Play Therapy in Hammond, IN

Photo of Renee Heldman, LMHC, Counselor
Renee Heldman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hammond, IN 46323
My ideal client would be someone who is geared towards helping themselves and needing guidance on how to do so. Someone who has a grasp on the importance of the client putting in the work to truly help heal themselves but needing assistance ensuring they are doing things in a healthy and emotionally intelligent fashion. Talk therapy is very important for clients who even just want to come and vent, which I believe helps the mind unclutter.
My ideal client would be someone who is geared towards helping themselves and needing guidance on how to do so. Someone who has a grasp on the importance of the client putting in the work to truly help heal themselves but needing assistance ensuring they are doing things in a healthy and emotionally intelligent fashion. Talk therapy is very important for clients who even just want to come and vent, which I believe helps the mind unclutter.
(463) 946-5012 View (463) 946-5012
Photo of Jolynn Ness, LMHC, Counselor
Jolynn Ness
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hammond, IN 46323
My ideal client would struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, or mood-related issues. This client would be self-motivated and have identified goals that are being held back or complicated by their mental health issues. The client would be able to identify areas that are strengths and weaknesses for themselves and would be willing to put forth the effort that is growth and change. Also, this client would be open to new and different suggestions for coping strategies or ways of thinking about difficulties they may experience in order to learn and grow.
My ideal client would struggle with diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, or mood-related issues. This client would be self-motivated and have identified goals that are being held back or complicated by their mental health issues. The client would be able to identify areas that are strengths and weaknesses for themselves and would be willing to put forth the effort that is growth and change. Also, this client would be open to new and different suggestions for coping strategies or ways of thinking about difficulties they may experience in order to learn and grow.
(463) 263-3530 View (463) 263-3530
Photo of Ashley Elcock, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Elcock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hammond, IN 46320
I am a licensed master's level therapist holding a M.S. in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Purdue University NW. I have experience working with individuals, families, teens, and couples. Some of my areas of expertise include relationship concerns, communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, parenting skills and concerns, children's behavioral issues, difficult life transitions, and infidelity.
I am a licensed master's level therapist holding a M.S. in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy from Purdue University NW. I have experience working with individuals, families, teens, and couples. Some of my areas of expertise include relationship concerns, communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, self-esteem issues, parenting skills and concerns, children's behavioral issues, difficult life transitions, and infidelity.
(219) 240-0158 View (219) 240-0158
Photo of Dr. Nieves A. Esquivel, MA, PsyD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Nieves A. Esquivel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hammond, IN 46324
I am determined to help my clients feel aligned in all aspects of their lives. Everyone can use a little help, sometimes! I have worked with several clients who have struggled with some of life's biggest battles, losses, stressors, heartaches, and journeys. I am passionate and fully devoted to collaborating with my clients in fulfilling their own sense of happiness.
I am determined to help my clients feel aligned in all aspects of their lives. Everyone can use a little help, sometimes! I have worked with several clients who have struggled with some of life's biggest battles, losses, stressors, heartaches, and journeys. I am passionate and fully devoted to collaborating with my clients in fulfilling their own sense of happiness.
(219) 327-4810 View (219) 327-4810
Photo of Alnita Myles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alnita Myles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hammond, IN 46320  (Online Only)
Alnita Myles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has a strong sense of passion and commitment to this field that she truly loves. Alnita has had the honor and privilege throughout her professional career to join with others on their journey to gain understanding, acceptance as well as strive towards being the best person that they can be. It's Alnita’s desire to foster a holistic approach in every interaction. Her overall goal is to provide a relaxing, safe environment, where you are free to journey toward your intended destination.
Alnita Myles is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has a strong sense of passion and commitment to this field that she truly loves. Alnita has had the honor and privilege throughout her professional career to join with others on their journey to gain understanding, acceptance as well as strive towards being the best person that they can be. It's Alnita’s desire to foster a holistic approach in every interaction. Her overall goal is to provide a relaxing, safe environment, where you are free to journey toward your intended destination.
