Play Therapy in Coralville, IA
Melinda M Hibbard
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I'm presently working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and strongly believe in the power of play as an important tool to help children open up about what is bothering them.
I've been a therapist for more than 17 years and am passionate about working with children and families. I offer telehealth and in person therapy. If your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, impulse control, hyperactivity, inattention, poor boundaries, anger outbursts, emotional regulation, adjusting to separation/divorce, blending families, coping with the death of a loved one or even a family pet, I'm here to help.
I'm presently working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) and strongly believe in the power of play as an important tool to help children open up about what is bothering them.
I've been a therapist for more than 17 years and am passionate about working with children and families. I offer telehealth and in person therapy. If your child is struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, impulse control, hyperactivity, inattention, poor boundaries, anger outbursts, emotional regulation, adjusting to separation/divorce, blending families, coping with the death of a loved one or even a family pet, I'm here to help.
Marissa Stiles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
As a therapist, one of the essential parts of my work is to provide hope that there is an opportunity for change in everyone's life through positive relationships. I strive to build therapeutic relationships in a safe space for the clients I work with to promote growth and healing. Each child deserves the opportunity to process their challenging experiences in their own unique way, whether through play or verbalizing their experiences, in an empathetic and supportive space.
As a therapist, one of the essential parts of my work is to provide hope that there is an opportunity for change in everyone's life through positive relationships. I strive to build therapeutic relationships in a safe space for the clients I work with to promote growth and healing. Each child deserves the opportunity to process their challenging experiences in their own unique way, whether through play or verbalizing their experiences, in an empathetic and supportive space.
Katie Amos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Waitlist for new clients
I have training and experience in marital and family therapy, play therapy, sandtray therapy, AutPlay, Applied Behavior Analysis and Theraplay.
As a marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about helping clients achieve emotional and physical wellness. I have several years of experience working with families and children; this has included community work, in-home work and clinical practice. I typically apply a solution focused, strength-based family systems model individualized to each unique client.
I have training and experience in marital and family therapy, play therapy, sandtray therapy, AutPlay, Applied Behavior Analysis and Theraplay.
As a marriage and family therapist, I am passionate about helping clients achieve emotional and physical wellness. I have several years of experience working with families and children; this has included community work, in-home work and clinical practice. I typically apply a solution focused, strength-based family systems model individualized to each unique client.
Ali Williams-Kurt
Counselor, MEd, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Play is our natural language.
Life's journey is full of detours, bumps, and obstacles. Seeking guidance allows for support through these challenging times. In addition to traditional therapy, I can provide animal-assisted therapy and enjoy working with animals as part of the therapy process. My dog Lana, a golden retriever, is presently in training to become a therapy dog. When Lana’s training is complete, we will be a therapy team providing animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted play therapy. There is a body of research supporting animals in therapy to enhance physical, emotional, and social well being, and I strive to do just that.
Play is our natural language.
Life's journey is full of detours, bumps, and obstacles. Seeking guidance allows for support through these challenging times. In addition to traditional therapy, I can provide animal-assisted therapy and enjoy working with animals as part of the therapy process. My dog Lana, a golden retriever, is presently in training to become a therapy dog. When Lana’s training is complete, we will be a therapy team providing animal-assisted therapy and animal-assisted play therapy. There is a body of research supporting animals in therapy to enhance physical, emotional, and social well being, and I strive to do just that.
Lexys Vaillancourt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, t-LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Waitlist for new clients
Incorporating experiential modalities like art, sand, and play therapy, I adjust my approach to meet the unique needs of each person, couple, and family.
I focus on supporting queer and neurodivergent people, couples, children, and families. My clients often face challenges in understanding their identities, navigating relationships, or belonging in their environments. They seek not only to address specific issues such as communication breakdowns, emotional dysregulation, or life transitions but also aim to achieve deeper self-understanding and acceptance. Utilizing systemic and humanistic therapies, I offer a compassionate space where clients can explore their needs and goals. Together, we will work to foster stronger connections, enhance self-esteem, and improve overall well-being.
Incorporating experiential modalities like art, sand, and play therapy, I adjust my approach to meet the unique needs of each person, couple, and family.
