Michele Oneill, LICSW, CCLS, APHSW-C, CGCS-CA

I am an experienced as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Certified Child Life Specialist, I specialize in working with children and teens navigating chronic illness, pain, anxiety, grief, sibling dynamics, and medical trauma. I also support children who are coping with the serious illness or death of a loved one.

About Me
Welcome to Playful Healing Children’s Counseling & Consulting. My name is Michele O’Neill, and I’m a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS) with over 30 years of experience supporting children, adolescents, and families through life’s most challenging moments.
I specialize in working with young clients who are navigating:
• Grief and bereavement
• Chronic or complex illness
• Medical trauma and pain management
• Sibling dynamics
• Anxiety
• End-of-life situations
• The serious illness or loss of a loved one
At my practice in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, I offer in-person therapy in a cozy, child-friendly space equipped with toys, books, play materials, and a sand tray. I am currently accepting new clients and offer both insurance and self-pay options. Virtual parent consultations are also available.
________________________________________
My Approach
Children communicate best through play—which is why play-based therapy is at the heart of my work. I create a warm, developmentally sensitive, and emotionally safe environment where children can express big feelings, build resilience, and begin to heal.
I tailor my approach to meet each child’s individual needs, integrating evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, including:
• Play-Based Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Narrative Therapy
• Sand Tray Therapy
• Strength-Based Approaches
• Trauma-Informed Care
Every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. When children can safely express their emotions, it not only improves emotional regulation and self-esteem—it also strengthens the family as a whole. I work closely with caregivers and care teams to support healthier communication and connection.
________________________________________
Who I Work With
I see children and teens who may be struggling with sadness, fear, anger, or confusion around illness, pain, or loss. Many of my clients have experienced complex medical journeys, hospitalizations, or have been deeply affected by a sibling or parent's health challenges. These experiences can feel overwhelming, and families often seek guidance on how to support their child in navigating them.
I also work with siblings of children with chronic or life-limiting illnesses, offering a space to explore their own needs and feelings that may otherwise go unspoken. My goal is to help each child process their emotions in a healthy way—so they can feel more confident, connected, and at peace.
________________________________________
Special Focus: Pediatric Palliative Care & Grief
For the past decade, I’ve had the honor of working in pediatric palliative care, offering non-judgmental, deeply empathetic support to children and families facing end-of-life decisions, anticipatory grief, and profound loss. I understand the unique emotional terrain of these moments and strive to be a grounded, compassionate presence through them.
I hold advanced certifications in this area, including:
• Advanced Palliative & Hospice Social Work Certification (APHSW-C)
• Certified Grief Counseling Specialist for Children & Adolescents (CGCS-CA)
These credentials reflect my commitment to holistic, whole-family care during life’s most difficult transitions.
________________________________________
Why I Do This Work
Supporting children and families through medical and emotional challenges isn’t just my profession—it’s my calling. I’ve spent my career in pediatric healthcare and mental health settings, bearing witness to the strength, vulnerability, and resilience of children and the adults who care for them.
I know how heartbreaking it can be to watch a child struggle. That’s why I’ve created Playful Healing Children’s Counseling & Consulting: to offer a compassionate, therapeutic space where healing is possible and families feel less alone.
________________________________________
Credentials & Background
• Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) – MA & CT
• Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS)
• Advanced Palliative & Hospice Social Worker – Certified (APHSW-C)
• Certified Grief Counseling Specialist – Children & Adolescents (CGCS-CA)
• 30+ years of experience in pediatric healthcare and mental health settings
• Bachelor of Science in Child Life – Utica College of Syracuse University
• Master of Arts in Human Development & Family Studies – University of Connecticut
• Master of Social Work – Westfield State University
________________________________________
Let’s Connect
If you’re looking for a therapist who will meet your child with empathy, expertise, and play-based support, I’d love to connect. Whether your family is navigating medical complexity, grief, or emotional overwhelm, I am here to help your child feel safe, understood, and empowered to move forward.
Please feel free to reach out to schedule a consultation or learn more about how I can support your family. Your child and family don’t have to go through this alone.