Play Therapy in Livonia, MI
![Photo of Kelsy Butkus, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b736079f-fa4e-42b1-855b-41c494d5b8c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsy Butkus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48150
I have vast experience utilizing creativity and play-therapy to work with the child and the family to build emotional regulation, emotional literacy, self-esteem, and more.
Are you, your family, or your child struggling with regulating emotions, grief, anxiety, or trauma? Do you feel like you or your child might be neurodivergent? Do you need extra support with effective parenting strategies for your child? Does you, your family, or your child just need a safe space to talk about thoughts, feelings, and experiences? If you answered yes to any (or all) of those questions, then I am the therapist for you. I offer in-person or virtual sessions through Bluestone Children's Center. Even though it is a "children's center", I offer counseling services for anyone of any age.
I have vast experience utilizing creativity and play-therapy to work with the child and the family to build emotional regulation, emotional literacy, self-esteem, and more.
Are you, your family, or your child struggling with regulating emotions, grief, anxiety, or trauma? Do you feel like you or your child might be neurodivergent? Do you need extra support with effective parenting strategies for your child? Does you, your family, or your child just need a safe space to talk about thoughts, feelings, and experiences? If you answered yes to any (or all) of those questions, then I am the therapist for you. I offer in-person or virtual sessions through Bluestone Children's Center. Even though it is a "children's center", I offer counseling services for anyone of any age.
![Photo of Jennifer N Gauvin - Healing Connections , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed44300d-73aa-40a6-906e-e74f39e07b78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Connections
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48150
As a child and family therapist, my passion is assisting children and their families in being able to process and heal through traumatic and difficult situations. I offer a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental environment for children to feel valued, heard and delighted in. I believe that once children feel safe through a strong therapeutic connections with their therapist, they will begin to communication their inner world through play which will result in healing and the desired change in behavior.
As a child and family therapist, my passion is assisting children and their families in being able to process and heal through traumatic and difficult situations. I offer a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental environment for children to feel valued, heard and delighted in. I believe that once children feel safe through a strong therapeutic connections with their therapist, they will begin to communication their inner world through play which will result in healing and the desired change in behavior.
![Photo of Pamala Topp, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451194fa-b517-4547-a57e-3039418b4e51/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pamala Topp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48150
I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, and are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life.
I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, and are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life.
![Photo of Matt Pierson, MA, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3644c6c8-a2ea-4af1-8dfa-a8d8f7526c9a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Pierson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48152
Life is hard, and we all experience it differently. We have gone through a lot over the past few years, and moving forward is not always simple. In addition, finding the right therapist to help you navigate through challenges can be extremely difficult. I believe every relationship is different, and I make it a priority to have a healthy therapeutic connection with every single one of my clients.
Life is hard, and we all experience it differently. We have gone through a lot over the past few years, and moving forward is not always simple. In addition, finding the right therapist to help you navigate through challenges can be extremely difficult. I believe every relationship is different, and I make it a priority to have a healthy therapeutic connection with every single one of my clients.
![Photo of Susan Guild Danielson - Collaborative Health Center, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ad340a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Collaborative Health Center (CHC), collaboration with our clients and community is one of our core values; it's so important to us that we put it in our name. From your first contact with our supportive administrative staff to your last session with one of our skilled therapists, you will be an equal partner in the treatment process. Your therapist will utilize a wealth of knowledge, training, and expertise to guide you toward your goals while centering you as the expert on your own feelings and experiences. Our therapists welcome collaboration with other professionals, such as your psychiatrist or dietitian, whenever needed.
At Collaborative Health Center (CHC), collaboration with our clients and community is one of our core values; it's so important to us that we put it in our name. From your first contact with our supportive administrative staff to your last session with one of our skilled therapists, you will be an equal partner in the treatment process. Your therapist will utilize a wealth of knowledge, training, and expertise to guide you toward your goals while centering you as the expert on your own feelings and experiences. Our therapists welcome collaboration with other professionals, such as your psychiatrist or dietitian, whenever needed.
