Play Therapy in Merrill, WI
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.
My motivation for working with clients is to support them in achieving their personal goals. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, I want to work with you to lessen the amount of energy you are using to cope. These challenges consume so much energy that they leave us with little left to devote to living our best lives. It becomes a vicious cycle that can seem impossible to break; untreated, these conditions can take over our lives. By working together, we can reduce their impact on daily life and regain the energy needed to focus on the positive asp
My motivation for working with clients is to support them in achieving their personal goals. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, I want to work with you to lessen the amount of energy you are using to cope. These challenges consume so much energy that they leave us with little left to devote to living our best lives. It becomes a vicious cycle that can seem impossible to break; untreated, these conditions can take over our lives. By working together, we can reduce their impact on daily life and regain the energy needed to focus on the positive asp
More Therapists Nearby
As a marriage and family therapist, I greatly enjoy working with couples and families, especially those who struggle with communication. I love teaching people how to problem solve and resolve conflict. I am passionate about helping those with trauma, grief/loss, adjustment, depression and anxiety. I also work with those who have experienced racial and/or religious trauma. Many of my clients struggle with boundaries, expressing needs and saying no. I am particularly interested in working with underserved populations, and strive to offer culturally sensitive and competent services. I am bilingual and can also offer services in Hmong.
As a marriage and family therapist, I greatly enjoy working with couples and families, especially those who struggle with communication. I love teaching people how to problem solve and resolve conflict. I am passionate about helping those with trauma, grief/loss, adjustment, depression and anxiety. I also work with those who have experienced racial and/or religious trauma. Many of my clients struggle with boundaries, expressing needs and saying no. I am particularly interested in working with underserved populations, and strive to offer culturally sensitive and competent services. I am bilingual and can also offer services in Hmong.
Behavioral Health Clinic (BHC) has locations in Fort Atkinson, Madison, Merrill, Grafton, Green Bay, Eau Claire, Sheboygan, Marshfield, Wausau, and Stevens Point. Our clinicians offer clinically proven, evidence-based treatment interventions for most mental health issues. Our clinicians believe in a collaborative environment, between both fellow professionals and with the clients themselves. We work with individuals of all ages and needs, from children to adults. We strive to provide a safe, relaxed, warm, and comforting space to help clients grow at their own pace.
Behavioral Health Clinic (BHC) has locations in Fort Atkinson, Madison, Merrill, Grafton, Green Bay, Eau Claire, Sheboygan, Marshfield, Wausau, and Stevens Point. Our clinicians offer clinically proven, evidence-based treatment interventions for most mental health issues. Our clinicians believe in a collaborative environment, between both fellow professionals and with the clients themselves. We work with individuals of all ages and needs, from children to adults. We strive to provide a safe, relaxed, warm, and comforting space to help clients grow at their own pace.
Life can look completely fine on the outside while feeling overwhelming on the inside. Maybe you’re stuck in survival mode, carrying the weight of past experiences, struggling in your relationships, navigating the messy transition into motherhood, or simply exhausted from being the one who holds it all together. Whatever your situation is, I’m here to help you navigate it.
I work with children, teens, and adults who are ready for something to change—even if they’re not quite sure where to start. Therapy with me is a space where you can be honest, messy, emotional. No judgment. No pressure to have it all figured out.
Life can look completely fine on the outside while feeling overwhelming on the inside. Maybe you’re stuck in survival mode, carrying the weight of past experiences, struggling in your relationships, navigating the messy transition into motherhood, or simply exhausted from being the one who holds it all together. Whatever your situation is, I’m here to help you navigate it.
I work with children, teens, and adults who are ready for something to change—even if they’re not quite sure where to start. Therapy with me is a space where you can be honest, messy, emotional. No judgment. No pressure to have it all figured out.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficult situations that have prevented them from living a healthier lifestyle. My mission is to help you name what's keeping you stuck and identify individual strengths that will help overcome those challenges. I am there to support you in finding and becoming the best version of yourself by letting go of old patterns of thinking and behaviors that are stopping you from being who you want to be! I am there to help parents navigate challenges with supporting their kids. I am also available to provide services in Spanish.
