Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist in Missouri
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ladue, MO 63124
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.
(314) 485-4853 View (314) 485-4853
Photo of Machaela Rausch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Machaela Rausch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayette, MO 65248  (Online Only)
Life can be challenging at all stages! In my work with late teens to adults, I have found a common denominator: they have all the potential within themselves to be who they want to be, but got lost along the way. I work with you to fight the urge to be perfect and do everything "right." Do you want to feel confident in your job? What direction to go in your sport? Decide if this relationship is right for you? Want to feel comfortable and confident in your body? Improve your relationship with food? Process trauma related to an eating disorder or relationship? If you're in one of these stages, we might be a good fit!
Life can be challenging at all stages! In my work with late teens to adults, I have found a common denominator: they have all the potential within themselves to be who they want to be, but got lost along the way. I work with you to fight the urge to be perfect and do everything "right." Do you want to feel confident in your job? What direction to go in your sport? Decide if this relationship is right for you? Want to feel comfortable and confident in your body? Improve your relationship with food? Process trauma related to an eating disorder or relationship? If you're in one of these stages, we might be a good fit!
(660) 312-0992 View (660) 312-0992
Photo of Jessica Twehous, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Jessica Twehous
Pre-Licensed Professional, M Ed, PLPC
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, MO 65109  (Online Only)
What if you could wake up tomorrow and finally feel better? What if you were living the life you truly desired? Therapy allows us to find real solutions to our greatest challenges. Perhaps your relationship or marriage is in a rut, your anxiety has left you paralyzed and fearful, or your depression has kept you in bed for weeks. Whatever your struggle is, I am here to offer a warm, helping hand so that we can help you get back to living your life. I seek to provide a safe space to work through your complex and unique challenges to foster lasting transformation. You weren't meant to merely survive, but to thrive.
What if you could wake up tomorrow and finally feel better? What if you were living the life you truly desired? Therapy allows us to find real solutions to our greatest challenges. Perhaps your relationship or marriage is in a rut, your anxiety has left you paralyzed and fearful, or your depression has kept you in bed for weeks. Whatever your struggle is, I am here to offer a warm, helping hand so that we can help you get back to living your life. I seek to provide a safe space to work through your complex and unique challenges to foster lasting transformation. You weren't meant to merely survive, but to thrive.
(573) 261-5982 View (573) 261-5982
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 760-2389 View (816) 760-2389
Photo of Misty M Hayes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Misty M Hayes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Neosho, MO 64850
My focus is on helping clients in the healing process. I address issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, marital discord, relationship conflict, trauma, grief, abuse, child conduct issues and a many other emotional, behavioral, social and family issues. I would be honored to work with anyone who is experiencing difficulty in life and help them learn and develop different ways to cope and resolve their emotional pain. One of the unique therapeutic interventions I use is Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAT is designed to promote improvement in physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning.
My focus is on helping clients in the healing process. I address issues such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, marital discord, relationship conflict, trauma, grief, abuse, child conduct issues and a many other emotional, behavioral, social and family issues. I would be honored to work with anyone who is experiencing difficulty in life and help them learn and develop different ways to cope and resolve their emotional pain. One of the unique therapeutic interventions I use is Animal Assisted Therapy (AAT). AAT is designed to promote improvement in physical, social, emotional, and/or cognitive functioning.
(417) 658-4966 View (417) 658-4966
Photo of Lucy Zee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Lucy Zee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olivette, MO 63132
You love and cherish your child or teenager. And, you work hard to provide for their physical/emotional well-being because happy, healthy kids promote joyful families. But sometimes despite your best efforts, your child continues to struggle with behavioral problems, peer relationships, family changes, deficits in social/emotional development, aftermath of traumatic experiences, or mental health challenges. Many parents like you are tasked to find the necessary help and resources that their children require. My training and experience in issues related to trauma, mental health, and attachment position me well to serve the needs of your family.
You love and cherish your child or teenager. And, you work hard to provide for their physical/emotional well-being because happy, healthy kids promote joyful families. But sometimes despite your best efforts, your child continues to struggle with behavioral problems, peer relationships, family changes, deficits in social/emotional development, aftermath of traumatic experiences, or mental health challenges. Many parents like you are tasked to find the necessary help and resources that their children require. My training and experience in issues related to trauma, mental health, and attachment position me well to serve the needs of your family.
(314) 720-0982 View (314) 720-0982
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 327-7967 View (816) 327-7967
Photo of Gabrielle Chappelle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Gabrielle Chappelle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
Hi there, I’m Gabrielle! Managing the demands of life while dealing with private pain and suffering can be really tough. There may be a sense of ‘Where do I even begin?’ I would love the opportunity to begin right where you are. You may find me appropriate if you are seeking emotional resilience, self-acceptance, or harmony in your relationships. My primary area of focus is with adults and couples impacted by life transitions, trauma, grief, or addiction.
