Play Therapy in Plainwell, MI

Photo of Julie French, MA, LPC, CAADC, Counselor
Julie French
Counselor, MA, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Plainwell, MI 49080
Feeling stressed and anxious due to worldly events? Need some help navigating life? I offer both in person and teletherapy sessions. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, adolescents, adults, and children. Helping people reach their full potential is my passion. I am easy going, down to earth and use a person-centered approach to counseling. I am trained in DBT, CBT and play therapy. My area of expertise is working with those who struggle with addictions, spirituality, trauma, depression and anxiety.
Feeling stressed and anxious due to worldly events? Need some help navigating life? I offer both in person and teletherapy sessions. I have over 10 years of experience working with families, adolescents, adults, and children. Helping people reach their full potential is my passion. I am easy going, down to earth and use a person-centered approach to counseling. I am trained in DBT, CBT and play therapy. My area of expertise is working with those who struggle with addictions, spirituality, trauma, depression and anxiety.
(269) 248-5474 View (269) 248-5474
Photo of Jeffrey J LaPonsie, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey J LaPonsie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
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).
(269) 626-2516 View (269) 626-2516
Photo of Lawrence Beer - Child & Family Psychological Services, PC, EdD, Psychologist
Child & Family Psychological Services, PC
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
It's about relationships . . . We're here to provide guidance in building and strengthening relationships between family members, friends, and even, with yourself. Caring and comprehensive counseling services for: Adults, teens and children of all ages, Individual, couples, family and group counseling.
It's about relationships . . . We're here to provide guidance in building and strengthening relationships between family members, friends, and even, with yourself. Caring and comprehensive counseling services for: Adults, teens and children of all ages, Individual, couples, family and group counseling.
(269) 359-3409 View (269) 359-3409
Photo of Suzanne Meinke, LPC, LMFT, CAADC, NCC, Counselor
Suzanne Meinke
Counselor, LPC, LMFT, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
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.
(269) 503-8883 View (269) 503-8883
Photo of Susan Rood, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Rood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainwell, MI 49080
Everyone struggles with life's hardships at times. I can appreciate how hard it can be to start the therapy process. I want to develop a place of safety, connectedness, and encouragement for you to come during those times. It is my hope that we work together in developing goals that are important to you. We will work as a team to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion to help walk you through your life journey.
Everyone struggles with life's hardships at times. I can appreciate how hard it can be to start the therapy process. I want to develop a place of safety, connectedness, and encouragement for you to come during those times. It is my hope that we work together in developing goals that are important to you. We will work as a team to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust and compassion to help walk you through your life journey.
(269) 399-4772 View (269) 399-4772
Photo of Christina Thomason, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Thomason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Plainwell, MI 49080
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.
(269) 266-8264 View (269) 266-8264
Photo of Bobbie Jo Heiser-Abel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbie Jo Heiser-Abel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Plainwell, MI 49080  (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.
(269) 338-8191 View (269) 338-8191

