Photo of Diane K Olson-Burkhardt, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Diane K Olson-Burkhardt
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Waitlist for new clients
I have advanced training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Hypnosis, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Supervision.
In this stressful world that we live in today, the essential activities that we all forget to participate in are to: Live, Breathe, & Play! I strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment for those that I serve so that they may achieve their optimum health and wellness. In my practice, I utilize client-centered, integrative and holistic techniques to aid in helping persons obtain their maximum potential in their life and their relationships.
I have advanced training in Play Therapy, Sand Tray, Hypnosis, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Supervision.
In this stressful world that we live in today, the essential activities that we all forget to participate in are to: Live, Breathe, & Play! I strive to provide a safe, nurturing and non-judgmental environment for those that I serve so that they may achieve their optimum health and wellness. In my practice, I utilize client-centered, integrative and holistic techniques to aid in helping persons obtain their maximum potential in their life and their relationships.
(219) 224-3421 View (219) 224-3421
Photo of Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
(219) 291-3931 View (219) 291-3931
Photo of Hector Zavala, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Hector Zavala
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Starting counseling is a significant decision. Counseling can sometimes lead to intense emotions, and clients sometimes feel worse before they feel better. However, counseling often leads to significant symptom reduction, increased satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, greater personal awareness and insight, and increased skills for managing stress.
Starting counseling is a significant decision. Counseling can sometimes lead to intense emotions, and clients sometimes feel worse before they feel better. However, counseling often leads to significant symptom reduction, increased satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, greater personal awareness and insight, and increased skills for managing stress.
(219) 214-4264 View (219) 214-4264
Photo of Pillars of Wellness Inc in Merrillville, IN
Pillars of Wellness Inc
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
(219) 641-3819 View (219) 641-3819
Photo of Lawrence Pincus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Lawrence Pincus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
(219) 359-4287 View (219) 359-4287
Photo of Denise Marie Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Denise Marie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
My ideal client is open to therapy and has a willingness to face the difficult feelings that come up. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population including those working through the issues society places on transgendered individuals.
My ideal client is open to therapy and has a willingness to face the difficult feelings that come up. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population including those working through the issues society places on transgendered individuals.
(219) 245-7322 View (219) 245-7322
Photo of Tiffany L Green-Mikell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Tiffany L Green-Mikell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, RYT-250
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
(219) 695-6189 View (219) 695-6189
Photo of Kelly Mucha, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Kelly Mucha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Welcome! I strive to help others discover balance to live fully. Balance is an individually defined mindset. I provide mental health services for children, teens, adults and families. Please visit my website to schedule quickly. https://kellypmucha10.wixsite.com/kellymuchalcsw
Welcome! I strive to help others discover balance to live fully. Balance is an individually defined mindset. I provide mental health services for children, teens, adults and families. Please visit my website to schedule quickly. https://kellypmucha10.wixsite.com/kellymuchalcsw
(219) 641-3891 View (219) 641-3891

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nanette Stokes Family Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Nanette Stokes Family Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint John, IN 46373
As a graduate of Loyola University Chicago with 20+ yrs’ experience, I supervise a clinical team & bring evidence-based techniques, incl CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative, family systems, play therapy. We believe the single most important aspect of treatment is the sacred relationship between client and therapist. We welcome you to a safe, judgment-free environment for the entire family, (children, teens, adults, & the elderly). You will be heard, respected, coached, nurtured, and supported on your journey to heal & become your best self. We proudly promote inclusion & serve LGBTQ & diverse cultures. Christian counseling also available.
As a graduate of Loyola University Chicago with 20+ yrs’ experience, I supervise a clinical team & bring evidence-based techniques, incl CBT, DBT, ACT, narrative, family systems, play therapy. We believe the single most important aspect of treatment is the sacred relationship between client and therapist. We welcome you to a safe, judgment-free environment for the entire family, (children, teens, adults, & the elderly). You will be heard, respected, coached, nurtured, and supported on your journey to heal & become your best self. We proudly promote inclusion & serve LGBTQ & diverse cultures. Christian counseling also available.
