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 Cheyenne Vaughan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cheyenne Vaughan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Springfield, MO 65804
Everything leaves a mark: pleasure, pain, contentment, fear, acceptance, rejection, hope and hopelessness. Life is a challenge and difficult seasons are inevitable. You can't avoid every season but you can overcome them. You can carry things around or learn to let them go. Identify your options, be courageous, and make choices - you don't have to do it alone. Together, we can find that light at the end of the tunnel. Remember, "We all have two lives. The second begins when you realize you only have one." -Tom Hiddleston Also, if you are interested, view my website for Premarital / New Relationship Counseling information.
Everything leaves a mark: pleasure, pain, contentment, fear, acceptance, rejection, hope and hopelessness. Life is a challenge and difficult seasons are inevitable. You can't avoid every season but you can overcome them. You can carry things around or learn to let them go. Identify your options, be courageous, and make choices - you don't have to do it alone. Together, we can find that light at the end of the tunnel. Remember, "We all have two lives. The second begins when you realize you only have one." -Tom Hiddleston Also, if you are interested, view my website for Premarital / New Relationship Counseling information.
(417) 352-2623 View (417) 352-2623
Photo of Melissa Bagwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Melissa Bagwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
I'm an empathetic and compassionate therapist who helps women and men who have experienced infidelity, suffered from trauma, or are struggling to cope with life's changes. I have gone through similar experiences myself, so I understand the challenges my clients face. My goal is to help you find your inner strength and provide the guidance you need to overcome these obstacles.
I'm an empathetic and compassionate therapist who helps women and men who have experienced infidelity, suffered from trauma, or are struggling to cope with life's changes. I have gone through similar experiences myself, so I understand the challenges my clients face. My goal is to help you find your inner strength and provide the guidance you need to overcome these obstacles.
(417) 414-0333 View (417) 414-0333
Photo of Caitlyn Crawford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Caitlyn Crawford
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109
Passion Populations & Specializations: LGBTQ+, Couples of all varieties, Sex Therapy, Women-Empowerment, Teens. I'm in the business of story-shaping. I believe we become the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves. People are not defined by their problems. Are you stuck in a story that feels disempowering or defeating? Do you no longer feel like your own narrator? Let me be your co-author and collaborator in creating your counter story—a brand new, one-of-a-kind tale that aligns with your truest, most authentic self.
Passion Populations & Specializations: LGBTQ+, Couples of all varieties, Sex Therapy, Women-Empowerment, Teens. I'm in the business of story-shaping. I believe we become the stories we tell ourselves about ourselves. People are not defined by their problems. Are you stuck in a story that feels disempowering or defeating? Do you no longer feel like your own narrator? Let me be your co-author and collaborator in creating your counter story—a brand new, one-of-a-kind tale that aligns with your truest, most authentic self.
(913) 246-5085 View (913) 246-5085
Photo of Jennifer Reid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jennifer Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or anxious and don't know what to do or where to go? Do you feel very alone and nobody else understands or has experienced what you have/or are experiencing? Are you having trouble sleeping due to looping thoughts running through your mind? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. When circumstances happen making life more difficult, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path and tools to get you back to feeling more like yourself.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or anxious and don't know what to do or where to go? Do you feel very alone and nobody else understands or has experienced what you have/or are experiencing? Are you having trouble sleeping due to looping thoughts running through your mind? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. When circumstances happen making life more difficult, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path and tools to get you back to feeling more like yourself.
(816) 875-0868 View (816) 875-0868
Photo of Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, Psychologist in Missouri
Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
At Wellness Alliance Counseling & Psychotherapy, we specialize in brief and long-term therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. We believe everyone possess within themselves the potential for transformation, growth, and healing, and have experience helping clients address a variety of concerns: anxiety, depression, family of origin issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ issues, healthy relationships, career concerns, women's issues, eating and body image concerns, substance use, trauma, and living with chronic illness.
