Play Therapy is an approach to counseling utilized for children. Children learn to understand the world through play. Play Therapy embraces play to facilitate therapeutic interventions. Play can include games, dolls, art activities, sports, make-believe, or any other activity that fits a child developmentally and emotionally.
Play Therapy can be beneficial for children with behavioral issues. Because these children might not have the words to communicate their feelings or might not want to, this allows them a space to express themselves and share their feelings through play.
Play therapists get to know the child’s specific interests and can tailor their counseling space to make it unique for each child. As the counselor observes and interacts with the child, they can understand the emotions that lead to their behaviors. Over time, therapists can encourage children to use play to express feelings instead of expressing them through inappropriate or harmful behaviors.
Play Therapy can also be used for adults to help them connect with their inner creativity and facilitate child-like joy.
The motto for my practice, “Therapy that balances nurture and challenge,” means I accept you unconditionally, even the parts of you that may be associated with shame or rejection and I believe that you're always moving towards growth. The safety created in our relationship allows you space to try on new behaviors or choices or beliefs… in short, the relationship helps you grow. I believe that...
The thought of starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Sometimes we are ashamed to ask for help, or embarrassed by what we are seeking help for. The truth is, though, that in order to move forward, we have to face those things that are causing our pain and unhappiness. And sometimes we need help to do that. Asking for help takes courage. Allowing oneself to be vulnerable takes strength. I have...
Over time patterns of behaviors become deeply rutted and fade into the unconscious. Developing an awareness of these neuropathways, how they dictate and influence addictions, everyday experiences and interactions is key to releasing you from self-defeating and overwhelming dynamics in your life. Once you've identified obstacles which interfere with experiencing life to the fullest, a customized...
I believe that we all need a little bit of help once in a while. I also know that sometimes we don't know how to get that help or whom to ask. I feel that therapy can be beneficial to help facilitate that change by providing an outlet or resource for those that need that help. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and families. I have experience working with PTSD and trauma, grief,...
For more than two decades, I have made a commitment in the professional realm to understand the human condition. What I have learned is that we are unique yet unifying and vast yet reachable. It is my passion to take a journey with you and learn about what makes you who you are and how this interplays with the world and relationships around you. Everyone has a story. If you don't know yours, th...
Most parents who contact me are struggling to find an effective resolution for their child's behavior. Kids may be having difficulty at home and/or school or they may be having trouble managing big feelings & challenging moments that come along with growing up. There may be conflict at home between family members, difficulties with parenting or in the parent-child relationship, or the entire...
Sometimes in life we run into times that are hard to navigate alone; entering a new phase in life, getting through a break-up or trouble in a relationship, communicating with one another, anger, life transitions, parenting issues and/or blended families. Possibly you, your child or you both have ADHD? I can help with tools for focus and tips for making your day start and go more smoothly, to...
I provide counseling in English and Spanish to children and adolescents suffering from: depression, anxiety, panic, social phobia, obsessions and compulsions, behavioral issues, and struggles with relationships, perfectionism and bullying. I strive to build a relationship with their parents in order to allow the best treatment possible as a team. All my professional life has been spent with...
Through play and music therapy, we can devise plans, which help one find their calm, and recognize worn patterns, allowing one to initiate positive change. Play and music therapy works whether you are young, transitional age, or a mature adult finding your way through changes in life. Music therapy has positive impacts reconnecting our mind, and emotions to our body through the discovery of...
I believe that anyone can benefit from therapy. Taking the first step can be extremely overwhelming and I am here to provide a safe place for you to begin your journey. Whether you are struggling with daily stressors, mental health issues, or addiction, I will utilize active, client-centered approaches in order to help you to reach your specific goals. While I specialize in child and adolescent...
I believe that the relationship between therapist and client is an essential part of the healing process. To foster the therapeutic relationship I incorporate trust, respect, and authenticity into my work. I provide an open, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment where my clients can feel at ease. My goal for my clients is two-fold. In the short term, I'd like to help clients get some reli...
I provide compassionate counseling when you are facing mental health challenges - transitions in your life, relationship issues, trauma, grief, personal growth, anxiety, depression and stress related issues. I use a variety of counseling methods & incorporate mindfulness & relaxation into my counseling sessions when appropriate. I hope to bring a broad, warm and unique quality of experience,...
During my past 18 years as a therapist I've worked with several clients with a variety of presenting problems, including anxiety and depression, chemical dependency, emotional abuse, sex addiction, codependency, eating disorders, and childhood trauma. I offer a supportive, confidential and safe place for you, your partner, spouse and/or family to work through obstacles, struggles, and current/p...
I am passionate about helping people who are suffering and hurting. The life that we live can be difficult, confusing, frustrating, and hard. I believe we all struggle with things in life, and that we have goals we want to achieve that may help with the struggles. Many times, as human beings we tend to focus more on the struggles rather than the goals. My goal as a therapist is to work alongsid...
Amy has worked as a therapist and counselor in the Omaha Metro Area for the past four years. Amy has worked with clients in residential, outpatient, and school settings. Amy has experience working with individuals and groups with depression, anxiety, ADHD/ADD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, trauma, sexual abuse, and substance use. Amy has been trained in TF-CBT, MET-CBT, MDFT, CPP, RSAFE, DBT...