I am passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults experiencing difficult situations that have prevented them from living a healthier lifestyle. My mission is to help you name what's keeping you stuck and identify individual strengths that will help overcome those challenges. I am there to support you in finding and becoming the best version of yourself by letting go of old patterns of thinking and behaviors that are stopping you from being who you want to be! I am there to help parents navigate challenges with supporting their kids. I am also available to provide services in Spanish.
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
Primarily my practice is rooted in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Play Therapy, however I also have some influence from IFS.
Prior to completing my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling I worked as a Victim Advocate for victim survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence. While working as an advocate I saw a need for survivors for non acute trauma treatment as well as mental health treatment for child survivors. I'm also a new mental health provider, which means I'm creative!
Primarily my practice is rooted in CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Play Therapy, however I also have some influence from IFS.
Prior to completing my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling I worked as a Victim Advocate for victim survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence. While working as an advocate I saw a need for survivors for non acute trauma treatment as well as mental health treatment for child survivors. I'm also a new mental health provider, which means I'm creative!
Hello and Welcome! My name is Tisha Sleiter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Wisconsin offering telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, LGBTQ+ families, and couples. specializing in LGBTQI+ affirming care, ADHD/ADD parenting support, special needs children, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and more. My approach to therapy is person-centered and varies based on the needs of each client/family using a humanistic lens, incorporating elements of Systems Theory, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Solution focused therapy (SFT).
Hello and Welcome! My name is Tisha Sleiter. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Wisconsin offering telehealth. I work with adolescents, young adults, LGBTQ+ families, and couples. specializing in LGBTQI+ affirming care, ADHD/ADD parenting support, special needs children, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and more. My approach to therapy is person-centered and varies based on the needs of each client/family using a humanistic lens, incorporating elements of Systems Theory, Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Solution focused therapy (SFT).
I provide art and play therapy for individuals who struggle in traditional therapy settings.
I use virtual art and play therapy techniques through a variety of activities, such as using sand tray therapy, movement therapy, expressive painting and drawing, therapeutic versions of board games, and others.
I provide art and play therapy for individuals who struggle in traditional therapy settings.
I use virtual art and play therapy techniques through a variety of activities, such as using sand tray therapy, movement therapy, expressive painting and drawing, therapeutic versions of board games, and others.
The Caring Tree - Child & Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, AT
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.
What are you looking for in a therapist? A supportive, trusted voice? An empathetic ear? A sense of humor? Someone who's therapy space creates both safety...and confidence? I strive to bring all of the above to my clientele. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist, with a family of my own. As I bring my practical experience of marriage (and raising kids) to my practice, I am continually inspired by the courage and open-heartedness of my clients; as we set out, co-conspiring toward change and healing. Website: heartwood counseling.net
What are you looking for in a therapist? A supportive, trusted voice? An empathetic ear? A sense of humor? Someone who's therapy space creates both safety...and confidence? I strive to bring all of the above to my clientele. I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist, with a family of my own. As I bring my practical experience of marriage (and raising kids) to my practice, I am continually inspired by the courage and open-heartedness of my clients; as we set out, co-conspiring toward change and healing. Website: heartwood counseling.net
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.
You may be someone who has already spent time reflecting on your life and wants to understand yourself more deeply. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful and insightful, but feel stuck in patterns they cannot quite untangle on their own. They may be facing relentless anxiety, intrusive thoughts and compulsions, grief, depression, major life transitions or recovery from trauma. Often they are asking deeper questions about identity, values, and direction and want a space to explore those “why” questions and make meaningful changes. Many of my clients are also neurodivergent, and you will find this a welcoming space to be you.
