Play Therapy in Warrenville, IL

Photo of Laura Schleifer, MS, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Laura Schleifer
Counselor, MS, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I also help children, youth and families on many issues, incorporating mindfulness, art, play and creativity to ease stress and promote change.
Are you struggling with a painful situation? Have you lost something precious to you? Do you feel "stuck" and uncertain of which way to turn? Are you a parent who is worried about your child? Is your family in conflict? Are you feeling overwhelmed? If you are ready to regain control of your life, this is the perfect time to seek help. I offer a warm, supportive environment and strive to instill hope while empowering people to make meaningful changes in their lives. I am easy to connect with. Together, we can reduce your anxiety and depression so you can experience greater inner peace.
I also help children, youth and families on many issues, incorporating mindfulness, art, play and creativity to ease stress and promote change.
Are you struggling with a painful situation? Have you lost something precious to you? Do you feel "stuck" and uncertain of which way to turn? Are you a parent who is worried about your child? Is your family in conflict? Are you feeling overwhelmed? If you are ready to regain control of your life, this is the perfect time to seek help. I offer a warm, supportive environment and strive to instill hope while empowering people to make meaningful changes in their lives. I am easy to connect with. Together, we can reduce your anxiety and depression so you can experience greater inner peace.
(708) 546-3968 View (708) 546-3968
Photo of Ciara Ward, MSW, LCSW, CAMS-II, MCR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ciara Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CAMS-II, MCR
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
All therapy starts with collaboration at it's core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and we commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. We offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. Our services are offered to adults and teens, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life's changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+.
All therapy starts with collaboration at it's core. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and we commend you for considering therapy as a tool for self-exploration and growth. Many find that building a supportive and interactive relationship with their therapist contributes to the overall effectiveness of therapy. We offer a safe and non-judgmental environment, with a commitment to placing the highest priority on your well-being. Our services are offered to adults and teens, specializing in difficulties related to: stress, coping with life's changes, anxiety, trauma, identity, body image, self-esteem, and LGBTQ+.
(331) 246-1108 View (331) 246-1108
Photo of Angela Pezza Conway, PsyD, Psychologist
Angela Pezza Conway
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has over 15 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, in a variety of mental health settings including: hospitals, private practice, therapeutic day schools, and community mental health. I specialize in the treatment of Mood, Personality, Trauma and Attachment disorder. My special interests include Attachment Disorder, ADHD, Issues regarding Divorce, Adoption Issues, Personality Disorders, Parent Education/Training, Post-Partum Depression and Transgender issues.
(630) 884-4366 View (630) 884-4366
Photo of Ashley Ullyot, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Ullyot
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
I believe that each person is deserving of fulfillment in every relationship. My ideal client is wanting to be more aware of relational patterns so that they can recreate the moments they desire most. My goal is to help people feel heard and accepted within their relationships. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified to maintain connection.
I believe that each person is deserving of fulfillment in every relationship. My ideal client is wanting to be more aware of relational patterns so that they can recreate the moments they desire most. My goal is to help people feel heard and accepted within their relationships. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified to maintain connection.
(331) 207-9184 View (331) 207-9184
Photo of Caitlyn Jablonowski, LCPC, ATR, Counselor
Caitlyn Jablonowski
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
Seeking therapy can be an intimidating experience. My goal is to ease any anxiety around asking for help by creating a safe space for you to be authentic, regardless of what you're going through. I view life's challenges through a trauma-informed, culturally competent lens and utilize various therapeutic approaches catered to your specific needs. I specialize in art therapy, and can incorporate the use of art into session if you are interested in processing your experiences and emotions in a more creative, expressive way. Please know that to engage in art therapy, no prior art experience is needed!
Seeking therapy can be an intimidating experience. My goal is to ease any anxiety around asking for help by creating a safe space for you to be authentic, regardless of what you're going through. I view life's challenges through a trauma-informed, culturally competent lens and utilize various therapeutic approaches catered to your specific needs. I specialize in art therapy, and can incorporate the use of art into session if you are interested in processing your experiences and emotions in a more creative, expressive way. Please know that to engage in art therapy, no prior art experience is needed!
(630) 793-0561 View (630) 793-0561
Photo of Tracy Takeda, MA, LCPC
Tracy Takeda
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am honored to work with clients who are willing to share their stories, those who might feel ambivalent about counseling, maybe coming for the first time, to those that are highly motivated for support. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, identity and meaning, faith/spiritual and family/relational concerns and patterns who might be seeking change, insight, support and additional skills. I value my diverse work in the community (group homes, day school, outpatient counseling and university counseling) with all ages (3 to 85) as believe they have developed me to be a well-rounded clinician.
I am honored to work with clients who are willing to share their stories, those who might feel ambivalent about counseling, maybe coming for the first time, to those that are highly motivated for support. I work with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, identity and meaning, faith/spiritual and family/relational concerns and patterns who might be seeking change, insight, support and additional skills. I value my diverse work in the community (group homes, day school, outpatient counseling and university counseling) with all ages (3 to 85) as believe they have developed me to be a well-rounded clinician.
