Play Therapy in Milwaukee, WI
My name is Lexana Rutz and I am an LPC.
I believe that growth begins with a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered
My name is Lexana Rutz and I am an LPC.
I believe that growth begins with a safe and supportive space where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered
Feel abandoned? Are you in a time of need? Overstimulated? I commend you for taking the first step by acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As an African American counselor, I'm intentional about maintaining a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most genuine and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
Feel abandoned? Are you in a time of need? Overstimulated? I commend you for taking the first step by acknowledging that you would like some support. Through individual, couple, family, and other relational therapy, I provide emotional and mental support to help my clients gain, regain, and maintain a healthy life. As an African American counselor, I'm intentional about maintaining a safe space where diversity and cultural differences are respected and valued. I'm passionate about my clients’ wellness and aim to provide clients with space and time to be their most genuine and unapologetic selves without fear of judgment.
I am licensed in Wisconsin and use play therapy
If you’re feeling unfulfilled, worried, sad, or dread the moment you open your eyes in the morning, then you have come to the right place. I am here to help you get unstuck. Whether you are facing difficulties in relationships, unhelpful thought patterns, life changes, or need support navigating the waters of grief, I am here to walk alongside empowering you to overcome these challenges.
I am licensed in Wisconsin and use play therapy
If you’re feeling unfulfilled, worried, sad, or dread the moment you open your eyes in the morning, then you have come to the right place. I am here to help you get unstuck. Whether you are facing difficulties in relationships, unhelpful thought patterns, life changes, or need support navigating the waters of grief, I am here to walk alongside empowering you to overcome these challenges.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for individuals to explore their strengths and overcome challenges. I have worked in various roles dedicated to reducing mental health stigma. I will work with you on developing goals & strategies to improve daily functioning in a safe environment. I use a client centered approach and trauma informed care, while being culturally responsive to empower clients, allowing children, parents, & couples to re-author their lives into their preferred future!
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for individuals to explore their strengths and overcome challenges. I have worked in various roles dedicated to reducing mental health stigma. I will work with you on developing goals & strategies to improve daily functioning in a safe environment. I use a client centered approach and trauma informed care, while being culturally responsive to empower clients, allowing children, parents, & couples to re-author their lives into their preferred future!
I use play therapy to help children and teens express themselves in a way that feels natural and safe.
Some of the areas I specialize in include autism, adoption/foster care, depression, anxiety, grief, divorce, and self-confidence.
I use play therapy to help children and teens express themselves in a way that feels natural and safe.
Some of the areas I specialize in include autism, adoption/foster care, depression, anxiety, grief, divorce, and self-confidence.
Stephany Pruitt, MS, THD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, THD, LPC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53216
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
"Hope motivates Change." Careful Balance of evidenced-based therapy's, holistic approaches, and spirituality, in ways that offer more optimal recovery and functioning. Treating the whole person rather than just symptom relief. Person Centered, Recovery-Orientated Care. Helping to build on strengths, resilience, and manage recovery. Help to provide wellness skills that encourage relapse prevention and re-build social skills where possible. Some approaches include trauma informed care, cognitive behavioral therapy, Rogerian, Stages of Change, Motivational Interveiwing and natural alternatives-when and where possible.
I utilize an integrative approach combining evidenced-based treatments including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, family systems and play therapy.
I work with individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. I primarily work with trauma, anxiety, depression, family reunification and gender identity, but am here to help with whatever may be troubling you. I am also a LGBTQIA+ affirming and multiculturally sensitive practitioner.
I utilize an integrative approach combining evidenced-based treatments including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, family systems and play therapy.
I work with individuals of all ages as well as couples and families. I primarily work with trauma, anxiety, depression, family reunification and gender identity, but am here to help with whatever may be troubling you. I am also a LGBTQIA+ affirming and multiculturally sensitive practitioner.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my journey into the field of mental health has been personal and shaped by my belief in the inherent worth and potential of individuals. I am passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment where my clients feel truly heard and valued. Rooted in person-centered therapy, I understand that each person’s experience is unique, and my role is not to impose solutions but to walk alongside them as they discover their own path toward healing and growth. For me, counseling is not about being the expert, rather being an active and supportive presence in my clients' lives.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, my journey into the field of mental health has been personal and shaped by my belief in the inherent worth and potential of individuals. I am passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental, and empathetic environment where my clients feel truly heard and valued. Rooted in person-centered therapy, I understand that each person’s experience is unique, and my role is not to impose solutions but to walk alongside them as they discover their own path toward healing and growth. For me, counseling is not about being the expert, rather being an active and supportive presence in my clients' lives.
