Play Therapy in Royal Oak, MI

Photo of Vickie Novell, LMSW, IECMH-E, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vickie Novell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IECMH-E
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I partner with families in their parenting journey through parent coaching, developmental guidance, play therapy, and family therapy.
Early Childhood is an amazing, complex time. Whether planning to grow your family, are currently pregnant, or planning an adoption, you may experience a mixture of joy, confusion, sadness, and worry. As an attachment therapist, I specialize in supporting caregivers through pregnancy and caring for newborns, infants, toddlers, or preschoolers. Whether you are looking for support for the challenges of pregnancy and parenting, or your child is struggling emotionally, has developmental/behavioral concerns, or has experienced stressors such divorce, trauma, I am here to support your family to grow and thrive.
I partner with families in their parenting journey through parent coaching, developmental guidance, play therapy, and family therapy.
Early Childhood is an amazing, complex time. Whether planning to grow your family, are currently pregnant, or planning an adoption, you may experience a mixture of joy, confusion, sadness, and worry. As an attachment therapist, I specialize in supporting caregivers through pregnancy and caring for newborns, infants, toddlers, or preschoolers. Whether you are looking for support for the challenges of pregnancy and parenting, or your child is struggling emotionally, has developmental/behavioral concerns, or has experienced stressors such divorce, trauma, I am here to support your family to grow and thrive.
(947) 203-3438 View (947) 203-3438
Photo of Liz DeLandsheer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz DeLandsheer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I provided play therapy, career counseling, group therapy, and parent/ child attachment.
Are you struggling to find meaningful relationships or just tired of feeling disappointed by others? Maybe your needs are not being met professionally, emotionally, or intellectually? We will explore why you’re stuck, understand the patterns, and create a plan to help you achieve your goals. By first developing insight into behavior and relationship patterns, we can create strategies to resolve those conflicts. Later, learn ways to tolerate pain, move forward in the fear, and feel ready to take action in those steps. You will learn to tolerate anxiety, heal past trauma, improve the connection with yourself, and feel understood.
I provided play therapy, career counseling, group therapy, and parent/ child attachment.
Are you struggling to find meaningful relationships or just tired of feeling disappointed by others? Maybe your needs are not being met professionally, emotionally, or intellectually? We will explore why you’re stuck, understand the patterns, and create a plan to help you achieve your goals. By first developing insight into behavior and relationship patterns, we can create strategies to resolve those conflicts. Later, learn ways to tolerate pain, move forward in the fear, and feel ready to take action in those steps. You will learn to tolerate anxiety, heal past trauma, improve the connection with yourself, and feel understood.
(248) 965-0587 View (248) 965-0587
Photo of Lindsay LaBoda, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay LaBoda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48068
I have received training in play therapy, art therapy, attachment theory and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) .
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is to help provide support for individuals, children and families in a nurturing and empathic environment. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space in which you are in control of your own goals in treatment. I encourage an open therapeutic relationship to help individuals, parents or children feel emotionally supported and able to genuinely express themselves. I work to provide individuals and families with the tools to effectively move toward a positive change.
I have received training in play therapy, art therapy, attachment theory and parent-child interaction therapy (PCIT) .
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is to help provide support for individuals, children and families in a nurturing and empathic environment. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space in which you are in control of your own goals in treatment. I encourage an open therapeutic relationship to help individuals, parents or children feel emotionally supported and able to genuinely express themselves. I work to provide individuals and families with the tools to effectively move toward a positive change.
(248) 997-4392 View (248) 997-4392
Photo of Katie Smith, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
Waitlist for new clients
I use play therapy, skill development and parent-child relationship building in session.
You work hard as a parent to give your child everything you can, but sometimes it’s hard to know what they are going through or how to help them. You don't have to figure it out alone. I have been a child and family therapist for fifteen years and have helped families going through all kinds of challenges. As children grow, they often struggle during times of change, stress or loss. When they are having a tough time it can impact the whole family. Your child deserves to feel better. You deserve to feel better. Let's start today.
I use play therapy, skill development and parent-child relationship building in session.
You work hard as a parent to give your child everything you can, but sometimes it’s hard to know what they are going through or how to help them. You don't have to figure it out alone. I have been a child and family therapist for fifteen years and have helped families going through all kinds of challenges. As children grow, they often struggle during times of change, stress or loss. When they are having a tough time it can impact the whole family. Your child deserves to feel better. You deserve to feel better. Let's start today.
