Photo of Melissa Gates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Melissa Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Byron, IL 61010
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
I am devoted both to helping my clients with the distress and overwhelming challenges life can present, while inspiring them to find balance, empowerment and contentment as they reach for their goals and personal potential. My depth of experience has led me to a firm belief that individuals can achieve their own idea of happiness through a holistic approach that focuses on the mind, body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is tailored to my clients’ needs and goals. My role is to create a safe, empowering, respectful environment. Your role is to take the first step that will lead you to discover your path to healing.
(815) 288-1235 View (815) 288-1235

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claire Maschinski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Byron, IL
Claire Maschinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oregon, IL 61061
My therapeutic approaches include Family Systems, CBT, Solution-Focused, Couples Therapy, Attachment, Relational Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Care.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
My therapeutic approaches include Family Systems, CBT, Solution-Focused, Couples Therapy, Attachment, Relational Therapy, Play Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Care.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
(779) 222-2708 View (779) 222-2708

Online Therapists

Photo of White Oak Institute for Growth and Wellness, Counselor in Byron, IL
White Oak Institute for Growth and Wellness
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT , PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
Our professionals excel in many therapeutic approaches including, CBT with Mindfulness, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, Existential, Psychodynamic, Humanistic etc.
Are you still trying to feel better, adjust to stressors, find balance, better relationships, or cope with mental illness? We will join you. At the White Oak we believe that the relationship with our clients is the paramount of any successful therapeutic endeavor. Your professional specialized counselor will tailor a plan to help you gain insight, develop mental skills, and better balance your life in coordination with your perceived mental health dilemma, stressors, or problem. Our beautiful new facility is located in Orland Park on 143rd Street 1 mile west of Route 45 in a beautifully renovated unique office in Old Orland.
Our professionals excel in many therapeutic approaches including, CBT with Mindfulness, ACT, DBT, Play Therapy, Existential, Psychodynamic, Humanistic etc.
Are you still trying to feel better, adjust to stressors, find balance, better relationships, or cope with mental illness? We will join you. At the White Oak we believe that the relationship with our clients is the paramount of any successful therapeutic endeavor. Your professional specialized counselor will tailor a plan to help you gain insight, develop mental skills, and better balance your life in coordination with your perceived mental health dilemma, stressors, or problem. Our beautiful new facility is located in Orland Park on 143rd Street 1 mile west of Route 45 in a beautifully renovated unique office in Old Orland.
(708) 726-5131 View (708) 726-5131
Photo of Loryn Chás, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Byron, IL
Loryn Chás
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
My framework is built on the idea that “we are here to play and have fun; we are not here to suffer,” hence, I offer many strategies to help you gain mental freedom.
You are more than enough! Allow therapy to help you actualize your greatness! Throughout life, we experience deep spiritual wounds from intergenerational trauma and daily incidents in our attempt to navigate hostile environments and systems. Our efforts to be vulnerable and acknowledge our feelings typically go unheard, so we normalize toxicity to cope or survive. Healing requires intentionality, awareness, and the ability to trust ourselves. I utilize an integrative approach that is uniquely designed to meet your needs. Most importantly, I care. Allow me to be your guide to help you reconnect with yourself.
My framework is built on the idea that “we are here to play and have fun; we are not here to suffer,” hence, I offer many strategies to help you gain mental freedom.
You are more than enough! Allow therapy to help you actualize your greatness! Throughout life, we experience deep spiritual wounds from intergenerational trauma and daily incidents in our attempt to navigate hostile environments and systems. Our efforts to be vulnerable and acknowledge our feelings typically go unheard, so we normalize toxicity to cope or survive. Healing requires intentionality, awareness, and the ability to trust ourselves. I utilize an integrative approach that is uniquely designed to meet your needs. Most importantly, I care. Allow me to be your guide to help you reconnect with yourself.
