational Therapists, Specialty Physicians and Schools to provide a holistic approach.
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
My greatest wish in life is to be able to help make a difference in the world; counseling is my way. I have confronted a variety of issues, and work well with complex conditions. Some include depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, adoption, self-esteem, bullying, family conflict, ADHD, defiant behaviors, anger management, and attachment concerns. My work also extends to parental support in working with their children / adolescents more effectively in communication, discipline and affection. My main desire is for all clients to know they are not alone and help them on their journey. I will adapt to meet your needs.
I love supporting clients through journeys of self-discovery of all kinds, and I am passionate about the support I provide. I am working towards specializations in depression, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), Trauma, Adjustment/Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ Support, Relationship Concerns, Caregiver Support, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I work with adolescents and adults. I I have spent most of my professional career thus far specializing in supporting adolescents who hold marginalized sexual and/or gender identities and I find great joy and purpose in doing so.
I love supporting clients through journeys of self-discovery of all kinds, and I am passionate about the support I provide. I am working towards specializations in depression, social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder (worry), Trauma, Adjustment/Life Transitions, Self-Esteem, LGBTQIA+ Support, Relationship Concerns, Caregiver Support, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I work with adolescents and adults. I I have spent most of my professional career thus far specializing in supporting adolescents who hold marginalized sexual and/or gender identities and I find great joy and purpose in doing so.
Danna Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
Waitlist for new clients
For as long as I can remember, I have loved helping others. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I will guide you in exploring how experiences and relationships in your life have created a blueprint of who you are today. Together, we can explore the deepest parts within to understand how to live a life full of true authenticity. I approach therapy with a full heart and deep compassion for my clients. I love working with individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds. I provide a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings to create meaningful long-term change.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved helping others. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I will guide you in exploring how experiences and relationships in your life have created a blueprint of who you are today. Together, we can explore the deepest parts within to understand how to live a life full of true authenticity. I approach therapy with a full heart and deep compassion for my clients. I love working with individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds. I provide a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings to create meaningful long-term change.
I believe that healthy human connection has the power to heal and transform relational patterns. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children create healthy human connections. With the integration of faith in therapy, healthy relationships can be formed and broken relationships can be repaired. In working with me, you will receive compassionate, honest and quality care. Let me help you navigate through broken relationships, adjustments in life, marriage, parenting and teenage stuff. I have experience working with multicultural families, ethnic minorities, and ministry families.
I believe that healthy human connection has the power to heal and transform relational patterns. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children create healthy human connections. With the integration of faith in therapy, healthy relationships can be formed and broken relationships can be repaired. In working with me, you will receive compassionate, honest and quality care. Let me help you navigate through broken relationships, adjustments in life, marriage, parenting and teenage stuff. I have experience working with multicultural families, ethnic minorities, and ministry families.
Suicide Prevention Services of America
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Aurora, IL 60542
We are here because we’ve been there. Suicide Prevention Services of America is a non-profit dedicated to helping people along the continuum of care of suicide. We have been helping individuals in our community for over 25 years. Our mission is to open minds, save lives, and restore hope through prevention, intervention, and prevention services through education, advocacy, and collaboration in the community. SPSA is made up of a passionate and compassionate team of mental health professionals, many of whom have had suicide impact their lives. We assist people at any stage of their mental health treatment through individual therapy.
We are here because we’ve been there. Suicide Prevention Services of America is a non-profit dedicated to helping people along the continuum of care of suicide. We have been helping individuals in our community for over 25 years. Our mission is to open minds, save lives, and restore hope through prevention, intervention, and prevention services through education, advocacy, and collaboration in the community. SPSA is made up of a passionate and compassionate team of mental health professionals, many of whom have had suicide impact their lives. We assist people at any stage of their mental health treatment through individual therapy.
Are you or a loved one experiencing struggles that could benefit from a new approach? Many people experience symptoms from anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, stress, behavioral or academic concerns, life transitions or relationship issues that contribute to a life out of balance. Seeking support with these issues can help you regain equilibrium and achieve your goals. I start by establishing a connection with each client based on empathy and understanding each person’s perspective. I utilize an evidenced-based treatment approach and the bio-psycho-social approach tailored to the client’s unique needs.
