Play Therapy in Yorkville, IL
Miranda Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560
I provide direct therapy services using a strengths-based approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
I provide direct therapy services using a strengths-based approach, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Play Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
In today's world there can be many conflicting thoughts and feelings; my hope is to meet each client where they are in the confusion. Let's build a plan together to address the needs and struggles that have brought you to my Bio. I strive to model grace, and compassion first. No matter what brings you to Compassion Connection Counseling, I hope to help by building a plan that facilitates compassion, clarity, calm, bringing into focus your creativity and connectedness for change! It is my heart to encourage others to see change as less threatening, as life can be full of them. I have experience working with all ages and stages.
In today's world there can be many conflicting thoughts and feelings; my hope is to meet each client where they are in the confusion. Let's build a plan together to address the needs and struggles that have brought you to my Bio. I strive to model grace, and compassion first. No matter what brings you to Compassion Connection Counseling, I hope to help by building a plan that facilitates compassion, clarity, calm, bringing into focus your creativity and connectedness for change! It is my heart to encourage others to see change as less threatening, as life can be full of them. I have experience working with all ages and stages.
Shannon Pociecha
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
Each client has their own unique story and my job is to adjust to what the client needs utilizing an integrated approach of evidenced based practices. I gravitate toward strength based treatment. For younger clients this tends to include a behavioral plan and parent coaching to transfer skills across environments. Individual therapy, for all ages, may include: behavior modification, social skills training, CBT or DBT pending the individuals level of cognitive functioning and identified goals. The idea is to build upon already existing strengths and promote adaptive behaviors to improve overall functioning.
I’m Nicole, a marriage and family therapy graduate from Capella University, and I work as a pre-licensed counselor at Joi Counseling. I’ve always had compassion for people going through difficult times in life. I recognize that we all need a little extra guidance when things are tough. As a counselor, my goal is to help you become the best version of yourself possible. I want you to know that you have the capacity and ability to effect change. I am ready to work together with you to accomplish shared goals, and I can modify my style to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families.
I’m Nicole, a marriage and family therapy graduate from Capella University, and I work as a pre-licensed counselor at Joi Counseling. I’ve always had compassion for people going through difficult times in life. I recognize that we all need a little extra guidance when things are tough. As a counselor, my goal is to help you become the best version of yourself possible. I want you to know that you have the capacity and ability to effect change. I am ready to work together with you to accomplish shared goals, and I can modify my style to meet the needs of individuals, couples, and families.
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.
My name is Krysta, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. My approach involves being flexible, compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental, open, and transparent in order to help clients reach their goals. I assists clients in empowering themselves by building skills, promoting insight, and gaining confidence to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
My name is Krysta, and I am an owner and psychotherapist at Peace in Counseling, PLLC, a virtual practice based out of Naperville, IL. My approach involves being flexible, compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental, open, and transparent in order to help clients reach their goals. I assists clients in empowering themselves by building skills, promoting insight, and gaining confidence to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Cloie Mcphail
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Yorkville, IL 60560 (Online Only)
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
I have a specialty in working with members of the LGBTQIA community. I consider and provide care that is specific to the needs of these individuals. I am able to provide individual, family, couples, and group therapy to these clients. I assist in linking clients to medical professionals, if necessary, for living an authentic life and affirming their gender identity. I have knowledge specific to issues of this population including sexual orientation and gender exploration, gender transition, gender dysphoria, relationship and sexual issues, and family/social issues.
Dr. Eric Ward
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Yorkville, IL 60560 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a mental health clinician with more than 30 years of experience working with individuals and couples. I have a direct, plainspoken style and I incorporate a lot of humor in my work with clients. Mostly, I can help you take a step back and get a realistic view of what's going on in your life. Then we'll start finding solutions. And, if I'm not the right fit for you, one of our team of therapists, psychiatric medication experts, and coaches help people manage a wide variety of problems.
Hello! I am a mental health clinician with more than 30 years of experience working with individuals and couples. I have a direct, plainspoken style and I incorporate a lot of humor in my work with clients. Mostly, I can help you take a step back and get a realistic view of what's going on in your life. Then we'll start finding solutions. And, if I'm not the right fit for you, one of our team of therapists, psychiatric medication experts, and coaches help people manage a wide variety of problems.
More Therapists Nearby
The goal of my work with clients is to hold up a mirror & to help you recognize the role you play in each of your relationships.
I envision ideal clients as individuals or couples seeking deeper understanding & connection, dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. At Graceful Therapy, my group practice I started almost 6 years ago, we cater to diverse needs. We provide grace-filled therapy to help clients achieve their unique goals. Seek out one of our amazing clinicians and see all the different specialties & therapy types we are able to offer at Graceful Therapy. Whether it be animal based therapy, art therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, we can meet you where you're at & provide the support you are looking for.
The goal of my work with clients is to hold up a mirror & to help you recognize the role you play in each of your relationships.
I envision ideal clients as individuals or couples seeking deeper understanding & connection, dealing with issues like anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and life transitions. At Graceful Therapy, my group practice I started almost 6 years ago, we cater to diverse needs. We provide grace-filled therapy to help clients achieve their unique goals. Seek out one of our amazing clinicians and see all the different specialties & therapy types we are able to offer at Graceful Therapy. Whether it be animal based therapy, art therapy, brainspotting, EMDR, we can meet you where you're at & provide the support you are looking for.
I am particularly passionate about utilizing play, sand tray, and EMDR therapies to treat youth with developmental/attachment trauma.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
I am particularly passionate about utilizing play, sand tray, and EMDR therapies to treat youth with developmental/attachment trauma.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
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 theoretical orientations are solution-focused, cognitive, play therapy, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy.