(773) 309-4136 View (773) 309-4136
Photo of Jordan Prebys, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Byron, IL
Jordan Prebys
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, RPT-S, RSP
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
I am an alternative therapist who believes talk therapy alone is simply not enough. This is why I have gone to great lengths over my 20 years of experience to develop and grow as a therapist to learn more, do more, and provide more, to both my adult and child clients. In addition to talk therapy I also integrate the mind, body, and spirit into treatment through the use of sandplay therapy (for adults and children), play therapy, dream work, art, and hypnotherapy. These approaches bring the whole brain into treatment. Simply put, no one wants to simply exist, we are meant to thrive. Let's move beyond coping.
I am an alternative therapist who believes talk therapy alone is simply not enough. This is why I have gone to great lengths over my 20 years of experience to develop and grow as a therapist to learn more, do more, and provide more, to both my adult and child clients. In addition to talk therapy I also integrate the mind, body, and spirit into treatment through the use of sandplay therapy (for adults and children), play therapy, dream work, art, and hypnotherapy. These approaches bring the whole brain into treatment. Simply put, no one wants to simply exist, we are meant to thrive. Let's move beyond coping.
(815) 605-5913 View (815) 605-5913
Photo of Kaitlyn Rippel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Byron, IL
Kaitlyn Rippel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I utilize a blend of play therapy, distress tolerance skills, mind-body integration and more in order to tailor therapy to your unique goals and needs.
Hello! I am a licensed social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents experiencing the impacts of trauma, grief, loss, attachment wounds, anxiety, depression and/or behavioral challenges. My therapeutic approach is warm and direct with an emphasis on building your understanding of your thoughts, strengths and desires. I believe healing is relational and contextual, affirming your unique identities. My background as a school social worker gives me insight in collaborating with schools to meet your child's educational and social-emotional needs.
I utilize a blend of play therapy, distress tolerance skills, mind-body integration and more in order to tailor therapy to your unique goals and needs.
Hello! I am a licensed social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents experiencing the impacts of trauma, grief, loss, attachment wounds, anxiety, depression and/or behavioral challenges. My therapeutic approach is warm and direct with an emphasis on building your understanding of your thoughts, strengths and desires. I believe healing is relational and contextual, affirming your unique identities. My background as a school social worker gives me insight in collaborating with schools to meet your child's educational and social-emotional needs.
(312) 313-1662 View (312) 313-1662
Photo of Meghan Dean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Meghan Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Geneva, IL 60134
I utilize multiple different approaches to best help and address the presenting problem, including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I believe therapy is a process that helps you gain awareness of your strengths, behavior patterns, and thinking in order to provide the opportunity to make significant and meaningful changes in your life. I am dedicated to everyone I work with and committed to finding the best strategy to help you find peace and fulfillment. I am focused on helping you learn the skills to ultimately help yourself. After 20+ years of experience in the field, I have gained expertise with anxiety, emotional and behavioral challenges, parenting, mood disorders, self-esteem, ADHD, stress management, and family of origin issues.
I utilize multiple different approaches to best help and address the presenting problem, including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I believe therapy is a process that helps you gain awareness of your strengths, behavior patterns, and thinking in order to provide the opportunity to make significant and meaningful changes in your life. I am dedicated to everyone I work with and committed to finding the best strategy to help you find peace and fulfillment. I am focused on helping you learn the skills to ultimately help yourself. After 20+ years of experience in the field, I have gained expertise with anxiety, emotional and behavioral challenges, parenting, mood disorders, self-esteem, ADHD, stress management, and family of origin issues.
(331) 214-3083 View (331) 214-3083
Photo of Susan Ryan-Michalak, Counselor in Byron, IL
Susan Ryan-Michalak
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, LBSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orland Park, IL 60462
I have training in: Play Therapy, children's anxieties, ABA Natural Pairing,and teaching parents how to help their child's behaviors at home,and socially.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
I have training in: Play Therapy, children's anxieties, ABA Natural Pairing,and teaching parents how to help their child's behaviors at home,and socially.
