Play Therapy in Nebraska
Amy Van Gerpen
Counselor, MS, PLMHP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68502
I also understand that all brains are unique and beautiful, and that kids naturally grow and heal through nature, creativity, and play.
Sometimes life is hard and overwhelming. It is even harder and more overwhelming when you are kid who does not yet have the ability to understand what is going on inside you or the words to express what you are thinking and feeling- even though the grown-ups in your life often expect you to. This often leads to behavioral struggles, frustration, and chaos for both you and the adults in your life, which can further lead to relationship difficulties, unhealthy coping patterns, and low self-esteem. I understand the struggle and can offer acceptance, advocacy, and support.
I also understand that all brains are unique and beautiful, and that kids naturally grow and heal through nature, creativity, and play.
Sometimes life is hard and overwhelming. It is even harder and more overwhelming when you are kid who does not yet have the ability to understand what is going on inside you or the words to express what you are thinking and feeling- even though the grown-ups in your life often expect you to. This often leads to behavioral struggles, frustration, and chaos for both you and the adults in your life, which can further lead to relationship difficulties, unhealthy coping patterns, and low self-esteem. I understand the struggle and can offer acceptance, advocacy, and support.
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.
Rebecca Dubs
Provisional Mental Health Practitioner, MAE, PLMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chadron, NE 69337
Our practice focuses on the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy with individuals ages 5 and up, considering their diverse characteristics and needs.
Openings available! Call or email to see how we can support you! I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship depends on trust. I am dedicated to providing the kind of environment, support, and communication that initiates and sustains a strong therapeutic rapport. As a provisionally licensed mental health practitioner, I can assist individuals process and problem solve through obstacles they may experience throughout their lives.
Our practice focuses on the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Play and Art Therapy, Solutions-Focused Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy with individuals ages 5 and up, considering their diverse characteristics and needs.
Openings available! Call or email to see how we can support you! I believe that a successful therapeutic relationship depends on trust. I am dedicated to providing the kind of environment, support, and communication that initiates and sustains a strong therapeutic rapport. As a provisionally licensed mental health practitioner, I can assist individuals process and problem solve through obstacles they may experience throughout their lives.
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.
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.
Kitty Betty Johnson
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
Gothenburg, NE 69138
I am very fond of the arts and creativity, so sessions not only include conversing, but also play, art and music therapy, story-telling, empty chair techniques and gestalt "action therapy.
At times, everyone needs a refuge from the storm, a comforting and safe place to unload, and inspiration to move ahead. I empathize with you, as I have faced and overcome many of the same battles as you. Many of us struggle with traumatic events in our lives that are overwhelming. Many of us have addictions that cause chaos and destruction. We want to rise above these issues and find peace. We can do this, together. Cada persona, tarde o temprano, necesita un refugio, un lugar seguro donde se puede desahogarse. Aqui esta el lugar, conmigo. Yo entiendo sus batallas porque yo he luchado y superado muchos de los mismos problemas.
I am very fond of the arts and creativity, so sessions not only include conversing, but also play, art and music therapy, story-telling, empty chair techniques and gestalt "action therapy.
At times, everyone needs a refuge from the storm, a comforting and safe place to unload, and inspiration to move ahead. I empathize with you, as I have faced and overcome many of the same battles as you. Many of us struggle with traumatic events in our lives that are overwhelming. Many of us have addictions that cause chaos and destruction. We want to rise above these issues and find peace. We can do this, together. Cada persona, tarde o temprano, necesita un refugio, un lugar seguro donde se puede desahogarse. Aqui esta el lugar, conmigo. Yo entiendo sus batallas porque yo he luchado y superado muchos de los mismos problemas.
Penny Cavender
Counselor, MS, LMHP, LIMHP, NBCC, CPC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, NE 68147
I specialize working with children 12 and under. I am also a Certified Geriatric Counselor. I have spent many years working with trauma and crisis children using cognitive as well as play therapy skills. I am a Registered Play Therapist. I worked in Residential Treatment for three years and also worked for three years as the Social Services Coordinator for a nursing home.However I do work with adults as well. I do a parent training group to help parents have better relationshps with their children and help parents of Reactive Attachment Children to have more success with bonding and behaviors.
I specialize working with children 12 and under. I am also a Certified Geriatric Counselor. I have spent many years working with trauma and crisis children using cognitive as well as play therapy skills. I am a Registered Play Therapist. I worked in Residential Treatment for three years and also worked for three years as the Social Services Coordinator for a nursing home.However I do work with adults as well. I do a parent training group to help parents have better relationshps with their children and help parents of Reactive Attachment Children to have more success with bonding and behaviors.
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.
Kelcey Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, CPC, LIMHP, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chadron, NE 69337
I also use play therapy with my younger clients.