(219) 327-6277 View (219) 327-6277
Photo of Sydney Ray, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Merrillville, IN
Sydney Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
Sydney utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that combines Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy to foster a compassionate, creative, judgement-free space for her clients to explore their stories, strengthen their voices and empower authorship of their own lives.
Sydney is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA), who has experience working with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, life transitions, communication in romantic and family relationships, and women’s empowerment. Sydney is an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. Sydney works with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples.
Sydney utilizes an integrative approach to therapy that combines Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused, Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Play Therapy to foster a compassionate, creative, judgement-free space for her clients to explore their stories, strengthen their voices and empower authorship of their own lives.
Sydney is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (LMFTA), who has experience working with a variety of concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, life transitions, communication in romantic and family relationships, and women’s empowerment. Sydney is an LGBTQ+ affirmative therapist. Sydney works with children, adolescents and adults, as well as families and couples.
(219) 217-4634 View (219) 217-4634
Photo of Tiffany Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Tiffany Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
(219) 912-2142 View (219) 912-2142
Rebecca J Whited
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
Waitlist for new clients
My training in play therapy allows me to work with the very young and children who are unable to address the problem with words.
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
My training in play therapy allows me to work with the very young and children who are unable to address the problem with words.
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
(219) 961-3973 View (219) 961-3973
Photo of Dr. Shaun Wehle in Merrillville, IN
Dr. Shaun Wehle
PsyD, HSPP, LCAC
Verified Verified
Crown Point, IN 46307
We are accepting new clients and have in-person and remote availability. Whether you, or a loved one, are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just need a place to talk, Pillars' holistic approach to health and wellness has a treatment option that can work for you. When we started Pillars we quickly realized that to best help our clients we needed to partner with clinicians with diverse backgrounds and skills. We have remained steadfast in our efforts to create a team of clinicians with a varied specializations, so that we can be sure to effectively serve our clients and our community.
We are accepting new clients and have in-person and remote availability. Whether you, or a loved one, are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues or just need a place to talk, Pillars' holistic approach to health and wellness has a treatment option that can work for you. When we started Pillars we quickly realized that to best help our clients we needed to partner with clinicians with diverse backgrounds and skills. We have remained steadfast in our efforts to create a team of clinicians with a varied specializations, so that we can be sure to effectively serve our clients and our community.
(219) 258-3666 View (219) 258-3666
Photo of Deborah Cihonski, Psychologist in Merrillville, IN
Deborah Cihonski
Psychologist, PhD, NCSP, ITDS
Verified Verified
Munster, IN 46321
I offer a caring and healing place for children and families to find solutions and hope. In practice for over 30 years, I offer unique, highly effective horse-assisted therapy in Milton, FL, specializing in adolescent & preteen girls and women. Our property connects to many trails in the Blackwater Forest where patients can experience amazing, healing natural beauty and peace. I also see children, families, and couples in my office in Gulf Breeze. I offer the resources & support needed to help your child and family find happiness, confidence, and success.
I offer a caring and healing place for children and families to find solutions and hope. In practice for over 30 years, I offer unique, highly effective horse-assisted therapy in Milton, FL, specializing in adolescent & preteen girls and women. Our property connects to many trails in the Blackwater Forest where patients can experience amazing, healing natural beauty and peace. I also see children, families, and couples in my office in Gulf Breeze. I offer the resources & support needed to help your child and family find happiness, confidence, and success.
(850) 818-9541 View (850) 818-9541
Photo of Heartland Wellness Center, Psychologist in Merrillville, IN
Heartland Wellness Center
Psychologist, PhD, HSPP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307
I have a lot of experience helping people more effectively cope with major life adjustments due to stress, loss, transition, medical diagnoses, or trauma. Helping clients use their strengths and develop new ones to create acceptance, health and resilience is my focus. I am board certified in psychopharmacology, so I can also advise a client about maintaining or restoring wellness with medications.
I have a lot of experience helping people more effectively cope with major life adjustments due to stress, loss, transition, medical diagnoses, or trauma. Helping clients use their strengths and develop new ones to create acceptance, health and resilience is my focus. I am board certified in psychopharmacology, so I can also advise a client about maintaining or restoring wellness with medications.
