Play Therapy in Howell, MI

Photo of Cassandra Jessee, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Jessee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48843
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize multiple modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Solution Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, psychotherapy, play therapy and animal therapy.
Anxiety? Panic? Depression? Trauma? Is the world just too much lately? Do you want to feel heard and enjoy life? My therapy dog Timon and I would love to guide and help you. Following a critical illness in my life, I started a quest for purpose and devoted myself to an educational journey to create synergy with my own life experiences. My interest is trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, suicide ideation, past sexual abuse, relationship issues coupled with focus on how interpersonal, cognitive thinking and environmental factors play a part in helping people to change.
I utilize multiple modalities such as CBT, DBT, ACT, TF-CBT, Solution Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, psychotherapy, play therapy and animal therapy.
Anxiety? Panic? Depression? Trauma? Is the world just too much lately? Do you want to feel heard and enjoy life? My therapy dog Timon and I would love to guide and help you. Following a critical illness in my life, I started a quest for purpose and devoted myself to an educational journey to create synergy with my own life experiences. My interest is trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, suicide ideation, past sexual abuse, relationship issues coupled with focus on how interpersonal, cognitive thinking and environmental factors play a part in helping people to change.
(810) 634-9065 View (810) 634-9065
Photo of Samantha Hughes, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48843
My primary interventions include CBT, behavioral management and play therapy with children.
My background in various human services settings has allowed me space to develop skills and understand people in a different way than most. My goal is to help you attain the skills to be who you want to be and have a place to let your feelings be heard. I love to help people start from where they are now and grow into who they want to be. My passion is working with children and young adults, focusing on becoming more independent through aquiring knowledge and skills for success and to better manage life stressors, anxiety, depression, transition, divorce, family changes, behavioral problems and school related issues.
My primary interventions include CBT, behavioral management and play therapy with children.
My background in various human services settings has allowed me space to develop skills and understand people in a different way than most. My goal is to help you attain the skills to be who you want to be and have a place to let your feelings be heard. I love to help people start from where they are now and grow into who they want to be. My passion is working with children and young adults, focusing on becoming more independent through aquiring knowledge and skills for success and to better manage life stressors, anxiety, depression, transition, divorce, family changes, behavioral problems and school related issues.
(734) 865-2766 View (734) 865-2766
Photo of Kisha Hath, AAS, BS, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kisha Hath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AAS, BS, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
Waitlist for new clients
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LCSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children and teens, and young adults. I am practiced in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, sexuality/sexual identity, and more. My passion for helping others has been years in the making and working with my clients to see their progress and strengths! I understand that life is ever-changing and barriers can create feelings of helplessness, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. I believe each person has their own story, and I work with them to identify barriers and insights about their life.
I also incorporate mindfulness, play, and art into therapy sessions.
Hello, everyone! My name is Kisha Hath, I am a LCSW graduate from Michigan State. I specialize in working with children and teens, and young adults. I am practiced in working with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, sexuality/sexual identity, and more. My passion for helping others has been years in the making and working with my clients to see their progress and strengths! I understand that life is ever-changing and barriers can create feelings of helplessness, fear, and feeling overwhelmed. I believe each person has their own story, and I work with them to identify barriers and insights about their life.
(810) 255-5153 View (810) 255-5153
Photo of Chris Sanderson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Sanderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48843
Waitlist for new clients
In working with kids, I become an interpreter of the language kids know best: play! With all of my clients, I emphasize a climate of safety and compassionate awareness of underlying emotion.
Are you often not getting what you want out of your relationships? Are you feeling guilt and shame far more than contentment or pride? Are you the parent of a child who is struggling to feel safe and protected in a chaotic world? I collaborate with individuals across the lifespan in addressing the causal factors underlying conditions like anxiety, depression and trauma. I completed an internship and a two year fellowship at University of Michigan Outpatient Psychiatry, where I had the unique opportunity to develop expertise in providing integrative, attachment-oriented psychotherapy for both adults and children.
In working with kids, I become an interpreter of the language kids know best: play! With all of my clients, I emphasize a climate of safety and compassionate awareness of underlying emotion.
Are you often not getting what you want out of your relationships? Are you feeling guilt and shame far more than contentment or pride? Are you the parent of a child who is struggling to feel safe and protected in a chaotic world? I collaborate with individuals across the lifespan in addressing the causal factors underlying conditions like anxiety, depression and trauma. I completed an internship and a two year fellowship at University of Michigan Outpatient Psychiatry, where I had the unique opportunity to develop expertise in providing integrative, attachment-oriented psychotherapy for both adults and children.
