Play Therapy in Waukesha County, WI

Photo of Susan A. Ringle, MS, LPC, LPCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan A. Ringle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188  (Online Only)
A sense of safety is critical for progress in psychotherapy, and I take care to provide that sense of safety for each person I serve. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person and family I encounter, and work in partnership with them to create their own unique healing process, based upon proven treatments, solid research, and recent advances in treatment protocol. I am a certified trauma counselor, registered play therapist, and Theraplay practitioner and trainer. I provide family therapy that prioritizes the value of each member of the family, healing individuals and relationships, and building or rebuilding healthy family dynamics.
A sense of safety is critical for progress in psychotherapy, and I take care to provide that sense of safety for each person I serve. I appreciate the uniqueness of each person and family I encounter, and work in partnership with them to create their own unique healing process, based upon proven treatments, solid research, and recent advances in treatment protocol. I am a certified trauma counselor, registered play therapist, and Theraplay practitioner and trainer. I provide family therapy that prioritizes the value of each member of the family, healing individuals and relationships, and building or rebuilding healthy family dynamics.
(262) 600-3145 View (262) 600-3145
Photo of Lisa Ann Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Ann Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
I have experience working with children and families in many different settings over the past ten years. I have training and experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, ADHD, developmental and learning disabilities. I utilize CBT, solution focused, and play therapy.
I have experience working with children and families in many different settings over the past ten years. I have training and experience working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, ADHD, developmental and learning disabilities. I utilize CBT, solution focused, and play therapy.
(414) 269-3733 View (414) 269-3733
Photo of Erin M Macier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin M Macier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
CBT, EMDR, Narrative, Family Systems, IFS, Mindfulness, Play/ Art Therapy.
I love working with youth to help with self esteem and behavioral therapy. I use time trusted, evidence based modalities for successful and sustainable treatment. I love working with teens, young adults, and parents. All to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well to increase self-esteem and confidence. I also love helping families and couples with bonding and conflict resolution.
CBT, EMDR, Narrative, Family Systems, IFS, Mindfulness, Play/ Art Therapy.
I love working with youth to help with self esteem and behavioral therapy. I use time trusted, evidence based modalities for successful and sustainable treatment. I love working with teens, young adults, and parents. All to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well to increase self-esteem and confidence. I also love helping families and couples with bonding and conflict resolution.
(262) 332-4207 View (262) 332-4207
Photo of Catherine Ann Gierszewski, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Ann Gierszewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188
I have used client-centered, positive psychology, CBT, play therapy, talk therapy, and solution-focused techniques.
Working with my clients we discover their strengths and resiliency to overcome not only challenges they face today but future challenges as well. Finding the right tools that they can use effectively when life gets tough. I especially enjoy working with children as they explore the world and their place in it. Working with my clients is an honor and a privilege.
I have used client-centered, positive psychology, CBT, play therapy, talk therapy, and solution-focused techniques.
Working with my clients we discover their strengths and resiliency to overcome not only challenges they face today but future challenges as well. Finding the right tools that they can use effectively when life gets tough. I especially enjoy working with children as they explore the world and their place in it. Working with my clients is an honor and a privilege.
(262) 588-3775 View (262) 588-3775
Photo of Trisha S Wollin - Applied Therapies & Wellness Center, SC, LCSW, RPT, SAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Applied Therapies & Wellness Center, SC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT, SAC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
I incorporate the use of trauma-based techniques, play therapy, EMDR, theraplay, client centered, and cognitive behavioral techniques with individuals and children as young as 18 months.
In my 19 years of providing mental health therapy, I have strived to assist individuals to find elements of success in managing their emotions and behaviors on a day-to-day basis. As a believer in effective communication, I develop a nurturing environment for individuals and families that involves enthusiasm, flexibility, accountability, and a willingness to change and adapt. I am credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and a Substance Abuse Counselor. Please look at our website and see what our therapists have to offer! www.appliedtherapiesandwellness.com
I incorporate the use of trauma-based techniques, play therapy, EMDR, theraplay, client centered, and cognitive behavioral techniques with individuals and children as young as 18 months.
In my 19 years of providing mental health therapy, I have strived to assist individuals to find elements of success in managing their emotions and behaviors on a day-to-day basis. As a believer in effective communication, I develop a nurturing environment for individuals and families that involves enthusiasm, flexibility, accountability, and a willingness to change and adapt. I am credentialed as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and a Substance Abuse Counselor. Please look at our website and see what our therapists have to offer! www.appliedtherapiesandwellness.com
(262) 599-6349 View (262) 599-6349
Photo of Shelly Lund - Shelly Lund Psychotherapy LLC, LCSW, MFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelly Lund Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Delafield, WI 53018
Waitlist for new clients
She incorporates CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Ego State Therapy, Focused Mindfulness, Brainspotting, CRM, Parts/Ego State work, and Play Therapy.