(219) 525-0718 View (219) 525-0718
Photo of Janee' L. Fuller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Janee' L. Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Crown Point, IN 46307
I am dedicated, committed, and highly passionate Licensed Social Worker. I have an array of experience working with all age groups from early childhood and beyond. I have worked with individuals and families from various social and economic backgrounds, cultures, Spiritual backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am experienced working with trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, victims of child abuse and neglect, amongst other mental health issues. I have a dedicated a large portion of my career to working with children and adolescents with behavioral issues.
I am dedicated, committed, and highly passionate Licensed Social Worker. I have an array of experience working with all age groups from early childhood and beyond. I have worked with individuals and families from various social and economic backgrounds, cultures, Spiritual backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am experienced working with trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, victims of child abuse and neglect, amongst other mental health issues. I have a dedicated a large portion of my career to working with children and adolescents with behavioral issues.
(219) 234-2763 View (219) 234-2763
Photo of Dr. Nieves A. Esquivel, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merrillville, IN
Dr. Nieves A. Esquivel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dyer, IN 46311
I am determined to help my clients feel aligned in all aspects of their lives. Everyone can use a little help, sometimes! I have worked with several clients who have struggled with some of life's biggest battles, losses, stressors, heartaches, and journeys. I am passionate and fully devoted to collaborating with my clients in fulfilling their own sense of happiness.
I am determined to help my clients feel aligned in all aspects of their lives. Everyone can use a little help, sometimes! I have worked with several clients who have struggled with some of life's biggest battles, losses, stressors, heartaches, and journeys. I am passionate and fully devoted to collaborating with my clients in fulfilling their own sense of happiness.
(219) 327-4810 View (219) 327-4810
Photo of Nina Hartman, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Nina Hartman
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dyer, IN 46311
I always meet my clients where they are at. You are the director of our journey together and I'm your guide. My initial objective has always been to make my clients feel comfortable and relaxed to begin discussing what they would like to accomplish during our time together.
I always meet my clients where they are at. You are the director of our journey together and I'm your guide. My initial objective has always been to make my clients feel comfortable and relaxed to begin discussing what they would like to accomplish during our time together.
(219) 247-6159 View (219) 247-6159
Photo of Cyndee Langley, Psychologist in Merrillville, IN
Cyndee Langley
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crown Point, IN 46307  (Online Only)
No matter what is going on right now, you have taken a huge step in seeking out help for yourself and/or your family. It is often very difficult for people to admit that they need help, and now that you have taken the initial step I would be honored to come alongside you and your family and assist you with whatever you are experiencing. I believe in building on your strengths and increasing your resiliency.
No matter what is going on right now, you have taken a huge step in seeking out help for yourself and/or your family. It is often very difficult for people to admit that they need help, and now that you have taken the initial step I would be honored to come alongside you and your family and assist you with whatever you are experiencing. I believe in building on your strengths and increasing your resiliency.
(773) 570-9903 View (773) 570-9903
Photo of Graham Psychological Consulting, Inc, Psychologist in Merrillville, IN
Graham Psychological Consulting, Inc
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Schererville, IN 46375
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, integrating mind body and spirit, through a variety of modalities. My personal belief system influences my work. Specifically, I believe that as individuals, we continually bring forth new possibilities. People come to therapy with wounds. But it is in the wounds that the light shines in. In therapy, we learn we need not fear the places where one feels stuck, overwhelmed or enslaved. My diverse background has deepened my understanding for those wrestling with existential, spiritual and religious belonging, life transitions, sexual orientation, relational challenges and childhood traumas.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic, integrating mind body and spirit, through a variety of modalities. My personal belief system influences my work. Specifically, I believe that as individuals, we continually bring forth new possibilities. People come to therapy with wounds. But it is in the wounds that the light shines in. In therapy, we learn we need not fear the places where one feels stuck, overwhelmed or enslaved. My diverse background has deepened my understanding for those wrestling with existential, spiritual and religious belonging, life transitions, sexual orientation, relational challenges and childhood traumas.
(773) 501-3557 View (773) 501-3557

See more therapy options for Merrillville

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.