(734) 375-1129 View (734) 375-1129
Steve Bon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years, as a licensed professional for over 20 years. I enjoy a diverse practice that includes working with children and their parents, adults and those close to them, and senior citizens and their families. I am experienced in the individual and family therapies.In working with children, I meet regularly with their parents and others who care for them- extended family and teachers.In working with adolescents, I create a space where they can look beyond their immediate crisis and start to see who they will become.
I have been working in the mental health field for over 25 years, as a licensed professional for over 20 years. I enjoy a diverse practice that includes working with children and their parents, adults and those close to them, and senior citizens and their families. I am experienced in the individual and family therapies.In working with children, I meet regularly with their parents and others who care for them- extended family and teachers.In working with adolescents, I create a space where they can look beyond their immediate crisis and start to see who they will become.
(517) 292-0731 View (517) 292-0731
Photo of Kristin McGuinness - Pathlight Counseling Pllc, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pathlight Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843  (Online Only)
Each family is unique, but some have exceptional needs. As a mom of kids with special issues, and having worked in special education for decades, I understand the needs of exceptional families. I love working with children on grief, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, etc; parents struggling with their child's diagnosis will appreciate my understanding and ability to provide concrete steps to improve coping. Recently, I have obtained my certificate in Independent Educational Consulting and have immersed myself in the world of college admissions, & provide college counseling for teens, including those with disabilities.
Each family is unique, but some have exceptional needs. As a mom of kids with special issues, and having worked in special education for decades, I understand the needs of exceptional families. I love working with children on grief, anxiety, self-esteem, social skills, etc; parents struggling with their child's diagnosis will appreciate my understanding and ability to provide concrete steps to improve coping. Recently, I have obtained my certificate in Independent Educational Consulting and have immersed myself in the world of college admissions, & provide college counseling for teens, including those with disabilities.
(425) 243-6768 View (425) 243-6768
Photo of Laura Constable,  MA, LLC, Counselor
Laura Constable
Counselor, MA, LLC
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
Do you need support on your journey to mental and emotional wellness? I would be honored to help. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults facing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, anger, grief, low self-esteem, and infertility. I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where you can freely express yourself. Utilizing evidence-based therapy modalities, I tailor my holistic approach to address your specific concerns.
Do you need support on your journey to mental and emotional wellness? I would be honored to help. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults facing a range of issues including anxiety, depression, stress, anger, grief, low self-esteem, and infertility. I prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment where you can freely express yourself. Utilizing evidence-based therapy modalities, I tailor my holistic approach to address your specific concerns.
(517) 682-0446 View (517) 682-0446
Photo of Maggie Valade, LLP, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maggie Valade
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLP, MA
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
Maggie has experience working with clients of all ages in a private practice setting, utilizing both individual therapy and psychological assessments. Maggie has specific experience working with individuals seeking bariatric surgery, neuropsychological disorders, as well as experience with those seeking more generalized counseling. She works from a person-centered perspective, as she believes the client should have input in how counseling sessions go and what they want to spend their time talking about and working on. Her work at Michigan Psychological Care includes both therapy and psychological assessments.
Maggie has experience working with clients of all ages in a private practice setting, utilizing both individual therapy and psychological assessments. Maggie has specific experience working with individuals seeking bariatric surgery, neuropsychological disorders, as well as experience with those seeking more generalized counseling. She works from a person-centered perspective, as she believes the client should have input in how counseling sessions go and what they want to spend their time talking about and working on. Her work at Michigan Psychological Care includes both therapy and psychological assessments.
(517) 701-4970 View (517) 701-4970
Photo of Beth Toplyn, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Beth Toplyn
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
Dr. Toplyn has a special passion for DBT related treatment and autism assessment. She enjoys working with issues related to trauma, loss, abuse, adoption and placement. She has continued to work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, severe and persistent mental illness and can provide both group and individual DBT informed therapy. Her most recent work has been providing forensic evaluations to adults and teens involved in the legal system allowing her to empathize with those involved in the court system.
Dr. Toplyn has a special passion for DBT related treatment and autism assessment. She enjoys working with issues related to trauma, loss, abuse, adoption and placement. She has continued to work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, severe and persistent mental illness and can provide both group and individual DBT informed therapy. Her most recent work has been providing forensic evaluations to adults and teens involved in the legal system allowing her to empathize with those involved in the court system.
(517) 697-5608 View (517) 697-5608
Photo of Kelly Spallone, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Spallone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843  (Online Only)
Have you ever wished you could make sense of and move on from the pain of past mistakes, troubled relationships, childhood trauma, or unhealed grief and loss? Do you want to help your child with anxiety, coping skills, and improve communication in your family? As a parent do you want to stop reacting and build a great bond with your child or teen? Wanting change is the very first step. Unload the weight of the past, learn new ways to cope with the present. Rewrite the story you want for your future with clarity and hope!
