Play Therapy in Billings, MT
Kelly Krings-Lunder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to talk and behavioral therapies such as DBT, CBT, I also offer play therapy, art therapy, aromatherapy, pet therapy.
I am committed to meeting YOUR needs! It is an incredibly brave thing to admit when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, are vulnerable, stuck, or just want someone to listen. When you work with Bridges, you are in a safe space where you will not be judged! Children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families are all welcome at Bridges. I offer therapies to suit every need, and I enjoy working with people who are ready for change. Bridges offers HIPAA compliant Telemedicine, therefore serving ALL MT communities. The physical office is located in Billings. Let’s get you from where you are to where you want to be!
In addition to talk and behavioral therapies such as DBT, CBT, I also offer play therapy, art therapy, aromatherapy, pet therapy.
I am committed to meeting YOUR needs! It is an incredibly brave thing to admit when we are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, are vulnerable, stuck, or just want someone to listen. When you work with Bridges, you are in a safe space where you will not be judged! Children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families are all welcome at Bridges. I offer therapies to suit every need, and I enjoy working with people who are ready for change. Bridges offers HIPAA compliant Telemedicine, therefore serving ALL MT communities. The physical office is located in Billings. Let’s get you from where you are to where you want to be!
Kyanne Wear (Sentinel Mental Health Inc)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
I utilize talk therapy, with techniques from cognitive behavioral, dialectic behavioral therapy as well as components of art therapy and play therapy and I am trained in EMDR.
We all experience some level of emotional distress throughout life. Sometimes the distress can be more than we can manage on our own. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families to navigate distress related to adverse life events, anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, anger, social skills, poor communication, and self-esteem.
I utilize talk therapy, with techniques from cognitive behavioral, dialectic behavioral therapy as well as components of art therapy and play therapy and I am trained in EMDR.
We all experience some level of emotional distress throughout life. Sometimes the distress can be more than we can manage on our own. I have over 25 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families to navigate distress related to adverse life events, anxiety, depression, oppositional behaviors, anger, social skills, poor communication, and self-esteem.
Nicole Frost Family Counseling LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59106
Based on your child's developmental level, I use effective talk therapy, art and play therapy and I offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to achieve success.
We all need to feel heard, valued and respected. But, what happens when our own stress level or that of our children becomes more than we can manage? When ideal communication goes out the window, and we feel frustrated and at a loss? I work therapeutically with you and your child to discover the reasons behind your child's behavior and teach you the skills necessary to restore balance. Whether you or your child are experiencing the effects of divorce, depression, anxiety, oppositional acting out or ADHD, I can help by identifying the cause and offering solutions.
Based on your child's developmental level, I use effective talk therapy, art and play therapy and I offer Equine Assisted Psychotherapy to achieve success.
We all need to feel heard, valued and respected. But, what happens when our own stress level or that of our children becomes more than we can manage? When ideal communication goes out the window, and we feel frustrated and at a loss? I work therapeutically with you and your child to discover the reasons behind your child's behavior and teach you the skills necessary to restore balance. Whether you or your child are experiencing the effects of divorce, depression, anxiety, oppositional acting out or ADHD, I can help by identifying the cause and offering solutions.
Serenitee Counseling ,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS,LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59105
Teenagers have their own set of struggles including peer pressure, self esteem issues, depression and anxiety. Their hormones are changing as are their bodies and can be a very tough time. Most children under age 6 can't put into words how they're feeling so play therapy is the best way to help them work through their feelings, which I utilize. It's also very important that parents have the skills to help their children through these tough times and I use Love and Logic parenting to help parents learn skills that help everyone in the family.
Teenagers have their own set of struggles including peer pressure, self esteem issues, depression and anxiety. Their hormones are changing as are their bodies and can be a very tough time. Most children under age 6 can't put into words how they're feeling so play therapy is the best way to help them work through their feelings, which I utilize. It's also very important that parents have the skills to help their children through these tough times and I use Love and Logic parenting to help parents learn skills that help everyone in the family.
Wellness Possebilities
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, MAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
I am committed to helping clients move through a variety of challenges by building self-awareness and supporting the practice of new actions. I provide integrated client solution focused therapy. I am trained in trauma informed interventions, am sensitive to a client's attachment style and work to empower clients to achieve their goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and groups. I have a special interest in teaching of behavioral management, mindfulness, somatic experiencing, EMDR, emotional regulation, and distress tolerance. Cognitive behavioral resources and tools are the foundation of all my work.
Kirsten Pett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
You are the only expert in *your* life. As Carl Rogers did, I believe that all people have the ability to bring about meaningful change in their lives, and a my role is to guide you to a greater understanding of that power, while gaining new, positive skills. Level UP! I continually strive to demonstrate empathy and unconditional positive regard. Life is hard enough as it is - getting help shouldn't be just another stressor on top of your never-ending To Do List. Stop listening to that voice in your head that tells you that you aren't good enough/strong enough/smart enough/busy enough/making enough. That voice is wrong.