Are you or a loved one experiencing struggles that could benefit from a new approach? Many people experience symptoms from anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, stress, behavioral or academic concerns, life transitions or relationship issues that contribute to a life out of balance. Seeking support with these issues can help you regain equilibrium and achieve your goals. I start by establishing a connection with each client based on empathy and understanding each person’s perspective. I utilize an evidenced-based treatment approach and the bio-psycho-social approach tailored to the client’s unique needs.
Tranda Covington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Aurora, IL 60542
More Therapists Nearby
Bridgette Maurino @ Calming Corner Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Batavia, IL 60510
I utilize aspects of art therapy along with play therapy.
Is your child, teen, and/or young adult struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, adhd, school stress, self-harm, etc. Has your child been admitted into an inpatient psychiatric unit or attend an intensive outpatient program (IOP)? Are you stressed from the struggles your child, teen, or young adult is going through?? CCT creates a safe, comfortable space for you, we provide support and feedback in a caring environment. It is my goal to help you learn skills and tools to better manage your or child's symptoms.
I utilize aspects of art therapy along with play therapy.
Is your child, teen, and/or young adult struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, adhd, school stress, self-harm, etc. Has your child been admitted into an inpatient psychiatric unit or attend an intensive outpatient program (IOP)? Are you stressed from the struggles your child, teen, or young adult is going through?? CCT creates a safe, comfortable space for you, we provide support and feedback in a caring environment. It is my goal to help you learn skills and tools to better manage your or child's symptoms.
We offer a safe space to support every person's experience: we offer person-centered counseling, family counseling, individual counseling, play therapy, gender affirming care, support for individuals with autism.
East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. is a private practice with an emphasis on the hierarchy of needs. EAC strives to support mental and emotional health for the individual and the family. East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. aims to support people dealing with issues of poverty and immigration, family, parenting, trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. EAC trabaja para promover y apoyar la salud mental y emocional de personas, parejas, familias y grupos. Ayudamos a quienes enfrentan estrés por pobreza e inmigración, familia, crianza, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, identidad de género y otros desafíos.
We offer a safe space to support every person's experience: we offer person-centered counseling, family counseling, individual counseling, play therapy, gender affirming care, support for individuals with autism.
East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. is a private practice with an emphasis on the hierarchy of needs. EAC strives to support mental and emotional health for the individual and the family. East Aurora Counseling, Ltd. aims to support people dealing with issues of poverty and immigration, family, parenting, trauma, depression, anxiety, and issues of gender identity and sexual orientation. EAC trabaja para promover y apoyar la salud mental y emocional de personas, parejas, familias y grupos. Ayudamos a quienes enfrentan estrés por pobreza e inmigración, familia, crianza, trauma, depresión, ansiedad, identidad de género y otros desafíos.
I utilize multiple different approaches to best help and address the presenting problem, including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I believe therapy is a process that helps you gain awareness of your strengths, behavior patterns, and thinking in order to provide the opportunity to make significant and meaningful changes in your life. I am dedicated to everyone I work with and committed to finding the best strategy to help you find peace and fulfillment. I am focused on helping you learn the skills to ultimately help yourself. After 20+ years of experience in the field, I have gained expertise with anxiety, emotional and behavioral challenges, parenting, mood disorders, self-esteem, ADHD, stress management, and family of origin issues.
I utilize multiple different approaches to best help and address the presenting problem, including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I believe therapy is a process that helps you gain awareness of your strengths, behavior patterns, and thinking in order to provide the opportunity to make significant and meaningful changes in your life. I am dedicated to everyone I work with and committed to finding the best strategy to help you find peace and fulfillment. I am focused on helping you learn the skills to ultimately help yourself. After 20+ years of experience in the field, I have gained expertise with anxiety, emotional and behavioral challenges, parenting, mood disorders, self-esteem, ADHD, stress management, and family of origin issues.
Jena Nicole Stombaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510 (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.
Christine Creighton
Art Therapist, LCPC, ATR-BC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I utilize a multi-sensory approach including art making, expressive play, movement, behavioral techniques, and developing coping strategies to help build communication skills and reduce problematic behaviors.
The focus of my art therapy practice is to help clients navigate life's challenges through self expression, processing emotions, increasing coping strategies, and fostering creative problem solving. I specialize in working with children and adolescents facing emotional or behavioral challenges including: school issues, mood disorders, grief/loss, trauma, low self esteem, communication issues, autism spectrum disorder, and developmental disabilities. I am also an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP).
