Play Therapy in Nebraska
Diana M Shaw
Counselor, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68114
My practice primarily centers around individuals suffering from anxiety. This can be children struggling to manage changes in their lives, teens overwhelmed with the pressure they are experiencing, or adults struggling to balance responsibilities. I see a fair amount of children with ADHD diagnoses and have worked effectively in utilizing behavioral strategies to aid in symptomology, as well as balancing therapeutic skills with medication. I am trained in trauma and attachment and see children, teens, and adults struggling with these issues. As a trained play therapist, I employ aspects of play therapy with all clients.
My practice primarily centers around individuals suffering from anxiety. This can be children struggling to manage changes in their lives, teens overwhelmed with the pressure they are experiencing, or adults struggling to balance responsibilities. I see a fair amount of children with ADHD diagnoses and have worked effectively in utilizing behavioral strategies to aid in symptomology, as well as balancing therapeutic skills with medication. I am trained in trauma and attachment and see children, teens, and adults struggling with these issues. As a trained play therapist, I employ aspects of play therapy with all clients.
Jamie Lee Jacobs
Counselor, MSEd, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Falls City, NE 68355
My approach may utilize mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and psychotherapy.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
My approach may utilize mindfulness techniques, cognitive-behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and psychotherapy.
As your therapist, a graduate of UNK's master's program with an emphasis in community counseling, I will provide a safe environment for any individual or groups (i.e., mental health, substance abuse, families). It is in this capacity that you can begin the journey of collaboration to overcome and begin living a holistic life. The scope of 15 plus years of experience ranges across a multiple spectrum that includes but not limited to, families, couples, drug courts, school settings, anger management, and military consultant. The needs of the client will determine the individualized integrated therapeutic approach.
Paige McCoy
Counselor, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68116
I also enjoy utilizing aspects of play and art therapy techniques.
“Daring greatly means the courage to be vulnerable. It means to show up and be seen. To ask for what you need. To talk about how you’re feeling. To have the hard conversations.” - Brene Brown. As a therapist I want to help make the hard conversations a little easier to have. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who may be impacted by symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, perinatal mental health concerns, and substance use. My goal is to help empower my clients to feel confident in being able to utilize healthy coping skills for their current life stressors and mental health symptoms.
I also enjoy utilizing aspects of play and art therapy techniques.
“Daring greatly means the courage to be vulnerable. It means to show up and be seen. To ask for what you need. To talk about how you’re feeling. To have the hard conversations.” - Brene Brown. As a therapist I want to help make the hard conversations a little easier to have. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who may be impacted by symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, perinatal mental health concerns, and substance use. My goal is to help empower my clients to feel confident in being able to utilize healthy coping skills for their current life stressors and mental health symptoms.
Corina Maher
Counselor, LIMHP, CPC, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified Parent Educator through Circle of Security, Autism Specialist, and Registered Play Therapist, I have the unique ability to help individuals, children and families overcome significant struggles.
That's it! You've had enough!! Life has dealt you something unlivable and you need help. You can't imagine it being easier, different. For a second, try and imagine someone offering support, guidance, and validation to help you process and overcome those difficult moments. Together we can help ease the tension, reduce the stress, change the helplessness, and move toward a more livable existence. With specialty training I help clients achieve this through various therapy tools, like EMDR, talk therapy, music, Play Therapy and expressive art therapy. You can also find more about me on my website: unityyfs.com.
As a certified Parent Educator through Circle of Security, Autism Specialist, and Registered Play Therapist, I have the unique ability to help individuals, children and families overcome significant struggles.
That's it! You've had enough!! Life has dealt you something unlivable and you need help. You can't imagine it being easier, different. For a second, try and imagine someone offering support, guidance, and validation to help you process and overcome those difficult moments. Together we can help ease the tension, reduce the stress, change the helplessness, and move toward a more livable existence. With specialty training I help clients achieve this through various therapy tools, like EMDR, talk therapy, music, Play Therapy and expressive art therapy. You can also find more about me on my website: unityyfs.com.
Lynette Abler
Counselor, MA, LMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
She uses CBT; including mindfulness techniques, Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy and TF-CBT.
Lynette Abler MA, LMHP is a licensed mental health professional and independent contractor at The Cord; Where Science Meets Connection. She works with children, teens and adults. She works with individuals and families struggling with conflict or past trauma in their life. She uses a nurturing, therapeutic approach with her clients that is very inviting. Her soft demeanor and sense of compassion towards her clients helps to empower them, and helps them through their difficult life experiences. Her sense of empathy and her intuitive nature helps to guide clients to where change is possible, in a nonjudgemental and accepting way.
She uses CBT; including mindfulness techniques, Play Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy and TF-CBT.
