Play Therapy in Randolph County, IL

Photo of Whitney Perdun, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Whitney Perdun
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
Hello, I’m Whitney Perdun, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist working with individuals, families, and couples. I have eight years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, self esteem, marital/pre-marital, and emotional disturbance issues. I use a mix of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems, Grief Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Structural Planning. My goal is to help you build healthy relationships and find balance, understanding, peace, and safety.
Hello, I’m Whitney Perdun, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board Certified Art Therapist working with individuals, families, and couples. I have eight years of experience specializing in anxiety, depression, self esteem, marital/pre-marital, and emotional disturbance issues. I use a mix of approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Family Systems, Grief Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, and Structural Planning. My goal is to help you build healthy relationships and find balance, understanding, peace, and safety.
(872) 713-5161 View (872) 713-5161
Photo of Kelly Schenk, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kelly Schenk
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sparta, IL 62286
I offer trauma focused therapy in person, I work well with children and adolescents. I provide nature, art and play therapy. I see adults as well including bipolar and paranoid symptoms. I help solve self conflict and guide individuals through shadow work. I want my clients to trust their thoughts and emotions empowering them to reconnect to the world in a real way.
I offer trauma focused therapy in person, I work well with children and adolescents. I provide nature, art and play therapy. I see adults as well including bipolar and paranoid symptoms. I help solve self conflict and guide individuals through shadow work. I want my clients to trust their thoughts and emotions empowering them to reconnect to the world in a real way.
(618) 443-7231 View (618) 443-7231
Photo of Alexandra Foster, MSW, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Foster
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
(618) 740-3675 View (618) 740-3675
Photo of Megan Joy Bates, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Joy Bates
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
(618) 836-4717 View (618) 836-4717
Photo of Andrea Lopez, SSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Lopez
Pre-Licensed Professional, SSP
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
I use CBT, play-based, and person-centered therapy interventions.
I enjoy working with families from all backgrounds. My ideal clients are young children to adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and multicultural families, including first- and second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences. These clients often face anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural conflicts. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals are to build resilience, improve communication, and achieve a sense of belonging. I incorporate diverse techniques to address their unique needs, always taking a relational, cultural, and trauma- focused approach in my work.
I use CBT, play-based, and person-centered therapy interventions.
I enjoy working with families from all backgrounds. My ideal clients are young children to adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and multicultural families, including first- and second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences. These clients often face anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural conflicts. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals are to build resilience, improve communication, and achieve a sense of belonging. I incorporate diverse techniques to address their unique needs, always taking a relational, cultural, and trauma- focused approach in my work.
(618) 347-4297 View (618) 347-4297
Photo of Michelle Venegoni-Vigil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Venegoni-Vigil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
(618) 617-6712 View (618) 617-6712
Photo of Patricia Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
Sometimes in life we struggle with understanding why or how we ended up where we have. I believe that most of us attempt to manage the best we can given our current circumstances, struggles and challenges. Even then life can still seem insurmountable. I want you to know that change is possible, but doing it alone may feel like an added burden. I will work with you collaboratively to navigate the challenges at hand. My goal is to provide an unbiased, welcoming, and therapeutic environment.
Sometimes in life we struggle with understanding why or how we ended up where we have. I believe that most of us attempt to manage the best we can given our current circumstances, struggles and challenges. Even then life can still seem insurmountable. I want you to know that change is possible, but doing it alone may feel like an added burden. I will work with you collaboratively to navigate the challenges at hand. My goal is to provide an unbiased, welcoming, and therapeutic environment.
(618) 740-3832 View (618) 740-3832
Photo of Chris Burgess, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chris Burgess
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Chester, IL 62233
Courage isn’t having the strength to go on - it is going on when you don’t feel like you have the strength. You need an immense amount of courage to stay the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life. I am here to listen, and walk beside you even when it feels like everything and maybe everyone is against you.
Courage isn’t having the strength to go on - it is going on when you don’t feel like you have the strength. You need an immense amount of courage to stay the course and struggle even when you are almost ready to give up on life. I am here to listen, and walk beside you even when it feels like everything and maybe everyone is against you.
(618) 313-9819 View (618) 313-9819