I utilize a multi-sensory approach including art making, expressive play, movement, behavioral techniques, and developing coping strategies to help build communication skills and reduce problematic behaviors.
The focus of my art therapy practice is to help clients navigate life's challenges through self expression, processing emotions, increasing coping strategies, and fostering creative problem solving. I specialize in working with children and adolescents facing emotional or behavioral challenges including: school issues, mood disorders, grief/loss, trauma, low self esteem, communication issues, autism spectrum disorder, and developmental disabilities. I am also an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider (ADHD-CCSP).
I use modalities such as DBT, CBT, EMDR, Expressive Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Hello, I am devoted to empowering individuals by guiding them through the healing process. An impactful aspect of the therapeutic relationship is to provide you with tools you can use outside of the therapeutic space to improve your life and see change. The most important aspect of therapy for me involves building a trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I take great care to tailor each intervention to fit your goals and needs.
I use modalities such as DBT, CBT, EMDR, Expressive Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Hello, I am devoted to empowering individuals by guiding them through the healing process. An impactful aspect of the therapeutic relationship is to provide you with tools you can use outside of the therapeutic space to improve your life and see change. The most important aspect of therapy for me involves building a trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I take great care to tailor each intervention to fit your goals and needs.
At Stone Manor Counseling, we’re here to support you through life’s ups and downs with kindness and expertise. We offer help for a range of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, and stress. Our goal is to create a welcoming and understanding space where you can work through these difficulties and find the stability and clarity you’re seeking. We make sure our services are both affordable and accessible, so you get the support you need when you need it.
At Stone Manor Counseling, we’re here to support you through life’s ups and downs with kindness and expertise. We offer help for a range of challenges, including grief, anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions, and stress. Our goal is to create a welcoming and understanding space where you can work through these difficulties and find the stability and clarity you’re seeking. We make sure our services are both affordable and accessible, so you get the support you need when you need it.
Randall E Bennett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
I have over 30 years of clinical experience. Having been around for this long I have significant experience treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, Panic Disorders, ADD, addictions, relational difficulties, family turmoil, life transitions, parenting skills, physical health problems, and sexual dysfunction. I treat every client and condition with dignity and respect. Most importantly, I get results. When a client comes to see me they quickly begin to experience a sense of hope. I have the unique ability to create a safe environment where transformational change can and does occur!
I have over 30 years of clinical experience. Having been around for this long I have significant experience treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, OCD, Panic Disorders, ADD, addictions, relational difficulties, family turmoil, life transitions, parenting skills, physical health problems, and sexual dysfunction. I treat every client and condition with dignity and respect. Most importantly, I get results. When a client comes to see me they quickly begin to experience a sense of hope. I have the unique ability to create a safe environment where transformational change can and does occur!
Caitlin Reisel
Licensed clinical professional counselor, LCPC, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
Are you in need of extra support? I'm here to help! I have a passion for working with older children and adolescents struggling with behavioral and emotional concerns. Conditions I commonly address include depression, anxiety, high functioning autism, ADHD, school resistance, and much more. I also have a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy, a common approach to working with children with behavioral concerns on the autism spectrum. In addition to working with children, I enjoy working with adults with conditions such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, PTSD, and more.
Are you in need of extra support? I'm here to help! I have a passion for working with older children and adolescents struggling with behavioral and emotional concerns. Conditions I commonly address include depression, anxiety, high functioning autism, ADHD, school resistance, and much more. I also have a background in Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) Therapy, a common approach to working with children with behavioral concerns on the autism spectrum. In addition to working with children, I enjoy working with adults with conditions such as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, PTSD, and more.
Sara Gjorgjevik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Batavia, IL 60510
One of the hardest things we can do is be vulnerable with others. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will listen, validate, and support you as you share your experiences and challenges. Together, we will embrace, cope, and heal, from life's unpredictability as you flourish into your healthiest self. Everyone deserves to have their story heard and to live their life to their fullest.
One of the hardest things we can do is be vulnerable with others. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I will listen, validate, and support you as you share your experiences and challenges. Together, we will embrace, cope, and heal, from life's unpredictability as you flourish into your healthiest self. Everyone deserves to have their story heard and to live their life to their fullest.
See more therapy options for North Aurora
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for North Aurora
- Aurora
- Batavia
- Elburn
- Geneva
- Montgomery
- Naperville
- Oswego
- Saint Charles
- Sugar Grove
- Warrenville
- West Chicago
- Wheaton
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.