Play Therapy in Hastings, MI
Lacee is a trauma-informed professional who utilizes techniques within therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal-Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) as well as play therapy - alongside her best friend and 7-year-old therapy dog, Rugby.
Lacee is a clinical social worker who has a variety of experience working with individuals of all ages. Lacee earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice from Olivet College in 2012, and she then went on to earn her Master’s in Social Work (M.S.W.) from Western Michigan University in 2020.
Lacee is a trauma-informed professional who utilizes techniques within therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectal-Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) as well as play therapy - alongside her best friend and 7-year-old therapy dog, Rugby.
Lacee is a clinical social worker who has a variety of experience working with individuals of all ages. Lacee earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice from Olivet College in 2012, and she then went on to earn her Master’s in Social Work (M.S.W.) from Western Michigan University in 2020.
Becky Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hastings, MI 49058
I utilize aspects from numerous tools and approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy for adults and Play Therapy for children, to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your goals.
Circumstances are building and you fear that its weight will eventually grow to crush and consume you. You have so much to manage and yet you long to just let go of it all. You’re ready for a change, but it is terrifying. To face it may cause you to crumble, nevertheless, you will yourself to get through each day. If this sounds familiar and you wish to do more than get by, it is possible to flourish again. I aim to create a safe and empowering environment built upon a trusting therapeutic relationship so you can successfully heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and work toward thriving in your daily life.
I utilize aspects from numerous tools and approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy for adults and Play Therapy for children, to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your goals.
Circumstances are building and you fear that its weight will eventually grow to crush and consume you. You have so much to manage and yet you long to just let go of it all. You’re ready for a change, but it is terrifying. To face it may cause you to crumble, nevertheless, you will yourself to get through each day. If this sounds familiar and you wish to do more than get by, it is possible to flourish again. I aim to create a safe and empowering environment built upon a trusting therapeutic relationship so you can successfully heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and work toward thriving in your daily life.
You didn’t expect things to turn out this way. You’re heart pounds and your head gets fuzzy. Things are SO challenging lately. You’re feeling Overwhelmed and underappreciated, but.. I mean, everyone’s overwhelmed or feeling self-doubt and pressure, right? Doesn’t everyone feel like they don’t fit in or awkward? You’re really good at putting on that happy face for your friends & family, but inside you feel like nothing ever goes as planned, you’re stressed, unsatisfied and overwhelmed. Going to School or work causes anxiety, staying home causes anxiety and life is just plain Hard!
You didn’t expect things to turn out this way. You’re heart pounds and your head gets fuzzy. Things are SO challenging lately. You’re feeling Overwhelmed and underappreciated, but.. I mean, everyone’s overwhelmed or feeling self-doubt and pressure, right? Doesn’t everyone feel like they don’t fit in or awkward? You’re really good at putting on that happy face for your friends & family, but inside you feel like nothing ever goes as planned, you’re stressed, unsatisfied and overwhelmed. Going to School or work causes anxiety, staying home causes anxiety and life is just plain Hard!
My ideal client is someone who is looking to become a happier, healthier person. There are many challenges throughout our lives that come unexpectedly and without warning. Though we can't change that, we can change our approach to facing the challenges which can make all the difference. I consider it a privilege to walk next to you in this journey. You are stronger than you realize and I look forward to helping you see that! Life can and will get better on the other side of this.
My ideal client is someone who is looking to become a happier, healthier person. There are many challenges throughout our lives that come unexpectedly and without warning. Though we can't change that, we can change our approach to facing the challenges which can make all the difference. I consider it a privilege to walk next to you in this journey. You are stronger than you realize and I look forward to helping you see that! Life can and will get better on the other side of this.
Tara Blury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
Hastings, MI 49058
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.
Online Therapists
Stephanie Numbers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bay City, MI 48708
Although I see adults and adolescents, I specialize in play therapy with children 3-12 years old.
I strive to empower clients while providing emotional healing. As a team, we will begin by building on clients' strengths while incorporating strategies to ultimately encourage effective decision making in the future along with promoting the incorporation of healthy coping mechanisms.
Although I see adults and adolescents, I specialize in play therapy with children 3-12 years old.
I strive to empower clients while providing emotional healing. As a team, we will begin by building on clients' strengths while incorporating strategies to ultimately encourage effective decision making in the future along with promoting the incorporation of healthy coping mechanisms.
LaKeisha Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PHDc, LCSW, MSW, AAT, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ypsilanti, MI 48198
Specializing in play therapy, AAT, trauma,& neurodivergence.
My goal is to support individuals in creating a culture of emotional awareness that leads to healing, joy, and empowerment. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, POC, and LGBTQ individuals who may struggle with a range of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ-related concerns, sexual issues, anger management, parenting challenges, life stressors, and work-life balance. Additionally, I specialize in supporting individuals with executive functioning difficulties such as ASD and ADHD. I take a holistic approach, addressing the needs
Specializing in play therapy, AAT, trauma,& neurodivergence.
