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Company Location
Morris, IL, Yorkville, IL,
Plainfield, IL -
Phone Number
(815) 941-3882
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Locations
Plainfield, IL
Morris, IL
Ottawa, IL
Yorkville, IL
Play Therapy
Play Therapy: Helping Children Heal Through Play
Play therapy is a therapeutic approach primarily used with children. Based on the understanding that play is a natural medium for expression, communication, and emotional processing, play therapy provides a non-directive and supportive environment for individuals to explore and make sense of their thoughts and feelings.
In therapy, trained therapists use a variety of toys, games, art materials, and other creative tools to engage clients in a playful and symbolic manner. Through these activities, clients can communicate and work through challenges, trauma, or emotional difficulties in a way that feels safe and comfortable.
The therapist may observe the client’s play, join in when appropriate, and help the individual process their experiences and emotions. therapy can be particularly effective in addressing issues such as anxiety, trauma, behavioral problems, and social difficulties.
Play therapy offers a range of benefits for individuals, especially children, who may find it challenging to express themselves through traditional talk therapy. Some of the main benefits include:
Expression of Emotions: Play provides a natural and non-verbal way for individuals to express complex emotions, thoughts, and experiences that may be difficult to articulate verbally.
Communication Skills: Play therapy helps individuals develop and improve their communication skills, as they learn to express themselves, interact with others, and convey their feelings and needs through play.
Emotional Regulation: Through play, individuals can learn to regulate and manage their emotions. This is particularly valuable for children who may struggle with emotional control or have difficulty identifying and expressing their feelings.
Problem-Solving Skills: Play therapy encourages individuals to explore different scenarios and solutions in a safe environment, fostering the development of problem-solving skills and creativity.
Building Trust and Rapport: The playful and non-threatening nature of therapy helps build a strong therapeutic relationship between the client and the therapist. Trust is essential for effective therapeutic outcomes.
Trauma Processing: For individuals who have experienced trauma, therapy provides a safe space to process and make sense of their experiences. Symbolic play can be a powerful tool for addressing trauma in a developmentally appropriate way.
Cognitive Development: Play therapy supports cognitive development by engaging individuals in activities that stimulate their imagination, creativity, and critical thinking.
Behavioral Changes: Addressing underlying emotional issues through therapy can lead to positive behavioral changes. As individuals gain insight into their emotions, they may develop healthier coping mechanisms and behavioral patterns.
Social Skills Development: Play therapy often involves interactive and cooperative play, fostering the development of social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and cooperation.
Self-Esteem and Confidence: Success and positive experiences in the therapy setting contribute to the development of a positive self-image, self-esteem, and increased confidence.
Play Therapy Therapists: Timberlie Jahn, Ashley Krumlinde, Rebecca Liebermann, Alexis Massutti,Jonah McKeown
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Our Play Therapists
Specializes in:
anxiety, depression, adolescent challenges, and adjusting to life challenges/changes.
Ashley Krumlinde is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC. She received her BA in psychology from the University of Saint Francis in 2012, and her MA in counseling from Governors State University in 2015. Her mental health treatment experiences include working with children (age 7 years and older), adolescents and families. Her clinical interest includes anxiety, depression, adolescent challenges, and adjusting to life challenges/changes. Ashley's practice style is based on a Bowenian theoretical approach as well as other therapeutic techniques such as CBT and Psycho education.
Ashley currently sees clients out of the Morris office. Ashley is in the office Monday-Thursday.
She joined the Crossroads' team May of 2017.
Specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and humanistic therapy.
Jonah McKeown, is a student at the University of Aurora. He is currently working on completing his Masters in Clinical Social Work. Jonah obtained his Bachelors in
Social Work from the University of Aurora. Jonah completed his internship at CASA of River Valley serving as a Guardian Ad Litem for children in the foster care system. Jonah's areas of clinical interest include anger management, ADHD, grief/loss, neurodivergence, OCD, ODD, Phobias, Play Therapy, LGBTQIA+, trauma, addictions,and more. Jonah works with clients of all ages and has past experience working with children (age 3-12 years old).
Jonah's therapeutic approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and humanistic therapy.
Specializes in:
Anxiety, panic attacks, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, stress, eating disorders, sexuality and gender identity, self-injurious behavior, relationship issues, family issues, and academic problems.
Katherine believes in working with her clients to address the barriers they face utilizing evidence-based approaches that suit their needs, personality, and goals. Katherine integrates psychoeducation, mindfulness practices, cognitive behavior therapy, and psychotherapy to empower and support her clients in attaining the life they wish to lead.
Katherine McKeown, LSW, PEL, received her Master’s of Social Work from Aurora University. She recognizes the importance of continuing her education in order to stay current on practices in order to provide optimal support to her clients. Prior to joining Crossroads, she supported unhoused individuals in accessing community resources and advocating for their needs. She has experience working as a school social worker and special education teacher. Within her role, she has facilitated mental health-based groups and one on one therapy. Katherine’s goal is for her clients to leave sessions feeling hopeful. While Katherine has a variety of experience working with youth and adults, she recognizes that you are the expert of yourself and looks forward to the opportunity to get to know you.
Areas of clinical interest include anxiety, panic attacks, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, stress, eating disorders, sexuality and gender identity, self injurious behavior, relationship issues, family issues, and academic problems.