Lynette Abler MA, LMHP is a licensed mental health professional and independent contractor at The Cord; Where Science Meets Connection. She works with children, teens and adults. She works with individuals and families struggling with conflict or past trauma in their life. She uses a nurturing, therapeutic approach with her clients that is very inviting. Her soft demeanor and sense of compassion towards her clients helps to empower them, and helps them through their difficult life experiences. Her sense of empathy and her intuitive nature helps to guide clients to where change is possible, in a nonjudgemental and accepting way.
Jocelyn Kay Sloan
Counselor, MS, LMHP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68510
My formal education is in art and play therapies with children.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and their families. However, I additionally work across the age spectrum and throughout the adoption network with adoption-related issues. I see behaviors as communication of unmet needs. As a client-centered therapist, I work to learn where clients have unmet emotional needs, how their family can work to meet those needs, and what barriers there are to that process.
My formal education is in art and play therapies with children.
I work primarily with children, adolescents, and their families. However, I additionally work across the age spectrum and throughout the adoption network with adoption-related issues. I see behaviors as communication of unmet needs. As a client-centered therapist, I work to learn where clients have unmet emotional needs, how their family can work to meet those needs, and what barriers there are to that process.
Britt Echtenkamp
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68506
I am trained in Child Centered Play Therapy, which is a research based, developmentally appropriate mental health intervention for kids. Child Centered Play Therapy uses play - which is the natural language of children - as a means to allow children to process big feelings, inner experiences, struggles and triumphs. My job is to facilitate this play and establish a safe, therapeutic relationship with the child. This relationship, paired with a safe, consistent play environment, has the potential to decrease problematic behaviors, increase self-esteem, increase positive coping skills and improve overall functioning.
I am trained in Child Centered Play Therapy, which is a research based, developmentally appropriate mental health intervention for kids. Child Centered Play Therapy uses play - which is the natural language of children - as a means to allow children to process big feelings, inner experiences, struggles and triumphs. My job is to facilitate this play and establish a safe, therapeutic relationship with the child. This relationship, paired with a safe, consistent play environment, has the potential to decrease problematic behaviors, increase self-esteem, increase positive coping skills and improve overall functioning.
Susan E. Martinez
Counselor, LIMHP, MSW
Verified Verified
Scottsbluff, NE 69361
I utilize play therapy strategies with children, and use creative expression activities with adults since this is often more effective in healing trauma than traditional "talk therapy".
My educational background as an MSW supports my understanding of the impact of past and current systems (i.e. family, work place, community) on daily life. Extensive training and experience in mediation has contributed to my non-judgmental approach, the ability to recognize potentially harmful communication patterns, and the understanding that people can see things differently without being "wrong". I utilize a variety of approaches including attachment theory, creative expression/play, mindfulness and CBT as needed by individual clients. I welcome clients of all ages, couples, and families. I accept Medicare, NE Medicaid, and a variety of insurance payment sources.
I utilize play therapy strategies with children, and use creative expression activities with adults since this is often more effective in healing trauma than traditional "talk therapy".
My educational background as an MSW supports my understanding of the impact of past and current systems (i.e. family, work place, community) on daily life. Extensive training and experience in mediation has contributed to my non-judgmental approach, the ability to recognize potentially harmful communication patterns, and the understanding that people can see things differently without being "wrong". I utilize a variety of approaches including attachment theory, creative expression/play, mindfulness and CBT as needed by individual clients. I welcome clients of all ages, couples, and families. I accept Medicare, NE Medicaid, and a variety of insurance payment sources.
Lifespan Counseling Omaha
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68114
Our therapists have training in everything from EMDR, Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy to postpartum mental health support.
Come work with the best! Lifespan is a 2024 Best of Omaha winner for our fast responses, excellence in care, and patient experience. Lifespan Counseling Omaha is a trusted mental health group serving Omaha, Nebraska and surrounding areas. Lifespan Counseling serves all ages; children, teens, adults and seniors will find a dedicated group of counselors here to support your goals. Whether you or your family member are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, behavior concerns or need the support of a group - there is help at Lifespan Counseling for all ages.
Our therapists have training in everything from EMDR, Play Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy to postpartum mental health support.
Come work with the best! Lifespan is a 2024 Best of Omaha winner for our fast responses, excellence in care, and patient experience. Lifespan Counseling Omaha is a trusted mental health group serving Omaha, Nebraska and surrounding areas. Lifespan Counseling serves all ages; children, teens, adults and seniors will find a dedicated group of counselors here to support your goals. Whether you or your family member are struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, behavior concerns or need the support of a group - there is help at Lifespan Counseling for all ages.
Anne Rosenkranz
Counselor, MS, PLMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
Certifications: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Play Therapy (ongoing), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ongoing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (ongoing).