(248) 721-8404 View (248) 721-8404
Photo of Jamie DeKraker, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie DeKraker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48073
Does your child struggle with overwhelming emotions and challenging behaviors? Do you feel lost as a parent on how to best support your child, as well as yourself? I specialize in providing trauma-informed, compassionate care to develop effective coping skills for growing children and parents to manage life’s challenges and increase the joy of childhood. Utilizing play therapy and trauma treatment techniques along with advanced perinatal training, you and your child can expect caring encouragement and patience grounded in clinical expertise.
Does your child struggle with overwhelming emotions and challenging behaviors? Do you feel lost as a parent on how to best support your child, as well as yourself? I specialize in providing trauma-informed, compassionate care to develop effective coping skills for growing children and parents to manage life’s challenges and increase the joy of childhood. Utilizing play therapy and trauma treatment techniques along with advanced perinatal training, you and your child can expect caring encouragement and patience grounded in clinical expertise.
(248) 653-5038 View (248) 653-5038
Photo of Shayna Hillenberg, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shayna Hillenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I utilize art, play, and sand tray therapy in helping clients express themselves and enhance their coping skills.
Does your child or teen struggle with managing their emotions and behaviors? Do you need help in supporting your child's emotional needs? Does your parent-child relationship need to grow? Does your family need support to cope with a traumatic event or difficult life stressors? I work with children as young as three, neurodiverse clients with ADHD and learning challenges, and clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, and anger. I use neurodiversity affirming, person-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed frameworks to provide my clients lasting change.
I utilize art, play, and sand tray therapy in helping clients express themselves and enhance their coping skills.
Does your child or teen struggle with managing their emotions and behaviors? Do you need help in supporting your child's emotional needs? Does your parent-child relationship need to grow? Does your family need support to cope with a traumatic event or difficult life stressors? I work with children as young as three, neurodiverse clients with ADHD and learning challenges, and clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, and anger. I use neurodiversity affirming, person-centered, culturally sensitive, and trauma-informed frameworks to provide my clients lasting change.
(734) 206-7528 View (734) 206-7528
Photo of Carissa Pintar - Center for Therapeutic Arts, PsyD, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Center for Therapeutic Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48073
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sandtray and trauma.
I have always been amazed at the inherent healing qualities of art. By providing my clients with a safe holding environment, I pave the way to explore their concerns in therapy. Art has a way of quickly bringing issues from the unconscious into the conscious realm where they can be processed verbally or just witnessed. Art is wonderful for increasing tolerance of frustration, delay of gratification and learning to verbalize emotional states. I use all of the Expressive Arts to create individually tailored experientials to promote increased understanding and growth with my clients.
I have additional training in Play Therapy, Sandtray and trauma.
I have always been amazed at the inherent healing qualities of art. By providing my clients with a safe holding environment, I pave the way to explore their concerns in therapy. Art has a way of quickly bringing issues from the unconscious into the conscious realm where they can be processed verbally or just witnessed. Art is wonderful for increasing tolerance of frustration, delay of gratification and learning to verbalize emotional states. I use all of the Expressive Arts to create individually tailored experientials to promote increased understanding and growth with my clients.
(248) 648-3981 View (248) 648-3981
Photo of Hasti Raveau, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Hasti Raveau
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
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
Photo of Tracy Niyo, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy Niyo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Waitlist for new clients
Overwhelmed, stressed and at a loss for what to do next. Hoping to find calm, a sense of control and room to breathe. Today’s daily life is, more often than not, exhausting; whether you’re a child, a teenager, young adult or parent.
Overwhelmed, stressed and at a loss for what to do next. Hoping to find calm, a sense of control and room to breathe. Today’s daily life is, more often than not, exhausting; whether you’re a child, a teenager, young adult or parent.
(947) 203-3949 View (947) 203-3949
Photo of Jenna Debryn, MA, ATR, LPC, Counselor
Jenna Debryn
Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Everyone deserves the opportunity to be the best version of themselves and sometimes we need support getting there. I am here to offer that support, however that may look for you. Therapy can be a transformative process that offers a number of possibilities. I believe everyone is unique and therapy is not a "one size fits all". Whether you are new to therapy looking to deal with life’s daily stress, looking for personal growth, or in need of some healing, we will work together as a team to make therapy right for you. I find joy in offering both a safe space and supportive ear to those looking and open to enlightenment and change.