Shelly Lund is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of WI. She also holds a Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Shelly is currently in private practice in Delafield, Wisconsin. She has an extensive background in working with Adults, Children, Adolescents and Families. Shelly has experience as a Foster Care Social Worker, Sexual Abuse Counselor, School Social Worker and Outpatient Mental Health Counselor.
She incorporates CBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Ego State Therapy, Focused Mindfulness, Brainspotting, CRM, Parts/Ego State work, and Play Therapy.
Shelly Lund is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of WI. She also holds a Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Shelly is currently in private practice in Delafield, Wisconsin. She has an extensive background in working with Adults, Children, Adolescents and Families. Shelly has experience as a Foster Care Social Worker, Sexual Abuse Counselor, School Social Worker and Outpatient Mental Health Counselor.
(262) 214-6729 View (262) 214-6729
Photo of Alisha Olson, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
I also use brainspotting, play therapy, and CBT to address the mind-body connection.
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to support yourself and your child through challenging behaviors or traumatic experiences? As a therapist specializing in infants, young children, and families, I understand the complexities youre feeling. I offer individual and joint therapy sessions for both children and caregivers. We focus on improving your child's mood, behavior, learning, and symptoms. For you, we can work on enhancing your mood, reducing parenting stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and finding yourself again! By exploring the all the dynamics, I will work to empower you to feel confident again.
I also use brainspotting, play therapy, and CBT to address the mind-body connection.
Are you a parent feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or struggling to support yourself and your child through challenging behaviors or traumatic experiences? As a therapist specializing in infants, young children, and families, I understand the complexities youre feeling. I offer individual and joint therapy sessions for both children and caregivers. We focus on improving your child's mood, behavior, learning, and symptoms. For you, we can work on enhancing your mood, reducing parenting stress, trauma, anxiety, depression and finding yourself again! By exploring the all the dynamics, I will work to empower you to feel confident again.
(262) 846-5441 View (262) 846-5441
Photo of Jessica Lange, MA, LPC, Counselor
Jessica Lange
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
My specialty is working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide a relaxed environment and friendly approach to therapy. I work to help my clients feel at ease and engaged during therapy sessions by utilizing play therapy, art, games, and imagination to help my younger clients communicate their feelings and practice new coping skills.
My specialty is working with children, adolescents, and families. I provide a relaxed environment and friendly approach to therapy. I work to help my clients feel at ease and engaged during therapy sessions by utilizing play therapy, art, games, and imagination to help my younger clients communicate their feelings and practice new coping skills.
(262) 684-2295 View (262) 684-2295
Photo of Patricia Ann Glatzel Clough, LPC, ATR, CSAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Ann Glatzel Clough
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, CSAS
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
Art Therapy helps children and adults to explore through emotions and feelings at possibly a quicker pace than talk therapy and offers a chance to play! This is a BIG deal for kids!.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and licensed Art Therapist who approaches counseling in a holistic standpoint, by incorporating cognitive understanding, and emotional support with the creative self. While participating in therapy does not require you to engage in the experiential arts, I do encourage self-expression to release blocked emotion within sensitive surroundings. Some of the important areas of work include building self-esteem, self-identity, and helping to overcome deficits such as anger, communication, anxiety, separation of the family unit, depression, and substance abuse counseling. Being able to recognize your individual strengths and building on them helps encourage personal empowerment!
Art Therapy helps children and adults to explore through emotions and feelings at possibly a quicker pace than talk therapy and offers a chance to play! This is a BIG deal for kids!.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and licensed Art Therapist who approaches counseling in a holistic standpoint, by incorporating cognitive understanding, and emotional support with the creative self. While participating in therapy does not require you to engage in the experiential arts, I do encourage self-expression to release blocked emotion within sensitive surroundings. Some of the important areas of work include building self-esteem, self-identity, and helping to overcome deficits such as anger, communication, anxiety, separation of the family unit, depression, and substance abuse counseling. Being able to recognize your individual strengths and building on them helps encourage personal empowerment!
(414) 269-3102 View (414) 269-3102
Photo of Martha Haynes, MEd, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martha Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mukwonago, WI 53149
I can offer various methods including play therapy, art, and Brainspotting.
