Play Therapy in Eau Claire, WI
My scope of practice includes: anxiety, depression, life transitions, OCD, grief and loss, mindfulness, play based therapy and trauma-informed therapy.
I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents within the context of individual and family therapy.
My scope of practice includes: anxiety, depression, life transitions, OCD, grief and loss, mindfulness, play based therapy and trauma-informed therapy.
I specialize in the treatment of children and adolescents within the context of individual and family therapy.
Shelby Lynn Quilling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Waitlist for new clients
These options are also offered to children through a play based lens.
Hello Everyone! My name is Shelby Quilling! I work primarily with children and teenagers, as well as any age adult that has experienced childhood or complex trauma. To me, trauma can mean any event that has caused disruption to your daily life/functioning. My goal is to help those who have been through challenging experiences and who have a desire to work through these experiences. This may be seen as but is not limited to relationship conflicts, spacing/zoning out, anxiety/depressive symptoms, at-risk behaviors, flashbacks/nightmares, difficulties managing emotions, or troubles with basic functioning such as eating/sleeping.
These options are also offered to children through a play based lens.
Hello Everyone! My name is Shelby Quilling! I work primarily with children and teenagers, as well as any age adult that has experienced childhood or complex trauma. To me, trauma can mean any event that has caused disruption to your daily life/functioning. My goal is to help those who have been through challenging experiences and who have a desire to work through these experiences. This may be seen as but is not limited to relationship conflicts, spacing/zoning out, anxiety/depressive symptoms, at-risk behaviors, flashbacks/nightmares, difficulties managing emotions, or troubles with basic functioning such as eating/sleeping.
Citadel Counseling & Skills Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Eau Claire, WI 54703
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 5 years of professional clinical experience, specifically working with family systems, couples therapy, and individual therapy. I also have worked with all ages. Before that, I had experience in emergency settings and case management. As my role as a therapist, I feel very privileged to be a part of your journey and discovery in therapy. I believe in unconditional positive regard towards my clients, and adhere to the clinically-proven belief that the client-counselor relationship is the highest indicator of successful therapy- more so than any specific modality.
I am licensed in Wisconsin with 5 years of professional clinical experience, specifically working with family systems, couples therapy, and individual therapy. I also have worked with all ages. Before that, I had experience in emergency settings and case management. As my role as a therapist, I feel very privileged to be a part of your journey and discovery in therapy. I believe in unconditional positive regard towards my clients, and adhere to the clinically-proven belief that the client-counselor relationship is the highest indicator of successful therapy- more so than any specific modality.
Your child’s transition into adolescence has been more difficult than expected and you’re not sure where to go from here. Whether you’re noticing they just aren’t motivated anymore, being asked to do chores is a complete battle, or they’re too anxious to engage in activities, I can help. Whether you’re seeing the rebellious, oppositional behaviors, or the internalized, shut down response, we know that your adolescent is struggling to work through something and their behavior gives us clues on how we can help them.
Your child’s transition into adolescence has been more difficult than expected and you’re not sure where to go from here. Whether you’re noticing they just aren’t motivated anymore, being asked to do chores is a complete battle, or they’re too anxious to engage in activities, I can help. Whether you’re seeing the rebellious, oppositional behaviors, or the internalized, shut down response, we know that your adolescent is struggling to work through something and their behavior gives us clues on how we can help them.
You deserve a space to appreciate the person you are and explore the life you seek. My passion is creating a safe, inclusive environment for you to bring your needs, goals, and concerns.
You deserve a space to appreciate the person you are and explore the life you seek. My passion is creating a safe, inclusive environment for you to bring your needs, goals, and concerns.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults within the scope of individual, relational, and family therapy. I have experience working with children and adolescents dealing with mental health challenges, such as: behavioral issues, difficulty managing emotions, self-injurious behavior, post traumatic stress and low self-esteem. I also support individuals learning to manage symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and problematic life experiences.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults within the scope of individual, relational, and family therapy. I have experience working with children and adolescents dealing with mental health challenges, such as: behavioral issues, difficulty managing emotions, self-injurious behavior, post traumatic stress and low self-esteem. I also support individuals learning to manage symptoms related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and problematic life experiences.
Together we can embark on your therapy journey, creating goals and making progress to aid in the management of mental health and life challenges. I work with children, teens, adults of all ages, and couples. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with clients, working together in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment.