Shanna Rodgers
Counselor, MS, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Montana school counselor, and Air Force veteran. I can provide you with a space to grieve, process, and grow.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Montana school counselor, and Air Force veteran. I can provide you with a space to grieve, process, and grow.
In Focus Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS Cand
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102 (Online Only)
I have immediate virtual appts. to help with life & Addiction, OCD, and Trauma. I am currently a Master's student in the last portion of my training for my degree. Don't let that scare you, I come with many years of experience in supporting folx with mental health concerns including trauma and the impact of PTSD. As a Montana therapist, I work with people in rural areas and understanding the nuances of the challenges faced in taking care of your mental health, that is why I am proud to be part of a sliding scale program at my internship. Let's chat and see how I can help you focus on what's important. I serve Montana and Colorado.
I have immediate virtual appts. to help with life & Addiction, OCD, and Trauma. I am currently a Master's student in the last portion of my training for my degree. Don't let that scare you, I come with many years of experience in supporting folx with mental health concerns including trauma and the impact of PTSD. As a Montana therapist, I work with people in rural areas and understanding the nuances of the challenges faced in taking care of your mental health, that is why I am proud to be part of a sliding scale program at my internship. Let's chat and see how I can help you focus on what's important. I serve Montana and Colorado.
Kelly Williams (Sentinel Mental Health)
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Change, hardship, pain, and grappling with the unknown are inevitable parts of life, but learning how to navigate these experiences and use them in ways that can contribute to your personal growth, meaning, and fulfillment is my goal as your therapist. Everyone’s journey to healing looks different and I look forward to joining you on yours.
Change, hardship, pain, and grappling with the unknown are inevitable parts of life, but learning how to navigate these experiences and use them in ways that can contribute to your personal growth, meaning, and fulfillment is my goal as your therapist. Everyone’s journey to healing looks different and I look forward to joining you on yours.
Kristi Lindell Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSED
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Waitlist for new clients
My entire adult life I have worked with children and their families as a professional teacher and now a therapist. I easily relate to all ages - children, adolescents, teens, and adults. I understand how important working with families and schools can be for the mental health of the child. As a teacher for over 20 years, I understand burnout, the inner-workings of schools, and the importance of the personnels' mental health and self care. Plus, over 16 years experience with child-rearing, elderly parental care, end of life choices, adult social services, and grief and bereavement therapies for children and adults.
My entire adult life I have worked with children and their families as a professional teacher and now a therapist. I easily relate to all ages - children, adolescents, teens, and adults. I understand how important working with families and schools can be for the mental health of the child. As a teacher for over 20 years, I understand burnout, the inner-workings of schools, and the importance of the personnels' mental health and self care. Plus, over 16 years experience with child-rearing, elderly parental care, end of life choices, adult social services, and grief and bereavement therapies for children and adults.
Brittnee Olson
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life transition? At times we all need guidance sorting out life's complexities. As a therapist, my role is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths, and regain control of your life. I work with children, teens, and young adults who are needing assistance in processing their thoughts and emotions, while navigating the challenges that come with each developmental stage.
Are you struggling with anxiety, sadness, loss or experiencing a life transition? At times we all need guidance sorting out life's complexities. As a therapist, my role is to serve as a guide to help you achieve personal growth, recognize your strengths, and regain control of your life. I work with children, teens, and young adults who are needing assistance in processing their thoughts and emotions, while navigating the challenges that come with each developmental stage.
Denise Schumacher
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
We all have a story to share that does not have to be defined by our past. You have what it takes to write the next chapter of your life. I would consider it a privilege for you to allow me to walk alongside you and support you as you begin this journey of healing. You are not alone. Together we can address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. These concerns manifest differently for everyone. In my work I will draw from aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems and others to make this time suit you.
We all have a story to share that does not have to be defined by our past. You have what it takes to write the next chapter of your life. I would consider it a privilege for you to allow me to walk alongside you and support you as you begin this journey of healing. You are not alone. Together we can address and manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. These concerns manifest differently for everyone. In my work I will draw from aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems and others to make this time suit you.
Malissa Steffes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Through my schooling and work in the field I have experience working with children in the school setting, community and child protective services.
I have experience working with children diagnosed "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) in the school setting to foster children and families. I also am currently doing custody evaluations for the Yellowstone County Court system (13th Judicial District). I am interested in helping those who want to help themselves or their family.
I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Social Work and am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Through my schooling and work in the field I have experience working with children in the school setting, community and child protective services.
I have experience working with children diagnosed "SED" (seriously emotionally disturbed) in the school setting to foster children and families. I also am currently doing custody evaluations for the Yellowstone County Court system (13th Judicial District). I am interested in helping those who want to help themselves or their family.