Is your family not functioning at its best? Would you like your children to listen better? Are you out of ideas/energy to strategize the best way forward for your special needs child? Have you experienced trauma that seems ever present? Sometimes we just need another perspective, a listening ear, or new ideas to move forward.
I can offer various methods including play therapy, art, and Brainspotting.
Is your family not functioning at its best? Would you like your children to listen better? Are you out of ideas/energy to strategize the best way forward for your special needs child? Have you experienced trauma that seems ever present? Sometimes we just need another perspective, a listening ear, or new ideas to move forward.
(414) 325-7741 View (414) 325-7741
Photo of Katy Peroutka Marver, LPC, ATR
Katy Peroutka Marver
LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Art and play therapy are a must with kids and teens because of their unique ability to relate to the world in metaphors.
Entering into counseling takes both courage and vulnerability. I work with children, teens, adults, families, and couples, using an approach of trust and mutual respect, believing that every person is doing the best they can and has the ability to grow and learn. Identifying and drawing forth personal skills and strengths as well as an action plan for change is crucial for problem resolution. I address all areas to self-healing, working with body, mind, and Spirit. People are whole beings and all areas truly are connected.
Art and play therapy are a must with kids and teens because of their unique ability to relate to the world in metaphors.
Entering into counseling takes both courage and vulnerability. I work with children, teens, adults, families, and couples, using an approach of trust and mutual respect, believing that every person is doing the best they can and has the ability to grow and learn. Identifying and drawing forth personal skills and strengths as well as an action plan for change is crucial for problem resolution. I address all areas to self-healing, working with body, mind, and Spirit. People are whole beings and all areas truly are connected.
(414) 939-9649 View (414) 939-9649
Photo of Alexander Waites, MS, MDiv, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexander Waites
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53146
I work with individuals of all ages, and specialize in couples counseling and child play therapy.
Does it seem like the same old struggles keep coming up? Do many of your relationships bring you more stress than joy? Is your family life tumultuous, or your child just not acting right? Do you want to change how you move in your world, but can’t figure out how? That’s where I come in! Often a fresh set of eyes can be just what we need to find our way forward, and a compassionate listener or a challenging conversation can help us move toward greater health.
I work with individuals of all ages, and specialize in couples counseling and child play therapy.
Does it seem like the same old struggles keep coming up? Do many of your relationships bring you more stress than joy? Is your family life tumultuous, or your child just not acting right? Do you want to change how you move in your world, but can’t figure out how? That’s where I come in! Often a fresh set of eyes can be just what we need to find our way forward, and a compassionate listener or a challenging conversation can help us move toward greater health.
(414) 895-6925 View (414) 895-6925
Photo of Sara Francis - Engaging Therapies
Engaging Therapies
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
We're here to offer a helping hand and be one piece of your journey, your process to heal. We offer therapy designed for you because everyone's journey is unique. No one size fits all, every piece is different. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, major life changes or something else? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life's challenges. We'd love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
We're here to offer a helping hand and be one piece of your journey, your process to heal. We offer therapy designed for you because everyone's journey is unique. No one size fits all, every piece is different. Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, major life changes or something else? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life's challenges. We'd love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery.
(262) 300-7526 View (262) 300-7526
Photo of Alex Luber, MS, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alex Luber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
I have always enjoyed getting to know the depths of what is going on inside of people. My favorite clients have been hurt and have kept masks on for a while. Their intuition tells them that coming to life means revealing their truth and becoming present with what's going on inside of them. My therapy is not designed to be a one size fits all and I appreciate those who are motivated to grow, even if they're not sure exactly the direction. I enjoy working with anyone overcoming trauma and anyone looking for a big permanent change in their life. I also provide supervision for therapists in training.
I have always enjoyed getting to know the depths of what is going on inside of people. My favorite clients have been hurt and have kept masks on for a while. Their intuition tells them that coming to life means revealing their truth and becoming present with what's going on inside of them. My therapy is not designed to be a one size fits all and I appreciate those who are motivated to grow, even if they're not sure exactly the direction. I enjoy working with anyone overcoming trauma and anyone looking for a big permanent change in their life. I also provide supervision for therapists in training.
(262) 584-4916 View (262) 584-4916
Photo of Shannon Broeker, MS, LPC-IT, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Shannon Broeker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-IT, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53186
My practice encompasses a diverse range of clients, including Children, Adolescents (Teens), Adults, Older Adults, Veterans, and LGBTQIA+ community, addressing various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions. I believe through the utilization of art therapy alongside traditional counseling methods my practice provides a unique and powerful means of communication and self-exploration, especially for those who may find it difficult to express themselves through words alone.