Online Therapists

Photo of Angela A Perkinson, MA, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Angela A Perkinson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Alton, IL 62002
Additionally, I am working toward becoming a registered play therapist.
I can support and guide you on your journey toward wellness and having a more balanced life whether you are having a difficult time managing daily challenges and stressors, coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, or life changes.
Additionally, I am working toward becoming a registered play therapist.
I can support and guide you on your journey toward wellness and having a more balanced life whether you are having a difficult time managing daily challenges and stressors, coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, or life changes.
(618) 205-9437 View (618) 205-9437
Photo of Megan Bates, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Bates
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
I specialize in testing services ranging from the identification / diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (ADHD, autism, learning & intellectual disabilities) to complex psychiatric presentations in which mood, personality, social, and cognitive factors may be at play. My goal is to empower individuals who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, social regulations, or other challenges to utilize their strengths to achieve their goals. These goals vary by individual; from goals to improve their academic or occupational functioning, foster healthier relationships, take control of emotional responses, or to understand themselves.
(618) 495-3544 View (618) 495-3544
Photo of Sierra Larson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sierra Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mascoutah, IL 62258
Hi! I am Sierra Larson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with all age groups in areas such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I use a variety of treatments such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Play, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Practices to help you become who you want to become. I believe in growth, change, and that anyone is capable of making their life what they want it to be with some help.
Hi! I am Sierra Larson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of clinical experience working with all age groups in areas such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and stress. I use a variety of treatments such as CBT, DBT, TF-CBT, Play, Solution-Focused, and Strength-Based Practices to help you become who you want to become. I believe in growth, change, and that anyone is capable of making their life what they want it to be with some help.
(312) 626-7594 View (312) 626-7594
Photo of Andrea Lopez, SSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Lopez
Pre-Licensed Professional, SSP
Verified Verified
Vandalia, IL 62471
I use CBT, play-based, and person-centered therapy interventions.
I enjoy working with families from all backgrounds. My ideal clients are young children to adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and multicultural families, including first- and second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences. These clients often face anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural conflicts. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals are to build resilience, improve communication, and achieve a sense of belonging. I incorporate diverse techniques to address their unique needs, always taking a relational, cultural, and trauma- focused approach in my work.
I use CBT, play-based, and person-centered therapy interventions.
I enjoy working with families from all backgrounds. My ideal clients are young children to adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and multicultural families, including first- and second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences. These clients often face anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural conflicts. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals are to build resilience, improve communication, and achieve a sense of belonging. I incorporate diverse techniques to address their unique needs, always taking a relational, cultural, and trauma- focused approach in my work.
(618) 408-1701 View (618) 408-1701
Photo of Brandy Anderson Murray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandy Anderson Murray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
I also have years of experience working with children utilizing play therapy.
My name is Brandy Murray, and I am so glad you're here. You deserve to be seen, heard and validated. You have a unique life experience that plays into your entire being. I’m here to offer compassionate guidance and unconditional support, in a nonjudgmental, open and affirming atmosphere.
I also have years of experience working with children utilizing play therapy.
My name is Brandy Murray, and I am so glad you're here. You deserve to be seen, heard and validated. You have a unique life experience that plays into your entire being. I’m here to offer compassionate guidance and unconditional support, in a nonjudgmental, open and affirming atmosphere.
(618) 787-1972 View (618) 787-1972
Photo of Evonne L. Stephenson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Evonne L. Stephenson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Metropolis, IL 62960
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Oftentimes life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Oftentimes life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 507-5219 View (618) 507-5219
Photo of Andrea Lopez, SSP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Andrea Lopez
Pre-Licensed Professional, SSP
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
I use CBT, play-based, and person-centered therapy interventions.
I enjoy working with families from all backgrounds. My ideal clients are young children to adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and multicultural families, including first- and second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences. These clients often face anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural conflicts. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals are to build resilience, improve communication, and achieve a sense of belonging. I incorporate diverse techniques to address their unique needs, always taking a relational, cultural, and trauma- focused approach in my work.
I use CBT, play-based, and person-centered therapy interventions.
I enjoy working with families from all backgrounds. My ideal clients are young children to adolescents, LGBTQ+ individuals, and multicultural families, including first- and second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences. These clients often face anxiety, identity struggles, and cultural conflicts. They need a safe, supportive space to explore their feelings and experiences. Their goals are to build resilience, improve communication, and achieve a sense of belonging. I incorporate diverse techniques to address their unique needs, always taking a relational, cultural, and trauma- focused approach in my work.
(618) 602-0969 View (618) 602-0969
Photo of Alexandra Foster, MSW, QMHP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexandra Foster
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Marion, IL 62959
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
(618) 740-3653 View (618) 740-3653
Photo of Kathrin Alexandra Simac, MA, LCPC
Kathrin Alexandra Simac
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, IL 62062
I practice EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT and Child Play Interaction Therapy.
Life can be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow, change, and live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I believe that the self- work you do will echo throughout every part of your life. I meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathic and compassionate space where you feel safe.
I practice EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT and Child Play Interaction Therapy.
Life can be difficult and hard to navigate, but I believe that we all have the strength and resilience to grow, change, and live a more fulfilling life. As a therapist, I believe that the self- work you do will echo throughout every part of your life. I meet people where they are and walk alongside them to where they want to be. It is important for me to create a space for you to feel comfortable, and open. My goals are to help you reach your goals in a supportive, empathic and compassionate space where you feel safe.
(618) 701-3688 View (618) 701-3688
Photo of Julie Marie Diaz, LCPC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Julie Marie Diaz
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, play therapy, family systems therapy to aide in your therapy journey.
I am excited to connect with you to explore your insights and desires thus establishing your personal and professional goals.
I have been trained in a variety of different therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, DBT, CBT, play therapy, family systems therapy to aide in your therapy journey.
I am excited to connect with you to explore your insights and desires thus establishing your personal and professional goals.
(618) 591-1558 View (618) 591-1558
Photo of Jenny Langley, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jenny Langley
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, IL 62062
Throughout my clinical experience, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, anger management, trauma, stress management, and parenting. My preferred treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and Trauma Focused-CBT.
Throughout my clinical experience, I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of areas including anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, anger management, trauma, stress management, and parenting. My preferred treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, and Trauma Focused-CBT.
(618) 298-5111 View (618) 298-5111
Photo of Laura Adamgbo, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Adamgbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alton, IL 62002
I'm a child and adolescent therapist and use play therapy in session with younger clients.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
I'm a child and adolescent therapist and use play therapy in session with younger clients.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
(314) 925-1850 View (314) 925-1850

See more therapy options for Randolph County

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.