Everyone deserves the opportunity to be the best version of themselves and sometimes we need support getting there. I am here to offer that support, however that may look for you. Therapy can be a transformative process that offers a number of possibilities. I believe everyone is unique and therapy is not a "one size fits all". Whether you are new to therapy looking to deal with life’s daily stress, looking for personal growth, or in need of some healing, we will work together as a team to make therapy right for you. I find joy in offering both a safe space and supportive ear to those looking and open to enlightenment and change.
(248) 418-4334 View (248) 418-4334
Photo of Sarah Scales, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Scales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you find yourself always arguing with your child? Does it feel like your minds work completely opposite from each other? You all used to get along so well and now you feel so distant. Or maybe your child is struggling in school and you dread parent-teacher conferences. Maybe your child's friendships have changed in a profoundly negative way and you worry for your child. Growing up and becoming independent has never been more difficult for the younger generation, and I am here to assist your family in navigating these challenges.
Do you find yourself always arguing with your child? Does it feel like your minds work completely opposite from each other? You all used to get along so well and now you feel so distant. Or maybe your child is struggling in school and you dread parent-teacher conferences. Maybe your child's friendships have changed in a profoundly negative way and you worry for your child. Growing up and becoming independent has never been more difficult for the younger generation, and I am here to assist your family in navigating these challenges.
(248) 744-4702 View (248) 744-4702
Photo of Christine Turton, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Turton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I have 11 years of experience providing individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and psychological evaluations to children, teens and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD and Depression. I value mindfulness techniques and am knowledgeable of a variety of therapy models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal and Family Systems and Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).
I have 11 years of experience providing individual therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and psychological evaluations to children, teens and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Anxiety, ADHD and Depression. I value mindfulness techniques and am knowledgeable of a variety of therapy models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Interpersonal and Family Systems and Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT).
(248) 671-6522 View (248) 671-6522
Photo of Kandice Moss, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, IMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kandice Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BC-DMT, IMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Life can be overwhelming; from the chaotic daily stressors, to life changing transitions. Are you wondering how to tackle these challenging situations? Do you know something is "off" with your energy, but not quite sure what it is or how to access it?
Life can be overwhelming; from the chaotic daily stressors, to life changing transitions. Are you wondering how to tackle these challenging situations? Do you know something is "off" with your energy, but not quite sure what it is or how to access it?
(248) 301-0713 View (248) 301-0713
Photo of Joy Laurallee Cavanaugh, MA, LPC, Counselor
Joy Laurallee Cavanaugh
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067  (Online Only)
If you have hit a rough patch and need help sorting things through you can be sure that I will provide you with a safe and warm space to explore. I bring 20+ years of experience working with individuals and families. My approach is holistic and person centered with an emphasis on collaboration. You will find me to be compassionate yet no-nonsense. We provide a "Good Faith Estimate for Health Care Items and Services," under the No Surprises Act. My philosophy comes from Dr. Martin Luther King JR: "I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you are supposed to be....."
If you have hit a rough patch and need help sorting things through you can be sure that I will provide you with a safe and warm space to explore. I bring 20+ years of experience working with individuals and families. My approach is holistic and person centered with an emphasis on collaboration. You will find me to be compassionate yet no-nonsense. We provide a "Good Faith Estimate for Health Care Items and Services," under the No Surprises Act. My philosophy comes from Dr. Martin Luther King JR: "I can never be what I ought to be until you are what you are supposed to be....."
(248) 936-6547 View (248) 936-6547
Photo of Caity Waldorf, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caity Waldorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD? Do you have unhealed trauma? Have you questioned your sexuality or gender identity? Are you seeking compassionate support on your journey to healing and self-discovery? As a skilled psychotherapist specializing in ADHD, autism, trauma and sexuality and gender issues, I offer space for clients to explore their unique challenges and strengths.
Do you think you might be neurodivergent such as being on the autism spectrum or ADHD? Do you have unhealed trauma? Have you questioned your sexuality or gender identity? Are you seeking compassionate support on your journey to healing and self-discovery? As a skilled psychotherapist specializing in ADHD, autism, trauma and sexuality and gender issues, I offer space for clients to explore their unique challenges and strengths.