Normal is a setting on a dryer. We are all unique and valid with vast minds. We all have different situations and I believe in using those pieces to heal and build strength. While I specialize in trauma, neurodivergence, addiction, and mood, our struggles are usually not that one note or simple. I focus on all aspects of who you and where you want to be, building a strong relationship based on empathy, trust and non judgement. Life is rough, we lose sight of our way, stop seeing the beauty, forget who we are, feel stuck or changed. It takes courage to be vulnerable and reality is we are imperfectly perfect.
Normal is a setting on a dryer. We are all unique and valid with vast minds. We all have different situations and I believe in using those pieces to heal and build strength. While I specialize in trauma, neurodivergence, addiction, and mood, our struggles are usually not that one note or simple. I focus on all aspects of who you and where you want to be, building a strong relationship based on empathy, trust and non judgement. Life is rough, we lose sight of our way, stop seeing the beauty, forget who we are, feel stuck or changed. It takes courage to be vulnerable and reality is we are imperfectly perfect.
Providing Quality Mental Health Counseling, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, medical/medication services, pharmacy services, and family support services such as housing, daily living skills, educational/ academic services, parenting and nurturing to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. ***We accept most ALL insurances and private pay*** Call us at 414-455-3879 or email us at clinic@amricounseling.com to schedule an appointment.
Providing Quality Mental Health Counseling, Alcohol and Drug Counseling, medical/medication services, pharmacy services, and family support services such as housing, daily living skills, educational/ academic services, parenting and nurturing to children, adolescents, adults, couples and families. ***We accept most ALL insurances and private pay*** Call us at 414-455-3879 or email us at clinic@amricounseling.com to schedule an appointment.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I have been in the field since 2019, working with individuals, couples, groups, and families. I have the most experience working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, transition issues, and or family concerns. I prefer to work with anyone ages 6 and up, with my work having allowed me to connected with individuals across the life span. Reach out and let's chat about how we can work together to achieve your goals.
Thank you for considering me as your therapist! I have been in the field since 2019, working with individuals, couples, groups, and families. I have the most experience working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, transition issues, and or family concerns. I prefer to work with anyone ages 6 and up, with my work having allowed me to connected with individuals across the life span. Reach out and let's chat about how we can work together to achieve your goals.
Reginald J Bell
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, ADC-SUD, CSAC, CCTPII, LPC-IT
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53218
Overcoming Co-occurring disorders: Your Path to Healing I specialize in helping individuals conquer addiction & co-occurring disorders. I provide a safe space where you can: Explore addiction’s roots Develop coping skills Rebuild your life We’ll create a personalized plan for long-term recovery, focusing on: Lasting sobriety Strong relationships Financial stability Purpose & meaning Self-worth Key Steps: Embrace sobriety & reclaim your life Nurture healthy relationships Achieve financial stability Discover purpose & meaning Cultivate self-worth Through compassionate guidance and evidence-based practices.
Overcoming Co-occurring disorders: Your Path to Healing I specialize in helping individuals conquer addiction & co-occurring disorders. I provide a safe space where you can: Explore addiction’s roots Develop coping skills Rebuild your life We’ll create a personalized plan for long-term recovery, focusing on: Lasting sobriety Strong relationships Financial stability Purpose & meaning Self-worth Key Steps: Embrace sobriety & reclaim your life Nurture healthy relationships Achieve financial stability Discover purpose & meaning Cultivate self-worth Through compassionate guidance and evidence-based practices.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here. While I primarily work with adults, I also occasionally work with teens and adolescents. I work with clients who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or major life transitions. My ideal client is someone who wants to better understand themselves, find balance, and feel more in control of their emotions and life. They are ready to explore their experiences and discover ways to cope, grow, and move forward.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here. While I primarily work with adults, I also occasionally work with teens and adolescents. I work with clients who are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain, struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, or major life transitions. My ideal client is someone who wants to better understand themselves, find balance, and feel more in control of their emotions and life. They are ready to explore their experiences and discover ways to cope, grow, and move forward.
My approach is to collaboratively explore solutions to issues experienced in creative ways, such as using art/crafts, meditataion, breathwork, and movement that can make the process of holistic healing not just impactful, but also enjoyable.
My approach is to collaboratively explore solutions to issues experienced in creative ways, such as using art/crafts, meditataion, breathwork, and movement that can make the process of holistic healing not just impactful, but also enjoyable.
I've been studying play therapy and theraplay with a licensed play therapist.
