Play Therapy in Portage, IN

Photo of Tiffany Green, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
(219) 912-2142 View (219) 912-2142
Rebecca J Whited
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
Waitlist for new clients
My training in play therapy allows me to work with the very young and children who are unable to address the problem with words.
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
My training in play therapy allows me to work with the very young and children who are unable to address the problem with words.
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
(219) 961-3973 View (219) 961-3973
Photo of Tiffany L Green-Mikell, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, RYT-250, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany L Green-Mikell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, RYT-250
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
(219) 695-6189 View (219) 695-6189
Photo of S. Paige Maddex, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
S. Paige Maddex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
Stephanie "Paige" Maddex is a licensed clinical social worker and mother of 4 who lives Chesterton, IN. Paige began her career in the public school system as a school social worker and began her own practice in 2017. As a therapist, Paige is passionate about helping people understand themselves and identify their goals. She understands that trauma can keep people "stuck" and that working through pain can be freeing. In therapy, Paige helps clients work towards work/life balance, wellness goals and to develop healthy relationships.
Stephanie "Paige" Maddex is a licensed clinical social worker and mother of 4 who lives Chesterton, IN. Paige began her career in the public school system as a school social worker and began her own practice in 2017. As a therapist, Paige is passionate about helping people understand themselves and identify their goals. She understands that trauma can keep people "stuck" and that working through pain can be freeing. In therapy, Paige helps clients work towards work/life balance, wellness goals and to develop healthy relationships.
(219) 245-3081 View (219) 245-3081

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Diane K Olson-Burkhardt, LMHC, NCC, RPT-S, Counselor
Diane K Olson-Burkhardt
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Waitlist for new clients
I have advanced training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Hypnosis, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Supervision.
In this stressful world that we live in today, the essential activities that we all forget to participate in are to: Live, Breathe, & Play! I strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment for those that I serve so that they may achieve their optimum health and wellness. In my practice, I utilize client-centered, integrative and holistic techniques to aid in helping persons obtain their maximum potential in their life and their relationships.
I have advanced training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Hypnosis, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Supervision.
In this stressful world that we live in today, the essential activities that we all forget to participate in are to: Live, Breathe, & Play! I strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment for those that I serve so that they may achieve their optimum health and wellness. In my practice, I utilize client-centered, integrative and holistic techniques to aid in helping persons obtain their maximum potential in their life and their relationships.
(219) 224-3421 View (219) 224-3421
Photo of Patrick O'Connell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Patrick O'Connell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
I utilize play therapy and incorporate the creative arts into my work with clients, as well as a good sense of humor and a nurturing heart.
I provide therapeutic services for children and teens. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment facilities. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration therapy to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
I utilize play therapy and incorporate the creative arts into my work with clients, as well as a good sense of humor and a nurturing heart.
I provide therapeutic services for children and teens. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment facilities. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration therapy to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
(219) 544-5163 View (219) 544-5163
Marilynn Akre
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, TFCBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Since play is the natural medium in which children express themselves, I utilize play therapy and client-centered techniques to aid in helping children to communicate their inner most thoughts and feelings to promote connection and improve their relationships.
All behavior is communication of a need and I am determined to help your child learn how to communicate their needs in a healthy way that improves their relationships in home, at school, and with themselves. I engage in a playful, nurturing and non judgmental approach to ensure your child feels safe and welcome communicating their needs through a play based approach.
Since play is the natural medium in which children express themselves, I utilize play therapy and client-centered techniques to aid in helping children to communicate their inner most thoughts and feelings to promote connection and improve their relationships.
All behavior is communication of a need and I am determined to help your child learn how to communicate their needs in a healthy way that improves their relationships in home, at school, and with themselves. I engage in a playful, nurturing and non judgmental approach to ensure your child feels safe and welcome communicating their needs through a play based approach.
(219) 327-3478 View (219) 327-3478
Photo of Dr. Danielle Hernandez, PhD, HSPP, NCSP, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle Hernandez
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP, NCSP
Verified Verified
Chesterton, IN 46304  (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 Anthony (Dr. Tony) Michael McCrovitz, PhD, LMHC, HSPP, Psychologist
Anthony (Dr. Tony) Michael McCrovitz
Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, HSPP
Verified Verified
Chesterton, IN 46304
The best place you’ll ever find for centering yourself and growing in awareness is right where you are planted! Challenges are part of every journey. What becomes most important in moments of difficulty is not pulling away or reacting in a way that “uproots” where you are, but responding right where you are in a way that is grounding. Cultivate roots of SELF-awareness & build a foundation of meaning & value. When a person is able to recognize other possibilities and make a connection with their true sense of self, a shift can be made in these moments, opening up new directions that become self-determined. Grow through life!