Have you ever wished you could make sense of and move on from the pain of past mistakes, troubled relationships, childhood trauma, or unhealed grief and loss? Do you want to help your child with anxiety, coping skills, and improve communication in your family? As a parent do you want to stop reacting and build a great bond with your child or teen? Wanting change is the very first step. Unload the weight of the past, learn new ways to cope with the present. Rewrite the story you want for your future with clarity and hope!
(810) 242-3815 View (810) 242-3815
Photo of Madison Hunwick, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madison Hunwick
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
She has experience working with people of all ages, from young children to older adults. She especially loves working with children and teenagers. Maddy also has experience working with incarcerated people and returning citizens. She believes all people are capable of change. Her therapeutic focus is on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to understand themselves and achieve their goals. Maddy integrates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy into her practice.
She has experience working with people of all ages, from young children to older adults. She especially loves working with children and teenagers. Maddy also has experience working with incarcerated people and returning citizens. She believes all people are capable of change. Her therapeutic focus is on creating an environment where everyone feels comfortable and empowered to understand themselves and achieve their goals. Maddy integrates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy into her practice.
(517) 225-1490 View (517) 225-1490
McKenzie Sobczak
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLLP
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
McKenzie has experience working with patients of all ages in both an individual setting and psychological assessments. She has experience treating those with serious psychological disorders, as well as those seeking general therapy. She works from a humanistic, person-centered approach and believes clients should have a significant input in their own therapy space.
McKenzie has experience working with patients of all ages in both an individual setting and psychological assessments. She has experience treating those with serious psychological disorders, as well as those seeking general therapy. She works from a humanistic, person-centered approach and believes clients should have a significant input in their own therapy space.
(517) 306-4783 View (517) 306-4783
Photo of Jenny Parmenter, ACSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Parmenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48844
Are you in need of a nurturing place to sort out life's challenges? I feel everyone from time to time can use some extra support and insight to gain greater fulfillment in their lives. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples and families that were committed to making these positive changes. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in life's journey.
Are you in need of a nurturing place to sort out life's challenges? I feel everyone from time to time can use some extra support and insight to gain greater fulfillment in their lives. Over the years, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, couples and families that were committed to making these positive changes. I welcome the opportunity to assist you in life's journey.
(810) 696-8018 View (810) 696-8018
Photo of Celine M Klecker, MS, LPC, CADC, NBCC, Counselor
Celine M Klecker
Counselor, MS, LPC, CADC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48844
You don’t have to be diagnosed with a mental health problem to benefit from therapy. Many people in therapy seek help for everyday concerns: relationship problems, anxiety, job stress, low self-esteem or self-doubt, Others turn to therapy during difficult times, such as a trauma, depression bipolar, mood disorders, or relationship problems. But in order to reap its benefits, it’s important to choose the right therapist—someone you trust who makes you feel cared for and has the experience to help you make changes for the better in your life.
You don’t have to be diagnosed with a mental health problem to benefit from therapy. Many people in therapy seek help for everyday concerns: relationship problems, anxiety, job stress, low self-esteem or self-doubt, Others turn to therapy during difficult times, such as a trauma, depression bipolar, mood disorders, or relationship problems. But in order to reap its benefits, it’s important to choose the right therapist—someone you trust who makes you feel cared for and has the experience to help you make changes for the better in your life.
(810) 379-9974 View (810) 379-9974
Photo of Heather Harris, MA,  LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Heather Harris
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Howell, MI 48843
Everyone can use someone to talk to. Whether they just need to have a person to vent to or someone to help realign their life perspective, it is important to have a person. I want to be that person to others. I want to help to encourage others, provide positive change, promote health and stability and have open communication to others. A person who seeks therapy knows that their life journey is easier when shared with someone who can help manage the struggles and celebrate the joys that our journey has and they are willing to navigate them and are ready for a change.
Everyone can use someone to talk to. Whether they just need to have a person to vent to or someone to help realign their life perspective, it is important to have a person. I want to be that person to others. I want to help to encourage others, provide positive change, promote health and stability and have open communication to others. A person who seeks therapy knows that their life journey is easier when shared with someone who can help manage the struggles and celebrate the joys that our journey has and they are willing to navigate them and are ready for a change.