“Hope is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words-and never stops at all.” Emily Dickinson. Hope begins the journey for each of us to become the person we want to be. With positive unconditional regard and someone who listens, we humans naturally gravitate to feel comfort in who we are. We move toward health, self discovery, and compassion for ourselves and others. I’m passionate about being part of each person’s journey, focusing on each individual’s strengths and resilience. Clients also become comfortable in their bodies as healing our bodies facilitates mental and physical health.
I've been studying play therapy and theraplay with a licensed play therapist.
“Hope is the thing with feathers – That perches in the soul – And sings the tune without the words-and never stops at all.” Emily Dickinson. Hope begins the journey for each of us to become the person we want to be. With positive unconditional regard and someone who listens, we humans naturally gravitate to feel comfort in who we are. We move toward health, self discovery, and compassion for ourselves and others. I’m passionate about being part of each person’s journey, focusing on each individual’s strengths and resilience. Clients also become comfortable in their bodies as healing our bodies facilitates mental and physical health.
My approach blends warmth with practical tools, using evidence-based techniques like DBT, CBT, attachment-based therapy, and Jungian Sand- Play to support both immediate relief and long-term change.
My approach is deeply relational and I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is a foundation for growth and healing. I meet each client where they are and work together to find meaning, build resilience, and foster self-acceptance.
My approach blends warmth with practical tools, using evidence-based techniques like DBT, CBT, attachment-based therapy, and Jungian Sand- Play to support both immediate relief and long-term change.
My approach is deeply relational and I believe the therapeutic relationship itself is a foundation for growth and healing. I meet each client where they are and work together to find meaning, build resilience, and foster self-acceptance.
Interwoven within art and play, I find that these creative forms of engagement are conduits for safety, non-verbal and verbal communication, wellness, and intuitive connections.
Hello! I’m Erica, an Art Therapist and Mental Health Therapist. As an intuitive, creative, somatic-based, and nature driven individual, I understand the many pieces that form each person and story. Your experience is yours, and when you need to share it, it deserves a space to be held, acknowledged, and supported. In my work, I seek connection and opportunity to walk with you on your path, seeking to understand your experiences, empower your strengths, and approach growth and challenges with creativity and warmth. My areas of focus include early childhood mental health, ADHD, medical diagnosis, and trauma.
Interwoven within art and play, I find that these creative forms of engagement are conduits for safety, non-verbal and verbal communication, wellness, and intuitive connections.
Hello! I’m Erica, an Art Therapist and Mental Health Therapist. As an intuitive, creative, somatic-based, and nature driven individual, I understand the many pieces that form each person and story. Your experience is yours, and when you need to share it, it deserves a space to be held, acknowledged, and supported. In my work, I seek connection and opportunity to walk with you on your path, seeking to understand your experiences, empower your strengths, and approach growth and challenges with creativity and warmth. My areas of focus include early childhood mental health, ADHD, medical diagnosis, and trauma.
You don’t have to stay stuck between who you were and who you want to be. I help youth and adults heal from trauma, depression, anxiety and a multitude of different life issues through compassionate, culturally responsive therapy. Together, we focus on understanding your story, building emotional awareness, and developing practical tools to restore balance and confidence.
You don’t have to stay stuck between who you were and who you want to be. I help youth and adults heal from trauma, depression, anxiety and a multitude of different life issues through compassionate, culturally responsive therapy. Together, we focus on understanding your story, building emotional awareness, and developing practical tools to restore balance and confidence.
My clients and families are motivated to improve their lives and are open to discovering new ways to manage their emotions and navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, low self-acceptance or self-worth, motherhood, and those healing from childhood trauma or complex family dynamics, which often impact performance in work, school, sports, and relationships.
I also work with young children, teens, and families who are struggling meeting school or family expectations and are having trouble connecting with one another.
My clients and families are motivated to improve their lives and are open to discovering new ways to manage their emotions and navigate life’s challenges. I specialize in working with individuals who are navigating neurodivergence, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, low self-acceptance or self-worth, motherhood, and those healing from childhood trauma or complex family dynamics, which often impact performance in work, school, sports, and relationships.
I also work with young children, teens, and families who are struggling meeting school or family expectations and are having trouble connecting with one another.
Hello and welcome - I’m glad you’re here!
Hello and welcome - I’m glad you’re here!
See more therapy options for Milwaukee
Nearby Play Therapy Searches for Milwaukee
- Elm Grove
- Fox Point
- Franklin
- Glendale
- Greenfield
- Hales Corners
- New Berlin
- Oak Creek
- Shorewood
- Wauwatosa
- West Allis
- Whitefish Bay
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.