You may be someone who has already spent time reflecting on your life and wants to understand yourself more deeply. Many of the people I work with are thoughtful and insightful, but feel stuck in patterns they cannot quite untangle on their own. They may be facing relentless anxiety, intrusive thoughts and compulsions, grief, depression, major life transitions or recovery from trauma. Often they are asking deeper questions about identity, values, and direction and want a space to explore those “why” questions and make meaningful changes. Many of my clients are also neurodivergent, and you will find this a welcoming space to be you.
During sessions, I use play, art, and talking to allow children and teens use the therapy space to communicate and process their needs at their developmental level.
I work primarily with children who are struggling to adjust to parental divorce, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, processing emotions, and learning how to regulate themselves. Children often want to find ways to be more independent, while parents often want to know how they can help their children through the various stressors of life. Sometimes parents may also have their own mental health needs in addition to juggling parenting and perhaps the same stressors as the kids. I am here to help collaboratively so that the entire family system can become more resilient and have a better quality of life.
During sessions, I use play, art, and talking to allow children and teens use the therapy space to communicate and process their needs at their developmental level.
I work primarily with children who are struggling to adjust to parental divorce, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, processing emotions, and learning how to regulate themselves. Children often want to find ways to be more independent, while parents often want to know how they can help their children through the various stressors of life. Sometimes parents may also have their own mental health needs in addition to juggling parenting and perhaps the same stressors as the kids. I am here to help collaboratively so that the entire family system can become more resilient and have a better quality of life.
Online Therapists
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a compassionate therapist who takes a strength-based approach to care. I work with clients of all ages to address mental health concerns, behavioral challenges, and the effects of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I help individuals and families navigate difficult situations by building coping skills, improving communication, and strengthening relationships.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a compassionate therapist who takes a strength-based approach to care. I work with clients of all ages to address mental health concerns, behavioral challenges, and the effects of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I help individuals and families navigate difficult situations by building coping skills, improving communication, and strengthening relationships.
Reflection, LLC provides mental health to people of all ages. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or simply looking to grow personally, we’re committed to walking alongside you, every step of the way. Ready to feel more like yourself again? Let's talk (920) 284-9676.
Reflection, LLC provides mental health to people of all ages. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, or simply looking to grow personally, we’re committed to walking alongside you, every step of the way. Ready to feel more like yourself again? Let's talk (920) 284-9676.
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.
Take a deep breath. Just by being here, you’ve already taken a meaningful step toward change. If you’ve been feeling like no one really gets what you’re going through or offers solutions that actually help, you’re not alone. In our sessions, you’ll have a space where you can be honest, messy, curious, whatever you need. We’ll talk through your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at a pace that feels right for you. My focus is on building a real, genuine connection so you feel supported, understood, and empowered as you navigate whatever life is throwing your way.
Take a deep breath. Just by being here, you’ve already taken a meaningful step toward change. If you’ve been feeling like no one really gets what you’re going through or offers solutions that actually help, you’re not alone. In our sessions, you’ll have a space where you can be honest, messy, curious, whatever you need. We’ll talk through your thoughts, emotions, and experiences at a pace that feels right for you. My focus is on building a real, genuine connection so you feel supported, understood, and empowered as you navigate whatever life is throwing your way.
I use different modalities based on client development such as incorporate play and art based on client preference.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a master degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My experience includes working with clients facing depression, anxiety, history of trauma, suicidal ideation, alcohol and other drug abuse, ADHD, life transitions, self-esteem, and grief. I have education and experience in working with kids and teens with emotional and behavioral concerns. I provide services at schools, a location on Oconto Falls and a location in Green Bay. I enjoy working with clients from rural areas and want to provide quality care to those who have less access to services.
I use different modalities based on client development such as incorporate play and art based on client preference.
I am a licensed professional counselor with a master degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. My experience includes working with clients facing depression, anxiety, history of trauma, suicidal ideation, alcohol and other drug abuse, ADHD, life transitions, self-esteem, and grief. I have education and experience in working with kids and teens with emotional and behavioral concerns. I provide services at schools, a location on Oconto Falls and a location in Green Bay. I enjoy working with clients from rural areas and want to provide quality care to those who have less access to services.
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.