Telehealth/ Video Counseling now offered. Are you in need to talk to someone right now? I'm here. I AM PASSIONATE about HELPING others with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, divorce, and life changing events. Are you going through something new, a life changing event that happened or something you have been struggling with for awhile? My goal is to facilitate clients to reach THEIR GOALS in a safe, respectful, non-judgmental environment. I believe everyone can achieve the success they want and feel better. You don't have to do it alone. I am fully trained with many techniques and experience to get you where you want to be.
(773) 796-4048 View (773) 796-4048
Photo of Center for Psychology & Wellness, Psychologist in Byron, IL
Center for Psychology & Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Northbrook, IL 60062
CBT, DBT, exposure and response prevention, play therapy, biofeedback).
We are a North Shore group of psychologists and counselors that are committed to providing quality therapeutic services for clients through the lifespan. We are licensed specialists who work with infants, toddlers, children, teens, adults, couples,and families. Services are provided in English and Polish. Each client will be listened to in a newly renovated office that promotes comfort and privacy. Individualized treatment is developed for each client to increase positive outcomes and success. We use evidence-based treatments that have been researched and found to reduce barriers that interfere with positive and healthy functioning.
CBT, DBT, exposure and response prevention, play therapy, biofeedback).
We are a North Shore group of psychologists and counselors that are committed to providing quality therapeutic services for clients through the lifespan. We are licensed specialists who work with infants, toddlers, children, teens, adults, couples,and families. Services are provided in English and Polish. Each client will be listened to in a newly renovated office that promotes comfort and privacy. Individualized treatment is developed for each client to increase positive outcomes and success. We use evidence-based treatments that have been researched and found to reduce barriers that interfere with positive and healthy functioning.
(847) 603-4073 View (847) 603-4073
Photo of Princess Gabor, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Byron, IL
Princess Gabor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Elmwood Park, IL 60707  (Online Only)
I work with culturally diverse clients using cognitive, exposure, music, art, role-play and sensory interventions.
I hold a Doctorate Degree and a license as a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have extensive professional experience with children & adults with concerns including relationship & family conflict, trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, behavior issues, ADHD, & parent coaching. I worked in residential, hospitals, private practice, & in-house counseling. I facilitated group & individual supervision, parenting education, couples, groups, family, & substance use therapy.
I work with culturally diverse clients using cognitive, exposure, music, art, role-play and sensory interventions.
I hold a Doctorate Degree and a license as a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have extensive professional experience with children & adults with concerns including relationship & family conflict, trauma, autism, intellectual disabilities, behavior issues, ADHD, & parent coaching. I worked in residential, hospitals, private practice, & in-house counseling. I facilitated group & individual supervision, parenting education, couples, groups, family, & substance use therapy.
(872) 314-0090 View (872) 314-0090
Photo of Willow Florence Krafcik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Willow Florence Krafcik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
As a neurodiverse clinician with chronic illness, Willow brings their whole self to working with their community. Their goal is always to give clients the opportunity to feel seen, heard and supported. They are non-judgmental, caring and somewhat goofy. Willow has experience working in a variety of settings around grief, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression and disability concerns, and has training in trauma-informed play therapy and utilizing expressive arts in therapeutic work. Their approach is grounded in attachment-theory, narrative therapy, harm reduction, disability justice, and family systems theory.
As a neurodiverse clinician with chronic illness, Willow brings their whole self to working with their community. Their goal is always to give clients the opportunity to feel seen, heard and supported. They are non-judgmental, caring and somewhat goofy. Willow has experience working in a variety of settings around grief, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression and disability concerns, and has training in trauma-informed play therapy and utilizing expressive arts in therapeutic work. Their approach is grounded in attachment-theory, narrative therapy, harm reduction, disability justice, and family systems theory.
(872) 395-4915 View (872) 395-4915
Photo of Heather Beaugard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Heather Beaugard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I like to use lots of techniques and tools to help people meet their goals including sand tray, art based approaches and play therapy.
