Play Therapy in Merrill, WI

Photo of Rachel N Sheldon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Rachel N Sheldon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrill, WI 54452
Life is challenging, but there is hope. My clients come from a variety of backgrounds and experience a variety of struggles, but all have one thing in common. Everyone needs to feel understood, supported, and heard in order to grow. I work with my clients in a warm and supportive environment to help them understand their experiences, thoughts, emotions, relationships, and themselves. I work with my clients to meet their goals for mind and body wellness ranging from everyday stress to major life challenges.
Life is challenging, but there is hope. My clients come from a variety of backgrounds and experience a variety of struggles, but all have one thing in common. Everyone needs to feel understood, supported, and heard in order to grow. I work with my clients in a warm and supportive environment to help them understand their experiences, thoughts, emotions, relationships, and themselves. I work with my clients to meet their goals for mind and body wellness ranging from everyday stress to major life challenges.
(534) 248-4044 View (534) 248-4044

Online Therapists

Photo of Behavioral Health Clinic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Behavioral Health Clinic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAS
Verified Verified
Wausau, WI 54401  (Online Only)
I provide play therapy for children ages 3 years and up.
My expertise includes providing individual, family, and couples therapy to address a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGBT struggles, parenting concerns, abuse and other trauma history, grief and loss, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns.
I provide play therapy for children ages 3 years and up.
My expertise includes providing individual, family, and couples therapy to address a wide variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, LGBT struggles, parenting concerns, abuse and other trauma history, grief and loss, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns.
(534) 400-1631 View (534) 400-1631
Photo of Spectrum Behavioral Health LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Spectrum Behavioral Health LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54311
Additionally, to anchor concepts learned in session, I engage patient via play therapy and therapeutic activities to provide an environment which promotes success.
My outpatient practice specifically centers on patients who have Autism and one or more additional mental health diagnoses. Studies have shown that over 70% of individuals with Autism likely have at least one co-occurring mental health disorder. At times, the combination of Autism + behavior problems + any mental health disorder makes recovery a challenge. It is my hope that providing treatment for my patients and their families which is tailored to their specific diagnoses combination will help provide the knowledge and support needed for success.
Additionally, to anchor concepts learned in session, I engage patient via play therapy and therapeutic activities to provide an environment which promotes success.
My outpatient practice specifically centers on patients who have Autism and one or more additional mental health diagnoses. Studies have shown that over 70% of individuals with Autism likely have at least one co-occurring mental health disorder. At times, the combination of Autism + behavior problems + any mental health disorder makes recovery a challenge. It is my hope that providing treatment for my patients and their families which is tailored to their specific diagnoses combination will help provide the knowledge and support needed for success.
(920) 933-4155 View (920) 933-4155
Photo of Angie Schneider, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Angie Schneider
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54911
I believe in our kids. I believe if they are given the opportunity to learn and express their emotions in healthy ways, as well as learn effective coping skills, they can thrive. As a therapist, my first goal is to connect and develop a trusting relationship with your child. I work with elementary & middle school age youth. My areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, death of a loved one, impulse control, divorce, a cancer diagnosis of a loved one, and self-esteem concerns. I provide a non-judgmental approach and incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, self-regulation skills, Client Centered and play therapy.
I believe in our kids. I believe if they are given the opportunity to learn and express their emotions in healthy ways, as well as learn effective coping skills, they can thrive. As a therapist, my first goal is to connect and develop a trusting relationship with your child. I work with elementary & middle school age youth. My areas of expertise are: depression, anxiety, death of a loved one, impulse control, divorce, a cancer diagnosis of a loved one, and self-esteem concerns. I provide a non-judgmental approach and incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, self-regulation skills, Client Centered and play therapy.
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Photo of Serene Counseling, LLC in Merrill, WI
Serene Counseling, LLC
LCSW, CSAC, ICS
Verified Verified
Phillips, WI 54555
In addition to my licensure I have professional training in: yoga, mindfulness, play therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Now accepting patients. I am a dual diagnosis therapist skilled in working with individuals experiencing mental health concerns, addiction/substance use disorders, or both. I am a consummate professional that has treated a variety of patients varying from age 6 and up. I hold the following credentials: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor and Independent Clinical Supervisor.
In addition to my licensure I have professional training in: yoga, mindfulness, play therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Now accepting patients. I am a dual diagnosis therapist skilled in working with individuals experiencing mental health concerns, addiction/substance use disorders, or both. I am a consummate professional that has treated a variety of patients varying from age 6 and up. I hold the following credentials: Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor and Independent Clinical Supervisor.