Hi there, I’m Gabrielle! Managing the demands of life while dealing with private pain and suffering can be really tough. There may be a sense of ‘Where do I even begin?’ I would love the opportunity to begin right where you are. You may find me appropriate if you are seeking emotional resilience, self-acceptance, or harmony in your relationships. My primary area of focus is with adults and couples impacted by life transitions, trauma, grief, or addiction.
(816) 692-2933 View (816) 692-2933
Photo of Radical Empowerment Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Radical Empowerment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64086
The ideal client is everyone as mental wellness is for everyone. Those who seek a radical approach to empowerment in strengthening their ability to develop boundaries, expectations, values, relationships, authenticity, attachment and healing will become closer to the goal of value based living and healing.
The ideal client is everyone as mental wellness is for everyone. Those who seek a radical approach to empowerment in strengthening their ability to develop boundaries, expectations, values, relationships, authenticity, attachment and healing will become closer to the goal of value based living and healing.
(816) 323-5360 View (816) 323-5360
Photo of Rise to Wellness, LLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Rise to Wellness, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Olivette, MO 63132  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a basis for emotional processing and behavior change. I am deeply committed to respecting each person's individual experience and work to identify tools and interventions that fit the needs of each person. I believe in an integrative health model exploring the mind, body and environment. I believe that exploring the use of mindfulness techniques can have powerful positive effects with individuals who are open. My aim is to support individuals into awareness of their personal strengths and to encourage growth and healing from within, despite the external circumstances.
I am informed by Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a basis for emotional processing and behavior change. I am deeply committed to respecting each person's individual experience and work to identify tools and interventions that fit the needs of each person. I believe in an integrative health model exploring the mind, body and environment. I believe that exploring the use of mindfulness techniques can have powerful positive effects with individuals who are open. My aim is to support individuals into awareness of their personal strengths and to encourage growth and healing from within, despite the external circumstances.
(314) 370-2633 View (314) 370-2633
Photo of Katie Kirby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Katie Kirby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
Welcome! I’m passionate about helping individuals find a sense of groundedness and connection while learning to navigate an overwhelming part of life. Feeling overwhelmed can cause us to question ourselves and feel untethered. I am here to hold space and walk with you as you reconnect to your innate ability to regulate, explore your experiences with greater curiosity and compassion, and find deeper connection with yourself and others.
Welcome! I’m passionate about helping individuals find a sense of groundedness and connection while learning to navigate an overwhelming part of life. Feeling overwhelmed can cause us to question ourselves and feel untethered. I am here to hold space and walk with you as you reconnect to your innate ability to regulate, explore your experiences with greater curiosity and compassion, and find deeper connection with yourself and others.
(314) 528-9943 View (314) 528-9943
Photo of Donald A Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Donald A Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
What to do with a difficult child, or with a teen whose behaviors pose real problems. How to keep a job, change one, or stay in school. What to do when identity is unclear, hope is lost, or in a crisis of faith. How to see with a partner a way of love and care. How to act in wisdom. When in need of relief from anxieties or pressures feeling too much to bear, one takes a brave and important step reaching out for qualified help. Working with a mental health professional, one can find integrity and meaning in the midst of pain. One can find healing and hopefulness for facing challenges. One can better understand their life.
What to do with a difficult child, or with a teen whose behaviors pose real problems. How to keep a job, change one, or stay in school. What to do when identity is unclear, hope is lost, or in a crisis of faith. How to see with a partner a way of love and care. How to act in wisdom. When in need of relief from anxieties or pressures feeling too much to bear, one takes a brave and important step reaching out for qualified help. Working with a mental health professional, one can find integrity and meaning in the midst of pain. One can find healing and hopefulness for facing challenges. One can better understand their life.
(636) 466-8280 View (636) 466-8280
Photo of Cheryl M Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cheryl M Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Did you know that couples on average wait 6 years before seeking help for a troubled marriage. Are you and your spouse wanting renewal, connection and joy. There is hope whether the problem is trust, emotional distance, or escalating conflict. I start with a strengths based focus using research based Gottman method interventions that work. Do you have more than 20 days in the month of sadness, irritability or anxious worry? Individual counseling is a place to tell your story in order to build new skills and experiences to increase the days of happiness and contentment each month.
Did you know that couples on average wait 6 years before seeking help for a troubled marriage. Are you and your spouse wanting renewal, connection and joy. There is hope whether the problem is trust, emotional distance, or escalating conflict. I start with a strengths based focus using research based Gottman method interventions that work. Do you have more than 20 days in the month of sadness, irritability or anxious worry? Individual counseling is a place to tell your story in order to build new skills and experiences to increase the days of happiness and contentment each month.