I focus on supporting queer and neurodivergent people, couples, children, and families. My clients often face challenges in understanding their identities, navigating relationships, or belonging in their environments. They seek not only to address specific issues such as communication breakdowns, emotional dysregulation, or life transitions but also aim to achieve deeper self-understanding and acceptance. Utilizing systemic and humanistic therapies, I offer a compassionate space where clients can explore their needs and goals. Together, we will work to foster stronger connections, enhance self-esteem, and improve overall well-being.
Mental Wellbeing Clinic - Tanager Place
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Here in our Coralville location, our providers can offer a variety of specialty services, including play therapy, CBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), trauma-focused work, Theraplay(R)-informed practice, Filial Family Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention(R) work, and motivational interviewing.
Our providers at Tanager Place offer services to children that inspire, empower, and heal. We come from a variety of backgrounds and offer a range of specialties and skill sets to achieve improved wellness. Tanager Place Behavioral Health Clinic provides preventative services and treatment options to children, young adults, and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relational difficulties in their lives. Our professional team provides a full continuum of comprehensive, holistic, and integrated services for children and families.
Here in our Coralville location, our providers can offer a variety of specialty services, including play therapy, CBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), trauma-focused work, Theraplay(R)-informed practice, Filial Family Therapy, Trust-Based Relational Intervention(R) work, and motivational interviewing.
Our providers at Tanager Place offer services to children that inspire, empower, and heal. We come from a variety of backgrounds and offer a range of specialties and skill sets to achieve improved wellness. Tanager Place Behavioral Health Clinic provides preventative services and treatment options to children, young adults, and families experiencing emotional, behavioral, or relational difficulties in their lives. Our professional team provides a full continuum of comprehensive, holistic, and integrated services for children and families.
Megan Heitzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I am a Registered Play Therapist with a background working with children with attachment deficits/Reactive Attachment Disorder, ODD, ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and behavioral/emotional issues that they are struggling with managing in school, home and community settings. I utilize play therapy approaches as well as EMDR in my work with children, youth and families and place a strong emphasis on family collaboration/support due to the ongoing stressors that occur in families who have a child with special needs. This includes incorporating biological families, foster families and/or adoptive families into treatment.
I am a Registered Play Therapist with a background working with children with attachment deficits/Reactive Attachment Disorder, ODD, ADHD, Adjustment Disorder, Anxiety Disorders and behavioral/emotional issues that they are struggling with managing in school, home and community settings. I utilize play therapy approaches as well as EMDR in my work with children, youth and families and place a strong emphasis on family collaboration/support due to the ongoing stressors that occur in families who have a child with special needs. This includes incorporating biological families, foster families and/or adoptive families into treatment.
Dawn Worrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I use both Directive and Non-directive play therapy techniques to explore and give children permission to express themselves as therapy can often feels intimidating.
I feel honored to have helped guide and support individuals and families for over 20 years. I strive to help identify problems, resolve conflicts and promote optimal functioning in your everyday life. I specialize in empowering oneself to work through the distress of Divorce, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Attachment, and Trauma that have negatively impacted yourself and your relationships with others. Within the context of a safe and supportive environment, I develop trusting relationships with clients that enhance and encourage growth and change. I believe anyone can make changes in their life and I can provide optimism and hope when you feel there is none.
I use both Directive and Non-directive play therapy techniques to explore and give children permission to express themselves as therapy can often feels intimidating.
I feel honored to have helped guide and support individuals and families for over 20 years. I strive to help identify problems, resolve conflicts and promote optimal functioning in your everyday life. I specialize in empowering oneself to work through the distress of Divorce, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Attachment, and Trauma that have negatively impacted yourself and your relationships with others. Within the context of a safe and supportive environment, I develop trusting relationships with clients that enhance and encourage growth and change. I believe anyone can make changes in their life and I can provide optimism and hope when you feel there is none.
Interplay Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241 (Online Only)
We offer expertise in experiential methods (play, art, sandtray) and EMDR with a Cognitive-Behavioral foundation.