(715) 972-7629 View (715) 972-7629
Photo of The Caring Tree - Child & Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
The Caring Tree - Child & Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSAT
Verified Verified
Wausau, WI 54401
We use various play therapy and art materials (paint, clay, pastels, charcoal, etc) to enhance therapy with children.
The Caring Tree: Children & Counseling Center in Wausau provides therapy to children of all ages and their families. Our focus is on improving the overall wellness of children who are experiencing post-trauma, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, ADHD, and high functioning autism. Therapy facilitates communication and healing while supporting the family.
We use various play therapy and art materials (paint, clay, pastels, charcoal, etc) to enhance therapy with children.
The Caring Tree: Children & Counseling Center in Wausau provides therapy to children of all ages and their families. Our focus is on improving the overall wellness of children who are experiencing post-trauma, mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, ADHD, and high functioning autism. Therapy facilitates communication and healing while supporting the family.
(715) 301-0667 View (715) 301-0667
Photo of Haille Bocek, LPC Intern in Merrill, WI
Haille Bocek
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Green Bay, WI 54311
Haille believes that nature and nurture play a key role in everyone’s development; our past does not have to reflect who we want to be but plays a key role in how we present ourselves and function day to day.
Have you had an event or experience that you have not been able to get through on your own? You have contemplated the need to talk with someone other than a family member or a friend. Someone who won’t judge you or your decisions and help you work through your past to get you to where you want to be for your future… Haille is that person for you. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults (on an individual basis) from a variety of backgrounds. Haille enjoys working with depression, anxiety, building healthy relationships, and physical wellbeing.
Haille believes that nature and nurture play a key role in everyone’s development; our past does not have to reflect who we want to be but plays a key role in how we present ourselves and function day to day.
Have you had an event or experience that you have not been able to get through on your own? You have contemplated the need to talk with someone other than a family member or a friend. Someone who won’t judge you or your decisions and help you work through your past to get you to where you want to be for your future… Haille is that person for you. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults (on an individual basis) from a variety of backgrounds. Haille enjoys working with depression, anxiety, building healthy relationships, and physical wellbeing.
(715) 997-4152 View (715) 997-4152
Photo of Debra Lynne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrill, WI
Debra Lynne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54915
Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Analytical Psychotherapy, Dream Therapy, Mindfulness/meditation practice, Sand Play, HMR, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
Treatment modalities include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Analytical Psychotherapy, Dream Therapy, Mindfulness/meditation practice, Sand Play, HMR, and EMDR.
I offer a safe, supportive environment and have found empathy, understanding and humor are important in building a therapeutic alliance. My abilities are well suited to people with a history of trauma and who are intuitive and creative. Whether you're looking for short term therapy or a deeper process, my skill level applies to both. Each person is unique and I anticipate and enjoy building a relationship that assumes collaboration. I then work with them toward activating their own healing potential, no matter the age. I work well with individuals who have had treatment failures in the past.
(940) 641-8926 View (940) 641-8926
Photo of Franchesca Vasquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrill, WI
Franchesca Vasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
De Pere, WI 54115
I am incredibly passionate about increasing the awareness and understanding of Infant Mental Health (Google it, it’s a thing!) and Perinatal Mental Health. Pregnancy, parenting, and all things related can be scary, exciting, and everything in between. And guess what…infants do more than eat, sleep, and poop, and are greatly impacted by their environments. Parents and caregivers deserve to be emotionally well, and there are many factors that can make this difficult, including one’s own history of being parented.
I am incredibly passionate about increasing the awareness and understanding of Infant Mental Health (Google it, it’s a thing!) and Perinatal Mental Health. Pregnancy, parenting, and all things related can be scary, exciting, and everything in between. And guess what…infants do more than eat, sleep, and poop, and are greatly impacted by their environments. Parents and caregivers deserve to be emotionally well, and there are many factors that can make this difficult, including one’s own history of being parented.
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Photo of Jenny Marie Schinkten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrill, WI
Jenny Marie Schinkten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
It's important for me to build trust and respect with each of my clients so that I can provide a safe, non-judgmental place while you share your personal journey. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, independent moms, or a parent and child together. You may be struggling due to daily life stressors, life transitions, conflictual relationships, self identity, abandonment, abuse, neglect, or family conflict.
It's important for me to build trust and respect with each of my clients so that I can provide a safe, non-judgmental place while you share your personal journey. I enjoy working with teenagers, young adults, independent moms, or a parent and child together. You may be struggling due to daily life stressors, life transitions, conflictual relationships, self identity, abandonment, abuse, neglect, or family conflict.