(708) 294-2981 View (708) 294-2981

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sandra E Moran, MS, LMHC, PC, Counselor
Sandra E Moran
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PC
Verified Verified
Dyer, IN 46311  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist working with people over 28years. I use an existential approach touching all theories to understand and help my clients, I have worked with both children and adults, one on one therapy, play therapy and art therapy. I work with parents of children and adolescents. I am familiar with RAD, DBT, CBT, and psychotherapy. Individual, family and sometimes couples. I work with body, mind and spirit and mindfulness of living in the now. I am familiar with DCS and the juvenile courts.
I am a psychotherapist working with people over 28years. I use an existential approach touching all theories to understand and help my clients, I have worked with both children and adults, one on one therapy, play therapy and art therapy. I work with parents of children and adolescents. I am familiar with RAD, DBT, CBT, and psychotherapy. Individual, family and sometimes couples. I work with body, mind and spirit and mindfulness of living in the now. I am familiar with DCS and the juvenile courts.
(219) 801-3989 View (219) 801-3989
Photo of Dr. Chisa A Roby, ALMFT, PhD, QMHP, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Chisa A Roby
Pastoral Counselor, ALMFT, PhD, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
Hello everybody! I specialize in marriage and family therapy, Christian counseling, and group and individual therapy. I help clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, chronic trauma, schizophrenia, and many more mental illnesses and disorders. I have experience in psychosocial rehabilitation, psycho-education, play therapy (for kids), and Christian coaching. My focus is to help individuals, families, and couples effectively manage their issues and improve their lives.
Hello everybody! I specialize in marriage and family therapy, Christian counseling, and group and individual therapy. I help clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, chronic trauma, schizophrenia, and many more mental illnesses and disorders. I have experience in psychosocial rehabilitation, psycho-education, play therapy (for kids), and Christian coaching. My focus is to help individuals, families, and couples effectively manage their issues and improve their lives.
(219) 600-3491 View (219) 600-3491
Photo of Nanette M Stokes - Nanette Stokes Family Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nanette Stokes Family Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dyer, IN 46311
As a graduate of Loyola University Chicago with 20+ yrs’ experience, I supervise a clinical team & bring evidence-based techniques, incl CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative, family systems, play therapy. We believe the single most important aspect of treatment is the sacred relationship between client and therapist. We welcome you to a safe, judgment-free environment for the entire family, (children, teens, adults, & the elderly). You will be heard, respected, coached, nurtured, and supported on your journey to heal & become your best self. We proudly promote inclusion & serve LGBTQ & diverse cultures. Christian counseling also available.
As a graduate of Loyola University Chicago with 20+ yrs’ experience, I supervise a clinical team & bring evidence-based techniques, incl CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative, family systems, play therapy. We believe the single most important aspect of treatment is the sacred relationship between client and therapist. We welcome you to a safe, judgment-free environment for the entire family, (children, teens, adults, & the elderly). You will be heard, respected, coached, nurtured, and supported on your journey to heal & become your best self. We proudly promote inclusion & serve LGBTQ & diverse cultures. Christian counseling also available.
(219) 327-6277 View (219) 327-6277
Photo of Dr. Danielle Hernandez, PhD, HSPP, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle Hernandez
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP, NCSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Munster, IN 46321  (Online Only)
I use CBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy to support clients as they learn to identify patterns, reshape stories, and heal relationships.
Therapy is an opportunity to be heard. I use a multi-cultural and anti-oppression framework to work with the opportunities and barriers faced by clients who hold marginalized identities, especially those within the QTIPOC community. I would be honored to walk with you and your family as you navigate sexuality, gender identity, coming out, and transitioning. I am experienced in working with adults and children on anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, parenting, relationship issues, and family conflict.
I use CBT, narrative therapy, expressive arts therapy, solution-focused therapy, and play therapy to support clients as they learn to identify patterns, reshape stories, and heal relationships.
Therapy is an opportunity to be heard. I use a multi-cultural and anti-oppression framework to work with the opportunities and barriers faced by clients who hold marginalized identities, especially those within the QTIPOC community. I would be honored to walk with you and your family as you navigate sexuality, gender identity, coming out, and transitioning. I am experienced in working with adults and children on anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, parenting, relationship issues, and family conflict.
