Play Therapy in Champaign, IL
Elise Belknap
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Waitlist for new clients
My work with individuals is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and skill building. I support clients in connecting with themselves while helping them understand how their history impacts their current relationships and their sense of self. I have many years of experience working with children and their caregivers. Our work together will involve play, attunement, and parent coaching. As a part of the therapeutic process, I collaborate with each child’s team to create a cohesive plan for children and their families.
My work with individuals is rooted in curiosity, compassion, and skill building. I support clients in connecting with themselves while helping them understand how their history impacts their current relationships and their sense of self. I have many years of experience working with children and their caregivers. Our work together will involve play, attunement, and parent coaching. As a part of the therapeutic process, I collaborate with each child’s team to create a cohesive plan for children and their families.
I specialize in behavior disorders in adolescents and teens while focusing on a non-directive play and art therapy approach which allows a safe environment for non-judgmental self expression to process and learn.
In a world where we lack so much control, regaining our sense of self is so important. My goal is to help individuals learn about their mental health and start to take the necessary steps to improve their quality of life. I believe a person cannot truly begin to grow unless they are able to connect with their therapist and understand how their mental health concerns affect their lives. I received my Masters of Social Work in 2020 with a focus on Children, Youth, and Family Services.
I specialize in behavior disorders in adolescents and teens while focusing on a non-directive play and art therapy approach which allows a safe environment for non-judgmental self expression to process and learn.
In a world where we lack so much control, regaining our sense of self is so important. My goal is to help individuals learn about their mental health and start to take the necessary steps to improve their quality of life. I believe a person cannot truly begin to grow unless they are able to connect with their therapist and understand how their mental health concerns affect their lives. I received my Masters of Social Work in 2020 with a focus on Children, Youth, and Family Services.
Some of the counseling modalities I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Meditation, Mindfulness, Yoga, Self-Compassion, Solution-focused, Aspects of Life Coaching, and Play Therapy.
Hi. My name is Gayle Lewis, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. My deepest passion is to help people heal from past experiences that have hindered growth and kept them from thriving emotionally, relationally, or professionally. I do this by taking a client-centered, strengths-based approach, listening with empathy and unconditional positive regard. While prioritizing your strengths and desires, I will walk alongside of you as we together, map out a pathway forward.
Some of the counseling modalities I use include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed CBT, Meditation, Mindfulness, Yoga, Self-Compassion, Solution-focused, Aspects of Life Coaching, and Play Therapy.
Hi. My name is Gayle Lewis, and I am a Licensed Social Worker. My deepest passion is to help people heal from past experiences that have hindered growth and kept them from thriving emotionally, relationally, or professionally. I do this by taking a client-centered, strengths-based approach, listening with empathy and unconditional positive regard. While prioritizing your strengths and desires, I will walk alongside of you as we together, map out a pathway forward.
With a background in supporting children through their play, it is my hope to bring a playful energy to therapy.
Welcome, you've found a soft landing space with a caring therapist ready to walk with you on your healing journey. I bring a person-centered approach to therapy, believing the best in everyone and trusting in their capacity for positive change and development. Using this relational approach allows me to see clients beyond their diagnoses and support them in personally meaningful ways. I look forward to holding a safe container for my clients in which they can reconnect to their bodies, find support and co-regulation, and learn new skills that will help each individual on their journey.
With a background in supporting children through their play, it is my hope to bring a playful energy to therapy.
Welcome, you've found a soft landing space with a caring therapist ready to walk with you on your healing journey. I bring a person-centered approach to therapy, believing the best in everyone and trusting in their capacity for positive change and development. Using this relational approach allows me to see clients beyond their diagnoses and support them in personally meaningful ways. I look forward to holding a safe container for my clients in which they can reconnect to their bodies, find support and co-regulation, and learn new skills that will help each individual on their journey.
Jess Xu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
I utilize a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach while incorporating strategies from CBT, DBT, ACT, Play Therapy, among other modalities, to meet you where you are and help you progress towards your goals.
I believe that counseling is a collaborative process where the expertise of the client and counselor combine to meet your unique needs. It's my priority to create a safe, non-judgmental space in which you feel seen, understood, and accepted. I'm passionate about walking with you on your journey and supporting you in reaching your fullest potential, whether you are wanting to learn about your Self, manage life's tough moments, or engage in deep healing work. As an EMDR trained therapist, I strive to help you understand and heal from the impact of overwhelming experiences on your mind, body, and relationships with yourself and others.
I utilize a person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed approach while incorporating strategies from CBT, DBT, ACT, Play Therapy, among other modalities, to meet you where you are and help you progress towards your goals.
I believe that counseling is a collaborative process where the expertise of the client and counselor combine to meet your unique needs. It's my priority to create a safe, non-judgmental space in which you feel seen, understood, and accepted. I'm passionate about walking with you on your journey and supporting you in reaching your fullest potential, whether you are wanting to learn about your Self, manage life's tough moments, or engage in deep healing work. As an EMDR trained therapist, I strive to help you understand and heal from the impact of overwhelming experiences on your mind, body, and relationships with yourself and others.