I have built a rewarding career helping others and dedicating myself to the kids and families I serve. With nearly a decade of experience, I understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment to facilitate meaningful relationships with both my clients and their families. I have practiced in a variety of settings in various states, including Illinois, Ohio, and now Nebraska. As a licensed school counselor in Illinois I worked with students and families in both middle and high school settings before my family and I moved to Ohio, where I focused on providing social emotional learning in before and afterschool settings.
Certifications: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Play Therapy (ongoing), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ongoing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (ongoing).
I have built a rewarding career helping others and dedicating myself to the kids and families I serve. With nearly a decade of experience, I understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment to facilitate meaningful relationships with both my clients and their families. I have practiced in a variety of settings in various states, including Illinois, Ohio, and now Nebraska. As a licensed school counselor in Illinois I worked with students and families in both middle and high school settings before my family and I moved to Ohio, where I focused on providing social emotional learning in before and afterschool settings.
Anna Wheeler
Counselor, MA, LMHP, LPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I am trained in play therapy, Perinatal Mood Disorders, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as Theraplay Level 1.
I understand the anxiety and stresses that life can bring, especially negativing adjustments and change. Through support, there can be profound healing & growth. Navigating childhood, parenting, or the postpartum journey with support can make the greatest impact, knowing you are not alone. I believe individuals need to feel heard, understood, and supported to find healing. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults find their voice through play and believe change can happen when we feel heard, cared for, and understood.
I am trained in play therapy, Perinatal Mood Disorders, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as Theraplay Level 1.
I understand the anxiety and stresses that life can bring, especially negativing adjustments and change. Through support, there can be profound healing & growth. Navigating childhood, parenting, or the postpartum journey with support can make the greatest impact, knowing you are not alone. I believe individuals need to feel heard, understood, and supported to find healing. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults find their voice through play and believe change can happen when we feel heard, cared for, and understood.
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Counselor, MA, LIMHP, PLADC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68504
You are not alone, We can do this together. This is a tough time to endure life alone, sometimes you need someone to sit, listen and just be present with you. I am committed to working with children (0-12), Adolescents (13-18) and families to create positive change, joy and healthier relationships. I am dedicated to helping children through traumatic experiences utilizing Play Therapy techniques. I also devote much of my time with Child Parent Psychotherapy to create joy within parent and child relationships and building secure attachments. We can work together in creating an individualized plan for treatment goals and techniques.
You are not alone, We can do this together. This is a tough time to endure life alone, sometimes you need someone to sit, listen and just be present with you. I am committed to working with children (0-12), Adolescents (13-18) and families to create positive change, joy and healthier relationships. I am dedicated to helping children through traumatic experiences utilizing Play Therapy techniques. I also devote much of my time with Child Parent Psychotherapy to create joy within parent and child relationships and building secure attachments. We can work together in creating an individualized plan for treatment goals and techniques.
Jeannie M Gilinsky
Counselor, MS, LMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
I have specialized training in hypnotherapy, EMDR, play therapy, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and you need someone to talk to. Someone who will listen. Someone who can understand. If you are feeling alone, depressed, angry, or anxious, or if you are struggling in a relationship, I can help you to find the tools you need to resolve your issues, to heal and to live the life you are meant to live..
I have specialized training in hypnotherapy, EMDR, play therapy, and PTSD.
Sometimes life can seem overwhelming and you need someone to talk to. Someone who will listen. Someone who can understand. If you are feeling alone, depressed, angry, or anxious, or if you are struggling in a relationship, I can help you to find the tools you need to resolve your issues, to heal and to live the life you are meant to live..
Rachael Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68137
I am trained in providing play interventions to identify stressors and process trauma experiences.
"Owning your story is the bravest thing you will ever do."- Brené Brown We all have stories, some that we have chosen to create and others that were created for us. Maybe your story is easy, maybe your story is hard, perhaps your story is embarrassing or maybe your story creates feelings of guilt or shame; Whatever the story, whatever chapter you may be in, whatever chapter you may be thinking about opening, I commend your bravery and courage. You do not have to suffer alone.
I am trained in providing play interventions to identify stressors and process trauma experiences.
"Owning your story is the bravest thing you will ever do."- Brené Brown We all have stories, some that we have chosen to create and others that were created for us. Maybe your story is easy, maybe your story is hard, perhaps your story is embarrassing or maybe your story creates feelings of guilt or shame; Whatever the story, whatever chapter you may be in, whatever chapter you may be thinking about opening, I commend your bravery and courage. You do not have to suffer alone.
Play Therapy Omaha
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
At Play Therapy Omaha, our mission is to provide meaningful change in playful ways. Our highly trained practitioners share a common goal in helping families find hope, healing, & harmony by providing specialized therapeutic and psychoeducational services for children, adolescents, adults, & families. We believe passionately in the power of play & specialize in mental health services tailored to the unique needs of kids & families. Our skilled mental health therapists work with youth of all ages from early childhood - adolescence, along with offering services for young adults & adults. Please visit our website to learn more.