(331) 866-3597 View (331) 866-3597
Photo of Renee Roscoe-Morrison, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee Roscoe-Morrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I believe the relationship between therapist and client is integral to positive therapeutic outcomes. I enjoy helping clients discover their own creative potential in addressing the life issues they face, so I tailor therapy to suit each person's distinctive needs and desired well-being. I am interested in serving children and parents: for over a decade, I have worked with hundreds of children and parents in the field of music, and the understanding I have gained through this work greatly enriches the therapeutic process, and gives me valuable perspectives on developmental, familial, and parenting issues.
I believe the relationship between therapist and client is integral to positive therapeutic outcomes. I enjoy helping clients discover their own creative potential in addressing the life issues they face, so I tailor therapy to suit each person's distinctive needs and desired well-being. I am interested in serving children and parents: for over a decade, I have worked with hundreds of children and parents in the field of music, and the understanding I have gained through this work greatly enriches the therapeutic process, and gives me valuable perspectives on developmental, familial, and parenting issues.
(331) 258-8762 View (331) 258-8762
Photo of Jennifer Moreno - S & J Wellness PLLC, LCPC
S & J Wellness PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
We are a niche therapy practice specializing in PTSD and trauma, adoption and attachment issues, complex family issues and dynamics, and culturally responsive therapy. We see couples, families, and individuals. Our clients feel distressed due to family and attachment issues, trauma and PTSD, and are seeking recovery and relief from trauma, anxiety, and other symptoms. We understand how issues in childhood, issues in our relationships, and conflict within our family dynamics can contribute to depression, anxiety and PTSD. We are neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming and provide therapy in English, Spanish and French.
We are a niche therapy practice specializing in PTSD and trauma, adoption and attachment issues, complex family issues and dynamics, and culturally responsive therapy. We see couples, families, and individuals. Our clients feel distressed due to family and attachment issues, trauma and PTSD, and are seeking recovery and relief from trauma, anxiety, and other symptoms. We understand how issues in childhood, issues in our relationships, and conflict within our family dynamics can contribute to depression, anxiety and PTSD. We are neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ affirming and provide therapy in English, Spanish and French.
(331) 231-2829 View (331) 231-2829
Photo of Cynthia M Stafford, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Cynthia M Stafford
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
Are you struggling in your personal life or relationships? Counseling is the first step to becoming healthy and fulfilled. I have 30+ years of experience walking alongside people of all ages, including couples and families, to help them on their journey of personal growth. We will work cooperatively together to reach your goals through proven therapeutic interventions, including stress management, anger management, communication skills, emotion regulation, relaxation techniques, cognitive/behavioral therapy, & EMDR. Let's get started working toward your goals.
(630) 449-7745 View (630) 449-7745
Photo of Simone Schmale, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Simone Schmale
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
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.
(630) 557-6933 View (630) 557-6933
Photo of Audrey Kassal, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Kassal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
I am a Licensed Social Worker providing individual therapy to adolescents to adults. I have experience providing individual and group counseling and crisis intervention to children and adolescents in the school setting. I earned my Master’s Degree at Aurora University and have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, low self-esteem issues, and other behavioral challenges.
I am a Licensed Social Worker providing individual therapy to adolescents to adults. I have experience providing individual and group counseling and crisis intervention to children and adolescents in the school setting. I earned my Master’s Degree at Aurora University and have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm behaviors, anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, low self-esteem issues, and other behavioral challenges.
(331) 373-4394 View (331) 373-4394
Photo of Jodi R Metcalf, MS, LMFT, ACHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jodi R Metcalf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
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.
(779) 207-3802 View (779) 207-3802
Photo of Amy Jeffers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Jeffers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Warrenville, IL 60555
My ideal client is anyone willing to come to counseling and be open to the process! Regardless of where a client may be starting from or what they’re hoping to accomplish, I believe that anyone who is willing to show up and engage in the therapeutic process can benefit, and I am happy to guide and support them on their journey. I believe I would be an especially good fit for those clients who want to learn more about themselves and the “why” behind their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts; hope to develop a deeper, more genuine connection with themselves and others; and can appreciate some gentle challenging when appropriate.
My ideal client is anyone willing to come to counseling and be open to the process! Regardless of where a client may be starting from or what they’re hoping to accomplish, I believe that anyone who is willing to show up and engage in the therapeutic process can benefit, and I am happy to guide and support them on their journey. I believe I would be an especially good fit for those clients who want to learn more about themselves and the “why” behind their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts; hope to develop a deeper, more genuine connection with themselves and others; and can appreciate some gentle challenging when appropriate.
