Play Therapy in Caledonia, MI
Zoe Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Waitlist for new clients
I have a certification in children's yoga, am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and have an eclectic style that offers aspects of play therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and more.
Welcome! If your kiddo needs some extra support with big feelings, is experiencing emotional and mental health hurdles and in need of healthier coping tools, or has an even more significant challenge in their life, you've come to the right place. Are you struggling with parenting, stress, or life changes? Maybe you're even trying to manage your anxiety or depression on top of it all. I am here for you, too! There is so much to be grateful for in life, but people of all ages experience hardships within themselves, with others, and within life's ongoing changes. Therapy is a great place to start when you don't know where to start.
I have a certification in children's yoga, am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and have an eclectic style that offers aspects of play therapy, CBT, mindfulness, and more.
Welcome! If your kiddo needs some extra support with big feelings, is experiencing emotional and mental health hurdles and in need of healthier coping tools, or has an even more significant challenge in their life, you've come to the right place. Are you struggling with parenting, stress, or life changes? Maybe you're even trying to manage your anxiety or depression on top of it all. I am here for you, too! There is so much to be grateful for in life, but people of all ages experience hardships within themselves, with others, and within life's ongoing changes. Therapy is a great place to start when you don't know where to start.
Debra Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LPC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Caledonia, MI 49316
We offer a wide range of treatment modalities, including play therapy for children.
If your life has been disrupted by anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction or the crisis of a divorce/break-up, job loss, financial difficulty or parenting challenge, know that you are not alone and that counseling can help you - heal; conquer any type of challenge; establish a workable life plan; repair relationships; renew your faith; and restore your emotional health. If your child is struggling with a behavior problem, ADHD, a learning difficulty or worrisome levels of stress and anxiety, counseling can help them gain self-control, alter disruptive behavior, use effective coping skills and restore their self-confidence.
We offer a wide range of treatment modalities, including play therapy for children.
If your life has been disrupted by anxiety, anger, depression, an addiction or the crisis of a divorce/break-up, job loss, financial difficulty or parenting challenge, know that you are not alone and that counseling can help you - heal; conquer any type of challenge; establish a workable life plan; repair relationships; renew your faith; and restore your emotional health. If your child is struggling with a behavior problem, ADHD, a learning difficulty or worrisome levels of stress and anxiety, counseling can help them gain self-control, alter disruptive behavior, use effective coping skills and restore their self-confidence.
Making the client feel comfortable is of top importance to me so I have found that expressive arts, play therapy, and other useful activities can help ease the stress of talking to a stranger.
We find ourselves traveling down the same roads all the time, same route to work, school, and even family and friends' houses. Sometimes we become so used to the way we are living that change is often difficult to achieve. I believe this is because we are stuck in ways of thinking because we have done it for as long as we can remember. "That's just the way I am." If you are looking to find a new way of doing things because you are unsatisfied or stuck in a rut, I would love to help you navigate change.
Making the client feel comfortable is of top importance to me so I have found that expressive arts, play therapy, and other useful activities can help ease the stress of talking to a stranger.
We find ourselves traveling down the same roads all the time, same route to work, school, and even family and friends' houses. Sometimes we become so used to the way we are living that change is often difficult to achieve. I believe this is because we are stuck in ways of thinking because we have done it for as long as we can remember. "That's just the way I am." If you are looking to find a new way of doing things because you are unsatisfied or stuck in a rut, I would love to help you navigate change.
My experience in play therapy has been particularly effective for individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism.
My primary goal in therapy is to create a nonjudgmental, safe space for expressing feelings and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping children aged 8 and older with issues related to school, peers, anxiety, executive functioning, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy supporting young adults as they navigate life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My approach is warm and compassionate, focusing on engaging children creatively to foster enthusiasm and interest in their therapeutic journey.
My experience in play therapy has been particularly effective for individuals dealing with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, and Autism.
My primary goal in therapy is to create a nonjudgmental, safe space for expressing feelings and emotions. I am deeply committed to helping children aged 8 and older with issues related to school, peers, anxiety, executive functioning, and self-esteem. Additionally, I enjoy supporting young adults as they navigate life transitions, depression, and anxiety. My approach is warm and compassionate, focusing on engaging children creatively to foster enthusiasm and interest in their therapeutic journey.