![Photo of Kim Waters, MS, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4549c34b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Waters
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS
Verified Verified
Livonia, MI 48150 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Is your child bright but falling behind? Is she disorganized and emotionally intense? Are you struggling with your own emotional intensities? I specialize in the social emotional needs of gifted and twice exceptional individuals. I also understand that learning differences impact the development of all individuals whether their differences result in the need for special education or gifted programming. My unique background not only includes training and experience working with individuals on their psychological needs, but also includes a strong background in Sensory Processing Dysfunction.
Is your child bright but falling behind? Is she disorganized and emotionally intense? Are you struggling with your own emotional intensities? I specialize in the social emotional needs of gifted and twice exceptional individuals. I also understand that learning differences impact the development of all individuals whether their differences result in the need for special education or gifted programming. My unique background not only includes training and experience working with individuals on their psychological needs, but also includes a strong background in Sensory Processing Dysfunction.
![Photo of Shannon Mathison, MS, CAADC, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/868bed09-06ff-405b-9679-73a85037bf7f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that therapy is a personal journey. I provide clients with a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows them to contemplate and explore all aspects of themselves. This contemplation and exploration allows clients to identify their own strengths and weaknesses. Once these areas are identified clients can work on fostering their strengths and begin to focus on overcoming internal barriers that may be impeding them from reaching their fullest potential.
I believe that therapy is a personal journey. I provide clients with a safe and non-judgmental environment that allows them to contemplate and explore all aspects of themselves. This contemplation and exploration allows clients to identify their own strengths and weaknesses. Once these areas are identified clients can work on fostering their strengths and begin to focus on overcoming internal barriers that may be impeding them from reaching their fullest potential.
![Photo of Stephanie Roffi, MA, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ccfca6a-65ad-41ae-8ea7-bac922e7a34d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Navigating life's intricacies can feel daunting, but that does not mean you have to face them alone. I am here to assist you on your journey through the good, the bad, the melancholy, and anything in between. I base my therapeutic alliance on compassion, collaboration, and authenticity. The counseling atmosphere should always be a safe space to explore without fear of judgment. Oftentimes we are met with stigma and compartmentalization throughout life, working with me will offer a space to leave those notions and labels at the door.
Navigating life's intricacies can feel daunting, but that does not mean you have to face them alone. I am here to assist you on your journey through the good, the bad, the melancholy, and anything in between. I base my therapeutic alliance on compassion, collaboration, and authenticity. The counseling atmosphere should always be a safe space to explore without fear of judgment. Oftentimes we are met with stigma and compartmentalization throughout life, working with me will offer a space to leave those notions and labels at the door.
![Photo of Madisyn Bobby, MA, LLP, CTP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/01ac88c8-7344-4e58-bda0-c2242beb7ff1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madisyn Bobby
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48152
Seeking mental health support can be daunting, but it is the second step in starting your mental health journey. The first step is knowing that you or someone you love may need extra support, and that is most definitely okay! It is okay to not be okay, and I will do my best to support and hold space for each individual in therapy. As a therapist, I strive to create the most welcoming, safe, and comfortable space for each individual. The space is yours to fill with whichever feelings, thoughts, words, or silence you or someone you love may need.
Seeking mental health support can be daunting, but it is the second step in starting your mental health journey. The first step is knowing that you or someone you love may need extra support, and that is most definitely okay! It is okay to not be okay, and I will do my best to support and hold space for each individual in therapy. As a therapist, I strive to create the most welcoming, safe, and comfortable space for each individual. The space is yours to fill with whichever feelings, thoughts, words, or silence you or someone you love may need.
![Photo of Manuel Manrique - Michigan Modern Psychology, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/459f6785-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Michigan Modern Psychology (MMP) we offer therapy and evaluations for individuals of all ages in a private and comfortable setting. With multiple therapists on staff to meet your clinical needs, we provide comprehensive and well-rounded treatment for children, individuals, couples and families. We are committed to providing the latest in clinical innovations from the behavioral sciences within a psychodynamic context. The practice first opened in 1996 and continues to grow.
At Michigan Modern Psychology (MMP) we offer therapy and evaluations for individuals of all ages in a private and comfortable setting. With multiple therapists on staff to meet your clinical needs, we provide comprehensive and well-rounded treatment for children, individuals, couples and families. We are committed to providing the latest in clinical innovations from the behavioral sciences within a psychodynamic context. The practice first opened in 1996 and continues to grow.
