Play Therapy in Wauwatosa, WI

Photo of Alisha Olson, MSW, APSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alisha Olson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
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
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
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 Diana Dietzman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Dietzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53210
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart, who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens", Carl Jung. Temenos means sacred space and Sand Play Therapy is about the individual's free and protective space. Temenos Counseling Services can provide a free and protective sacred space to heal the trauma and awaken the vision within yourself.
"Your vision will become clear when you look into your heart, who looks outside dreams, who looks inside awakens", Carl Jung. Temenos means sacred space and Sand Play Therapy is about the individual's free and protective space. Temenos Counseling Services can provide a free and protective sacred space to heal the trauma and awaken the vision within yourself.
(414) 292-9488 View (414) 292-9488
Photo of Jennifer Stagg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Stagg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I like to incorporate art and play therapy techniques when appropriate.
In my 15+ years of clinical practice I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. I have given special focus to adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and self-identity issues. I am always learning in order to increase my specialized focus on concerns related to anxiety, adoption and emerging adulthood. I enjoy working with the 10-25 year old age group but throughout my years of private practice I have worked with children as young as 5 and adults as young as 65. I hope to help clients find satisfaction in life.
I like to incorporate art and play therapy techniques when appropriate.
In my 15+ years of clinical practice I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families struggling with a variety of mental health challenges. I have given special focus to adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, depression, self-harm, self-esteem, and self-identity issues. I am always learning in order to increase my specialized focus on concerns related to anxiety, adoption and emerging adulthood. I enjoy working with the 10-25 year old age group but throughout my years of private practice I have worked with children as young as 5 and adults as young as 65. I hope to help clients find satisfaction in life.
(414) 455-5978 View (414) 455-5978
Photo of Alexander Waites, MS, MDiv, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexander Waites
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53210
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 Mandi Degner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandi Degner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I am honored to be a person with whom friends, colleagues and clients have trusted to share their stories and trials and triumphs of life. I believe that our shared connections, compassion and authenticity are precious gifts to our health and wellness. The ups and downs of life often get in the way of becoming our best selves. I love working with clients who are struggling to find that voice of authenticity that’s been hidden by loneliness, comparing themselves to an impossible ideal, or even years of trauma and abuse. Together, we’ll work in collaboration, incorporating connection to mind and body to reclaim a sense of wholeness.
I am honored to be a person with whom friends, colleagues and clients have trusted to share their stories and trials and triumphs of life. I believe that our shared connections, compassion and authenticity are precious gifts to our health and wellness. The ups and downs of life often get in the way of becoming our best selves. I love working with clients who are struggling to find that voice of authenticity that’s been hidden by loneliness, comparing themselves to an impossible ideal, or even years of trauma and abuse. Together, we’ll work in collaboration, incorporating connection to mind and body to reclaim a sense of wholeness.
(262) 205-5868 View (262) 205-5868
Photo of Kristin Belkofer, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Belkofer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
I believe that human connection, compassion, and empathy are key to our wellness and becoming our authentic selves. As a psychotherapist, I use an integrative approach that is client-centered, insight oriented, and rooted in a deep understanding of the impact of stress and trauma on the body, mind, and relationships. Together we will create goals and a holistic plan to foster your strengths and empower you to live your best life possible.
(414) 509-0880 View (414) 509-0880
Photo of Meagan Langfield, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meagan Langfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I use an integrative approach by using a variety of therapies including Child Parent Psychotherapy, Early Pathways and Thera play.
It is really hard being a parent and caretaker of a young child. As a licensed professional counselor who specializes in work with babies, toddlers, children and their caregivers, I can help. I’m a strong advocate for infant mental health and have extensive knowledge and training to focus on caregiver attachment and relationships to heal trauma.
I use an integrative approach by using a variety of therapies including Child Parent Psychotherapy, Early Pathways and Thera play.
It is really hard being a parent and caretaker of a young child. As a licensed professional counselor who specializes in work with babies, toddlers, children and their caregivers, I can help. I’m a strong advocate for infant mental health and have extensive knowledge and training to focus on caregiver attachment and relationships to heal trauma.
(414) 877-7028 View (414) 877-7028
Photo of Bernadette Mullins Miller - Bernadette Mullins Miller, LLC, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bernadette Mullins Miller, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
My intentions are simple. I work to create the type of therapeutic relationship that clients will need to do the exploring, processing and growing that psychotherapy allows. I've always considered it a great privilege to be allowed into client's lives, and are consistently in awe of one's ability to grow and heal.