Grady Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Beginning therapy is an exciting, but potentially daunting experience. It's hard to know where to start when you've been feeling stuck. Know that you've made a good choice stepping up for yourself and your loved ones. In the the therapy room, I aim to provide a welcoming, calming, environment where my clients and I can collaborate to uncover questions, ideas and solutions that work for each family or individual's unique life situation.
Welcome! Beginning therapy is an exciting, but potentially daunting experience. It's hard to know where to start when you've been feeling stuck. Know that you've made a good choice stepping up for yourself and your loved ones. In the the therapy room, I aim to provide a welcoming, calming, environment where my clients and I can collaborate to uncover questions, ideas and solutions that work for each family or individual's unique life situation.
Nicole Gioia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59101
Taking the first step in your therapeutic journey can bring up many emotions, exploration of these feelings and what led you to seeking a therapist is what I am here to help guide you through. I enjoy working with individuals and families using a solution focused model, led by you. I work with a wide range of age groups and offer online or face to face therapy sessions in the Billings, Montana area. I look forward to talking with you.
Taking the first step in your therapeutic journey can bring up many emotions, exploration of these feelings and what led you to seeking a therapist is what I am here to help guide you through. I enjoy working with individuals and families using a solution focused model, led by you. I work with a wide range of age groups and offer online or face to face therapy sessions in the Billings, Montana area. I look forward to talking with you.
Dennis William Muri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for twelve years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Hope is everything.
I was born and raised in southeastern Montana, lived in Seattle for fifteen years, and returned to be closer to family. I am a survivor of trauma, have worked as a special education teacher in Seattle for twelve years, and have worked as a Licensed Psychotherapist and Licensed Addictions Counselor in Billings since 2004. My passions are Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), people with special needs, grief/loss, the elderly, veterans, and helping people in crisis in general. I understand how addiction impacts people in crises. I specialize in improving communication. I inform my practice with brain research. Hope is everything.
Dustin Lehman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
We have an innate need to be in relationship. It is the very foundation of what it is to be human. We need to experience love, reciprocity and fulfillment. A healthy relationship considers the needs of others, focuses on patience and kindness, maintains honesty and trustworthiness and is nurturing. I'm a therapist who works at helping my clients restore love and trust within their identity and among relationships by essentially helping them become their own therapist. Everyone experiences violations in relationships and it's when we're without a restoration process that we continue feeling pain.
We have an innate need to be in relationship. It is the very foundation of what it is to be human. We need to experience love, reciprocity and fulfillment. A healthy relationship considers the needs of others, focuses on patience and kindness, maintains honesty and trustworthiness and is nurturing. I'm a therapist who works at helping my clients restore love and trust within their identity and among relationships by essentially helping them become their own therapist. Everyone experiences violations in relationships and it's when we're without a restoration process that we continue feeling pain.
Desire Meismer
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Billings, MT 59102
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout our lives we may encounter painful, traumatic, or difficult scenarios that leave us feeling hopeless or stuck. I believe every person has a resiliency and strength to pull from to achieve an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Sometimes we need outside support to tap into our full potential and to overcome challenges. My background includes addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and more.
Throughout our lives we may encounter painful, traumatic, or difficult scenarios that leave us feeling hopeless or stuck. I believe every person has a resiliency and strength to pull from to achieve an enjoyable and fulfilling life. Sometimes we need outside support to tap into our full potential and to overcome challenges. My background includes addressing struggles related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, oppositional defiant disorder, bipolar disorder, adjustment difficulties, trauma, and more.
Carol A Demaray
Counselor, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59102
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, stress or loss? Or have a child who may have Autism, ADHD, Anger issues or Behavioral Difficulties? The hurts and pain can seem overwhelming and disturbing for youth and adults alike. Understanding and a nonjudgmental atmosphere may be what you are looking for, and can be found at Transformed RenU Counseling. Truth and security can go a long way to heal hurting hearts and minds.
Have you experienced trauma, anxiety, depression, stress or loss? Or have a child who may have Autism, ADHD, Anger issues or Behavioral Difficulties? The hurts and pain can seem overwhelming and disturbing for youth and adults alike. Understanding and a nonjudgmental atmosphere may be what you are looking for, and can be found at Transformed RenU Counseling. Truth and security can go a long way to heal hurting hearts and minds.
Tylene A Merkel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Billings, MT 59101
I am a therapist with 30+ years experience. As I build a relationship with my clients I integrate traditional therapy with innovative "best practice" tools. I help people become strong at the broken places in their life so they can move forward with peace and confidence.
I am a therapist with 30+ years experience. As I build a relationship with my clients I integrate traditional therapy with innovative "best practice" tools. I help people become strong at the broken places in their life so they can move forward with peace and confidence.
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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.