(331) 207-9493 View (331) 207-9493

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tamar Friedman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamar Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Hello! I'm Tamar, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children and their families. I have more than 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker & have worked with children and families in a variety of different settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, schools and inpatient psychiatry. I have a warm, supportive and empathic approach and use my knowledge of child development, attachment, play therapy, mindfulness, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy to help children manage their feelings, improve self esteem, work through challenges and improve behavior.
Hello! I'm Tamar, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who specializes in working with children and their families. I have more than 20 years of experience as a clinical social worker & have worked with children and families in a variety of different settings including private practice, outpatient mental health clinics, schools and inpatient psychiatry. I have a warm, supportive and empathic approach and use my knowledge of child development, attachment, play therapy, mindfulness, trauma and cognitive behavioral therapy to help children manage their feelings, improve self esteem, work through challenges and improve behavior.
(331) 316-8284 View (331) 316-8284
Photo of Julia Friesen, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Friesen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
I have received training in Trust Based Relational Intervention® and also Thera play® for families with children with trauma-based behaviors.
Are you looking to increase your sense of effectiveness with family, work, and friends? I assist individuals and families in sorting out what current and past factors may be contributing to their situation, in order to resolve issues and create space for healing. I am a psychotherapist experienced in working with adults, children and families with a variety of concerns. With adults and teens, my approaches include insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy and parent coaching.
I have received training in Trust Based Relational Intervention® and also Thera play® for families with children with trauma-based behaviors.
Are you looking to increase your sense of effectiveness with family, work, and friends? I assist individuals and families in sorting out what current and past factors may be contributing to their situation, in order to resolve issues and create space for healing. I am a psychotherapist experienced in working with adults, children and families with a variety of concerns. With adults and teens, my approaches include insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral therapy. When working with children, I often use play therapy and parent coaching.
(773) 599-2961 View (773) 599-2961
Photo of Dr. Valerie Maty, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Dr. Valerie Maty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT, ATR-BC, SEP, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (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.
(331) 244-4868 x4 View (331) 244-4868 x4
Photo of Gabriel A Gonzalez, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gabriel A Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Using innovative approaches like play and existential therapy, he fosters healing and growth.
Gabe's ideal client is anyone seeking space to process life transitions, thoughts, or who needs extra support. With his own experiences in mental health and my graduate studies, Gabe understands the importance of meeting clients where they are in their mental health journey. He prioritizes creating an empathic relationship between client and counselor to foster a safe, therapeutic environment and promote overall individual wellness. Whether you're navigating changes or need a supportive presence, Gabe is here to help you find clarity and balance in your life.
Using innovative approaches like play and existential therapy, he fosters healing and growth.
Gabe's ideal client is anyone seeking space to process life transitions, thoughts, or who needs extra support. With his own experiences in mental health and my graduate studies, Gabe understands the importance of meeting clients where they are in their mental health journey. He prioritizes creating an empathic relationship between client and counselor to foster a safe, therapeutic environment and promote overall individual wellness. Whether you're navigating changes or need a supportive presence, Gabe is here to help you find clarity and balance in your life.
(331) 267-6227 View (331) 267-6227
Photo of Taranjit (Tara) K Bhatia - Amity Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Amity Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
Are you chronically worried and/or unhappy -- and can't "snap out of it?" Maybe you're stuck. Perhaps you feel lonely and misunderstood. I'd like to give you personal attention, understand you, and provide you warm, genuine, and nonjudgmental support and guidance. Together, we can identify and understand the causes of your pain, reinstill hope, and find ways for you to cope and regain pleasure in the here-and-now. My research on loss and mother-daughter relationships strengthens my work with individuals; couples; gender issues; parenting; anxiety and depression; and adjustment to loss and overall life changes.
(630) 448-8000 View (630) 448-8000
Photo of Shanna Hoekstra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shanna Hoekstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Hi there! If you are reading this right now, then I am so grateful that you found me. I think that it is so important to find someone that you are able to connect with on a very personal level as you begin the process of sharing your story. I hope that with my professional and personal experiences, I can be a strong support for you as you begin this very meaningful and important journey in your life.
Hi there! If you are reading this right now, then I am so grateful that you found me. I think that it is so important to find someone that you are able to connect with on a very personal level as you begin the process of sharing your story. I hope that with my professional and personal experiences, I can be a strong support for you as you begin this very meaningful and important journey in your life.
(331) 256-2766 View (331) 256-2766
Photo of Annamarie Savio, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annamarie Savio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
What we experience changes how we see the world and our place in it. Through the painful and difficult times, I come alongside you and help you navigate through, so you grow and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. I help you to identify specific triggers and process emotions while guiding you to learn new ways to achieve your goals. My purpose is to help you feel supported as we work together to identify and address the underlying causes of concern.
What we experience changes how we see the world and our place in it. Through the painful and difficult times, I come alongside you and help you navigate through, so you grow and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. I help you to identify specific triggers and process emotions while guiding you to learn new ways to achieve your goals. My purpose is to help you feel supported as we work together to identify and address the underlying causes of concern.
(847) 469-1803 View (847) 469-1803

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.