(920) 880-2706 View (920) 880-2706
Photo of Jeralyn T Stevens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Jeralyn T Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stevens Point, WI 54481
Hello! My name is Jeralyn Stevens! I'm a state licensed professional counselor, local artist, mom to waaay too many pets, and 2 wonderful kids, and a wife. I'm a Stevens Point native and so very proud to be able to serve the community I grew up in. My warmth, sense of humor, and authenticity combined with my passion and expertise in trauma informed care, give me a certain edge as a therapist and healer that you just won't find anywhere else. I firmly believe in practicing therapy from a holistic perspective and meeting my clients wherever they are at on their journey
Hello! My name is Jeralyn Stevens! I'm a state licensed professional counselor, local artist, mom to waaay too many pets, and 2 wonderful kids, and a wife. I'm a Stevens Point native and so very proud to be able to serve the community I grew up in. My warmth, sense of humor, and authenticity combined with my passion and expertise in trauma informed care, give me a certain edge as a therapist and healer that you just won't find anywhere else. I firmly believe in practicing therapy from a holistic perspective and meeting my clients wherever they are at on their journey
(715) 200-3623 View (715) 200-3623
Photo of Gina M Greatens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merrill, WI
Gina M Greatens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54301  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children addressing everything from everyday stress to chronic anxiety & depression. Many clients simply want an objective and trusted listener. I offer a comfortable and private setting for you to settle in and talk about your concerns. Maybe you're contemplating a change and not sure about your path; a new job, starting, ending, or recharging a relationship, confronting someone or resolving old hurts. The thought of change is usually more overwhelming than the actual act of change; anticipation often far worse than participation.
I work with individuals, couples, families, and children addressing everything from everyday stress to chronic anxiety & depression. Many clients simply want an objective and trusted listener. I offer a comfortable and private setting for you to settle in and talk about your concerns. Maybe you're contemplating a change and not sure about your path; a new job, starting, ending, or recharging a relationship, confronting someone or resolving old hurts. The thought of change is usually more overwhelming than the actual act of change; anticipation often far worse than participation.
(920) 455-8370 View (920) 455-8370
Photo of Gretchen Zagzebski, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Gretchen Zagzebski
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54914  (Online Only)
Throughout our lives we face many different changes that require us to transition. We navigate shifts in our relationships both within our families and outside of our families. We experience shifts in our careers, parenting, in loss and in love. With every new chapter, we process these changes and we move forward.
Throughout our lives we face many different changes that require us to transition. We navigate shifts in our relationships both within our families and outside of our families. We experience shifts in our careers, parenting, in loss and in love. With every new chapter, we process these changes and we move forward.
(920) 282-6219 View (920) 282-6219
Photo of Kathleen Virginia Mueske, Counselor in Merrill, WI
Kathleen Virginia Mueske
Counselor, MSE, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Appleton, WI 54913
I believe that HOPE is the true essence of an enriched life and as a professional counselor I work to restore hope and resiliency in a compassionate, safe and healing space. I seek to alleviate emotional, psychological pain with trauma informed care. My goal is to help you see your worth and believe that you can have the life you want. Let me help you experience peace, healing and joy. I believe every person has a story and that every human being deserves respect and dignity no matter the circumstances. Your story matters! I am trustworthy and work with clients from diverse backgrounds including LGBTQ & neurodivergent folks.
I believe that HOPE is the true essence of an enriched life and as a professional counselor I work to restore hope and resiliency in a compassionate, safe and healing space. I seek to alleviate emotional, psychological pain with trauma informed care. My goal is to help you see your worth and believe that you can have the life you want. Let me help you experience peace, healing and joy. I believe every person has a story and that every human being deserves respect and dignity no matter the circumstances. Your story matters! I am trustworthy and work with clients from diverse backgrounds including LGBTQ & neurodivergent folks.
(920) 473-4012 View (920) 473-4012
Photo of Paul Schroeder-Haag, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Paul Schroeder-Haag
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, CCTP, CCATP
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54301
**I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS MONDAY-FRIDAY FOR 9AM-3PM** I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, as well as those struggling with trauma and domestic abuse, among other concerns. My goal is to help clients locate and harness their power to heal. I use a variety of techniques while operating at a pace that is in-tune with the client's needs.
**I AM CURRENTLY ACCEPTING CLIENTS MONDAY-FRIDAY FOR 9AM-3PM** I work with clients who struggle with anxiety, as well as those struggling with trauma and domestic abuse, among other concerns. My goal is to help clients locate and harness their power to heal. I use a variety of techniques while operating at a pace that is in-tune with the client's needs.