(929) 547-8496 View (929) 547-8496
Photo of Rashina T C Viverette - Infinity Counseling and Wellness Center, M S, M F T, Pre-Licensed Professional
Infinity Counseling and Wellness Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, M S, M F T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
I offer evidence based therapy, utilizing techniques from Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as Family Therapy and experiential therapies.
I work with young people ages 3- 22 who have suffered loss: home, parent or loved one and other traumas. These young people often suffer with anxiety, depression, confusion, PTSD as well as some obsessive-compulsive tendencies. I work with those who have suicidal ideation, who struggle to overcome their prior trauma. They may not be aware the trauma is impacting and influencing their thoughts and behaviors today.
I offer evidence based therapy, utilizing techniques from Play Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as Family Therapy and experiential therapies.
I work with young people ages 3- 22 who have suffered loss: home, parent or loved one and other traumas. These young people often suffer with anxiety, depression, confusion, PTSD as well as some obsessive-compulsive tendencies. I work with those who have suicidal ideation, who struggle to overcome their prior trauma. They may not be aware the trauma is impacting and influencing their thoughts and behaviors today.
(219) 248-2596 View (219) 248-2596
Photo of Nicole B Lewis - Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery, MS, LMHC, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Gary, IN 46401
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
(219) 291-3931 View (219) 291-3931
Photo of Klaudia A Rogers, MSW
Klaudia A Rogers
MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
Life can bring us to difficult periods. It can be stressful and overwhelming. Hey It's okay. There are moments to where we need to acknowledge those times and consider our supports. Well I am here for you. If you are feeling frustrated, sad, anxious or overwhelmed with life, I am here for you! Whether you are experiencing any life transitions such as, relationship issues, life planning, or health issues, you deserve some peace and comfort in your life. This is your start. Give yourself a pat on the back at this time. You have made it to the starting point of evolving. Let's get to working!
Life can bring us to difficult periods. It can be stressful and overwhelming. Hey It's okay. There are moments to where we need to acknowledge those times and consider our supports. Well I am here for you. If you are feeling frustrated, sad, anxious or overwhelmed with life, I am here for you! Whether you are experiencing any life transitions such as, relationship issues, life planning, or health issues, you deserve some peace and comfort in your life. This is your start. Give yourself a pat on the back at this time. You have made it to the starting point of evolving. Let's get to working!
(219) 217-0331 View (219) 217-0331
Photo of Nina Hartman, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Nina Hartman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dyer, IN 46311
I always meet my clients where they are at. You are the director of our journey together and I'm your guide. My initial objective has always been to make my clients feel comfortable and relaxed to begin discussing what they would like to accomplish during our time together.
I always meet my clients where they are at. You are the director of our journey together and I'm your guide. My initial objective has always been to make my clients feel comfortable and relaxed to begin discussing what they would like to accomplish during our time together.
(219) 247-6159 View (219) 247-6159
Photo of Tanya Annette Burns, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tanya Annette Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAYC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
My expertise is in anxiety, depression, and anger management, I am dedicated to addressing a wide range of concerns that impact mental well-being. This includes depression, ADHD, family dynamics, and trauma whether adolescents are struggling with peer relationships, academic stress, emotional regulation, or communication problems.
My expertise is in anxiety, depression, and anger management, I am dedicated to addressing a wide range of concerns that impact mental well-being. This includes depression, ADHD, family dynamics, and trauma whether adolescents are struggling with peer relationships, academic stress, emotional regulation, or communication problems.
(219) 351-6757 View (219) 351-6757
Photo of Victoria Kubin, MA, LMHC-A, Pre-Licensed Professional
Victoria Kubin
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Dyer, IN 46311
Hi, I believe the client is the expert in their own life, and this means they should have a strong voice throughout the therapy process. I provide a therapeutic environment where clients feel comfortable to share thoughts and feelings, whether they are negative or positive, in the moment. I will definitely meet any of my client's where they are at. I believe most progress happens outside of therapy, so clients find most success when they are willing to be challenged or to experiment with new ideas.