Rebekah Karel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RPT™
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
I am a registered play therapist (RPT) and specialize in working with children ages 3 to 13. Some of the children I work with have been through really difficult and painful traumas, others have experienced great loss. Some kids are struggling to express themselves or with regulating their emotions, and others are struggling with behavior challenges in school or at home. Because of my past work as a school social worker I have unique experience engaging with children with ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harm behaviors, and other social-emotional concerns.
I am a registered play therapist (RPT) and specialize in working with children ages 3 to 13. Some of the children I work with have been through really difficult and painful traumas, others have experienced great loss. Some kids are struggling to express themselves or with regulating their emotions, and others are struggling with behavior challenges in school or at home. Because of my past work as a school social worker I have unique experience engaging with children with ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harm behaviors, and other social-emotional concerns.
If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.
If you or your child are living with strong emotions, suicide attempts, self-harming, hospitalizations, chronic relationship/behavioral issues, or roller coaster emotions; life is very tough. You may feel like you are held hostage by these emotions and have a difficult time imagining that a 'normal' or healthy life is even possible. As a therapist trained in the specialty of DBT therapy, I believe that EVERYONE is capable of creating a life worth living.
Kimberly Sue Lichon-Tufer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SSW
Verified Verified
Caledonia, MI 49316
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
My passion is helping others find ways to manage their challenges in this ever-changing journey we call life. For over 27 years I have worked with adults, children, adolescents, couples, and families in a variety of settings; including home, school, office, and in the community. I pride myself in building therapeutic relationships with each individual I work with. By achieving this, I believe we can then work together to help identify what is challenging you currently to get you to the life you choose to live successfully.
Sean Edward Burns
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Sean is a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 1998. He has experience providing psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. He is trained in Trauma Model Therapy through the Ross Institute and is also certified in EMDR. Mr. Burns is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He works with his clients to come up with a practical yet comprehensive treatment plan. If you are unsure about setting up that first appointment and just want to talk things over, Sean would be happy to speak with you over the phone.
Sean is a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 1998. He has experience providing psychotherapy services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. He is trained in Trauma Model Therapy through the Ross Institute and is also certified in EMDR. Mr. Burns is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. He works with his clients to come up with a practical yet comprehensive treatment plan. If you are unsure about setting up that first appointment and just want to talk things over, Sean would be happy to speak with you over the phone.
Individuals seek therapy for many issues. I have been afforded the opportunity to work alongside people that want help in managing Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem barriers and daily stress. Often times these issues are masked by deep rooted trauma, grief and abuse. Individuals need encouragement, support, feeling that they are heard and validation while on their journey to healing.
Individuals seek therapy for many issues. I have been afforded the opportunity to work alongside people that want help in managing Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem barriers and daily stress. Often times these issues are masked by deep rooted trauma, grief and abuse. Individuals need encouragement, support, feeling that they are heard and validation while on their journey to healing.
Kerrie Clark
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Not accepting new clients
Kerrie believes every client has the power within themselves to find fulfillment; sometimes they just need to view their situation from a different angle to find the right path. Kerrie is a general practitioner, meaning she works with a variety of concerns. She specializes in helping others process traumatic experiences so those experiences become a source of strength. She enjoys working with children and adolescents by utilizing play and art therapy techniques to help them gain comfort and express emotion. She also works with couples who are looking to strengthen their relationship or separate amicably.
Kerrie believes every client has the power within themselves to find fulfillment; sometimes they just need to view their situation from a different angle to find the right path. Kerrie is a general practitioner, meaning she works with a variety of concerns. She specializes in helping others process traumatic experiences so those experiences become a source of strength. She enjoys working with children and adolescents by utilizing play and art therapy techniques to help them gain comfort and express emotion. She also works with couples who are looking to strengthen their relationship or separate amicably.
