Play Therapy in Mattawan, MI
Arlene Giacona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mattawan, MI 49071
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to expertise in neurodivergence, I work very well with young children with play therapy techniques, adolescents, ADHD, and adults experiencing Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, and Depression.
Hello! Thank you for stopping by. I am a Social Worker and therapist with 20 years experience in the mental health field. What sets me apart though? I have a very passionate, upbeat personality that shines through in my practice. I work hard to help my clients see the strength they already have within and that I am just a facilitator to help them achieve any goal they set forth for themselves. I am honest and "real". I would be happy to chat with you about your goals and how we can work to achieve them together!
In addition to expertise in neurodivergence, I work very well with young children with play therapy techniques, adolescents, ADHD, and adults experiencing Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, and Depression.
Hello! Thank you for stopping by. I am a Social Worker and therapist with 20 years experience in the mental health field. What sets me apart though? I have a very passionate, upbeat personality that shines through in my practice. I work hard to help my clients see the strength they already have within and that I am just a facilitator to help them achieve any goal they set forth for themselves. I am honest and "real". I would be happy to chat with you about your goals and how we can work to achieve them together!
Cassidy Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
I like to get creative in session, frequently offering alternative avenues for self-expression and healing, such as art, music, movement, and play.
It is an honor to walk alongside my clients as they learn about themselves and make positive changes in their lives. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you explore and overcome your challenges. If you are a neurodivergent individual looking to navigate life changes, develop coping skills, or learn about ways to thrive in a world not always set up to meet your needs, I may be a good fit. It is important to me that my clients are able to live as their authentic selves as well as advocate for themselves in their day-to-day lives.
I like to get creative in session, frequently offering alternative avenues for self-expression and healing, such as art, music, movement, and play.
It is an honor to walk alongside my clients as they learn about themselves and make positive changes in their lives. My goal is to offer a safe, nonjudgmental space to help you explore and overcome your challenges. If you are a neurodivergent individual looking to navigate life changes, develop coping skills, or learn about ways to thrive in a world not always set up to meet your needs, I may be a good fit. It is important to me that my clients are able to live as their authentic selves as well as advocate for themselves in their day-to-day lives.
Nicole Pominville
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
Waitlist for new clients
Counseling is a sensitive process that can help individuals to gain insight, and a deeper understanding of their life, as well as achieve their personal goals. I have always had an interest in working with children and believe that despite their small size, their lives may be filled with big emotions that can be tough to handle. In working with children I believe it’s important to connect with them on their level, meeting them where they are and using their language of play to guide growth and healing.
Counseling is a sensitive process that can help individuals to gain insight, and a deeper understanding of their life, as well as achieve their personal goals. I have always had an interest in working with children and believe that despite their small size, their lives may be filled with big emotions that can be tough to handle. In working with children I believe it’s important to connect with them on their level, meeting them where they are and using their language of play to guide growth and healing.
Melanie Bugnaski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
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...
Suzanne Meinke
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
Waitlist for new clients
Finding the right person to talk to and connect with can be stressful, but it should be easy. My goal is to help you reach your goals in a comfortable, warm, and supportive environment; free from judgment and personal agendas. I'm a very real person, and encourage you to be your authentic self, F bombs and all! It's important for us to have a collaborative relationship where you feel free to share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions and make the changes that will improve your life. I am passionate about what I do, and look forward to helping you to free yourself from personal conflicts and stressors. Email for a quicker response.
Finding the right person to talk to and connect with can be stressful, but it should be easy. My goal is to help you reach your goals in a comfortable, warm, and supportive environment; free from judgment and personal agendas. I'm a very real person, and encourage you to be your authentic self, F bombs and all! It's important for us to have a collaborative relationship where you feel free to share your thoughts, feelings, and opinions and make the changes that will improve your life. I am passionate about what I do, and look forward to helping you to free yourself from personal conflicts and stressors. Email for a quicker response.
Erin Arwady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
As an LMSW with several years of experience, I have developed a balanced, relationship-driven, and creative approach to working with individuals and families from diverse populations. I have extensive experience working with children, adults, and families with various concerns including mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, and dual diagnosis. While I do not subscribe to any one modality of treatment, I have training and experience in utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), expressive arts therapies, and holistic approaches.
As an LMSW with several years of experience, I have developed a balanced, relationship-driven, and creative approach to working with individuals and families from diverse populations. I have extensive experience working with children, adults, and families with various concerns including mood disorders, eating disorders, ADHD, and dual diagnosis. While I do not subscribe to any one modality of treatment, I have training and experience in utilizing Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), expressive arts therapies, and holistic approaches.
