Play Therapy in Kalamazoo, MI
Christina G Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I take an eclectic approach and integrate movement, art, play, and music into the counseling session to help all children communicate and be successful in their own way.
My ideal client is one that is struggling but wants to improve. Neurodevelopmental disorders are my JAM! ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders is where I direct much of my clinical experience. It's important to me that my clients (and their parents/families/teachers) understand the uniqueness of their disorder and how to turn a perceived deficit into a SUPERPOWER. All children are wonderful gifts, and I love helping children discover and embrace their best selves. A diagnosis does not define you, your child, or your family.
I take an eclectic approach and integrate movement, art, play, and music into the counseling session to help all children communicate and be successful in their own way.
My ideal client is one that is struggling but wants to improve. Neurodevelopmental disorders are my JAM! ADHD, Learning Disabilities, and Autism Spectrum Disorders is where I direct much of my clinical experience. It's important to me that my clients (and their parents/families/teachers) understand the uniqueness of their disorder and how to turn a perceived deficit into a SUPERPOWER. All children are wonderful gifts, and I love helping children discover and embrace their best selves. A diagnosis does not define you, your child, or your family.
I mostly lean into CBT, ERP, and play for children/young teens.
Do you ever wish life could be different but don't know how to make make changes? Do you wish you could have someone to confide to that isn't part of your daily life and maybe someone who will give you wisdom and help shed light on patterns of thinking that might not be helpful to you? Do you long for space to share your inner thoughts and feelings without judgement? Over the years, I have worked with a variety of individuals ages 4-50 something who long for these exact things!
I mostly lean into CBT, ERP, and play for children/young teens.
Do you ever wish life could be different but don't know how to make make changes? Do you wish you could have someone to confide to that isn't part of your daily life and maybe someone who will give you wisdom and help shed light on patterns of thinking that might not be helpful to you? Do you long for space to share your inner thoughts and feelings without judgement? Over the years, I have worked with a variety of individuals ages 4-50 something who long for these exact things!
Melanie Bugnaski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I currently serve all ages from pre-school children through empty-nesters! I use empirically validated solution focused and cognitive behavioral techniques while integrating play, art, exercise and music.
Have you ever felt alone and like people don't understand you? Or have you ever struggled with, am I making the right choices in parenting for my children? My passion in counseling is helping clients understand who they are, to gain skills that help them meet their goals, and to provide educational opportunities for growth. Together WE define your goals and set obtainable objectives to meet those goals... you are the expert of you! Think of me as your helper or guide...
I currently serve all ages from pre-school children through empty-nesters! I use empirically validated solution focused and cognitive behavioral techniques while integrating play, art, exercise and music.
Have you ever felt alone and like people don't understand you? Or have you ever struggled with, am I making the right choices in parenting for my children? My passion in counseling is helping clients understand who they are, to gain skills that help them meet their goals, and to provide educational opportunities for growth. Together WE define your goals and set obtainable objectives to meet those goals... you are the expert of you! Think of me as your helper or guide...
Rachel Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MITS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I have training and experience in Trauma-Informed Therapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy, and working with college-aged populations, and sexual assault survivors.
As counselor, I see therapy involving a very individual, 'person centered' approach. "I believe that every person has the internal resources they need for growth & healing, and to find their direction and progress in the therapy process." I support the client on their path to success, providing empathy, acceptance for who they are and where they are, while offering a non-judgmental orientation. I encourage the client with the freedom to explore thoughts, feelings, and life experiences in our time together.
I have training and experience in Trauma-Informed Therapy, Family Therapy, Play Therapy, and working with college-aged populations, and sexual assault survivors.
As counselor, I see therapy involving a very individual, 'person centered' approach. "I believe that every person has the internal resources they need for growth & healing, and to find their direction and progress in the therapy process." I support the client on their path to success, providing empathy, acceptance for who they are and where they are, while offering a non-judgmental orientation. I encourage the client with the freedom to explore thoughts, feelings, and life experiences in our time together.
Megan Hildebrandt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
The early years of a person’s life can provide the structure and foundation that shapes how they view the world around them, and how they view themselves. Giving someone the opportunity and tools to identify, process and embrace their thoughts and feelings can make all the difference in supporting someone in becoming who they will be. I specialize in helping children to learn how to embrace and cope with their strong emotions, behavioral struggles, and life changes using play therapy techniques and a strengths-based approach.
The early years of a person’s life can provide the structure and foundation that shapes how they view the world around them, and how they view themselves. Giving someone the opportunity and tools to identify, process and embrace their thoughts and feelings can make all the difference in supporting someone in becoming who they will be. I specialize in helping children to learn how to embrace and cope with their strong emotions, behavioral struggles, and life changes using play therapy techniques and a strengths-based approach.
Nichole Holliday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49008 (Online Only)
It is important for children to express themselves through play, activities, and conversation in a fun and engaging environment.
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
It is important for children to express themselves through play, activities, and conversation in a fun and engaging environment.