Together we can embark on your therapy journey, creating goals and making progress to aid in the management of mental health and life challenges. I work with children, teens, adults of all ages, and couples. I strive to create a collaborative relationship with clients, working together in a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment.
Your child is having these big, unexpected emotional reactions and/or anxiety, and they've started yelling, hitting, stomping, slamming doors, and are inconsolable. Their reaction seems to be way out of proportion compared to the situation. You try to stay calm, validate their feelings, and use tools to help them calm down, but it just isn't working. These over-the-top emotions leave you feeling frustrated, exhausted, and defeated. You are desperately needing support in helping you and your child understand their emotions and learn how to handle day-to-day life more calmly.
Your child is having these big, unexpected emotional reactions and/or anxiety, and they've started yelling, hitting, stomping, slamming doors, and are inconsolable. Their reaction seems to be way out of proportion compared to the situation. You try to stay calm, validate their feelings, and use tools to help them calm down, but it just isn't working. These over-the-top emotions leave you feeling frustrated, exhausted, and defeated. You are desperately needing support in helping you and your child understand their emotions and learn how to handle day-to-day life more calmly.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. With the use of a humanistic and client-centered approach, I assist clients to uncover their emotions and give them resources on how to express themselves in a safe and healthy way. I strive to meet clients where they are at and help build a safe space for each client to grow toward the life they want to live. Utilizing artmaking can help guide the therapeutic process based on the needs of each client.
I have experience working with adolescents and adults coping with anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders. With the use of a humanistic and client-centered approach, I assist clients to uncover their emotions and give them resources on how to express themselves in a safe and healthy way. I strive to meet clients where they are at and help build a safe space for each client to grow toward the life they want to live. Utilizing artmaking can help guide the therapeutic process based on the needs of each client.
I am passionate about people and value creating safe and comforting environments in my work. I believe the therapist and client relationship begins with developing an authentic connection. Knowing that people have a need to be heard, I strongly value being a listening ear. Additionally, experiencing the intersectionality of being Hmong-American, I am passionate about creating a safe and inclusive space for people to explore their identities, confront their challenges, and cultivate their strengths. Overall, I hope to apply a systemic view and lens to the therapy room to offer people different approaches and perspectives to consider.
I am passionate about people and value creating safe and comforting environments in my work. I believe the therapist and client relationship begins with developing an authentic connection. Knowing that people have a need to be heard, I strongly value being a listening ear. Additionally, experiencing the intersectionality of being Hmong-American, I am passionate about creating a safe and inclusive space for people to explore their identities, confront their challenges, and cultivate their strengths. Overall, I hope to apply a systemic view and lens to the therapy room to offer people different approaches and perspectives to consider.
I work with those ages 3 to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and parenting strategies, but I have a wide range of experience with many mental health disorders. As a parent of two wonderful children, I understand the challenges of juggling the pressures that come from everyday life, but also the joys. There are many ups and downs in life and I'd be honored to help you, your child, or your family through one of those times when it feels pretty tough.
I work with those ages 3 to adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and parenting strategies, but I have a wide range of experience with many mental health disorders. As a parent of two wonderful children, I understand the challenges of juggling the pressures that come from everyday life, but also the joys. There are many ups and downs in life and I'd be honored to help you, your child, or your family through one of those times when it feels pretty tough.
More Therapists Nearby
Behavioral Health Clinic (BHC) has locations in Fort Atkinson, Madison, Marshfield, Wausau and Stevens Point Wisconsin. Our clinicians offer clinically proven, empirically-based treatment interventions for most mental health issues. All clinicians at Behavioral Health Clinic work together in a collaborative environment so that clients receive optimal care. The staff at Behavioral Health Clinic would like potential clients to know that they strive to provide a relaxed and confidential place to fulfill their mission in making Wisconsin a healthier place.
Behavioral Health Clinic (BHC) has locations in Fort Atkinson, Madison, Marshfield, Wausau and Stevens Point Wisconsin. Our clinicians offer clinically proven, empirically-based treatment interventions for most mental health issues. All clinicians at Behavioral Health Clinic work together in a collaborative environment so that clients receive optimal care. The staff at Behavioral Health Clinic would like potential clients to know that they strive to provide a relaxed and confidential place to fulfill their mission in making Wisconsin a healthier place.
Christina Bichner Current Openings- Children Teens Adults
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Menomonie, WI 54751
"You are good enough." "It wasn't your fault." "You are loveable, and not a burden." Did reading any of these elicit an emotional response? That may be shame, & shame heals best in safe spaces! I utilize validation and the ability to be vulnerable in a safe place, to support healing from complex trauma and/or grief from childhood into adulthood.