Tara Blury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Caledonia, MI 49316
Not accepting new clients
My goal is to work together, finding ways to help you improve your life & relationships, feel less anxious/depressed/provide clarity. Sharing your insecurities, fears, hurts, and struggles can be an intimidating experience. I strive to help each of my clients feel comfortable with the therapy process. I have extensive training to help individuals who have experienced many forms of trauma, abuse, grief and loss. I also have many clients who just feel "lost", "anxious", or "depressed" and they benefit greatly from counseling.I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, Sensorimotor Processing, CBT, and other therapeutic interventions.
My goal is to work together, finding ways to help you improve your life & relationships, feel less anxious/depressed/provide clarity. Sharing your insecurities, fears, hurts, and struggles can be an intimidating experience. I strive to help each of my clients feel comfortable with the therapy process. I have extensive training to help individuals who have experienced many forms of trauma, abuse, grief and loss. I also have many clients who just feel "lost", "anxious", or "depressed" and they benefit greatly from counseling.I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, Sensorimotor Processing, CBT, and other therapeutic interventions.
Perianne VanBelois
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caledonia, MI 49316
Not accepting new clients
Our lives can take many different paths, and finding the path that meets our needs and values can be hard to navigate. It can leave us in a place of feeling lost, overwhelmed, broken, and disconnected from our sense of self. This sense of hopelessness can prevent us from seeing the power within ourselves. I would be honored to meet you where you are at, and be your hope holder until you are able to see the hope that is in every situation.
Our lives can take many different paths, and finding the path that meets our needs and values can be hard to navigate. It can leave us in a place of feeling lost, overwhelmed, broken, and disconnected from our sense of self. This sense of hopelessness can prevent us from seeing the power within ourselves. I would be honored to meet you where you are at, and be your hope holder until you are able to see the hope that is in every situation.
More Therapists Nearby
Due to my training in Play Therapy, I see children as young as 2.
Have a cup of tea or coffee. Sit back, and maybe even wrap in a blanket. Take this time to go wherever you need to go emotionally, knowing this is a judgment free room. As your therapist, I will not be able to solve your problems for you. Actually, I would not want to even if I could. I do not presume that I have answers to your problems, or that my way is the best or only way. I fully believe that you have the answers you need within you, we just need to uncover them. I will walk with you for as long as you want and need.
Due to my training in Play Therapy, I see children as young as 2.
Have a cup of tea or coffee. Sit back, and maybe even wrap in a blanket. Take this time to go wherever you need to go emotionally, knowing this is a judgment free room. As your therapist, I will not be able to solve your problems for you. Actually, I would not want to even if I could. I do not presume that I have answers to your problems, or that my way is the best or only way. I fully believe that you have the answers you need within you, we just need to uncover them. I will walk with you for as long as you want and need.
Megan Besemer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I enjoy meeting clients' needs by starting therapy where they are comfortable, and forming a supportive relationship. Offering a safe space for diversity and equality I offer suggestions, education, and healthy perspectives in order to help facilitate growth. Helping to empower individuals I use specialized treatment methods, which include verbal processing, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and writing and drawing methods. Whether someone is looking for guidance moving through a new stage of life, or finding courage to work through a history of trauma, my ideal client is someone who is open to feedback and ready to create change.
I enjoy meeting clients' needs by starting therapy where they are comfortable, and forming a supportive relationship. Offering a safe space for diversity and equality I offer suggestions, education, and healthy perspectives in order to help facilitate growth. Helping to empower individuals I use specialized treatment methods, which include verbal processing, play therapy, sand tray therapy, and writing and drawing methods. Whether someone is looking for guidance moving through a new stage of life, or finding courage to work through a history of trauma, my ideal client is someone who is open to feedback and ready to create change.
Dr. Merrill E Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Waitlist for new clients
As a Registered Play Therapist, I use child-centered play therapy and CBT.
I am an experienced Psychotherapist with over 25 years experience working with children, teens, adults, and families in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, and other life changes. I offer Polyvagal-informed therapy with the focus of eliminating the symptoms that have impaired healthy functioning.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I use child-centered play therapy and CBT.
I am an experienced Psychotherapist with over 25 years experience working with children, teens, adults, and families in the areas of depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, divorce, and other life changes. I offer Polyvagal-informed therapy with the focus of eliminating the symptoms that have impaired healthy functioning.
