Play Therapy in Schererville, IN

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
Schererville, IN 46375
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 Sandra E Moran, MS, LMHC, PC, Counselor
Sandra E Moran
Counselor, MS, LMHC, PC
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375  (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 Griffin Rhyne, MA, LMHC-A, Counselor
Griffin Rhyne
Counselor, MA, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schererville, IN 46375
I love to work with all kinds of people. Currently I work with adults experiencing emotional or relationship issues. I also have a long experience in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
I love to work with all kinds of people. Currently I work with adults experiencing emotional or relationship issues. I also have a long experience in working with the LGBTQIA+ community.
(219) 356-0981 x1 View (219) 356-0981 x1
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 Kelly Mucha, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Mucha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schererville, IN 46375
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, and adults. 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, and adults. Please visit my website to schedule quickly. https://kellypmucha10.wixsite.com/kellymuchalcsw
(219) 641-3891 View (219) 641-3891
Photo of Radmila Sasic, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Radmila Sasic
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
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 Christopher Lloid Parker - JB Family Counseling Center, LLC, LMHC, Counselor
JB Family Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
My ideal client is someone who is eager to learn and grow, whether personally or professionally. They often face challenges such as feeling overwhelmed by information, struggling with time management, or needing clarity in their goals. My practice also has additional clinicians with immediate availability.
My ideal client is someone who is eager to learn and grow, whether personally or professionally. They often face challenges such as feeling overwhelmed by information, struggling with time management, or needing clarity in their goals. My practice also has additional clinicians with immediate availability.
(219) 400-8133 View (219) 400-8133
Photo of Yolanda M Ansari, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yolanda M Ansari
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schererville, IN 46375  (Online Only)
You are looking for space. Space to feel. Space to think. Space to question. And yet it seems like every inch of space you have is given to people around you, your family, your job, your faith and there is no space left. And you are tired, burnt out and grasping for something, but you are not even sure what that might be. You have tried the discipline, the goal setting, the "fake it til you make it," the busyness, the books, the podcasts, the rigidity, the perfection, the formulas, the positivity, and yet you still feel stuck and without hope. Is this really what life is going to be like forever? No! It doesn't have to be like this.
You are looking for space. Space to feel. Space to think. Space to question. And yet it seems like every inch of space you have is given to people around you, your family, your job, your faith and there is no space left. And you are tired, burnt out and grasping for something, but you are not even sure what that might be. You have tried the discipline, the goal setting, the "fake it til you make it," the busyness, the books, the podcasts, the rigidity, the perfection, the formulas, the positivity, and yet you still feel stuck and without hope. Is this really what life is going to be like forever? No! It doesn't have to be like this.
(708) 722-7619 View (708) 722-7619
Photo of Jolynn Ness, LMHC, Counselor
Jolynn Ness
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
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 Gina Roak (Stoffregen), MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gina Roak (Stoffregen)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
Accepting new clients! Do you ever feel stuck? Does it feel hard to navigate the intricacies of daily life? If yes, you are not alone! I am a strengths-based therapist who tries to help clients work toward their individual goals. Sometimes these goals are managing anxiety, depression, or ADHD. I also help my clients navigate family or peer relationships. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been working in the field for over ten years.
Accepting new clients! Do you ever feel stuck? Does it feel hard to navigate the intricacies of daily life? If yes, you are not alone! I am a strengths-based therapist who tries to help clients work toward their individual goals. Sometimes these goals are managing anxiety, depression, or ADHD. I also help my clients navigate family or peer relationships. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been working in the field for over ten years.
(219) 301-9319 View (219) 301-9319
Photo of Dana Erickson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Erickson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
Not accepting new clients
My focus is on each individual person's needs and I consider helping as a journey that is done together, with the client being the director. I have more than 27 years of trauma experience, working with children, teens, adults, male and female, as well as in group settings. With my training and experience, I feel that I have a comprehensive understanding of trauma, its effects and what is needed to help a survivor heal and cope. I am a certified hypnotherapist and use this technique when working with trauma
My focus is on each individual person's needs and I consider helping as a journey that is done together, with the client being the director. I have more than 27 years of trauma experience, working with children, teens, adults, male and female, as well as in group settings. With my training and experience, I feel that I have a comprehensive understanding of trauma, its effects and what is needed to help a survivor heal and cope. I am a certified hypnotherapist and use this technique when working with trauma
(219) 300-0259 View (219) 300-0259