The best place you’ll ever find for centering yourself and growing in awareness is right where you are planted! Challenges are part of every journey. What becomes most important in moments of difficulty is not pulling away or reacting in a way that “uproots” where you are, but responding right where you are in a way that is grounding. Cultivate roots of SELF-awareness & build a foundation of meaning & value. When a person is able to recognize other possibilities and make a connection with their true sense of self, a shift can be made in these moments, opening up new directions that become self-determined. Grow through life!
(219) 921-5492 x102 View (219) 921-5492 x102
Photo of Belinda L Hubert - Heartland Wellness Center, PhD, HSPP, Psychologist
Heartland Wellness Center
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesterton, IN 46304
I have a lot of experience helping people more effectively cope with major life adjustments due to stress, loss, transition, medical diagnoses, or trauma. Helping clients use their strengths and develop new ones to create acceptance, health and resilience is my focus. I am board certified in psychopharmacology, so I can also advise a client about maintaining or restoring wellness with medications.
I have a lot of experience helping people more effectively cope with major life adjustments due to stress, loss, transition, medical diagnoses, or trauma. Helping clients use their strengths and develop new ones to create acceptance, health and resilience is my focus. I am board certified in psychopharmacology, so I can also advise a client about maintaining or restoring wellness with medications.
(219) 525-0718 View (219) 525-0718
Photo of Lauren Stanford, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Stanford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Hi, I'm Lauren and I love helping clients discover strengths to overcome situations and learn new ways to cope with tough situations. I believe anyone can overcome their challenges, and I can help you along that journey.
Hi, I'm Lauren and I love helping clients discover strengths to overcome situations and learn new ways to cope with tough situations. I believe anyone can overcome their challenges, and I can help you along that journey.
(219) 245-2220 View (219) 245-2220
Photo of Desie Zylstra, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Desie Zylstra
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Waitlist for new clients
The world today can be challenging for children and teens; it can be easy to fall into a pattern of anxious or depressed mood, feeling like you don't fit in, and juggling ever-changing environments. When working through these challenges, it is important to find a space that is comfortable and safe for learning and growing. I believe creating a safe and comfortable environment to challenge clients through creating realistic and achievable goals is crucial to therapeutic success.
The world today can be challenging for children and teens; it can be easy to fall into a pattern of anxious or depressed mood, feeling like you don't fit in, and juggling ever-changing environments. When working through these challenges, it is important to find a space that is comfortable and safe for learning and growing. I believe creating a safe and comfortable environment to challenge clients through creating realistic and achievable goals is crucial to therapeutic success.
(219) 615-6026 View (219) 615-6026
Photo of Shaun Wehle - Pillars of Wellness Inc
Pillars of Wellness Inc
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46385
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
(219) 641-3819 View (219) 641-3819
Photo of David Harold Werdine II, BS,  MS, LMHC-A, Counselor
David Harold Werdine II
Counselor, BS, MS, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Hello, I'm David. I have over 4 years of experience working as a Mental Health Counselor. I am passionate about helping people to live more satisfying lives. You are the only person, who has the correct solutions to the problems you are seeking help for, but when people have difficulty solving their problems, it is generally because the various aspects of the solutions are not recognized as being connected in a logical way. I can help you discover events in your life that have a significant effect on the way you feel now. I can assist you in using facts to discover the correct ways of interpreting these events.
Hello, I'm David. I have over 4 years of experience working as a Mental Health Counselor. I am passionate about helping people to live more satisfying lives. You are the only person, who has the correct solutions to the problems you are seeking help for, but when people have difficulty solving their problems, it is generally because the various aspects of the solutions are not recognized as being connected in a logical way. I can help you discover events in your life that have a significant effect on the way you feel now. I can assist you in using facts to discover the correct ways of interpreting these events.
(219) 327-3298 View (219) 327-3298
Photo of Dr. Shaun Wehle - Dr. Shaun Wehle, PsyD, HSPP, LCAC
Dr. Shaun Wehle
PsyD, HSPP, LCAC
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
We are accepting new clients and have in-person and remote availability. Whether you, or a loved one, are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just need a place to talk, Pillars' holistic approach to health and wellness has a treatment option that can work for you. When we started Pillars we quickly realized that to best help our clients we needed to partner with clinicians with diverse backgrounds and skills. We have remained steadfast in our efforts to create a team of clinicians with a varied specializations, so that we can be sure to effectively serve our clients and our community.