(314) 310-8020 View (314) 310-8020
Photo of Heather Barker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Heather Barker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
As a licensed professional counselor, I bring 14 years of clinical experience to my private practice and use a variety of treatment modalities to help clients navigate a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and relationship problems. I believe that relationships are central to our well-being and am passionate about working with all of the individual pieces of a family – children, teens, parents, couples – and the family unit itself. On a personal level, I bring unconditional acceptance, an emphasis on grace for self and others, and genuine compassion to each one of my clients.
As a licensed professional counselor, I bring 14 years of clinical experience to my private practice and use a variety of treatment modalities to help clients navigate a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and relationship problems. I believe that relationships are central to our well-being and am passionate about working with all of the individual pieces of a family – children, teens, parents, couples – and the family unit itself. On a personal level, I bring unconditional acceptance, an emphasis on grace for self and others, and genuine compassion to each one of my clients.
(314) 858-5163 View (314) 858-5163
Photo of Isai Leal in Missouri
Isai Leal
MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
Isai can integrate the Christian faith into the counseling session for those who appreciate that perspective. Isai is fluent in Spanish and available for anyone needing those services.
Isai can integrate the Christian faith into the counseling session for those who appreciate that perspective. Isai is fluent in Spanish and available for anyone needing those services.
(417) 929-5574 View (417) 929-5574
Photo of Jessie Graves, Counselor in Missouri
Jessie Graves
Counselor, MA, NCC, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
Life has a way of paralyzing us with negative “what if’s?" What if there was a way to become unstuck? What if someone sat in the muck with you? What if you could finally get through a conversation with your child or spouse without yelling or storming off? Those are just a few what-ifs we can explore together. Let's create a space where you feel seen, valued, and understood. Together we can create a space where things feel less lonely, complex, or overwhelming. A space where you feel like you have your child's spark back. Wouldn't you like life to feel a little more possible? A little less lonely? To see smiles instead of tears?
Life has a way of paralyzing us with negative “what if’s?" What if there was a way to become unstuck? What if someone sat in the muck with you? What if you could finally get through a conversation with your child or spouse without yelling or storming off? Those are just a few what-ifs we can explore together. Let's create a space where you feel seen, valued, and understood. Together we can create a space where things feel less lonely, complex, or overwhelming. A space where you feel like you have your child's spark back. Wouldn't you like life to feel a little more possible? A little less lonely? To see smiles instead of tears?
(816) 323-6938 View (816) 323-6938
Photo of Abram Dillon Wilks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Abram Dillon Wilks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, families, and groups with a wide variety of presenting concerns. I have experience working in outpatient settings, residential treatment programs, psychiatric rehabilitation centers, and as an adjunct professor for the University of Missouri.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri with over 15 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, families, and groups with a wide variety of presenting concerns. I have experience working in outpatient settings, residential treatment programs, psychiatric rehabilitation centers, and as an adjunct professor for the University of Missouri.
(573) 227-5866 View (573) 227-5866
Photo of Stan Archie, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Stan Archie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MA, LPC, SATP-C, ThD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
As a therapist and supervisor, Stan works through an Attachment Theory lens. He values working with a treatment team, and utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, highly valuing each individual for his/her own uniqueness. He believes in a holistic approach to counseling through exploration of psychological, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of one's life. Therapy modalities that will be utilized in treatment include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals while through the healing process while reaching their goals.
As a therapist and supervisor, Stan works through an Attachment Theory lens. He values working with a treatment team, and utilizes a multidisciplinary approach, highly valuing each individual for his/her own uniqueness. He believes in a holistic approach to counseling through exploration of psychological, emotional, spiritual, and relational aspects of one's life. Therapy modalities that will be utilized in treatment include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment Theory. He considers it a privilege to walk alongside individuals while through the healing process while reaching their goals.
(913) 747-4132 View (913) 747-4132
Photo of Cara Love, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Cara Love
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65804
What a Stressful world we are living in today! Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. In a society that values hard work over mental health, it can be difficult to carve out time for yourself. As challenging as it is, you deserve to find balance and peace in your life. There is a way to find happiness again and to improve relationships with the ones you love. It is my passion to teach self-love, acceptance, relaxation techniques, and empowerment to women, couples, and families. With this in mind, we will uncover root causes of suffering and work towards healing and solutions.