More Therapists Nearby

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 Stacy Kaplan, MA, LCP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacy Kaplan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCP, NCC
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
We may use play therapy and/or activities in session as well.
I am a Christian counselor with 20 years of experience working with children, families and individuals in a faith-based community. My role as a therapist is to create a safe place to navigate life's uncertainties. I understand taking the first step to begin therapy may be overwhelming. My goal is to work hard to help clients feel comfortable and understood from the moment we meet and throughout each appointment. If you are struggling with feelings of uncertainty, helplessness or confusion in life and/or relationships, then I am here to help, serve, and support you through this process.
We may use play therapy and/or activities in session as well.
I am a Christian counselor with 20 years of experience working with children, families and individuals in a faith-based community. My role as a therapist is to create a safe place to navigate life's uncertainties. I understand taking the first step to begin therapy may be overwhelming. My goal is to work hard to help clients feel comfortable and understood from the moment we meet and throughout each appointment. If you are struggling with feelings of uncertainty, helplessness or confusion in life and/or relationships, then I am here to help, serve, and support you through this process.
(708) 332-8404 View (708) 332-8404
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
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 Diane K Olson-Burkhardt, LMHC, NCC, RPT-S, Counselor
Diane K Olson-Burkhardt
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
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
Merrillville, IN 46410
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 individual and family therapy for children and teenagers. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment centers. 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 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 individual and family therapy for children and teenagers. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment centers. 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 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
Photo of Dr. Mashone Parker (Infinity Counseling), PhD, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Mashone Parker (Infinity Counseling)
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
Are you tired of the long wait lists to receive the help you need? We are offering same week online and in person sessions for people in our communities. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your mental health needs. You may worry that what you feel right now may get worse, or you're thinking will I feel this way forever? I am here to tell you that it can get better and with dedication it will.
Are you tired of the long wait lists to receive the help you need? We are offering same week online and in person sessions for people in our communities. Please do not hesitate to contact us to discuss your mental health needs. You may worry that what you feel right now may get worse, or you're thinking will I feel this way forever? I am here to tell you that it can get better and with dedication it will.
(219) 488-1937 View (219) 488-1937
Photo of Kalyani Gopal, PhD, HSPP, FACAPP, Psychologist
Kalyani Gopal
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP, FACAPP
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
Specialties: Neuropsychology, psychological testing and evaluation, attachment disorders, personality disorders, sex trafficking victims, domestic violence victims, juvenile delinquency, academic failure,school adjustment, mental illness in all ages, child abuse and neglect, family therapy, couples therapy, marital therapy, trauma treatment, parenting challenges, foster care and foster parenting. She specializes in women's health issues, male relationships and commitment issues, couples therapy, divorce mediation and is a credentialed custody evaluator and disability evaluator. She is the author of two books and two clinical workbooks. The book, "How to Nurture the Traumatized Child" is available on Amazon.
Specialties: Neuropsychology, psychological testing and evaluation, attachment disorders, personality disorders, sex trafficking victims, domestic violence victims, juvenile delinquency, academic failure,school adjustment, mental illness in all ages, child abuse and neglect, family therapy, couples therapy, marital therapy, trauma treatment, parenting challenges, foster care and foster parenting. She specializes in women's health issues, male relationships and commitment issues, couples therapy, divorce mediation and is a credentialed custody evaluator and disability evaluator. She is the author of two books and two clinical workbooks. The book, "How to Nurture the Traumatized Child" is available on Amazon.
(219) 214-4137 View (219) 214-4137
Photo of Lawrence Pincus, LCSW, LMFT, LAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lawrence Pincus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
(219) 359-4287 View (219) 359-4287
Photo of Janee' L. Fuller, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janee' L. Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Crown Point, IN 46307  (Online Only)
I am dedicated, committed, and highly passionate Licensed Social Worker. I have an array of experience working with all age groups from early childhood and beyond. I have worked with individuals and families from various social and economic backgrounds, cultures, Spiritual backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am experienced working with trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, victims of child abuse and neglect, amongst other mental health issues. I have a dedicated a large portion of my career to working with children and adolescents with behavioral issues.
I am dedicated, committed, and highly passionate Licensed Social Worker. I have an array of experience working with all age groups from early childhood and beyond. I have worked with individuals and families from various social and economic backgrounds, cultures, Spiritual backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am experienced working with trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, victims of child abuse and neglect, amongst other mental health issues. I have a dedicated a large portion of my career to working with children and adolescents with behavioral issues.
(219) 234-2763 View (219) 234-2763

See more therapy options for Schererville

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.