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melanie Bugnaski, MA, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie Bugnaski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parchment, MI 49004
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...
(269) 373-7134 View (269) 373-7134
Photo of Shelbey Watson-Beasley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelbey Watson-Beasley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Otsego, MI 49078
Hi there! I'm delighted you've discovered me on your quest for a therapist. As an experienced practitioner specializing in trauma-focused therapy, particularly with children and families, my mission is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intricate connections between past experience and present struggles. Through a trauma-informed lens, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, helping them unravel the complexities of their emotions and behaviors. Through my tailored therapy sessions, clients will be met with compassion and validation. Welcome!
Hi there! I'm delighted you've discovered me on your quest for a therapist. As an experienced practitioner specializing in trauma-focused therapy, particularly with children and families, my mission is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intricate connections between past experience and present struggles. Through a trauma-informed lens, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, helping them unravel the complexities of their emotions and behaviors. Through my tailored therapy sessions, clients will be met with compassion and validation. Welcome!
(269) 399-6189 View (269) 399-6189
Photo of Thomasina Guidry, MA, MBA, LLPC, Counselor
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.
(269) 367-2017 View (269) 367-2017
Photo of Kelene Rogers, MS,  LPC, IFS, ADS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelene Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, IFS, ADS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Richland, MI 49083
We will all go through times in our lives where we may need some extra support. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, relaxed, non-judgmental, caring environment, where we can work together to achieve your goals. I believe that everyone has their own set of strengths, and we will use a variety of creative interventions which will allow you to feel empowered and take control over your path to success. Together, we can find practical and realistic solutions to address your identified areas of need. I offer individual and family therapy to children and adults in a LGBTQ+ open and affirming practice.
We will all go through times in our lives where we may need some extra support. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with a safe, relaxed, non-judgmental, caring environment, where we can work together to achieve your goals. I believe that everyone has their own set of strengths, and we will use a variety of creative interventions which will allow you to feel empowered and take control over your path to success. Together, we can find practical and realistic solutions to address your identified areas of need. I offer individual and family therapy to children and adults in a LGBTQ+ open and affirming practice.
(269) 421-5059 View (269) 421-5059
Photo of Leatrice Brooks - Chosen, PLLC, LP, LPC, LMSW, Psychologist
Chosen, PLLC
Psychologist, LP, LPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parchment, MI 49004
You have just made a very important step towards finding your healing. Our providers are well-trained and prepared to address your concerns and meet your mental health needs. Chosen, PLLC is a safe, collaborative space for you to explore, learn, grow, and develop skills to help you create the life you desire. If you are tired of your current situation or otherwise just feel like a change is in order, you are in the right place.
You have just made a very important step towards finding your healing. Our providers are well-trained and prepared to address your concerns and meet your mental health needs. Chosen, PLLC is a safe, collaborative space for you to explore, learn, grow, and develop skills to help you create the life you desire. If you are tired of your current situation or otherwise just feel like a change is in order, you are in the right place.
(855) 517-0293 View (855) 517-0293
Photo of Emrielle VanCleave, MA, LLMFT, CTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emrielle VanCleave
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LLMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49004  (Online Only)
As an integrative therapist, I’m here to help you feel whole again. If you struggle with complex trauma, dissociation, a personality disorder, or other experiences that are difficult to let go of, I’m here to help you reconnect with all your parts and come together as a whole person, whether this be in individual, couples, or family sessions. Through our treatment together, you’ll be able to recognize the resiliency within you that is needed to take on life’s challenges and heal from those challenges you have already faced.
As an integrative therapist, I’m here to help you feel whole again. If you struggle with complex trauma, dissociation, a personality disorder, or other experiences that are difficult to let go of, I’m here to help you reconnect with all your parts and come together as a whole person, whether this be in individual, couples, or family sessions. Through our treatment together, you’ll be able to recognize the resiliency within you that is needed to take on life’s challenges and heal from those challenges you have already faced.
(810) 269-4152 View (810) 269-4152
Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo, Psychologist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Parchment, MI 49004
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Kalamazoo 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 - Kalamazoo 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.
(269) 215-5714 View (269) 215-5714
Photo of Joe R. Keinath, MA, LPC, Counselor
Joe R. Keinath
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49004
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life. Evenings and Weekends work great!
You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Are you ready to make a change in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I understand and have experienced the emotional challenges life has to offer. In working together, we will cultivate growth by understanding the obstacles that you face and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life and achieve your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to greater self-awareness, self-esteem, and most importantly, a more fulfilling life. Evenings and Weekends work great!
(269) 512-6045 View (269) 512-6045
Photo of Sandrena Hall, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandrena Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kalamazoo, MI 49048  (Online Only)
Stressful life events can make you feel as though your world is unraveling. Seeking help with navigating challenges can be difficult, overwhelming, and scary; but that is the first step in the healing process. My great passion is supporting adults and teens with stressful or traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I create a nonjudgmental and empathetic space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
Stressful life events can make you feel as though your world is unraveling. Seeking help with navigating challenges can be difficult, overwhelming, and scary; but that is the first step in the healing process. My great passion is supporting adults and teens with stressful or traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and life transitions. I create a nonjudgmental and empathetic space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
(269) 367-8357 View (269) 367-8357
Photo of Carol Harvey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richland, MI 49083
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
Helping people is my passion and I feel honored that God has placed me in a position to help those find hope and healing through the counsel I offer. I create a safe place for you to share your story and the challenges you face. My hope is that you feel compassion from me as I journey with you to healing and wholeness. It is a process and my commitment is to walk alongside you at your pace.
(269) 280-4088 View (269) 280-4088