My goal is to support individuals in creating a culture of emotional awareness that leads to healing, joy, and empowerment. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, POC, and LGBTQ individuals who may struggle with a range of issues including neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, substance use, trauma, self-esteem, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ-related concerns, sexual issues, anger management, parenting challenges, life stressors, and work-life balance. Additionally, I specialize in supporting individuals with executive functioning difficulties such as ASD and ADHD. I take a holistic approach, addressing the needs
Hi! My name is Jillian, and I’m so glad you’re here. I’m dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. My client-centered and holistic approach means I want you to come exactly as you are, without feeling any pressure to meet specific expectations. I offer shared-decision making power and informed consent in my sessions allowing you to be in control of your care. I offer support to those experiencing anxiety, depression, societal pressures, religious trauma, eating disorders, or other challenges. My approach will be elements of Play, CBT, ACT, and Motivational interviewing.
Hi! My name is Jillian, and I’m so glad you’re here. I’m dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. My client-centered and holistic approach means I want you to come exactly as you are, without feeling any pressure to meet specific expectations. I offer shared-decision making power and informed consent in my sessions allowing you to be in control of your care. I offer support to those experiencing anxiety, depression, societal pressures, religious trauma, eating disorders, or other challenges. My approach will be elements of Play, CBT, ACT, and Motivational interviewing.
Kaitlyn graduated with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2018. She holds a License in Counseling in the State of Michigan and is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She enjoys helping clients through a wide range of struggles including anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. She often incorporates a person-centered approach and play therapy into her practice. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal.
Kaitlyn graduated with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in 2018. She holds a License in Counseling in the State of Michigan and is a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She enjoys helping clients through a wide range of struggles including anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. She often incorporates a person-centered approach and play therapy into her practice. She believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to heal.
I have trained extensively over the years in attachment, play therapy, FASD, and Thera play.
I am a clinical behavioral therapist with a private practice focusing mainly on children and families. I enjoy working with children and use various play techniques to explore the lagging skills which may have developed strong responses and behaviors to stressors in your child. There are many instances in which I will accept the parent as client to address behaviors in the home. I work with siblings when appropriate and have worked with clients ages 4-adulthood.
I have trained extensively over the years in attachment, play therapy, FASD, and Thera play.
I am a clinical behavioral therapist with a private practice focusing mainly on children and families. I enjoy working with children and use various play techniques to explore the lagging skills which may have developed strong responses and behaviors to stressors in your child. There are many instances in which I will accept the parent as client to address behaviors in the home. I work with siblings when appropriate and have worked with clients ages 4-adulthood.
Amanda Saxe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Before I became a Counselor, I was a Teacher working with children ages K-12. I have extensive experience working with children and teens. I have also worked as a School Counselor and can help navigate getting support at school for your child. Whether you are calling for yourself or for your child, I am here for you to listen non-judgmentally and to get to the root of the issue. I work with adults, children, and teens utilizing various treatment approaches including CBT behavioral approaches, play and art therapy, among others. My goal is to help clients reach their goals, and become the best version of themselves.
Before I became a Counselor, I was a Teacher working with children ages K-12. I have extensive experience working with children and teens. I have also worked as a School Counselor and can help navigate getting support at school for your child. Whether you are calling for yourself or for your child, I am here for you to listen non-judgmentally and to get to the root of the issue. I work with adults, children, and teens utilizing various treatment approaches including CBT behavioral approaches, play and art therapy, among others. My goal is to help clients reach their goals, and become the best version of themselves.
Jazmine Rivas Dinkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48911
I often incorporate play, art, bibliotherapy, and parenting skills training when working with child clients.
Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or your child, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to uncover the roots of issues such as trauma, behavioral challenges, school challenges, PTSD, depression, family conflicts, anxiety, anger, grief, shame, self-esteem, and relationship difficulties. My approach is guided by social justice and trauma-informed frameworks, which recognize the personal and systemic factors affecting a client's life. I am dedicated to creating an inclusive therapeutic space for historically marginalized clients and supporting those experiencing racial trauma or navigating racial identity.
I often incorporate play, art, bibliotherapy, and parenting skills training when working with child clients.
Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself or your child, my goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to uncover the roots of issues such as trauma, behavioral challenges, school challenges, PTSD, depression, family conflicts, anxiety, anger, grief, shame, self-esteem, and relationship difficulties. My approach is guided by social justice and trauma-informed frameworks, which recognize the personal and systemic factors affecting a client's life. I am dedicated to creating an inclusive therapeutic space for historically marginalized clients and supporting those experiencing racial trauma or navigating racial identity.
Amy Lynn Ver Wey
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
She has experience in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, interpersonal Therapy and is a Registered Play Therapist.