I am a bilingual therapist, providing psychotherapy to Spanish and English speaking clients. My approach is compassionate and focused on leveraging your strengths to lead towards a worthwhile life. I tailor my approach to the individual with whom I work. This includes their needs, culture, values, personality and goals. Through our work we will examine your thoughts, actions and behaviors and move towards empowering you to realize more purpose, reach higher fulfillment and build your own self esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents.
My theoretical orientations are solution-focused, cognitive, play therapy, DBT, family therapy and couples therapy.
I am a bilingual therapist, providing psychotherapy to Spanish and English speaking clients. My approach is compassionate and focused on leveraging your strengths to lead towards a worthwhile life. I tailor my approach to the individual with whom I work. This includes their needs, culture, values, personality and goals. Through our work we will examine your thoughts, actions and behaviors and move towards empowering you to realize more purpose, reach higher fulfillment and build your own self esteem. I work with individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents.
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.
My areas of specialization include trauma-informed care, mindfulness-based interventions, play therapy, DBT, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
My areas of specialization include trauma-informed care, mindfulness-based interventions, play therapy, DBT, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I passionately believe in the transformative power of embracing one's inner shine and strength. With warmth and empathy, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through a strengths-based approach, I help individuals recognize their unique talents, resilience, and capacity for growth. My therapeutic style is grounded in authenticity and compassion, creating a calm space for clients to explore challenges, recognize their inherent strengths, and move toward solutions. I work to help clients embrace their authenticity, shine brightly in their lives, and harness their inner strength to overcome obstacles.
I tailor my interventions to your needs and preferences, drawing from various modalities such as ACT, DBT, CBT, Psychodynamic, Client-Centered, Strengths Based, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused.
You have the power to shape your own life. I believe that every client has a unique story that deserves to be heard and respected. I have a passion for helping others achieve their goals and overcome their challenges, which stems from my own experience as a competitive athlete. I use a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, which means that I focus on your existing resources and abilities, and I collaborate with you to find the best solutions for your needs. You can count on me to be your ally and advocate throughout your therapeutic journey.
I tailor my interventions to your needs and preferences, drawing from various modalities such as ACT, DBT, CBT, Psychodynamic, Client-Centered, Strengths Based, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused.
You have the power to shape your own life. I believe that every client has a unique story that deserves to be heard and respected. I have a passion for helping others achieve their goals and overcome their challenges, which stems from my own experience as a competitive athlete. I use a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy, which means that I focus on your existing resources and abilities, and I collaborate with you to find the best solutions for your needs. You can count on me to be your ally and advocate throughout your therapeutic journey.
Elizabeth M Davy, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sugar Grove, IL 60554
In addition to treating children, adolescents and adults with depression and anxiety, I have extensive training and experience in play therapy, particularly with children who have witnessed or directly experienced trauma (including childhood sexual abuse, parental murder, parental suicide, and child pornography), and chronic illness including childhood cancer and diabetes. I am developing an expertise with children who express gender variance. I enjoy working with women around issues of stress and life balance. I am passionate about therapy and supervision work with other therapists who are experiencing compassion fatigue.
In addition to treating children, adolescents and adults with depression and anxiety, I have extensive training and experience in play therapy, particularly with children who have witnessed or directly experienced trauma (including childhood sexual abuse, parental murder, parental suicide, and child pornography), and chronic illness including childhood cancer and diabetes. I am developing an expertise with children who express gender variance. I enjoy working with women around issues of stress and life balance. I am passionate about therapy and supervision work with other therapists who are experiencing compassion fatigue.
Melissa Murillo is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois. Melissa attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, receiving her Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) and Masters of Social Worker (MSW) with a specialization in clinical mental health. Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional(CDVP) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP).
Melissa Murillo is a bilingual Licensed Social Worker (LSW) in Illinois. Melissa attended the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, receiving her Bachelors of Social Work (BSW) and Masters of Social Worker (MSW) with a specialization in clinical mental health. Additionally, Melissa is a Certified Domestic Violence Professional(CDVP) and a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP).
I help my clients find and build upon their strengths. Ideally, my clients will be motivated to learn and grow to become more confident in their own identity, values and life goals. I will nurture and support them through this process, helping to build strategies and practices to cope with life's challenges.
I help my clients find and build upon their strengths. Ideally, my clients will be motivated to learn and grow to become more confident in their own identity, values and life goals. I will nurture and support them through this process, helping to build strategies and practices to cope with life's challenges.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both Illinois and Florida (telehealth only). I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Aurora University in 2006 and my Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work from Aurora University in 2010. I have been working in the field since 2006 in various settings including community mental health centers, residential/group homes, homeless shelters, and hospitals. I specializes in depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting difficulties, crisis intervention, and LGBT issues. I work with clients across the life span in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Heather A Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oswego, IL 60543
I flourish working with diverse clients, from children (age 5+) to adults, couples, and families. My passion is helping individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. Using evidence-based methods tailored to each client's needs, I empower them to identify goals and achieve greater life satisfaction. My solution-focused approach equips them with the tools and strategies they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and build a more fulfilling future, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
I flourish working with diverse clients, from children (age 5+) to adults, couples, and families. My passion is helping individuals and couples overcome challenges like anxiety, OCD, depression, and ADHD. Using evidence-based methods tailored to each client's needs, I empower them to identify goals and achieve greater life satisfaction. My solution-focused approach equips them with the tools and strategies they need to navigate life's challenges with confidence and build a more fulfilling future, fostering stronger relationships and a greater sense of purpose.
See more therapy options for Yorkville
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Yorkville
- Batavia
- Bolingbrook
- Crest Hill
- Elburn
- Minooka
- Montgomery
- Naperville
- North Aurora
- Oswego
- Plainfield
- Shorewood
- Warrenville
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.