Hi, I believe the client is the expert in their own life, and this means they should have a strong voice throughout the therapy process. I provide a therapeutic environment where clients feel comfortable to share thoughts and feelings, whether they are negative or positive, in the moment. I will definitely meet any of my client's where they are at. I believe most progress happens outside of therapy, so clients find most success when they are willing to be challenged or to experiment with new ideas.
(219) 500-7120 View (219) 500-7120
Photo of Ruth Ogden Halstead - Ruth's Family Therapy, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruth's Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
My focus is to empower families by improving their relationships and communication so family members are more of a support than a burden to each other. Family issues that I commonly treat are couple's communication, sexual issues in a relationship, mixed-agenda couples (where one is considering a divorce), co-parenting after a divorce, behavior issues with children, as well as abuse or neglect in families. I also help families where a member struggles with self-injury, depression, or anxiety.
My focus is to empower families by improving their relationships and communication so family members are more of a support than a burden to each other. Family issues that I commonly treat are couple's communication, sexual issues in a relationship, mixed-agenda couples (where one is considering a divorce), co-parenting after a divorce, behavior issues with children, as well as abuse or neglect in families. I also help families where a member struggles with self-injury, depression, or anxiety.
(219) 778-5887 View (219) 778-5887
Photo of Radmila Sasic, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Radmila Sasic
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
Waitlist for new clients
I use cutting edge interventions with often quick results. My training and focus is to help you dismantle faulty beliefs, discover your goals and values, and achieve personal growth, so that you can discover the freedom to live your best life. Therapy can be a powerful experience that can positively impact your life in various ways. Whether issues are social, couples, family, work, childhood, trauma, physical and/or emotional abuse, substance and/or alcohol use, anger, trust issues, adhd, academic, lack of motivation, anxiety or depression, therapy can be effective in helping you achieve your goals to live your best life!
I use cutting edge interventions with often quick results. My training and focus is to help you dismantle faulty beliefs, discover your goals and values, and achieve personal growth, so that you can discover the freedom to live your best life. Therapy can be a powerful experience that can positively impact your life in various ways. Whether issues are social, couples, family, work, childhood, trauma, physical and/or emotional abuse, substance and/or alcohol use, anger, trust issues, adhd, academic, lack of motivation, anxiety or depression, therapy can be effective in helping you achieve your goals to live your best life!
(219) 209-6885 View (219) 209-6885
Photo of Kelly Mucha, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Mucha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Griffith, IN 46319
Welcome! I strive to help others discover balance to live fully. Balance is an individually defined mindset. I provide mental health services for children, teens, adults and families. Please visit my website to schedule quickly. https://kellypmucha10.wixsite.com/kellymuchalcsw
Welcome! I strive to help others discover balance to live fully. Balance is an individually defined mindset. I provide mental health services for children, teens, adults and families. Please visit my website to schedule quickly. https://kellypmucha10.wixsite.com/kellymuchalcsw
(219) 641-3891 View (219) 641-3891
Photo of Denise Marie Davis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Marie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland, IN 46322
My ideal client is open to therapy and has a willingness to face the difficult feelings that come up. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population including those working through the issues society places on transgendered individuals.
My ideal client is open to therapy and has a willingness to face the difficult feelings that come up. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population including those working through the issues society places on transgendered individuals.
(219) 245-7322 View (219) 245-7322
Photo of Geneva Wesley - Helping Hands Family Services Inc, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helping Hands Family Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Our Mission is to provide a wide range of social services that deliver information, resources, and opportunities to those who face challenges in life. Our expertise includes individual, family, and group therapy, as well as case management and other psychosocial assistance that promotes personal, interpersonal, and social functioning. Here, we are passionate about mental health and remain dedicated to serving individuals, families, and the community in nurturing safe, healthy, and long-term relationships.
Our Mission is to provide a wide range of social services that deliver information, resources, and opportunities to those who face challenges in life. Our expertise includes individual, family, and group therapy, as well as case management and other psychosocial assistance that promotes personal, interpersonal, and social functioning. Here, we are passionate about mental health and remain dedicated to serving individuals, families, and the community in nurturing safe, healthy, and long-term relationships.
(219) 244-5511 View (219) 244-5511

See more therapy options for Hammond

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.