Kristina Raleigh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
Has your adolescent been experiencing overwhelming sadness? Does your teen feel worried a lot? Are these worries negatively impacting your child's relationships and academic performance? Have recent or ongoing stressors decreased your child's ability to cope with or adjust to change? You want hope and healing for your child so they can feel normal again. You want your teen to find relief from the constant worrying. You want your child to be successful at adapting to change. You have found the place your child needs to be to improve their life.
Has your adolescent been experiencing overwhelming sadness? Does your teen feel worried a lot? Are these worries negatively impacting your child's relationships and academic performance? Have recent or ongoing stressors decreased your child's ability to cope with or adjust to change? You want hope and healing for your child so they can feel normal again. You want your teen to find relief from the constant worrying. You want your child to be successful at adapting to change. You have found the place your child needs to be to improve their life.
Diane M Kanous
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
I am a Solution Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, which concentrates on problem solving rather than the situation itself. I create an environment that fosters the feeling that you have an advocate who helps you navigate through situations, which may be difficult. I love being a therapist and that comes through by demonstrating a genuine concern with the issues you bring forth. I am committed to engaging in meaningful dialogue with you in order to recognize and help foster an understanding of your struggles, needs, and personal goals. I will also strive to enable you to find strategies to cope with and resolve any issues.
I am a Solution Focused, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapist, which concentrates on problem solving rather than the situation itself. I create an environment that fosters the feeling that you have an advocate who helps you navigate through situations, which may be difficult. I love being a therapist and that comes through by demonstrating a genuine concern with the issues you bring forth. I am committed to engaging in meaningful dialogue with you in order to recognize and help foster an understanding of your struggles, needs, and personal goals. I will also strive to enable you to find strategies to cope with and resolve any issues.
I work with children and young adults who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, academic stress, social difficulties, or family issues. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment where they can express themselves, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills. My client's goals may include improving self-esteem, managing emotions, building positive relationships, and achieving academic success. I will provide a space where they feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools to navigate life's ups and downs. Ultimately, empowering those I work with to thrive and reach their full potential.
I work with children and young adults who are facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, academic stress, social difficulties, or family issues. I work to provide a safe and supportive environment where they can express themselves, build resilience, and develop healthy coping skills. My client's goals may include improving self-esteem, managing emotions, building positive relationships, and achieving academic success. I will provide a space where they feel understood, empowered, and equipped with tools to navigate life's ups and downs. Ultimately, empowering those I work with to thrive and reach their full potential.
Asking for help can be difficult. I understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected , seen and heard. My experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives and to feel empowered making changes in their relationships, careers or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
Asking for help can be difficult. I understand that entering therapy can be a big step and how important it is that you feel respected , seen and heard. My experience includes helping children, adolescents, adults, and families navigate difficult times in their lives and to feel empowered making changes in their relationships, careers or personal goals. Together, we will develop a treatment strategy that focuses on the issues and changes that you identify and are ready to address.
Therapy is a great journey to start out on and I am glad you are taking this first step. It is not one you'll regret. My first goal as a therapist is to create an atmosphere where you feel comfortable. I use a strengths based approach and create a framework that makes it easy for you to create goals and a path so you'll know when you make them. To me it is crucial that the patient is a member of the care team. If you're struggling with Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, BiPolar, Panic Attacks, Trauma, Problem Behaviors I may be a good fit assist you.
Therapy is a great journey to start out on and I am glad you are taking this first step. It is not one you'll regret. My first goal as a therapist is to create an atmosphere where you feel comfortable. I use a strengths based approach and create a framework that makes it easy for you to create goals and a path so you'll know when you make them. To me it is crucial that the patient is a member of the care team. If you're struggling with Relationship Issues, Anxiety, Depression, BiPolar, Panic Attacks, Trauma, Problem Behaviors I may be a good fit assist you.
Adrianna P Nemeth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
I work with people who have experienced trauma, children who have behavioral and/or attachment concerns and individuals who are managing perinatal mood concerns and/or parenting stress. Additionally I work with people dealing with anxiety, grief, and other life stressors. I am here to provide a safe environment where you feel heard and supported. I utilize a holistic approach of treatment pulling from multiple evidence-based treatment models. Together we will process and explore your concerns while developing skills, gaining insight and moving towards healing and greater wellness.