I know how hard it is to want things in your life to change but not know how to change them. You know what your goals are and how you’d like to feel but there doesn’t seem to be a path to get there. Therapy is a great place to share your goals so together we can create a path. I believe many problems start in the past and we can see that best in the present. Frequently we will work together on what’s going on now, in the present, and then work on understanding and resolving the past if you want to explore it.
I like to use lots of techniques and tools to help people meet their goals including sand tray, art based approaches and play therapy.
I know how hard it is to want things in your life to change but not know how to change them. You know what your goals are and how you’d like to feel but there doesn’t seem to be a path to get there. Therapy is a great place to share your goals so together we can create a path. I believe many problems start in the past and we can see that best in the present. Frequently we will work together on what’s going on now, in the present, and then work on understanding and resolving the past if you want to explore it.
(331) 258-1804 View (331) 258-1804
Photo of Dylan Bloom, Pre-Licensed Professional in Byron, IL
Dylan Bloom
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Prioritizing a 'Client first' approach, I integrate diverse modalities—ACT, DBT, CBT, Psychodynamic, Client-Centered, Strengths Based, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused.
I find immense joy in others' success! From being a crucial part of a conference championship collegiate baseball team as a catcher, I've honed skills that seamlessly apply to my role as a clinician. As a catcher, visualizing the entire playing field and orchestrating actions for the team mirrors my approach in therapy. I excel in integrating and balancing strengths and weaknesses, fostering a cohesive pursuit of shared goals. Described as compassionate, caring, trustworthy, humorous, and genuine, I bring these qualities to my therapeutic practice.
Prioritizing a 'Client first' approach, I integrate diverse modalities—ACT, DBT, CBT, Psychodynamic, Client-Centered, Strengths Based, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, and Solution Focused.
I find immense joy in others' success! From being a crucial part of a conference championship collegiate baseball team as a catcher, I've honed skills that seamlessly apply to my role as a clinician. As a catcher, visualizing the entire playing field and orchestrating actions for the team mirrors my approach in therapy. I excel in integrating and balancing strengths and weaknesses, fostering a cohesive pursuit of shared goals. Described as compassionate, caring, trustworthy, humorous, and genuine, I bring these qualities to my therapeutic practice.
(815) 559-5233 View (815) 559-5233
Photo of Stenzel Clinical Services, Ltd., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Byron, IL
Stenzel Clinical Services, Ltd.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
We offer play therapy We can bill your insurance for you.
We recognize how difficult it can be to seek help with mental health issues. Our goal is to meet you where you are in a supportive, encouraging way. We never use shame as a motivator. Instead we seek to provide a balance between giving you time and space to heal and challenging and encouraging you to move forward to a healthier place. We have a staff of over 40 therapists each with different specialties; we all possess the same single passion: to walk with our clients on the path of healing.
We offer play therapy We can bill your insurance for you.
We recognize how difficult it can be to seek help with mental health issues. Our goal is to meet you where you are in a supportive, encouraging way. We never use shame as a motivator. Instead we seek to provide a balance between giving you time and space to heal and challenging and encouraging you to move forward to a healthier place. We have a staff of over 40 therapists each with different specialties; we all possess the same single passion: to walk with our clients on the path of healing.
(630) 387-9885 x301 View (630) 387-9885 x301
Photo of Gloria M Cockerill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Gloria M Cockerill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
Utilizing play based interventions, we will work as a team to understand what is happening for your child, while helping you manage the day to day struggles of parenting.
My career has focused on working with children from birth through their teen years and their families. Whether impacted by trauma and attachment issues, behavioral concerns or managing difficult emotions, my goal is to help you and your family get back on track sharing laughter, joy and connection.
Utilizing play based interventions, we will work as a team to understand what is happening for your child, while helping you manage the day to day struggles of parenting.
My career has focused on working with children from birth through their teen years and their families. Whether impacted by trauma and attachment issues, behavioral concerns or managing difficult emotions, my goal is to help you and your family get back on track sharing laughter, joy and connection.
(630) 528-0357 View (630) 528-0357
Photo of Amber Beebe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Amber Beebe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Waitlist for new clients
I use techniques such as Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, earning a Masters Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I have provided therapy services in a variety of community, inpatient, and outpatient settings to children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, ADHD, trauma recovery, and self-injury.