While therapeutic methods vary based on the age of my client (from play therapy to trauma-focused CBT, and IFS), the goal is always: greater wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
While therapeutic methods vary based on the age of my client (from play therapy to trauma-focused CBT, and IFS), the goal is always: greater wellbeing.
Hi, I’m Nate Apel, LLPC, a Limited Licensed Professional Counselor, and I'm currently accepting new clients, so, for the time being anyway, there's no waiting to get in to see me. I specialize in working with children, youth, adults, families, and couples, and I look forward to helping you, and those in your care, achieve a greater sense of calm and wellbeing. I completed my Master’s in Counseling, and my Bachelors in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University, and I bring 15 years of clinical and life experience working with youth, families and adults in schools, churches, and private practice.
Hi! I’m Ashlie Morgan, a therapist specializing in child, adolescent, and family therapy ages 10 and up. I am passionate about adolescent and teen mental health as well as gender affirming care. I utilize art, play, and expressive interventions to make coming to therapy fun. My therapeutic approach is grounded in creating a nurturing, inclusive space where kids are respected and valued for their individuality. I work with clients on a range of issues including (but not limited to) ADHD, school issues, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ topics, and self-harm. You will find that I am not afraid to have fun in my sessions!
Hi! I’m Ashlie Morgan, a therapist specializing in child, adolescent, and family therapy ages 10 and up. I am passionate about adolescent and teen mental health as well as gender affirming care. I utilize art, play, and expressive interventions to make coming to therapy fun. My therapeutic approach is grounded in creating a nurturing, inclusive space where kids are respected and valued for their individuality. I work with clients on a range of issues including (but not limited to) ADHD, school issues, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ topics, and self-harm. You will find that I am not afraid to have fun in my sessions!
Hannah E Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Kentwood, MI 49508
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I tend to utilize art/play therapy techniques as well as solutions-focused therapy.
Hello! My name is Hannah Schneider and I'm glad that you're here! Over the past 9 years, I have been working with children and adults ages 4-30 years old in schools, homes, community, and office settings. In this work, I have focused on topics including depression, anxiety, anger management, grief, emotional regulation, and communication skills.
In my practice, I tend to utilize art/play therapy techniques as well as solutions-focused therapy.
Hello! My name is Hannah Schneider and I'm glad that you're here! Over the past 9 years, I have been working with children and adults ages 4-30 years old in schools, homes, community, and office settings. In this work, I have focused on topics including depression, anxiety, anger management, grief, emotional regulation, and communication skills.
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
Offering services in; anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, family/marital therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), behavioral therapy, play therapy, person-centered therapy.
Rachael has been interested in mental health since she can remember. Growing up, this manifested itself into her being a nosy kiddo :). However, as she aged she turned that "nosiness" into a passion, an education, and a career. Rachael is excited about the relief and clarity offered in working through a therapeutic process. Being a Christian, Rachael is also sure that God cares deeply about the wholeness of His people.
Ann Bixler
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, ICAADC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Play therapy for adults and children.
I 've been in private practice since 1997. Throughout that time I have continued to expand on my knowledge and develop specialties in play therapy, working with the LGBTQ community, substance abuse, and trauma including PTSD. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and depression. I see each client as unique and feel honored to join them in their journey towards health and wellness. I am affiliated with organizations that keep me abreast of evidence-based practices for the unique situations that clients bring to therapy.
Play therapy for adults and children.
I 've been in private practice since 1997. Throughout that time I have continued to expand on my knowledge and develop specialties in play therapy, working with the LGBTQ community, substance abuse, and trauma including PTSD. I work with clients experiencing anxiety and depression. I see each client as unique and feel honored to join them in their journey towards health and wellness. I am affiliated with organizations that keep me abreast of evidence-based practices for the unique situations that clients bring to therapy.
See more therapy options for Caledonia
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Caledonia
- Ada
- Byron Center
- East Grand Rapids
- Grand Rapids
- Grandville
- Jenison
- Kentwood
- Lowell
- Middleville
- Walker
- Wayland
- Wyoming
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.