If you are seeking therapy for a loved one, I work with children of all ages. I also particularly enjoy working with families with open minds, who are seeking further understanding of their children's needs and are ready to work towards strengthening family bonds.
"You are good enough." "It wasn't your fault." "You are loveable, and not a burden." Did reading any of these elicit an emotional response? That may be shame, & shame heals best in safe spaces! I utilize validation and the ability to be vulnerable in a safe place, to support healing from complex trauma and/or grief from childhood into adulthood.
If you are seeking therapy for a loved one, I work with children of all ages. I also particularly enjoy working with families with open minds, who are seeking further understanding of their children's needs and are ready to work towards strengthening family bonds.
Online Therapists
The Caring Tree - Child & Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MSAT
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.
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.
Alex also has experience in Child-Centered Play Therapy and uses this modality with her youngest clients.
Immediate Openings!
Alex is a licensed professional counselor in training and works with children, adolescents and adults. Alex received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University.
Alex provides a warm, welcoming environment for clients and meets them with acceptance and empathy. Alex uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns to promote behavior change, as well as a strengths-based approach to capitalize on the skills they already possess.
Alex also has experience in Child-Centered Play Therapy and uses this modality with her youngest clients.
Immediate Openings!
Alex is a licensed professional counselor in training and works with children, adolescents and adults. Alex received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Viterbo University.
Alex provides a warm, welcoming environment for clients and meets them with acceptance and empathy. Alex uses Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to assist clients in identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns to promote behavior change, as well as a strengths-based approach to capitalize on the skills they already possess.
I incorporates a blend of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive and Behavioral Models with a person-centered approach, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
My name is Alysa Dunn, an APSW working to become an LCSW. My background as a medical professional and veteran equips me to work effectively with individuals and families facing complex challenges. At the heart of my practice is my goal to create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their challenges and build on their strengths. I'm a firm believer in empowering individuals to achieve their goals while adhering to ethical standards and advocating for social justice.
I incorporates a blend of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive and Behavioral Models with a person-centered approach, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Play Therapy, and Structural Family Therapy.
My name is Alysa Dunn, an APSW working to become an LCSW. My background as a medical professional and veteran equips me to work effectively with individuals and families facing complex challenges. At the heart of my practice is my goal to create a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their challenges and build on their strengths. I'm a firm believer in empowering individuals to achieve their goals while adhering to ethical standards and advocating for social justice.
My therapy methods are grounded in a behavioral approach, including cognitive and dialectical behavioral aspects, motivational interviewing, interactive play, and mindfulness/existential centering perspectives.
I aim to create an empathetic, warm, and collaborative environment, in which feelings can be expressed and supported. My experience stems from assisting children, adolescents and their family to navigate the challenges life presents, whether rooted in trauma, life changes, or future goals. Some special areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm behaviors, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
My therapy methods are grounded in a behavioral approach, including cognitive and dialectical behavioral aspects, motivational interviewing, interactive play, and mindfulness/existential centering perspectives.
I aim to create an empathetic, warm, and collaborative environment, in which feelings can be expressed and supported. My experience stems from assisting children, adolescents and their family to navigate the challenges life presents, whether rooted in trauma, life changes, or future goals. Some special areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm behaviors, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Our therapists have additional specialized training in EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Brainspotting, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, The Gottman Method, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Somatic Experience Therapy
Immediate Openings for Telehealth. The world feels a bit chaotic right now and it impacts all of us. We are here to help! We are a collective of highly trained and specialized therapists who love helping people feel empowered to find joy and fulfillment through mental wellness, self confidence, and connected relationships! This is a time to support each other and invest in taking care of yourself so you can focus on your family and your good work to make a positive impact on your world. Give us a call, we want to join you in building a better, healthier, and happier future!
Our therapists have additional specialized training in EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Brainspotting, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, The Gottman Method, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Somatic Experience Therapy
Immediate Openings for Telehealth. The world feels a bit chaotic right now and it impacts all of us. We are here to help! We are a collective of highly trained and specialized therapists who love helping people feel empowered to find joy and fulfillment through mental wellness, self confidence, and connected relationships! This is a time to support each other and invest in taking care of yourself so you can focus on your family and your good work to make a positive impact on your world. Give us a call, we want to join you in building a better, healthier, and happier future!
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.
See more therapy options for Eau Claire
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.