![Photo of Victor M Cruz - Cruz Clinic, MD](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cdd8212-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cruz Clinic is a family centered, out-patient mental health clinic that has provided comprehensive counseling services in the metro-Detroit area for over 25 years. Its commitment is to provide unexcelled professional services for the entire family from childhood through aging. Since it's inception the clinic's primary goal has been to tailor treatment plans to meet specific patient needs. This is done in conjucntion with the patient to enhace overall functioning by reflecting and building on innate strengths, developing stability, adjustment, and independence. Treatment also includes increasing coping skills to enable better decision-making and healthier lifestyle choices.
To accomplish these goals, Cruz Clinic offers an interdisciplinary team of therapists (Psychiatrist, Psychologist, and Social Worker) who are constantly upgrading their professional credentails and training.
Cruz Clinic is a family centered, out-patient mental health clinic that has provided comprehensive counseling services in the metro-Detroit area for over 25 years. Its commitment is to provide unexcelled professional services for the entire family from childhood through aging. Since it's inception the clinic's primary goal has been to tailor treatment plans to meet specific patient needs. This is done in conjucntion with the patient to enhace overall functioning by reflecting and building on innate strengths, developing stability, adjustment, and independence. Treatment also includes increasing coping skills to enable better decision-making and healthier lifestyle choices.
To accomplish these goals, Cruz Clinic offers an interdisciplinary team of therapists (Psychiatrist, Psychologist, and Social Worker) who are constantly upgrading their professional credentails and training.
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![Photo of Michelle Purdu, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13c73dc9-334d-48ad-b0a4-96a0ab80f26c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that the purpose of therapy is to help people gain the confidence they need to overcome the challenges in their lives. More often than not, we already possess the skills and knowledge we need to cultivate change, but could benefit from the guidance and support of an objective professional to confidently apply them. At the end of the day, I believe that happiness and fulfillment is in reach for all of us.I enjoy helping individuals and families find practical solutions to their problems, while maximizing their innate strengths and abilities.
I believe that the purpose of therapy is to help people gain the confidence they need to overcome the challenges in their lives. More often than not, we already possess the skills and knowledge we need to cultivate change, but could benefit from the guidance and support of an objective professional to confidently apply them. At the end of the day, I believe that happiness and fulfillment is in reach for all of us.I enjoy helping individuals and families find practical solutions to their problems, while maximizing their innate strengths and abilities.
![Photo of Robin L Chaustowich, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/533b4bb0-5caf-4243-b7eb-cbd11597bb2a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Don't hold on to the past; it won't help in moving forward. Dare to dream big, and keep moving forward. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, self esteem concerns or stress management issues, lets find some time to talk about ways to cope and create a brighter tomorrow.
Don't hold on to the past; it won't help in moving forward. Dare to dream big, and keep moving forward. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, life transitions, trauma/PTSD, self esteem concerns or stress management issues, lets find some time to talk about ways to cope and create a brighter tomorrow.
![Photo of Jacques D Short, MA, TMLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f61cd787-c5b8-4768-a2d7-fb2cdcf4998e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I focus on the connectedness among developmental, social, relational, and cultural factors. I have experience working with a diverse population of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I work with clients dealing with many different issues. I have worked with clients from a myriad of racial and ethnic backgrounds but have focused experience working with Black and Native American clients striving to work through race-related stress and racial identity concerns. I work with sexual identity and gender identity concerns (e.g., trans, questioning, gender non-conforming).
I focus on the connectedness among developmental, social, relational, and cultural factors. I have experience working with a diverse population of clients, including children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. I work with clients dealing with many different issues. I have worked with clients from a myriad of racial and ethnic backgrounds but have focused experience working with Black and Native American clients striving to work through race-related stress and racial identity concerns. I work with sexual identity and gender identity concerns (e.g., trans, questioning, gender non-conforming).
![Photo of Brittany Dickey, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b334c1f4-437b-4c84-9f4b-dacecfb79d4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Dickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48154
Are you ready to start your healing journey, and improve your current level of functioning? I'm passionate about supporting individuals on their journey of acceptance, finding clarity, and working toward wellness, and finding inner peace. Each client has a unique experience which requires a unique client-centered approach. I specialize in a variety of issues such as anger, depression, and suicidal ideation, and will work with you to identify the root cause.