Susan G Schmitz, MSW, LISW and Sarah K Anderson, MSW, LISW work with adults, adolescents and some older elementary school-aged children along with their families. Common presenting issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulty with life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss, and relationship issues. We employ a strengths-based approach within a non-judgmental, eclectic framework. We will work together to tailor treatment plans to your needs. Each of us offers a unique, yet similar approach, having been trained a generation apart, but within the same theories and modalities.
We offer expertise in experiential methods (play, art, sandtray) and EMDR with a Cognitive-Behavioral foundation.
Susan G Schmitz, MSW, LISW and Sarah K Anderson, MSW, LISW work with adults, adolescents and some older elementary school-aged children along with their families. Common presenting issues include anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulty with life transitions such as divorce, grief and loss, and relationship issues. We employ a strengths-based approach within a non-judgmental, eclectic framework. We will work together to tailor treatment plans to your needs. Each of us offers a unique, yet similar approach, having been trained a generation apart, but within the same theories and modalities.
Tyler L Gray
Counselor, MEd, LMHCt, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I am trauma-informed and trained in EMDR working towards play therapy certification.
I find myself grounded in an Attachment-based, somatic, and existential approach working with ages 3-77+. As humans, we each are the experts of our lives and lived experiences. It is through that expertise that we hold the capability to heal. As a play therapist, I believe that children communicate and heal through play and utilize integrative and synergetic approaches, sand tray, attachment-based play, and EMDR to assist children and their families. With some clients, I will evaluate systemic norms and how the client can be empowered by examining the role of power structures as they relate to the impact of developing identity.
I am trauma-informed and trained in EMDR working towards play therapy certification.
I find myself grounded in an Attachment-based, somatic, and existential approach working with ages 3-77+. As humans, we each are the experts of our lives and lived experiences. It is through that expertise that we hold the capability to heal. As a play therapist, I believe that children communicate and heal through play and utilize integrative and synergetic approaches, sand tray, attachment-based play, and EMDR to assist children and their families. With some clients, I will evaluate systemic norms and how the client can be empowered by examining the role of power structures as they relate to the impact of developing identity.
Quinn Annabel Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I work with individuals and families across all ages and stages of life, with a focus on teenagers, young adults, and LGBTQ+ clients. It is my goal to provide my clients with connection, empowerment, self-knowledge, and practical techniques to help them thrive even when they are feeling most isolated and misunderstood.
I work with individuals and families across all ages and stages of life, with a focus on teenagers, young adults, and LGBTQ+ clients. It is my goal to provide my clients with connection, empowerment, self-knowledge, and practical techniques to help them thrive even when they are feeling most isolated and misunderstood.
Annika Ross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I am scheduling new clients for October 2024. I maintain a wait list. I work with adults of all ages and children ages 13 and up. I have 15 years of experience doing outpatient therapy in a school, community mental health, and private practice setting. I previously worked as a public school teacher. I have helped clients with a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, work issues and relationship problems to traumatic stress. I particularly enjoy helping women with anxiety. I adjust my therapy approach to the needs of each unique client, but I generally draw from CBT, Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR.
I am scheduling new clients for October 2024. I maintain a wait list. I work with adults of all ages and children ages 13 and up. I have 15 years of experience doing outpatient therapy in a school, community mental health, and private practice setting. I previously worked as a public school teacher. I have helped clients with a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, work issues and relationship problems to traumatic stress. I particularly enjoy helping women with anxiety. I adjust my therapy approach to the needs of each unique client, but I generally draw from CBT, Mindfulness, IFS and EMDR.
Matthew Reinert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth therapy. My practice utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to understand and address each client's unique goals for therapy. I view the client as the expert on their own situation and value a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on honoring the individual and their self-determination.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and telehealth therapy. My practice utilizes a person-centered and strength-based approach to understand and address each client's unique goals for therapy. I view the client as the expert on their own situation and value a collaborative approach to treatment that focuses on honoring the individual and their self-determination.
Madeleine Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Waitlist for new clients
Maddie truly appreciates that every individual is unique and believes in taking a person-centered approach when offering counseling services to best meet the needs of her clients. She draws on a variety of therapeutic techniques to help each person meet their individual goals, including Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), mindfulness techniques, and self-compassion, among others.