(947) 300-5062 View (947) 300-5062
Photo of Marilyn Martin - Talk to Marilyn Counseling & Life Coaching, PLLC, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Talk to Marilyn Counseling & Life Coaching, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I'm a National Board Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor. I treat clients for depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem and anger issues, post traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD), sexual trauma, career and life coaching. I use an integrated theoretical approach that includes Cognitive Behavior and Existential Therapy. I use an empathic and individualized approach to help my clients. I strive to honor and respect the uniqueness of each individual; beginning therapy by identifying and understanding my client's goals and establishing a treatment plan based on those individualized goals.
I'm a National Board Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor. I treat clients for depression, anxiety, grief and loss, self-esteem and anger issues, post traumatic-stress disorder (PTSD), sexual trauma, career and life coaching. I use an integrated theoretical approach that includes Cognitive Behavior and Existential Therapy. I use an empathic and individualized approach to help my clients. I strive to honor and respect the uniqueness of each individual; beginning therapy by identifying and understanding my client's goals and establishing a treatment plan based on those individualized goals.
(947) 800-4056 View (947) 800-4056
Photo of Marni Lauren Hus, LMSW, CASDCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marni Lauren Hus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CASDCS
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Waitlist for new clients
The goal of my practice is to provide behavioral and emotional support to families with children ages 4-13. I work to assist in developing a strong foundation from which a child can grow and reach their full potential.
The goal of my practice is to provide behavioral and emotional support to families with children ages 4-13. I work to assist in developing a strong foundation from which a child can grow and reach their full potential.
(248) 301-0996 View (248) 301-0996
Photo of Julie Middlin, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Middlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
You are your own expert. I am here to reassure, assist and guide you in overcoming the challenges you are facing. I have a passion for working with children and families by addressing problematic behaviors at home and/or school. I believe in linking the mental and the physical through mindfulness, physical exercise, exposure to nature, and positive psychology. Change can be unsettling and I'd like to aid you in accepting and moving through those unsettling times. Together we can work on building and nurturing healthy long-term relationships with yourself and others. Additionally, I am an ally to LGBTQI individuals and families.
You are your own expert. I am here to reassure, assist and guide you in overcoming the challenges you are facing. I have a passion for working with children and families by addressing problematic behaviors at home and/or school. I believe in linking the mental and the physical through mindfulness, physical exercise, exposure to nature, and positive psychology. Change can be unsettling and I'd like to aid you in accepting and moving through those unsettling times. Together we can work on building and nurturing healthy long-term relationships with yourself and others. Additionally, I am an ally to LGBTQI individuals and families.
(248) 987-5794 View (248) 987-5794
Photo of Pamela Newsome-Hartman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Newsome-Hartman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
I believe a trusting relationship between counselor and client is important. I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures and lifestyles and feel being accepting, objective, respectful, and genuine are essential characteristics for working with clients. My goal for the counseling process is to help clients gain personal insight, knowledge and tools that will facilitate continued growth and development after therapy has ended. As your counselor I do not have the answers to your dilemmas, instead I function as a facilitator of the process that will assist you with discovering your own solutions.
I believe a trusting relationship between counselor and client is important. I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures and lifestyles and feel being accepting, objective, respectful, and genuine are essential characteristics for working with clients. My goal for the counseling process is to help clients gain personal insight, knowledge and tools that will facilitate continued growth and development after therapy has ended. As your counselor I do not have the answers to your dilemmas, instead I function as a facilitator of the process that will assist you with discovering your own solutions.
(313) 466-5173 x132 View (313) 466-5173 x132
Photo of Tiana Kennedy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiana Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Royal Oak, MI 48067
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety that disrupts your daily life? Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by your child's behaviors? Are you facing relationship challenges? Or perhaps you're contending with intense emotional upheaval and difficulty regulating your feelings? I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with PTSD and other significant mental health concerns.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety that disrupts your daily life? Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed by your child's behaviors? Are you facing relationship challenges? Or perhaps you're contending with intense emotional upheaval and difficulty regulating your feelings? I specialize in assisting individuals dealing with PTSD and other significant mental health concerns.
(248) 845-1713 View (248) 845-1713
1
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.