We are accepting new clients and have in-person and remote availability. Whether you, or a loved one, are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just need a place to talk, Pillars' holistic approach to health and wellness has a treatment option that can work for you. When we started Pillars we quickly realized that to best help our clients we needed to partner with clinicians with diverse backgrounds and skills. We have remained steadfast in our efforts to create a team of clinicians with a varied specializations, so that we can be sure to effectively serve our clients and our community.
(219) 258-3666 View (219) 258-3666
Photo of Theodore Sullivan, MA, LMHCA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Theodore Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
I work with clients experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, habits, or relationship problems. My goal is to help reduce symptoms and enhance quality of life through consistent effort and homework assignments between sessions. I also have a passion for supporting athletes facing sports injuries. With a background in cross country and track, I understand the demands of sports and extend my practice to athletes from all disciplines, helping them reduce symptoms and regain confidence.
I work with clients experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, habits, or relationship problems. My goal is to help reduce symptoms and enhance quality of life through consistent effort and homework assignments between sessions. I also have a passion for supporting athletes facing sports injuries. With a background in cross country and track, I understand the demands of sports and extend my practice to athletes from all disciplines, helping them reduce symptoms and regain confidence.
(219) 327-5030 View (219) 327-5030
Photo of Jennifer Hobbs, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Hobbs
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor with a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling & a Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology. I can offer you a holistic and research based approach to healing and growing as a human. I truly believe in the process of therapy and have been helping people for years. I can offer you safety and trained insight as we explore what is bringing you to therapy and co-create meaning out of your current experience. I love the work that I do with people and it is a beautiful process to witness healing.
Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor with a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling & a Ph.D. in Transpersonal Psychology. I can offer you a holistic and research based approach to healing and growing as a human. I truly believe in the process of therapy and have been helping people for years. I can offer you safety and trained insight as we explore what is bringing you to therapy and co-create meaning out of your current experience. I love the work that I do with people and it is a beautiful process to witness healing.
(219) 940-5725 View (219) 940-5725
Photo of Nichole Hutchinson, LMHC-A, Counselor
Nichole Hutchinson
Counselor, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Hi! My name is Nichole Hutchinson and I became a mental health counselor in order to provide a supportive and inclusive environment to adolescents and adults, where freedom of expression, speaking your own truth, and the ability to be heard can all happen. What brings you here today? No matter the reason, you are in the right place. Are you feeling underwhelmed, overworked, stressed out, burdened, unhappy, or challenged in some way? These are all common feelings and yet they can make you feel out of control.
Hi! My name is Nichole Hutchinson and I became a mental health counselor in order to provide a supportive and inclusive environment to adolescents and adults, where freedom of expression, speaking your own truth, and the ability to be heard can all happen. What brings you here today? No matter the reason, you are in the right place. Are you feeling underwhelmed, overworked, stressed out, burdened, unhappy, or challenged in some way? These are all common feelings and yet they can make you feel out of control.
(463) 208-4264 View (463) 208-4264
Photo of Suzanne Jerrett, LMHC-A, MS, Counselor
Suzanne Jerrett
Counselor, LMHC-A, MS
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
I specialize in a wide range of approaches, from Trauma Focused Therapy to Multicultural and Strength-Based therapies. I work with individuals of all ages. My aim is to empower you to enhance your relationships and lead a more satisfying life, while respecting your personal values and cultural identity.
I specialize in a wide range of approaches, from Trauma Focused Therapy to Multicultural and Strength-Based therapies. I work with individuals of all ages. My aim is to empower you to enhance your relationships and lead a more satisfying life, while respecting your personal values and cultural identity.
(219) 500-6526 View (219) 500-6526
Photo of Angela Welch, LMFT, ASDCS, CCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Welch
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ASDCS, CCSP
Verified Verified
Valparaiso, IN 46383
Struggling with negative feelings and behaviors? Either individually or within a family, this can become an overwhelming and daunting concern. I am here to help you tackle those feelings and behaviors as well as develop positive coping skills to lead you towards a healthy and happy life.
Struggling with negative feelings and behaviors? Either individually or within a family, this can become an overwhelming and daunting concern. I am here to help you tackle those feelings and behaviors as well as develop positive coping skills to lead you towards a healthy and happy life.
(219) 271-8292 View (219) 271-8292
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.