(314) 207-3278 View (314) 207-3278
Photo of Rynn Wyrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Rynn Wyrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101  (Online Only)
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
(314) 970-3579 View (314) 970-3579
Photo of Sara Johnson-Cardona, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Sara Johnson-Cardona
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117  (Online Only)
No matter how hard you try, you feel like you aren't good enough. You are trying so hard to figure out how to make everything fall into place, but you just can’t find the solution. You try to be everything to everyone, but there is a part of you that knows this really isn’t working. You are scared there might be something wrong with you. You are ready for relief; you just really want life to feel easier. Yet, you aren’t sure if that is possible, or how others would react if you did change. You want a therapist who can provide a shelter of calm, and who knows a path to transformation.
No matter how hard you try, you feel like you aren't good enough. You are trying so hard to figure out how to make everything fall into place, but you just can’t find the solution. You try to be everything to everyone, but there is a part of you that knows this really isn’t working. You are scared there might be something wrong with you. You are ready for relief; you just really want life to feel easier. Yet, you aren’t sure if that is possible, or how others would react if you did change. You want a therapist who can provide a shelter of calm, and who knows a path to transformation.
(314) 526-0327 View (314) 526-0327
Photo of Anna Stelmach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Anna Stelmach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
I believe everyone is an expert in one's own life. My intention, as a therapist, is to offer connection, support, and a safe environment. I collaborate with clients to explore their experience and deepen their awareness in order to have a greater understanding of themselves, as well as a way to alleviate issues.
I believe everyone is an expert in one's own life. My intention, as a therapist, is to offer connection, support, and a safe environment. I collaborate with clients to explore their experience and deepen their awareness in order to have a greater understanding of themselves, as well as a way to alleviate issues.
(816) 203-3752 View (816) 203-3752
Photo of Bill Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Bill Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63126  (Online Only)
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
(573) 312-2953 View (573) 312-2953
Photo of Amy Congdon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Amy Congdon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64086
I believe identity is a critical part of self-understanding and healing. For this reason, I enjoy working with folks who are looking to explore their identities which might include sexuality, gender, race, religion, physical and mental ability, and roles in society. I am cognizant that our identities shape our personal and lived experiences in the world, and this continually impacts how and what we need to heal. I approach therapy from a non-religious standpoint, but have a deep interest in how religion impacts people, including ways that it can act as a source of trauma, while also acknowledging that it can be a source of support.
I believe identity is a critical part of self-understanding and healing. For this reason, I enjoy working with folks who are looking to explore their identities which might include sexuality, gender, race, religion, physical and mental ability, and roles in society. I am cognizant that our identities shape our personal and lived experiences in the world, and this continually impacts how and what we need to heal. I approach therapy from a non-religious standpoint, but have a deep interest in how religion impacts people, including ways that it can act as a source of trauma, while also acknowledging that it can be a source of support.
(816) 317-0010 View (816) 317-0010
Photo of Julia Leah Hughes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Julia Leah Hughes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH, CCTP, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Seeking space to process trauma and understand your path of healing is a courageous choice. Whether you are new to therapy, or returning to your journey of healing self-discovery — searching for a therapist can be overwhelming. Be proud that you made it this far! I am passionate about processing trauma and working with caregivers, helpers, and those excited to attune to one's own needs. I work with clients seeking to explore a deeper understanding of their attachment, and identities and heal from trauma, abuse, and neglect. My practice welcomes those who identify as neurodivergent, LGBTQIA2+, or consensually non-monogamous.
Seeking space to process trauma and understand your path of healing is a courageous choice. Whether you are new to therapy, or returning to your journey of healing self-discovery — searching for a therapist can be overwhelming. Be proud that you made it this far! I am passionate about processing trauma and working with caregivers, helpers, and those excited to attune to one's own needs. I work with clients seeking to explore a deeper understanding of their attachment, and identities and heal from trauma, abuse, and neglect. My practice welcomes those who identify as neurodivergent, LGBTQIA2+, or consensually non-monogamous.
(314) 804-0921 View (314) 804-0921
Photo of Holistic Care Counseling LLC, Psychologist in Missouri
Holistic Care Counseling LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
I believe compassion and empathy create the foundation for clients to develop greater insight and self-awareness. My approach to therapy is collaborative working to resolve mental and emotion stressors that impede one's ability to achieve their goals. I work with clients to identify maladaptive communication patterns, resolve conflict, transition to a new stage in life or career, and foster each individual’s innate skills, knowledge, and growth.
I believe compassion and empathy create the foundation for clients to develop greater insight and self-awareness. My approach to therapy is collaborative working to resolve mental and emotion stressors that impede one's ability to achieve their goals. I work with clients to identify maladaptive communication patterns, resolve conflict, transition to a new stage in life or career, and foster each individual’s innate skills, knowledge, and growth.
(816) 450-4999 View (816) 450-4999
Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.