Maddie truly appreciates that every individual is unique and believes in taking a person-centered approach when offering counseling services to best meet the needs of her clients. She draws on a variety of therapeutic techniques to help each person meet their individual goals, including Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), mindfulness techniques, and self-compassion, among others.
Kristine Marie Taylor
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241 (Online Only)
I want to help clients build the strength and confidence to face major life transitions and effectively work through uncomfortable emotions. If someone is struggling with postpartum depression, for example, I will support them until they realize they’re not alone and they are feeling able to cope. When you work with me, you’ll become more confident in asking for help and reaching out to resources and supports. Overall, I will help you find a sense of hope that it's not always going to be like this.
I want to help clients build the strength and confidence to face major life transitions and effectively work through uncomfortable emotions. If someone is struggling with postpartum depression, for example, I will support them until they realize they’re not alone and they are feeling able to cope. When you work with me, you’ll become more confident in asking for help and reaching out to resources and supports. Overall, I will help you find a sense of hope that it's not always going to be like this.
Lon Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
It takes incredible courage to recognize a problem and deal with it. And it takes something more to change your life. It takes hope. That's why I specialize in a unique approach that can literally change the way you see yourself. I can help you explore solutions that can change your life. You'll begin to perceive yourself and others more positively. And you'll experience positive changes that can help you achieve your heart's desire. Finally, I'll help you discover personal resources that keep you focused on your strengths. You'll experience changes that can last a lifetime.
It takes incredible courage to recognize a problem and deal with it. And it takes something more to change your life. It takes hope. That's why I specialize in a unique approach that can literally change the way you see yourself. I can help you explore solutions that can change your life. You'll begin to perceive yourself and others more positively. And you'll experience positive changes that can help you achieve your heart's desire. Finally, I'll help you discover personal resources that keep you focused on your strengths. You'll experience changes that can last a lifetime.
Abigail Van Patten-Freeman
Counselor, MA, tLMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Accepting New Clients! I am a Mental Health Counselor working towards full licensure in the state of Iowa. I received both my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa. I have worked with ages 4 to adulthood on issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions.
Accepting New Clients! I am a Mental Health Counselor working towards full licensure in the state of Iowa. I received both my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa and Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Northern Iowa. I have worked with ages 4 to adulthood on issues such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress, and life transitions.
Bobby Jo Salm/Beacon of Hope Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
Regardless of why you're seeking therapy, I'm here to help you. I work to help you understand the root of the issue, develop tools necessary to meet these challenges, and take steps toward a healthier and more integrated life.
Regardless of why you're seeking therapy, I'm here to help you. I work to help you understand the root of the issue, develop tools necessary to meet these challenges, and take steps toward a healthier and more integrated life.
Chantel Johnson
Counselor, MEd, tLMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
Hello, my name is Chan. I am currently a Temporary Mental Health Counselor working towards full licensure in Iowa. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Georgia Southern University; I also received my master’s degree in Counselor Education with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health from Georgia Southern University. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families of all ages. I am extremely passionate about working with children and individuals from diverse backgrounds struggling with their mental health and wellness.
Hello, my name is Chan. I am currently a Temporary Mental Health Counselor working towards full licensure in Iowa. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Georgia Southern University; I also received my master’s degree in Counselor Education with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health from Georgia Southern University. I have experience working with individuals, children, and families of all ages. I am extremely passionate about working with children and individuals from diverse backgrounds struggling with their mental health and wellness.
Beacon Of Hope Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coralville, IA 52241
In my practice, my ideal clients encompass individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. I specialize in working through a wide range of issues, including relationship challenges, personal journeys, struggles, family scapegoats, early childhood trauma, and life transitions. I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can feel comfortable opening up. Many of the people who come to me are looking for someone they can truly talk to, someone who will listen, understand, and support them on their path to healing.
In my practice, my ideal clients encompass individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults. I specialize in working through a wide range of issues, including relationship challenges, personal journeys, struggles, family scapegoats, early childhood trauma, and life transitions. I understand that seeking therapy can be a vulnerable and courageous step, and I strive to create a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can feel comfortable opening up. Many of the people who come to me are looking for someone they can truly talk to, someone who will listen, understand, and support them on their path to healing.
See more therapy options for Coralville
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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.