My intentions are simple. I work to create the type of therapeutic relationship that clients will need to do the exploring, processing and growing that psychotherapy allows. I've always considered it a great privilege to be allowed into client's lives, and are consistently in awe of one's ability to grow and heal.
(414) 600-1374 View (414) 600-1374
Photo of Cynthia Clark - Encompass-Effective Mental Health Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Encompass-Effective Mental Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Encompass has been providing mental health services in Milwaukee and the surrounding area for over 22 years. We are comprised of seven highly trained master level psychotherapists, including three Art Therapists and two Child and Adolescent Therapists. The staff at Encompass provides counseling for children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Due to our diverse backgrounds, Encompass provides therapy for a variety of clients with a variety of issues. We have sessions individually, as couples, and in family groups. Our atmosphere is one of comfort and safety, ensuring privacy for working on difficult issues
Encompass has been providing mental health services in Milwaukee and the surrounding area for over 22 years. We are comprised of seven highly trained master level psychotherapists, including three Art Therapists and two Child and Adolescent Therapists. The staff at Encompass provides counseling for children as young as 5 years old, adolescents, adults, and older adults. Due to our diverse backgrounds, Encompass provides therapy for a variety of clients with a variety of issues. We have sessions individually, as couples, and in family groups. Our atmosphere is one of comfort and safety, ensuring privacy for working on difficult issues
(414) 386-5299 View (414) 386-5299
Photo of Neena B Florsheim, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neena B Florsheim
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
Dr. Neena Florsheim and Dr. Bernard O'Connell provide concierge consultation to their clientele. Our colleagues accept most insurance plans. For 31 years we've designed programs for students planning careers in medicine, engineering, law, pharmacy, technology, research, science and education. Our Portfolio Program is a comprehensive advising system for students throughout high school until they depart for university studies. It covers high school course selection, standardized testing and timetable, preparation for college visits and interviews, final college/university choice, types of aid and assistance seeking financing, and "goodness of fit" in college selection. Services include SAT, SATII and ACT test preparation.
Dr. Neena Florsheim and Dr. Bernard O'Connell provide concierge consultation to their clientele. Our colleagues accept most insurance plans. For 31 years we've designed programs for students planning careers in medicine, engineering, law, pharmacy, technology, research, science and education. Our Portfolio Program is a comprehensive advising system for students throughout high school until they depart for university studies. It covers high school course selection, standardized testing and timetable, preparation for college visits and interviews, final college/university choice, types of aid and assistance seeking financing, and "goodness of fit" in college selection. Services include SAT, SATII and ACT test preparation.
(262) 221-9041 View (262) 221-9041
Photo of Stephany Pruitt - Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC, MS, THD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53225
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
(414) 246-5345 View (414) 246-5345
Photo of Tiffany Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53226
I'm so happy you stopped by. Are you in need of growth & strategy amidst life's challenges & transitions? I can provide guidance & tools for resilience as you navigate your unique journey toward learning, collectively with me and on your own. From the overstressed to the busy-minded late bloomer in life to the anxious child or adult & isolated dreamer, or overworked parent or spouse, and the grieving friend: I am committed to fostering a safe space to aid your journey of healing and walking into your awe-inspiring-self, through the integration of evidence-based fundamental concepts curated for your unique needs. Contact me today!
I'm so happy you stopped by. Are you in need of growth & strategy amidst life's challenges & transitions? I can provide guidance & tools for resilience as you navigate your unique journey toward learning, collectively with me and on your own. From the overstressed to the busy-minded late bloomer in life to the anxious child or adult & isolated dreamer, or overworked parent or spouse, and the grieving friend: I am committed to fostering a safe space to aid your journey of healing and walking into your awe-inspiring-self, through the integration of evidence-based fundamental concepts curated for your unique needs. Contact me today!
(414) 348-4561 View (414) 348-4561
Photo of Sariya Treske, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sariya Treske
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53210
We can all benefit from an outside perspective. Saying our thoughts, fears, and anxieties out loud pushes them into the light and lets us examine them in a way we couldn’t before. We suddenly go from just experiencing these emotions, to understanding and navigating them.
We can all benefit from an outside perspective. Saying our thoughts, fears, and anxieties out loud pushes them into the light and lets us examine them in a way we couldn’t before. We suddenly go from just experiencing these emotions, to understanding and navigating them.
(262) 600-3271 View (262) 600-3271
Photo of Naeemah N. Yohannes - Living Well Holistically L.L.C., MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Living Well Holistically L.L.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Right now, is the time to give ourselves permission to make changes that allow us to have control over our journey. As a Black woman & BIPOC therapist I am deeply passionate about treating mental health holistically. The mind, body, and spirit work together to bring fulfillment, but when the balance is off, things just don't feel right. Traumatic and challenging experiences in our lives can affect our nervous system, rendering us vulnerable, confused and at times stuck/frozen in fight and or flight responses to life. I personally know how beneficial integrating spiritual, mental, and physical health is to the healing process.