(810) 474-4249 View (810) 474-4249
Photo of Isaac Janda-Orr - Limited License Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Isaac Janda-Orr - Limited License Professional Counselor
MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48843
Have you ever found yourself thinking unhelpful thoughts? Has someone ever told you something about yourself you don't like or think is unfair? Have others tried to tell you what you should do or what is "right"? If you are looking for support on how to navigate life's stressful situations, I would love to assist. I work with a wide variety of clients and am passionate to help those who feel like others have treated them unfairly. This includes areas like relationship issues, potential traumatic or distressing situations, unfair treatment due to religious mindsets, adjusting to new boundaries, distressing life situations, and more!
Have you ever found yourself thinking unhelpful thoughts? Has someone ever told you something about yourself you don't like or think is unfair? Have others tried to tell you what you should do or what is "right"? If you are looking for support on how to navigate life's stressful situations, I would love to assist. I work with a wide variety of clients and am passionate to help those who feel like others have treated them unfairly. This includes areas like relationship issues, potential traumatic or distressing situations, unfair treatment due to religious mindsets, adjusting to new boundaries, distressing life situations, and more!
(810) 255-0901 View (810) 255-0901
Photo of Bryan M Blattert, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bryan M Blattert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48843
Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, exposure to traumatic events, and PTSD. These symptoms often leave them feeling helpless, afraid, and like things will never get better. Even though you want to run. Even though it's heavy and difficult. Even though you're not quite sure of the way through. Healing happens by feeling. To work on yourself is the best thing you can do. You will see, in the end you're going to make peace with yourself.
Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start. My clients struggle with anxiety, depression, life transitions, exposure to traumatic events, and PTSD. These symptoms often leave them feeling helpless, afraid, and like things will never get better. Even though you want to run. Even though it's heavy and difficult. Even though you're not quite sure of the way through. Healing happens by feeling. To work on yourself is the best thing you can do. You will see, in the end you're going to make peace with yourself.
(517) 225-1018 View (517) 225-1018
Photo of Leticia Stone, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leticia Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Howell, MI 48843
Accepting new clients via teleheath and in person. Do you desire to find greater meaning of why you think and behave the way you do? Do you find it challenging to make changes, not knowing where to start? Regret? Do you need help with processing and dealing with life transitions, finding to figure out relationships? I can guide you into growing your awareness of your being. I can help you learn new skills for managing stress, relationships, and communication. Let’s connect and get started on this journey.
Accepting new clients via teleheath and in person. Do you desire to find greater meaning of why you think and behave the way you do? Do you find it challenging to make changes, not knowing where to start? Regret? Do you need help with processing and dealing with life transitions, finding to figure out relationships? I can guide you into growing your awareness of your being. I can help you learn new skills for managing stress, relationships, and communication. Let’s connect and get started on this journey.
(517) 948-5150 View (517) 948-5150

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Abby M Usher, LMSW, IMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby M Usher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH-E
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Not accepting new clients
I use play therapy to support children in expressing themselves using their first language-play! We'll work together to help you better understand yourself and your child.
It can be easy to talk about the joys of parenting- the times you feel fulfilled when everyone is smiling for the family photo. Sometimes it's more difficult to talk about the stresses of parenting- the exhaustion, unmet expectations, struggling to connect with your child, or being reminded of painful experiences when looking at your baby. Sometimes it can be hard to understand how children communicate or what their cues mean. Some parents find it challenging to fully see their child for who they are due to their own unmet needs or unprocessed trauma. I'd love to partner with you in meeting both your own and your child's needs.
I use play therapy to support children in expressing themselves using their first language-play! We'll work together to help you better understand yourself and your child.
It can be easy to talk about the joys of parenting- the times you feel fulfilled when everyone is smiling for the family photo. Sometimes it's more difficult to talk about the stresses of parenting- the exhaustion, unmet expectations, struggling to connect with your child, or being reminded of painful experiences when looking at your baby. Sometimes it can be hard to understand how children communicate or what their cues mean. Some parents find it challenging to fully see their child for who they are due to their own unmet needs or unprocessed trauma. I'd love to partner with you in meeting both your own and your child's needs.
(810) 991-4754 View (810) 991-4754
Photo of Amanda Saxe, MA, LPC, CCPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Saxe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
I offer clients a safe space to share, open up and work on reaching their goals. Reaching out for your own self care is the first, most important but most difficult step… and is to be admired. 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, DBT and others. My goal is to help others to get to the bottom of their struggles, and to challenge the negative beliefs they have.
I offer clients a safe space to share, open up and work on reaching their goals. Reaching out for your own self care is the first, most important but most difficult step… and is to be admired. 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, DBT and others. My goal is to help others to get to the bottom of their struggles, and to challenge the negative beliefs they have.
(248) 290-9957 View (248) 290-9957
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.