Thanks to everyone who took the time to respond with some helpful suggestions.

He doesn't seem to hate the crate - he will go in and out of it with toys but I just can't lock him in it.

I do think I will move the crate back into the kitchen so he can spend more time in there of his own volition.

I am a fan of the "kong" - at least if I give that to him before he freaks out - it tends to occupy him while I make my exit.

To "emmastaff" I will PM you to get the name of the professional you know just in case this issues continues when he gets a little older.