I believe therapy should take place in a safe, supportive, empowering, and confidential environment. Clients are active in the process, exploring areas including feelings, beliefs, and behaviors while working through personal history and identifying aspects of their lives they wish to change. Clients take a journey to better understanding of themselves and others. We will set personal goals, and work together toward desired change through reflection, processing and skill building. When working with children I work with the child individually and also invite parents/guardians into session to learn skills to utilize at home to support the child with change.
Gen Manders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, IBHPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
I am trained in TFCBT, EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy and other therapeutic models.
Hello, I believe that making the decision to reach out for therapeutic supports for you and your loved ones is a personal decision. I am honored to walk along side you in your journey. I believe in a Person Centered approach; allowing us to define the goals and areas of focus together in your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 18 years of experience proving therapy services to youth and their families. My primary focus is working with youth, young adults and families in learning how to overcome traumas or adjusting to new stressors in life; supporting you in transitions.
I am trained in TFCBT, EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy and other therapeutic models.
Hello, I believe that making the decision to reach out for therapeutic supports for you and your loved ones is a personal decision. I am honored to walk along side you in your journey. I believe in a Person Centered approach; allowing us to define the goals and areas of focus together in your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 18 years of experience proving therapy services to youth and their families. My primary focus is working with youth, young adults and families in learning how to overcome traumas or adjusting to new stressors in life; supporting you in transitions.
I have been in practice in Kalamazoo for over 10 years. I am certified in Trauma Informed Assessment and Intervention, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, and have expertise in several parenting approaches. In addition to clinical practice, I am a school social worker, and proud father of 8 children. I use a person-centered approach, allowing clients to set their goals, providing a safe space and supportive environment to move them in the direction of their goals.
I have been in practice in Kalamazoo for over 10 years. I am certified in Trauma Informed Assessment and Intervention, as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, play therapy, and have expertise in several parenting approaches. In addition to clinical practice, I am a school social worker, and proud father of 8 children. I use a person-centered approach, allowing clients to set their goals, providing a safe space and supportive environment to move them in the direction of their goals.
Jeffrey J LaPonsie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Do you have a behaviorally challenging child whose struggling to follow directions. I help children with behavior problems, unresolved trauma and attachment/relationship problems. I help adopted and foster children connect and form meaningful relationships with caregivers. I use a variety of methods to help children and their family, predominantly though I use play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (trauma-focused when needed).
Do you have a behaviorally challenging child whose struggling to follow directions. I help children with behavior problems, unresolved trauma and attachment/relationship problems. I help adopted and foster children connect and form meaningful relationships with caregivers. I use a variety of methods to help children and their family, predominantly though I use play therapy, parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (trauma-focused when needed).
For both my adult and children clients I also incorporate Expressive Arts Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and, Play Therapy.
I am thrilled to be able to offer counseling services to people that live in the West Michigan area. Although, I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents, I also enjoy working with individuals and couples. If you are having difficulty with adjusting to new life circumstances, having relationship issues, or if you are a person that is living with a Mental Illness I am eager to help you work through your situation. Life is too short to face your problems alone and I am always willing to listen and help you work towards a new way to face your life's challenges.
For both my adult and children clients I also incorporate Expressive Arts Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and, Play Therapy.
I am thrilled to be able to offer counseling services to people that live in the West Michigan area. Although, I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents, I also enjoy working with individuals and couples. If you are having difficulty with adjusting to new life circumstances, having relationship issues, or if you are a person that is living with a Mental Illness I am eager to help you work through your situation. Life is too short to face your problems alone and I am always willing to listen and help you work towards a new way to face your life's challenges.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in children ages 4-12 years. I engage them with both therapeutic play, creative arts interventions and therapeutic games. When children and young adolescents come to therapy they need to feel safe and enjoy the experience while learning skills to improve how they feel. When families come to therapy, they look for guidance from an experienced therapist who will join with their family and help them navigate through their family issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, divorce, adoption and life adjustments are all issues that lead many children and families to seek specialized treatment.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in children ages 4-12 years. I engage them with both therapeutic play, creative arts interventions and therapeutic games. When children and young adolescents come to therapy they need to feel safe and enjoy the experience while learning skills to improve how they feel. When families come to therapy, they look for guidance from an experienced therapist who will join with their family and help them navigate through their family issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, divorce, adoption and life adjustments are all issues that lead many children and families to seek specialized treatment.
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Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo
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Marisa Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49007 (Online Only)
I incorporate components of sand-tray, play therapy, expressive arts, DBT, and IFS to treat those who have dealt with traumas, life adjustments, LGBTQIA+ concerns, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts/self-harm, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults on processing traumatic experiences, regulating emotions, navigating sensitive nervous systems, and strengthening relationships through laughter, creativity, art, and play.
I incorporate components of sand-tray, play therapy, expressive arts, DBT, and IFS to treat those who have dealt with traumas, life adjustments, LGBTQIA+ concerns, eating disorders, suicidal thoughts/self-harm, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults on processing traumatic experiences, regulating emotions, navigating sensitive nervous systems, and strengthening relationships through laughter, creativity, art, and play.