I am excited to continue my work in Chadron and the surrounding communities. I work with individuals age birth and up. I have specialized in trauma, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, and witnessing violence. I hold certifications in CPP, PCIT, & COSP I work closely with children and adults in order to help you identify your goals and walk with you on the journey of achieving them. I envision counseling as a relationship between two people in which I can provide help in whatever way you need it. I have been in the counseling field for over 13 years and I am able to use that experience to help you in the best way possible.
I also use play therapy with my younger clients.
I am excited to continue my work in Chadron and the surrounding communities. I work with individuals age birth and up. I have specialized in trauma, including physical abuse, sexual abuse, and witnessing violence. I hold certifications in CPP, PCIT, & COSP I work closely with children and adults in order to help you identify your goals and walk with you on the journey of achieving them. I envision counseling as a relationship between two people in which I can provide help in whatever way you need it. I have been in the counseling field for over 13 years and I am able to use that experience to help you in the best way possible.
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.
Linda J Dubs-Cerny
Counselor, LICSW, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Seward, NE 68434
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive therapies (Play Therapy, Art Therapy), Family Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy.
Life is full of changes and challenges! The prospect of finding a therapist can prove to be a difficult task for anyone. I am an experienced therapist, and while children and families have been my main focus, I have experience working with individuals of all ages. I enjoy providing therapy for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, family issues, adoption, and other life adjustments and disruptions.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Expressive therapies (Play Therapy, Art Therapy), Family Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectic Behavior Therapy.
Life is full of changes and challenges! The prospect of finding a therapist can prove to be a difficult task for anyone. I am an experienced therapist, and while children and families have been my main focus, I have experience working with individuals of all ages. I enjoy providing therapy for people experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, family issues, adoption, and other life adjustments and disruptions.
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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.
Mary Byrd
Independent Mental Health Practitioner, LIMHP, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
My practice focuses on helping individuals and families utilize healthy coping skills to deal with life situations and mental health related concerns. I focus on issues related to adoption, abuse, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief/loss, mood dysregulation, trauma, and impulse control difficulties. I have recently started co-facilitating DBT informed skills groups. I have extensive training in EMDR treatment, cognitive behavioral treatment strategies, and am a registered play therapist.
My practice focuses on helping individuals and families utilize healthy coping skills to deal with life situations and mental health related concerns. I focus on issues related to adoption, abuse, attachment, anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, obsessive compulsive disorder, grief/loss, mood dysregulation, trauma, and impulse control difficulties. I have recently started co-facilitating DBT informed skills groups. I have extensive training in EMDR treatment, cognitive behavioral treatment strategies, and am a registered play therapist.
Lisa Vogel
Counselor, MSEd, ATR-BC, LIMHP, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68134
Ms. Vogel is a nationally certified/licensed counselor and a registered Art Therapist who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. Services include, but are not limited to, assessment, short-term and long-term therapy, EAP, CAP, and eclectic therapy as determined by each individual participating in their sessions. All age groups are accepted as well as individual, couple/marital and family therapy. In addition to the traditional “talk therapy” she has extensive knowledge and experience in various expressive therapies including, art therapy, play therapy, music therapy, bibliotherapy, journaling, etc. Ms. Vogel is fluent in sign language.
Ms. Vogel is a nationally certified/licensed counselor and a registered Art Therapist who has extensive experience working in the mental health field. Services include, but are not limited to, assessment, short-term and long-term therapy, EAP, CAP, and eclectic therapy as determined by each individual participating in their sessions. All age groups are accepted as well as individual, couple/marital and family therapy. In addition to the traditional “talk therapy” she has extensive knowledge and experience in various expressive therapies including, art therapy, play therapy, music therapy, bibliotherapy, journaling, etc. Ms. Vogel is fluent in sign language.
Amber Jurgensmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I am a registered play therapist-supervisor (RPT-S).
I am a licensed, independent mental health practitioner specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I am also a licensed alcohol and drug counselor trained to complete juvenile drug and alcohol evaluations. I have worked with at-risk youth for over a decade and have a great deal of knowledge in navigating the juvenile justice system.
I am a registered play therapist-supervisor (RPT-S).
I am a licensed, independent mental health practitioner specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I am also a licensed alcohol and drug counselor trained to complete juvenile drug and alcohol evaluations. I have worked with at-risk youth for over a decade and have a great deal of knowledge in navigating the juvenile justice system.
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!
Kelly Espenschade
Counselor, LIMHP, RPT™
Verified Verified
Lincoln, NE 68516
I use a variety of therapies to help individuals and their families, such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and approaches from other types.
My passion has always been helping to support children, adolescents, and families. Whether they have experienced life stressors, suffer from mental illness, witnessed or experienced trauma, or need a safe place to express and understand their feelings, I strive to help them heal, learn, grow, and feel supported.
I use a variety of therapies to help individuals and their families, such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, and approaches from other types.
My passion has always been helping to support children, adolescents, and families. Whether they have experienced life stressors, suffer from mental illness, witnessed or experienced trauma, or need a safe place to express and understand their feelings, I strive to help them heal, learn, grow, and feel supported.
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.
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.
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.
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.