Nicholas Bridgett, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820 (Online Only)
I have extensive training in couples therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, PTSD, LGBQA issues, gender identity issues, and chronic health problems.
I provide client-centered, affirming therapy to help people resolve their life challenges. I use a variety of approaches to help clients change thoughts, feelings and behaviors to increase their self-awareness and well-being. I work with people holistically to increase their sense of peace, balance and joy.
I enjoy working with couples to increase their sense of intimacy and connection. I incorporate play, art, and biblio therapy in my work with children.
I have extensive training in couples therapy, mindfulness, play therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, PTSD, LGBQA issues, gender identity issues, and chronic health problems.
I provide client-centered, affirming therapy to help people resolve their life challenges. I use a variety of approaches to help clients change thoughts, feelings and behaviors to increase their self-awareness and well-being. I work with people holistically to increase their sense of peace, balance and joy.
I enjoy working with couples to increase their sense of intimacy and connection. I incorporate play, art, and biblio therapy in my work with children.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Unsure if your child's behavior is age appropriate? Is your adolescent having difficulties in academics or social connections? Are you struggling with adjusting to life changes or reflecting on past experiences that cause you to feel uneasy? Not sure how to work out differences between you and your partner or within your family? I am here to help your child play out any fears, worries, and past traumas, help your adolescent feel empowered, find solutions, and discover self identity, help adults navigate life transitions, and help couples/families explore conflict. Most of all, I focus on your needs to cultivate trust and safety.
Therapy is not just about understanding the self that you are but also becoming the self that you want to be. As a therapist, I have enjoyed my time in guiding people through the process of finding themselves and learning more about themselves, or each other along the way. Using a non judgmental approach to individual, family, and couples therapy has proven to be effective in mitigating these challenges that life has brought to anyone that I see. I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work. I utilize different modalities such as CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Client Centered, Play Therapy, Solution Focused, etc.
Therapy is not just about understanding the self that you are but also becoming the self that you want to be. As a therapist, I have enjoyed my time in guiding people through the process of finding themselves and learning more about themselves, or each other along the way. Using a non judgmental approach to individual, family, and couples therapy has proven to be effective in mitigating these challenges that life has brought to anyone that I see. I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work. I utilize different modalities such as CBT, DBT, Play Therapy, Client Centered, Play Therapy, Solution Focused, etc.
I’m comfortable integrating a variety of modalities to provide the best treatment possible including CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, and DBT, among others.
I believe a trusting and genuine relationship is an essential foundation for therapy and I encourage my clients to come in being truly themselves at whatever stage in their journey they may be in. I’m happy to meet you where you are so we can move forward together in a collaborative manner. As a therapist, I have enjoyed helping children, individuals, couples, and families face a variety of life stressors. I strive to provide a welcoming and safe environment for anyone who comes through the door. I believe that the best therapy comes from an individualized approach.
I’m comfortable integrating a variety of modalities to provide the best treatment possible including CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, and DBT, among others.
I believe a trusting and genuine relationship is an essential foundation for therapy and I encourage my clients to come in being truly themselves at whatever stage in their journey they may be in. I’m happy to meet you where you are so we can move forward together in a collaborative manner. As a therapist, I have enjoyed helping children, individuals, couples, and families face a variety of life stressors. I strive to provide a welcoming and safe environment for anyone who comes through the door. I believe that the best therapy comes from an individualized approach.
I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and young adults utilizing a variety of therapy techniques such as Directive and Non-Directive play, Art Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy and Strengths-Based Therapy.
I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois with a concentration in mental health and a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Purdue University. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, crisis and therapy. My goal is to prioritize your comfort during our sessions by providing a safe, relaxing and laid-back experience.
I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and young adults utilizing a variety of therapy techniques such as Directive and Non-Directive play, Art Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy and Strengths-Based Therapy.
I am a licensed Social Worker with a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois with a concentration in mental health and a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavioral Science from Purdue University. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential, crisis and therapy. My goal is to prioritize your comfort during our sessions by providing a safe, relaxing and laid-back experience.
Anna Farris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
While my overall approach is client-centered, I also use aspects of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and other modalities to create an individualized approach for each person who walks through my door.
First and foremost, if you are reading this, I want you to know that I see the strength it took for you to take this step in asking for help. I work with clients ages 3 and up to navigate many life challenges - whether that is reprocessing past trauma, struggling in relationships, infertility/perinatal struggles, or navigating the day to day stressors of life. Being a member of the military/veteran community, I am also passionate about working with military/veterans and their family members on the unique challenges they face in their day to day life. I hope to help each person rewrite their story into something they can be proud of.
While my overall approach is client-centered, I also use aspects of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and other modalities to create an individualized approach for each person who walks through my door.
First and foremost, if you are reading this, I want you to know that I see the strength it took for you to take this step in asking for help. I work with clients ages 3 and up to navigate many life challenges - whether that is reprocessing past trauma, struggling in relationships, infertility/perinatal struggles, or navigating the day to day stressors of life. Being a member of the military/veteran community, I am also passionate about working with military/veterans and their family members on the unique challenges they face in their day to day life. I hope to help each person rewrite their story into something they can be proud of.