At Play Therapy Omaha, our mission is to provide meaningful change in playful ways. Our highly trained practitioners share a common goal in helping families find hope, healing, & harmony by providing specialized therapeutic and psychoeducational services for children, adolescents, adults, & families. We believe passionately in the power of play & specialize in mental health services tailored to the unique needs of kids & families. Our skilled mental health therapists work with youth of all ages from early childhood - adolescence, along with offering services for young adults & adults. Please visit our website to learn more.
Laura Jessen
Counselor, LIMHP, MSE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68512
I have training in Emotion Code and Child-Centered Play.
I understand that life presents many challenges. My goal is for my clients to develop peace with themselves, calmness, tranquility, confidence, and strength. I believe if you want to help others heal, love them unconditional.
I have training in Emotion Code and Child-Centered Play.
I understand that life presents many challenges. My goal is for my clients to develop peace with themselves, calmness, tranquility, confidence, and strength. I believe if you want to help others heal, love them unconditional.
Ashley Schrad
Counselor, LIMHP, LMHC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68127
I offer DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy techniques (in school for completing certificate in art therapy).
Are you struggling to find the skills to work through every day stressors? Are you looking for a therapist who will use a different approach? You have come to the right place to learn the skills needed to function on a daily basis!
I offer DBT, TF-CBT, CBT, Play Therapy, and Art Therapy techniques (in school for completing certificate in art therapy).
Are you struggling to find the skills to work through every day stressors? Are you looking for a therapist who will use a different approach? You have come to the right place to learn the skills needed to function on a daily basis!
Pérez Counseling Services, PC
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, RPT
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68127
I am a Registered Play Therapist and trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and enjoy using an eclectic approach with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral interventions .
Does your child struggle to pay attention? Or struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation? Do you ever ask yourself, "Where to begin?". I'm glad you ask because I've thought about this question a lot. My name is Odalys Pérez and I'm a Spanish-bilingual Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Omaha, Nebraska. I'm professionally trained to help your child navigate regular emotional disorders and its symptoms. I've helped hundreds of families conquer hardship over 12 years of professional experience. I partner with organizations throughout Omaha to bring mental health services to schools and families looking for answers
I am a Registered Play Therapist and trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and enjoy using an eclectic approach with an emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral interventions .
Does your child struggle to pay attention? Or struggle with depression, anxiety, and isolation? Do you ever ask yourself, "Where to begin?". I'm glad you ask because I've thought about this question a lot. My name is Odalys Pérez and I'm a Spanish-bilingual Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner in Omaha, Nebraska. I'm professionally trained to help your child navigate regular emotional disorders and its symptoms. I've helped hundreds of families conquer hardship over 12 years of professional experience. I partner with organizations throughout Omaha to bring mental health services to schools and families looking for answers
Joana Valente
MS, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
My primary approaches to therapy are Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused, and I utilize a variety of techniques including Mindfulness, Play therapy, Art therapy and Sand Tray Therapy to meet the needs of each client.
Hi! My name is Joana and I’m so glad to see you here. Just by being here, I already know you are a loving and concerned caregiver. Parenting can be the most fulfilling, yet challenging experience. Being a mama of 3 I know first hand how difficult it can be sometimes. I want you to know you don’t have to do it all alone, in fact, you shouldn’t! I specialize in working with children, adolescents and caregivers dealing with behavioral issues, social skills, anger, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and changes in the family dynamic.
My primary approaches to therapy are Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma Focused, and I utilize a variety of techniques including Mindfulness, Play therapy, Art therapy and Sand Tray Therapy to meet the needs of each client.
Hi! My name is Joana and I’m so glad to see you here. Just by being here, I already know you are a loving and concerned caregiver. Parenting can be the most fulfilling, yet challenging experience. Being a mama of 3 I know first hand how difficult it can be sometimes. I want you to know you don’t have to do it all alone, in fact, you shouldn’t! I specialize in working with children, adolescents and caregivers dealing with behavioral issues, social skills, anger, ADHD, depression, anxiety, trauma and changes in the family dynamic.
Tracy Kadavy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln, NE 68505
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, parental guidance, play therapy, interpersonal skills training and behavior modification.
Life is full of ups and downs. Whether you are struggling with your own concerns, worries about your child's development or both, I help to address difficulties that will allow you to improve relationships, decrease problematic behaviors and navigate obstacles successfully. I do this by focusing on my client's strengths and helping them to build and improve coping skills.
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, parental guidance, play therapy, interpersonal skills training and behavior modification.
Life is full of ups and downs. Whether you are struggling with your own concerns, worries about your child's development or both, I help to address difficulties that will allow you to improve relationships, decrease problematic behaviors and navigate obstacles successfully. I do this by focusing on my client's strengths and helping them to build and improve coping skills.
See more therapy options for Nebraska
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.