Right now, is the time to give ourselves permission to make changes that allow us to have control over our journey. As a Black woman & BIPOC therapist I am deeply passionate about treating mental health holistically. The mind, body, and spirit work together to bring fulfillment, but when the balance is off, things just don't feel right. Traumatic and challenging experiences in our lives can affect our nervous system, rendering us vulnerable, confused and at times stuck/frozen in fight and or flight responses to life. I personally know how beneficial integrating spiritual, mental, and physical health is to the healing process.
(414) 441-5023 View (414) 441-5023
Photo of Laurin LaBonte, MS, LPC, ATR, Counselor
Laurin LaBonte
Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
My name is Laurin and I have experience working with children (6+), teens, and adults. As a therapist, I believe families are a system and work to include parents in their child's treatment goals. When working with children, I believe working side by side with caregivers is essential to effective treatment. I am a licensed professional counselor and am a registered Art therapist in the state of Wisconsin. I come from a trauma informed background and have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes, etc.
My name is Laurin and I have experience working with children (6+), teens, and adults. As a therapist, I believe families are a system and work to include parents in their child's treatment goals. When working with children, I believe working side by side with caregivers is essential to effective treatment. I am a licensed professional counselor and am a registered Art therapist in the state of Wisconsin. I come from a trauma informed background and have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, life changes, etc.
(414) 251-1959 View (414) 251-1959
Photo of Mandy Leslie, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Mandy Leslie
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53222
Life's motion can feel intense and demanding, seeming to move at a pace beyond one's stride, resulting in chronic stress, increased anxiety, fear, and for some, chronic pain. Throughout this motion, self-care and nurturing relationships can feel overwhelming. Connecting with another human can be one of the safest ways to become grounded and encounter what is asking for acknowledgment and care. I believe the therapeutic relationship and environment has immense potential to provide a secure container for all that is felt to be seen and explored—giving fear the opportunity to be faced and transformed into intentional forward movement.
Life's motion can feel intense and demanding, seeming to move at a pace beyond one's stride, resulting in chronic stress, increased anxiety, fear, and for some, chronic pain. Throughout this motion, self-care and nurturing relationships can feel overwhelming. Connecting with another human can be one of the safest ways to become grounded and encounter what is asking for acknowledgment and care. I believe the therapeutic relationship and environment has immense potential to provide a secure container for all that is felt to be seen and explored—giving fear the opportunity to be faced and transformed into intentional forward movement.
(262) 262-8384 View (262) 262-8384

More Therapists Nearby

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
Milwaukee, WI 53226
I incorporate the use of trauma-based techniques, play therapy, EMDR, thera play, 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, thera play, 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 Karen Baker, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53222
The process of therapy requires the unmasking of socially condoned violence done to individuals. In therapy, the uncovering process requires digging through layers of neglect and indifference, contempt and ridicule, shame and humiliation, criticism and guilt, exploitation and manipulation. Almost without exception, each breakthrough involves breakage and releases costly feelings of outrage, hatred, and pain. The reparative process calls for understanding, acceptance, and support, along with a ritualistic observance of the symbolic meanings of the events which come to light.
The process of therapy requires the unmasking of socially condoned violence done to individuals. In therapy, the uncovering process requires digging through layers of neglect and indifference, contempt and ridicule, shame and humiliation, criticism and guilt, exploitation and manipulation. Almost without exception, each breakthrough involves breakage and releases costly feelings of outrage, hatred, and pain. The reparative process calls for understanding, acceptance, and support, along with a ritualistic observance of the symbolic meanings of the events which come to light.
(414) 509-0477 View (414) 509-0477
Photo of Shana Koch, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Shana Koch
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53222
I am dedicated to helping you through mental health, family, relationship, and health difficulties with empathy. It can be difficult to make impactful, long-lasting changes. I understand the importance of wanting to find that immediate relief, as well as identifying and treating the root of the problem. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work towards realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults.
I am dedicated to helping you through mental health, family, relationship, and health difficulties with empathy. It can be difficult to make impactful, long-lasting changes. I understand the importance of wanting to find that immediate relief, as well as identifying and treating the root of the problem. By collaborating closely together, you and I will define and work towards realistic goals in order to maximize your time in counseling. I enjoy working with children, teens, and adults.
(262) 456-5132 View (262) 456-5132
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.