Kara Applegate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW-C, CFLE
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally I am trained in PICT (Parent child interaction therapy), that I use in addition to play therapy techniques, and my Gottman level one to help support the whole Family system.
I work with children, teens, and adults who have been through a traumatic experience, and other changes throughout life. I work to help you or your child process those changes, support the family system, and help regulate through those challenging behaviors. Through play, connection, and relationship building I use evidence-based practices to help support my clients where their needs are at.
Additionally I am trained in PICT (Parent child interaction therapy), that I use in addition to play therapy techniques, and my Gottman level one to help support the whole Family system.
I work with children, teens, and adults who have been through a traumatic experience, and other changes throughout life. I work to help you or your child process those changes, support the family system, and help regulate through those challenging behaviors. Through play, connection, and relationship building I use evidence-based practices to help support my clients where their needs are at.
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.
Thomasina Guidry
Counselor, MA, MBA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009 (Online Only)
What situation qualifies for counseling? My answer to that is being human. Many believe that counseling is only necessary for major life events. The truth is you do not have to be on the high end of the stress spectrum to seek professional support. Life can be hard. Counseling provides a supportive and nonjudgmental space to process all circumstances.
What situation qualifies for counseling? My answer to that is being human. Many believe that counseling is only necessary for major life events. The truth is you do not have to be on the high end of the stress spectrum to seek professional support. Life can be hard. Counseling provides a supportive and nonjudgmental space to process all circumstances.
Falon Shepeck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about helping clients discover their goals for themselves and learn healthy new coping skills and behavioral techniques to reach those goals. I will join you in your journey of change and personal growth while providing you with support, encouragement, compassion and empathy. My goal is to help all who step into my office to build resilience and improve their mental health. There is strength in realizing we can do hard things, and encouragement in seeing ourselves do them with support!
I am passionate about helping clients discover their goals for themselves and learn healthy new coping skills and behavioral techniques to reach those goals. I will join you in your journey of change and personal growth while providing you with support, encouragement, compassion and empathy. My goal is to help all who step into my office to build resilience and improve their mental health. There is strength in realizing we can do hard things, and encouragement in seeing ourselves do them with support!
Ann Phillips Browning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Life is a roller coaster Than can be very stressful. I am here to help you get through the tough times. What can you do when you feel tired and overwhelmed? I learned how to manage anxiety, depression, panic attacks, childhood sexual abuse, trauma, and grief. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside others who are looking to deal with similar issues. I models like CBT, DBT, solution-focused and trauma-informed therapy. I also love to incorporate humor and laughter into our time together. Let's talk and see if I can help.
Life is a roller coaster Than can be very stressful. I am here to help you get through the tough times. What can you do when you feel tired and overwhelmed? I learned how to manage anxiety, depression, panic attacks, childhood sexual abuse, trauma, and grief. I consider it a privilege to walk alongside others who are looking to deal with similar issues. I models like CBT, DBT, solution-focused and trauma-informed therapy. I also love to incorporate humor and laughter into our time together. Let's talk and see if I can help.
I believe that counseling allows you to explore who you are. As a counselor, I will assist you, your family, and your children with life challenges. I will help you find which self-care techniques work best for you as an individual. Together we will discover your success and how to find the comfortable path for you to get there. I have worked with individuals and families in various settings for over ten years, using various treatment models promoting individual strengths. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families in different stages of life.
I believe that counseling allows you to explore who you are. As a counselor, I will assist you, your family, and your children with life challenges. I will help you find which self-care techniques work best for you as an individual. Together we will discover your success and how to find the comfortable path for you to get there. I have worked with individuals and families in various settings for over ten years, using various treatment models promoting individual strengths. I have worked with children, adolescents, and families in different stages of life.
Melissa LaCharite
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and families. Many of my clients have struggled with life transitions, symptoms of anxiety, depression symptoms, and social skills. Parents are invited to come to sessions to support skills inside and outside the counseling session. Collaborating with the family supports allows for skill acquisition and client empowerment.
I primarily work with children, adolescents, and families. Many of my clients have struggled with life transitions, symptoms of anxiety, depression symptoms, and social skills. Parents are invited to come to sessions to support skills inside and outside the counseling session. Collaborating with the family supports allows for skill acquisition and client empowerment.
Taking the first step towards growth and healing is always the hardest, and the fact that you are here means you are strong and resilient! I believe that people are the experts on their own lives, and I would love to learn what it's like to be you. I take a client-centered approach and am here to offer a safe, judgment-free space to hold whatever experiences or situations you want to share and process through.
Taking the first step towards growth and healing is always the hardest, and the fact that you are here means you are strong and resilient! I believe that people are the experts on their own lives, and I would love to learn what it's like to be you. I take a client-centered approach and am here to offer a safe, judgment-free space to hold whatever experiences or situations you want to share and process through.
See more therapy options for Kalamazoo
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Kalamazoo
- Allegan
- Battle Creek
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- Coldwater
- Douglas
- Hastings
- Mattawan
- Middleville
- Plainwell
- Portage
- Wayland
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.