I use techniques such as Trauma Informed Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Play Therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, earning a Masters Degree in Social Work from Aurora University. I have provided therapy services in a variety of community, inpatient, and outpatient settings to children and adolescents experiencing a wide range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, major depression, ADHD, trauma recovery, and self-injury.
(331) 254-4601 x128 View (331) 254-4601 x128
Photo of Megan Stickelmaier Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Megan Stickelmaier Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peoria, IL 61614
With children, I incorporate play therapy, sand tray therapy, art therapy and theraplay throughout treatment.
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
With children, I incorporate play therapy, sand tray therapy, art therapy and theraplay throughout treatment.
Children and adolescents are under more pressure now than ever before from social stress, transitions and divorce, bullying and past trauma. I specialize in providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults. I believe that there are no bad kids or bad parents. It is through my family centered, solution focused approach that I encourage my clients and their parents to begin to celebrate their unique abilities. I also focus on the whole person, exploring academics, career, diet and nutrition, medical, social support any and all elements that impact my clients.
(309) 271-1034 View (309) 271-1034
Photo of Samantha Brock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Byron, IL
Samantha Brock
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minooka, IL 60447
Samantha is experienced in ACT, SFBT, CBT, and different forms of art/play therapy.
The idea of counseling can be very foreign or daunting to a new, potential client. Samantha is a committed counselor whose drive is to deliver comprehensive case management and treatment to clients of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Her goal is to work in collaboration with clients to achieve a happy, healthy level of functioning. She aims to align clients with their ideals, aspirations, and values so they can become they person they strive to be. Samantha ensures that her clients feel seen and heard, providing a safe and welcoming environment for clients to work on their presenting issues.
Samantha is experienced in ACT, SFBT, CBT, and different forms of art/play therapy.
The idea of counseling can be very foreign or daunting to a new, potential client. Samantha is a committed counselor whose drive is to deliver comprehensive case management and treatment to clients of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Her goal is to work in collaboration with clients to achieve a happy, healthy level of functioning. She aims to align clients with their ideals, aspirations, and values so they can become they person they strive to be. Samantha ensures that her clients feel seen and heard, providing a safe and welcoming environment for clients to work on their presenting issues.
(815) 240-9762 View (815) 240-9762
Photo of Irina Sheppard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Byron, IL
Irina Sheppard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Joliet, IL 60435
I utilize a variety of counseling techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Family systems, Structural Family Therapy, Play Therapy, and Gottman.
Coming to America as a young child from Ukraine, I learned how to adjust to many different aspects of culture, language and life challenges. I believe that everyone can benefit from having a safe space to process one's own thoughts and lead their life in a way to improve their overall self being.
I utilize a variety of counseling techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy, Family systems, Structural Family Therapy, Play Therapy, and Gottman.
Coming to America as a young child from Ukraine, I learned how to adjust to many different aspects of culture, language and life challenges. I believe that everyone can benefit from having a safe space to process one's own thoughts and lead their life in a way to improve their overall self being.
(815) 957-6936 View (815) 957-6936
Photo of Liz Paul, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Byron, IL
Liz Paul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
I utilize elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy in my work.
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is a collaborative partnership. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel empowered in their curiosity– to be curious about themselves, curious about their relationships with others, and curious about what they want for their future. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflict, and trauma. I also have experience helping families navigate changing dynamics and supporting caregivers in the constantly changing and challenging journey of parenting.
I utilize elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Play Therapy in my work.
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is a collaborative partnership. I strive to create a safe space for my clients to feel empowered in their curiosity– to be curious about themselves, curious about their relationships with others, and curious about what they want for their future. I specialize in working with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, life transitions, relationship conflict, and trauma. I also have experience helping families navigate changing dynamics and supporting caregivers in the constantly changing and challenging journey of parenting.
(872) 219-1967 View (872) 219-1967

See more therapy options for Byron

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.