My practice encompasses a diverse range of clients, including Children, Adolescents (Teens), Adults, Older Adults, Veterans, and LGBTQIA+ community, addressing various mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions. I believe through the utilization of art therapy alongside traditional counseling methods my practice provides a unique and powerful means of communication and self-exploration, especially for those who may find it difficult to express themselves through words alone.
(262) 667-7965 View (262) 667-7965
Photo of Lexi Anderson, MS, LPC-IT, TIC, Counselor
Lexi Anderson
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT, TIC
Verified Verified
Waukesha, WI 53188
Are you or your teen experiencing difficulties at home or school? Are you or your teen looking for ways to let out the emotions you’re feeling in a healthy way? No matter where you are in life, we can work together to continue along your journey. I want to help you feel happy and confident in who you are and where you are at in life.
Are you or your teen experiencing difficulties at home or school? Are you or your teen looking for ways to let out the emotions you’re feeling in a healthy way? No matter where you are in life, we can work together to continue along your journey. I want to help you feel happy and confident in who you are and where you are at in life.
(262) 394-8089 View (262) 394-8089
Photo of Patrick Edmond Matthews, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Edmond Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookfield, WI 53005  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I am here to listen and help you process what is going on in your life and help you figure out what your options are. I will be there for you to work on your goals with you at your own pace. I believe that every one of my clients is capable of growth and it is my job to facilitate this process of building greater awareness toward becoming the person we were meant to be. I help you evaluate your unique situation so you have a better understanding of how you relate to others and give you better insight into who you are. I have a broad life experience that helps me relate to a diverse clientele.
As your therapist, I am here to listen and help you process what is going on in your life and help you figure out what your options are. I will be there for you to work on your goals with you at your own pace. I believe that every one of my clients is capable of growth and it is my job to facilitate this process of building greater awareness toward becoming the person we were meant to be. I help you evaluate your unique situation so you have a better understanding of how you relate to others and give you better insight into who you are. I have a broad life experience that helps me relate to a diverse clientele.
(262) 233-4092 View (262) 233-4092
Photo of Mary Plouff, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Plouff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
New Berlin, WI 53151
Waitlist for new clients
Is your Autistic child struggling socially, at school, at home or all of the above? Are you struggling with parenting your child? Do you feel that your child and you could use some strategies for better emotional regulation? I would be happy to help you and your family reach your goals. I provide psychotherapy to individuals of all ages with special interest in children and adolescents ages 3+. My experience includes years of working with children and families. I have provided services in schools, homes, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. In 2021 I began my private practice so that I can better serve my clients' needs.
Is your Autistic child struggling socially, at school, at home or all of the above? Are you struggling with parenting your child? Do you feel that your child and you could use some strategies for better emotional regulation? I would be happy to help you and your family reach your goals. I provide psychotherapy to individuals of all ages with special interest in children and adolescents ages 3+. My experience includes years of working with children and families. I have provided services in schools, homes, residential facilities and outpatient clinics. In 2021 I began my private practice so that I can better serve my clients' needs.
(414) 751-6647 View (414) 751-6647
Photo of Sarah Weyenberg, MS, LPC-IT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Weyenberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delafield, WI 53018
Life is a bit bumpy and often leaves us feeling uneasy- and that's ok. After all what's sailing without a little wind? Our experiences, and emotions, can lead us to this growth and healing we so often search for. Using metaphors and looking at what needs are and aren't being met allow us to see our lives in a different light.
Life is a bit bumpy and often leaves us feeling uneasy- and that's ok. After all what's sailing without a little wind? Our experiences, and emotions, can lead us to this growth and healing we so often search for. Using metaphors and looking at what needs are and aren't being met allow us to see our lives in a different light.
(262) 279-7494 View (262) 279-7494
Photo of Shelby Behnke, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Shelby Behnke
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Brookfield, WI 53005
Reaching out for support can be difficult. Sometimes, the ideas of what we "should" do get overwhelming: we "should" be able to handle whatever life throws our way, and we "should" bear it alone, with grace and a smile on our face. Asking for help can feel scary. At the same time, it can also feel empowering.
Reaching out for support can be difficult. Sometimes, the ideas of what we "should" do get overwhelming: we "should" be able to handle whatever life throws our way, and we "should" bear it alone, with grace and a smile on our face. Asking for help can feel scary. At the same time, it can also feel empowering.
View
1

See more therapy options for Waukesha County

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.