I work with people who have experienced trauma, children who have behavioral and/or attachment concerns and individuals who are managing perinatal mood concerns and/or parenting stress. Additionally I work with people dealing with anxiety, grief, and other life stressors. I am here to provide a safe environment where you feel heard and supported. I utilize a holistic approach of treatment pulling from multiple evidence-based treatment models. Together we will process and explore your concerns while developing skills, gaining insight and moving towards healing and greater wellness.
Dusten Allan Lyvers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
Hello! Take a breath and congratulate yourself on making the first step towards living your best life. I also make personal counseling a mandatory part of my wellness. My approach to counseling is client-centered, warm, and involves a collaborative style where I listen to my client and assume they are the expert in their own life.
Hello! Take a breath and congratulate yourself on making the first step towards living your best life. I also make personal counseling a mandatory part of my wellness. My approach to counseling is client-centered, warm, and involves a collaborative style where I listen to my client and assume they are the expert in their own life.
Therapy is hard. My job is to make you feel confident with your decision to reach out for help while guiding you through your own personal growth and healing. Healing from trauma will be the hardest and most worthwhile decision of your life, and you do not have to go through it alone. I offer individual therapy for adolescents and adults in a LGBTQ+ open and affirming practice. Please reach out if you would like to connect about the therapy process.
Therapy is hard. My job is to make you feel confident with your decision to reach out for help while guiding you through your own personal growth and healing. Healing from trauma will be the hardest and most worthwhile decision of your life, and you do not have to go through it alone. I offer individual therapy for adolescents and adults in a LGBTQ+ open and affirming practice. Please reach out if you would like to connect about the therapy process.
Melissa LaCharite
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
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.
Bobbie Jo Heiser-Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Mattawan, MI 49071 (Online Only)
It's easy to get swept away by daily struggles and getting back on track is difficult. Something doesn’t feel right. You feel like you’re just going through the motions. You want to feel better, but you don’t know where or how to start. Whether you’re overwhelmed, suffering from a loss, or simply trying to make sense of life, I’m here to help.
It's easy to get swept away by daily struggles and getting back on track is difficult. Something doesn’t feel right. You feel like you’re just going through the motions. You want to feel better, but you don’t know where or how to start. Whether you’re overwhelmed, suffering from a loss, or simply trying to make sense of life, I’m here to help.
Megan Carlson
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Mattawan, MI 49071
Not accepting new clients
Finding someone to trust and confide in with life's demands can be challenging. To put yourself out there and say, "Here are my problems," can be intimidating and scary. It is my hope to create an environment where you will feel safe, free from judgement, and better prepared to explore and improve your life. My goal is to help you on your journey to self discovery, growth and happiness. You are your greatest teacher and together my hope is for us to achieve your greatest potential. I am open to working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, religious beliefs, and sexual orientations.
Finding someone to trust and confide in with life's demands can be challenging. To put yourself out there and say, "Here are my problems," can be intimidating and scary. It is my hope to create an environment where you will feel safe, free from judgement, and better prepared to explore and improve your life. My goal is to help you on your journey to self discovery, growth and happiness. You are your greatest teacher and together my hope is for us to achieve your greatest potential. I am open to working with clients of all ages, ethnicities, religious beliefs, and sexual orientations.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
Lynn Steinhauer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
For both children and adolescents, therapeutic techniques which utilize play and alternative methods of expression can be most useful.
In my 18 years as a clinical social worker in private practice I have worked with a wide variety of people. I see my work as that of helping people to find and enhance their own coping abilities. I see it as my privilege to people who are temporarily stuck as any of us can be. I am particularly draw to helping people who have experienced trauma, are suffering from mood disorders, eating problems and the challenges of parenting and love relationships.
For both children and adolescents, therapeutic techniques which utilize play and alternative methods of expression can be most useful.
In my 18 years as a clinical social worker in private practice I have worked with a wide variety of people. I see my work as that of helping people to find and enhance their own coping abilities. I see it as my privilege to people who are temporarily stuck as any of us can be. I am particularly draw to helping people who have experienced trauma, are suffering from mood disorders, eating problems and the challenges of parenting and love relationships.
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.
See more therapy options for Mattawan
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Mattawan
- Allegan
- Battle Creek
- Benton Harbor
- Douglas
- Hastings
- Kalamazoo
- Middleville
- Niles
- Plainwell
- Portage
- Saint Joseph
- 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.