Online Therapists

Photo of Hasti Raveau, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Hasti Raveau
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Raveau works with a wide range of ages and utilizes a combination of approaches, such as IFS, ACT, executive function coaching, exposure therapy, inner child healing, family systemic therapy, mindfulness based interventions, emotion focused couples therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching to support the needs of her clients.
Dr. Raveau is a clinical psychologist and founder of Mala Child & Family Institute. She is an expert in treating ADHD/neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD/perfectionism, parenting/co-parenting issues, racial minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form authentic relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of abundance and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
Raveau works with a wide range of ages and utilizes a combination of approaches, such as IFS, ACT, executive function coaching, exposure therapy, inner child healing, family systemic therapy, mindfulness based interventions, emotion focused couples therapy, play therapy, and parent coaching to support the needs of her clients.
Dr. Raveau is a clinical psychologist and founder of Mala Child & Family Institute. She is an expert in treating ADHD/neurodiversity, trauma, anxiety/OCD/perfectionism, parenting/co-parenting issues, racial minorities, and family level challenges. She helps clients end intergenerational cycles of trauma, form authentic relationships, embrace their neurodiversity and cultural background, and build authentic lives filled with a sense of abundance and inner peace. Dr. Raveau embraces working with individuals and families who identify with a range of ethnicities, religions, sexual orientations, and gender identities.
(734) 245-2279 View (734) 245-2279
Sahar Mir
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
I love utilizing play-based strategies that are trauma-informed and relationally based so that you can find it easy to open up and work through your challenges with me.
If you're finding it tough to deal with your feelings, academic struggles, self-esteem issues, or even thoughts of self-harm or suicide, know that you're not alone. Maybe you're facing peer pressure, going through major life changes, having relationship difficulties with family members, or navigating having a differently wired brain. I'm here to provide a safe, understanding space where you can talk about what's going on and find ways to feel better.
I love utilizing play-based strategies that are trauma-informed and relationally based so that you can find it easy to open up and work through your challenges with me.
If you're finding it tough to deal with your feelings, academic struggles, self-esteem issues, or even thoughts of self-harm or suicide, know that you're not alone. Maybe you're facing peer pressure, going through major life changes, having relationship difficulties with family members, or navigating having a differently wired brain. I'm here to provide a safe, understanding space where you can talk about what's going on and find ways to feel better.
(734) 215-3621 View (734) 215-3621
Photo of Moriah McCloy, MA, LLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Moriah McCloy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48933
I offer activities such as art, play, relaxation and talking.
Grab a cup of coffee/tea and let’s talk! My goal is to create a safe and relaxing environment where you can be yourself. I do not believe that therapy must always be a stiff uncomfortable process. I am here to help you achieve your solutions and the life changes you are looking for while enjoying yourself and the process as much as possible. Asking for help is hard, but I hope you take a moment (and a deep refreshing breath) to call or email me to see how I can help you.
I offer activities such as art, play, relaxation and talking.
Grab a cup of coffee/tea and let’s talk! My goal is to create a safe and relaxing environment where you can be yourself. I do not believe that therapy must always be a stiff uncomfortable process. I am here to help you achieve your solutions and the life changes you are looking for while enjoying yourself and the process as much as possible. Asking for help is hard, but I hope you take a moment (and a deep refreshing breath) to call or email me to see how I can help you.
(517) 797-1902 View (517) 797-1902

See more therapy options for Plainwell

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.