(920) 717-4340 View (920) 717-4340
Photo of Sharon Gray, Psychologist in Merrill, WI
Sharon Gray
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Appleton, WI 54914
YOU CAN FEEL BETTER! Feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Have troubled relationships? Do you struggle with your child's behavior, attitude or school achievement? Want MORE than talk therapy? My work is strength-based: let's find what is working and improve the areas that are not! In an easy-going and comfortable manner, I use brain science i.e. Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology (along with a sense of humor) to provide treatment of emotional and behavioral issues in adults, children, couples and families; including psychological assessments for both children and adults.
YOU CAN FEEL BETTER! Feeling stressed, anxious, depressed? Have troubled relationships? Do you struggle with your child's behavior, attitude or school achievement? Want MORE than talk therapy? My work is strength-based: let's find what is working and improve the areas that are not! In an easy-going and comfortable manner, I use brain science i.e. Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Therapy and Interpersonal Neurobiology (along with a sense of humor) to provide treatment of emotional and behavioral issues in adults, children, couples and families; including psychological assessments for both children and adults.
(920) 471-1773 View (920) 471-1773
Photo of Lori Lenhard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Lori Lenhard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Athens, WI 54411  (Online Only)
My motivation working with clients is to assist them to live their best life. Whether you are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, I want to work with you to lessen the amount of energy you are using to cope. They take so much of our energy that they leave us with little to put toward living our best life. It becomes a vicious cycle that seems we can't break, untreated they can take over our lives. Working together we can lessen their effect on our daily lives and have energy to focus on the good in our life.
My motivation working with clients is to assist them to live their best life. Whether you are dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, I want to work with you to lessen the amount of energy you are using to cope. They take so much of our energy that they leave us with little to put toward living our best life. It becomes a vicious cycle that seems we can't break, untreated they can take over our lives. Working together we can lessen their effect on our daily lives and have energy to focus on the good in our life.
(715) 641-4762 View (715) 641-4762
Photo of Risa Lynn Janowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Risa Lynn Janowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Green Bay, WI 54304
If you are looking for someone who specializes in working with children and adolescents I have over 20 years of experience. Helping children and teens with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, family issues, relationship issues, ADHD, learning struggles, low self esteem, parent/child, teen conflict, and sexual identity are all areas I enjoy working with. I am one of the few qualified therapists who provide services for children age 3 and up.
If you are looking for someone who specializes in working with children and adolescents I have over 20 years of experience. Helping children and teens with issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, family issues, relationship issues, ADHD, learning struggles, low self esteem, parent/child, teen conflict, and sexual identity are all areas I enjoy working with. I am one of the few qualified therapists who provide services for children age 3 and up.
(920) 657-5226 View (920) 657-5226
Photo of Amanda Cardinal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Amanda Cardinal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, NCTFCBT
Verified Verified
Green Bay, WI 54303
The hardest part about therapy is having to deal with those thoughts, feelings, and memories we've been pushing aside for so long. What makes it even harder, are our fears of being judged for who we are, what we've gone through, or how we've acted. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being your true self. I do this by showing you genuine compassion, empathy, and understanding as we work through the tougher stuff. As such, I work with children, teens, families, and adults whose social, academic/work, behavioral, physical, and/or emotional well-being has been negatively impacted by ongoing mental health struggles.
The hardest part about therapy is having to deal with those thoughts, feelings, and memories we've been pushing aside for so long. What makes it even harder, are our fears of being judged for who we are, what we've gone through, or how we've acted. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being your true self. I do this by showing you genuine compassion, empathy, and understanding as we work through the tougher stuff. As such, I work with children, teens, families, and adults whose social, academic/work, behavioral, physical, and/or emotional well-being has been negatively impacted by ongoing mental health struggles.
(920) 770-4088 View (920) 770-4088
Photo of Helpful Healing Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merrill, WI
Helpful Healing Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crivitz, WI 54114
In life we all struggle at times. During those times it is important to find someone to talk to who can provide guidance, support and knowledge. We can explore your path to healing together to reach your goals. Finding that path is the key to moving forward with new feelings of confidence and power.
In life we all struggle at times. During those times it is important to find someone to talk to who can provide guidance, support and knowledge. We can explore your path to healing together to reach your goals. Finding that path is the key to moving forward with new feelings of confidence and power.
(715) 334-8810 View (715) 334-8810

See more therapy options for Merrill

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.