Are you ready to start your healing journey, and improve your current level of functioning? I'm passionate about supporting individuals on their journey of acceptance, finding clarity, and working toward wellness, and finding inner peace. Each client has a unique experience which requires a unique client-centered approach. I specialize in a variety of issues such as anger, depression, and suicidal ideation, and will work with you to identify the root cause.
![Photo of Nicole Tacoma, PsyD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3638fbc-02b8-4a94-8e7d-5e4052743ff8/4/320x400.jpeg)
Are you wanting to begin the process of dismantling your inner critic and learning to love and accept yourself just as you are? Have you experienced trauma in your life, and you think you are ready to explore the emotional and psychological effects of past events, how these events have impacted your view of yourself and your relationships with others, and how you can use this insight to grow and thrive? Do you have a child who needs to learn how to recognize and understand their emotional states and how to express them in safe and constructive ways?
Are you wanting to begin the process of dismantling your inner critic and learning to love and accept yourself just as you are? Have you experienced trauma in your life, and you think you are ready to explore the emotional and psychological effects of past events, how these events have impacted your view of yourself and your relationships with others, and how you can use this insight to grow and thrive? Do you have a child who needs to learn how to recognize and understand their emotional states and how to express them in safe and constructive ways?
![Photo of Lavon Shina, MA, SCL, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/529fab22-3f86-40d6-b928-fceb8a4d3d8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lavon Shina
Counselor, MA, SCL, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48152
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to control your anxiety? Always sure something bad is going to happen? Are you constantly worried about things such as health, money, relationships, friendships, family and work? Life can be overwhelming and painful, but you don’t have to “tough it out” alone. Life is too short to let trauma control us or be anxious all the time. I want you to be free of emotional pain and to find meaning/purpose in all areas of your life. I can help you find healing and understanding in desperate situations while enjoying the process as much as possible!
Are you struggling to control your anxiety? Always sure something bad is going to happen? Are you constantly worried about things such as health, money, relationships, friendships, family and work? Life can be overwhelming and painful, but you don’t have to “tough it out” alone. Life is too short to let trauma control us or be anxious all the time. I want you to be free of emotional pain and to find meaning/purpose in all areas of your life. I can help you find healing and understanding in desperate situations while enjoying the process as much as possible!
![Photo of Jessica Lakkis, MA, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16738673-ccd3-425e-b597-a9d2abc14d46/1/320x400.png)
In my therapy room, YOU guide the direction for our sessions. You’ll have a safe and judgment-free space to open up about things you wouldn’t discuss with even your closest friends. Common topics of exploration include life history, attachments, survival mechanisms, biology, and intergenerational trauma. We will also discuss daily stressors and develop coping skills. I use an integrative approach mostly using the following modalities to guide sessions: psychodynamic, IFS, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral, biological and mindfulness. I received a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University.
In my therapy room, YOU guide the direction for our sessions. You’ll have a safe and judgment-free space to open up about things you wouldn’t discuss with even your closest friends. Common topics of exploration include life history, attachments, survival mechanisms, biology, and intergenerational trauma. We will also discuss daily stressors and develop coping skills. I use an integrative approach mostly using the following modalities to guide sessions: psychodynamic, IFS, attachment theory, cognitive behavioral, biological and mindfulness. I received a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Wayne State University.
![Photo of Franklin Sollars - Sollars and Associates, Inc, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/063a749b-edbe-4348-92ff-00a2a12683bd/1/320x400.png)
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
I am a licensed psychologist and the clinical director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. With support, encouragement, and expert insight many people begin to feel better after their first session. Our therapists possess a great deal of experience in evaluating and working with children, adolescents, and families dealing with a variety of issues.
![Photo of Claire Marion - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Livonia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91b6debe-2342-40e1-8897-6e556f2d62c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Livonia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Livonia, MI 48152
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group Livonia understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group Livonia understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
See more therapy options for Livonia
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Livonia
- Canton
- Dearborn
- Dearborn Heights
- Farmington
- Farmington Hills
- Northville
- Novi
- Oak Park
- Plymouth
- Redford
- Southfield
- Westland
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.