Amy Wechsler, MSW, LCSW, DT
Clinical Director and Founder
From an early age, Amy realized her passion for working with young children, both with and without developmental differences. She spent many summers as a counselor and teacher’s assistant at Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association and working in various pre-school and daycare settings.
Amy earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2006. During her time at the University of Illinois, Amy gained clinical experience interning at the Champaign County Juvenile Detention Center conducting psycho-social groups for juvenile inmates. She also enjoyed volunteering at the Crisis Nursery.
After graduating, Amy continued her education at Loyola University Chicago where she studied social work and earned her Master of Social Work degree in 2008. During her time at Loyola, she interned as a hospital social worker in the neonatal intensive care unit at John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital of Cook County and as an outpatient therapist at Niles Family Services.
She began her career in Illinois Early Intervention following graduate school. Amy is a licensed clinical social worker and credentialed Early Intervention Specialist and Evaluator in both Developmental Therapy and Social Work. She specializes in treating children with neurodevelopmental disorders, anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, and behavioral challenges. Amy uses her extensive knowledge of sensory processing and global development to guide her treatment style. Amy loves providing family support and teaching parents how to effectively support their child’s challenges.
In 2011, Amy proudly founded PlayWorks Therapy, Inc. It is her strong passion, creative energy, caring personality, and knowledgeable experience in the field that led to the creation of PlayWorks Therapy, Inc. Amy feels lucky to have parents who taught her the principles of hard work, entrepreneurship, respect, and standing up for what you believe in.
Amy loves mentoring therapists and is dedicated to ensuring all PlayWorks Therapy, Inc. clients receive the highest standard of services. Integrated into the core values of PlayWorks Therapy Inc., it is Amy’s mission to support a practice that provides intentional, high-quality care to children and families by therapists who are exceptionally passionate and knowledgeable about the work they do.
Amy lives with her husband and three children in the northern suburbs. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, biking, and discovering new restaurants.