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Also, when engaging in play therapy with children, I enjoy using musical expression which can be implemented into sessions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
Also, when engaging in play therapy with children, I enjoy using musical expression which can be implemented into sessions.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor with advanced experience in marriage and family counseling. For nearly a decade, I have had the opportunity to work with individuals and families in a variety of settings and circumstances. I enjoy working with clients of all ages, whether that is working with individuals, families, or couples. My focus is to work with my clients to identify their individual needs, and establish goals that not only assist in meeting those needs, but that celebrate the strengths and gifts that already exist in them.
Becky Harrison Catalyst Counseling
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
I use a combination of modalities in individual, couples and group counseling- including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) -which builds skills to help us regulate and manage intense emotions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Creative Expressive Therapy- using pop culture, music and other expressive techniques, Sandtray Therapy and Play Therapy .
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
I use a combination of modalities in individual, couples and group counseling- including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) -which builds skills to help us regulate and manage intense emotions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Creative Expressive Therapy- using pop culture, music and other expressive techniques, Sandtray Therapy and Play Therapy .
We all have a story and each of our stories are unique and complex. Does your story have a chapter full of pain? Are you feeling discouraged, lonely or anxious? Facing a life transition or finding that your relationships are struggling? I am dedicated to assisting you in finding resolution to internal and external conflicts, building and maintaining healthy relationships, learning healthy coping skills and creating an environment that is safe to explore the next desired chapters in your life. I work with adults, teens and children with a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem and relationship issues.
In her practice, Emma utilizes Dialectical Behavior Therapy with most clients; she is also trained and experienced in Play Therapy for children and adolescents, and has interest in expanding her skill to Thera play ( Play Therapy over a Telehealth/internet session). She specializes in working with individuals who have been affected by foster care or adoption and have concerns with attachment issues, transplant issues, coping and adjustment issues, and family systems.
In her practice, Emma utilizes Dialectical Behavior Therapy with most clients; she is also trained and experienced in Play Therapy for children and adolescents, and has interest in expanding her skill to Thera play ( Play Therapy over a Telehealth/internet session). She specializes in working with individuals who have been affected by foster care or adoption and have concerns with attachment issues, transplant issues, coping and adjustment issues, and family systems.
Kelly Fein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820 (Online Only)
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Many therapeutic modalities, such as talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, trauma-informed practice, and play therapy, are available to support clients on their healing paths. I draw from a combination of these techniques uniquely combined and applied according to each client’s needs.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a Master’s of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Many therapeutic modalities, such as talk therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-centered therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness, trauma-informed practice, and play therapy, are available to support clients on their healing paths. I draw from a combination of these techniques uniquely combined and applied according to each client’s needs.
I have advanced training in play therapy, art therapy and mindfulness training to help clients access core issues and work towards making a change.
At one time or another we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Whether you are looking to make a significant change in your life, need some assistance with coping skills or someone kind who will listen and be there for you counseling is the right path. My clients describe me as a warm, understanding and easy-going individual who is easy to talk to. Clients begin to rediscover what they really need to feel happier and more content with themselves and move on to become more productive and at peace with their lives.
I have advanced training in play therapy, art therapy and mindfulness training to help clients access core issues and work towards making a change.
At one time or another we all need help to cope with life's challenges. Whether you are looking to make a significant change in your life, need some assistance with coping skills or someone kind who will listen and be there for you counseling is the right path. My clients describe me as a warm, understanding and easy-going individual who is easy to talk to. Clients begin to rediscover what they really need to feel happier and more content with themselves and move on to become more productive and at peace with their lives.
While I am comfortable using a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practices, and child-centered play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, received in 2018. I have worked in social services since 2014 in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community mental health, and private practice. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults as they cope with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, trauma, grief, and religious transitions.
While I am comfortable using a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practices, and child-centered play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, received in 2018. I have worked in social services since 2014 in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community mental health, and private practice. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults as they cope with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, trauma, grief, and religious transitions.
While my overall view of therapy most closely aligns with RCT, I also utilize CBT, person-centered, and play therapy tools in my sessions in order to best fit my clients’ needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
While my overall view of therapy most closely aligns with RCT, I also utilize CBT, person-centered, and play therapy tools in my sessions in order to best fit my clients’ needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s Degree in Human Development Counseling and a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. I have provided counseling services in a variety of different settings including community mental health, university, and private practice. I am experienced in working with children, adolescents, and young adults surrounding difficulties with self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma experiences, and ADHD symptoms.
Abby Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. I am equipped to support clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, trauma, autism, grief, boundary setting, and the challenges that come from being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I incorporate skills from various modalities, such as: cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, art and play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, applied behavior analysis, and rational emotive behavioral therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. I am equipped to support clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorder, trauma, autism, grief, boundary setting, and the challenges that come from being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. I incorporate skills from various modalities, such as: cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, art and play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, applied behavior analysis, and rational emotive behavioral therapy.
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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.