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
She has experience in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, interpersonal Therapy and is a Registered Play Therapist.
Amy (she/her) practices an active and interpersonal approach to therapy, incorporating mindfulness, popular culture, art, music, role playing games and technological aspects to modify her treatment on an individualized basis to best meet the needs of her clients. Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
My specialty often involves working with young children utilizing play therapy techniques to help them express themselves.
Amy is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and Certified EAGALA Professional. Since 1994, Amy has been working with children, teens, adults and families. She has provided direct clinical services, supervision, instruction, and program development locally, nationally and internationally. Amy has a passion for working with children, particularly young children with histories of complex trauma. Her intention is to partner with individuals to experience hope in their lives within a safe and compassionate environment.
My specialty often involves working with young children utilizing play therapy techniques to help them express themselves.
Amy is a Licensed Master’s Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, Certified Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and Certified EAGALA Professional. Since 1994, Amy has been working with children, teens, adults and families. She has provided direct clinical services, supervision, instruction, and program development locally, nationally and internationally. Amy has a passion for working with children, particularly young children with histories of complex trauma. Her intention is to partner with individuals to experience hope in their lives within a safe and compassionate environment.
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.
I utilize therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Art, and Play Therapy to help aid the therapy process.
I believe that we as people were created for growth and for connection. There is health and healing for those who want to work through trauma and loss. I seek to support you as you discover and build on the strengths you already have. I provide a warm, judgment-free environment for my clients to process, problem-solve, and partake in a collaborative effort toward the wellness of self.
I utilize therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral, Art, and Play Therapy to help aid the therapy process.
I believe that we as people were created for growth and for connection. There is health and healing for those who want to work through trauma and loss. I seek to support you as you discover and build on the strengths you already have. I provide a warm, judgment-free environment for my clients to process, problem-solve, and partake in a collaborative effort toward the wellness of self.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families, including over a decade of experience working within the child welfare system. Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma. I offer traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify underlying barriers, find empowerment, and take action to achieve their goals.
I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and families, including over a decade of experience working within the child welfare system. Some of the issues I have experience with include child behavioral and parenting concerns, attachment/trust issues, Autism, abuse and neglect, and generational trauma. I offer traditional talk therapy, Play Therapy, and Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them identify underlying barriers, find empowerment, and take action to achieve their goals.
We offer, one on one therapy, marriage and family therapy, faith based therapy, EMDR, Neurofeedback, addiction and recovery therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, adoption and foster care, LGBTQ, We are here to be with children, teens, and adults.
Our desire at the Restoration Center is to meet you where you are. We have a diverse group of therapists ready to be with you on your journey. Please visit our website where you will find our providers along with their specialities.
We offer, one on one therapy, marriage and family therapy, faith based therapy, EMDR, Neurofeedback, addiction and recovery therapy, play therapy, sand tray therapy, adoption and foster care, LGBTQ, We are here to be with children, teens, and adults.
Our desire at the Restoration Center is to meet you where you are. We have a diverse group of therapists ready to be with you on your journey. Please visit our website where you will find our providers along with their specialities.
Brooklynn Wilton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48331
Hi there! Seeking out therapy is not always easy, but I am glad you're here! I provide therapy for all individuals, and would love to help you! Before you make your decision, let me tell you a bit about my practice. I offer both virtual and in-person visits. I stay in the office late 2 days a week to accommodate for work & school schedules. I have an office full of toys for children, and a comfortable sofa for those who are less interested in play. I tailor my care to each individuals needs, and make it my mission to provide a safe & comfortable space.
Hi there! Seeking out therapy is not always easy, but I am glad you're here! I provide therapy for all individuals, and would love to help you! Before you make your decision, let me tell you a bit about my practice. I offer both virtual and in-person visits. I stay in the office late 2 days a week to accommodate for work & school schedules. I have an office full of toys for children, and a comfortable sofa for those who are less interested in play. I tailor my care to each individuals needs, and make it my mission to provide a safe & comfortable space.
Miah Hamdan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, MI 49230
Waitlist for new clients
Specializing in ADHD, anxiety,depression, and anger. I blen neurodiversity-affirming care with the magic of art, play and conversation. Let’s unlock your child’s strengths and turn challenges into triumphs. Therapy with me isn’t just about healing; it’s about thriving through creativity and laughter. Ready to see your child shine? Let’s connect!
Specializing in ADHD, anxiety,depression, and anger. I blen neurodiversity-affirming care with the magic of art, play and conversation. Let’s unlock your child’s strengths and turn challenges into triumphs. Therapy with me isn’t just about healing; it’s about thriving through creativity and laughter. Ready to see your child shine? Let’s connect!
See more therapy options for Hastings
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Hastings
- Ada
- Battle Creek
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- Charlotte
- East Grand Rapids
- Kentwood
- Lowell
- Middleville
- Plainwell
- 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.