What a Stressful world we are living in today! Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. In a society that values hard work over mental health, it can be difficult to carve out time for yourself. As challenging as it is, you deserve to find balance and peace in your life. There is a way to find happiness again and to improve relationships with the ones you love. It is my passion to teach self-love, acceptance, relaxation techniques, and empowerment to women, couples, and families. With this in mind, we will uncover root causes of suffering and work towards healing and solutions.
(417) 497-2849 View (417) 497-2849
Photo of Kim McGuiness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kim McGuiness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are valuable clues in learning how to challenge yourself to change. Sometimes we notice frustration or conflict before we feel the emotions of hurt, anxiousness, disappointment or a sense of loss within ourselves or our relationships. Learning to find yourself, and/or create a more positive relationship with your partner may be a goal you’ve been striving for and feeling like you just can’t get there after multiple tries. We weren't made to figure out the challenges of life alone. Your needs are important and working together to find the “aha” moments to be ready for change are possible.
Your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are valuable clues in learning how to challenge yourself to change. Sometimes we notice frustration or conflict before we feel the emotions of hurt, anxiousness, disappointment or a sense of loss within ourselves or our relationships. Learning to find yourself, and/or create a more positive relationship with your partner may be a goal you’ve been striving for and feeling like you just can’t get there after multiple tries. We weren't made to figure out the challenges of life alone. Your needs are important and working together to find the “aha” moments to be ready for change are possible.
(314) 270-1762 View (314) 270-1762
Photo of Paula Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Paula Johnson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoping to be one step closer on a positive path to growth and well-being? As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you reach your true potential and lead the life YOU choose. I work to understand behavior patterns which may be holding you or your child back from a fulfilling life. When therapy is needed it is this week not weeks after you call. ONE appointment is available DAILY for emergency situations. If YOU need extra support working through challenges, or wish to move in a new life direction, I look forward to working with you and your family. Call or e-mail for an individual, couple, or family appointment today.
Hoping to be one step closer on a positive path to growth and well-being? As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you reach your true potential and lead the life YOU choose. I work to understand behavior patterns which may be holding you or your child back from a fulfilling life. When therapy is needed it is this week not weeks after you call. ONE appointment is available DAILY for emergency situations. If YOU need extra support working through challenges, or wish to move in a new life direction, I look forward to working with you and your family. Call or e-mail for an individual, couple, or family appointment today.
(573) 833-0987 View (573) 833-0987
Photo of Dr. A. P. Carmichael, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Dr. A. P. Carmichael
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MEd, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
Relationships are part of what makes us human. We thrive when connected with others. I am passionate about helping people create and maintain healthy and loving relationships. I work with couples, families, and individuals and have strong experience working with LGBTQ clients. I make it a priority to create a safe space for all of my clients. It is through this atmosphere of acceptance that we can work together to create true change and growth. I work with individuals, families and couples who are going through a crisis, or those who are simply looking to strengthen their relationships.
(314) 682-4859 View (314) 682-4859
Photo of Dr. Fatima La'Juan Muse, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Dr. Fatima La'Juan Muse
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MedFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself struggling with life stressors such as fertility problems, chronic illness, marital discord, relationship infidelity, or even difficulty making major decisions? If so, therapy is right for you. Are you blissfully happy and seeking pre-marital counseling with a future spouse? If so, therapy is right for you too! These incentives for counseling have one common thread, a desire to pinpoint areas where you are "stuck", guard against potential threats to your relationship harmony, improve your life, improve your relationship, and become the best version of yourself.
Have you found yourself struggling with life stressors such as fertility problems, chronic illness, marital discord, relationship infidelity, or even difficulty making major decisions? If so, therapy is right for you. Are you blissfully happy and seeking pre-marital counseling with a future spouse? If so, therapy is right for you too! These incentives for counseling have one common thread, a desire to pinpoint areas where you are "stuck", guard against potential threats to your relationship harmony, improve your life, improve your relationship, and become the best version of yourself.
(314) 916-3448 View (314) 916-3448
Photo of Theresa Benskin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Theresa Benskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chillicothe, MO 64601
Life can present many challenges. Often times, these challenges may result in feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. There is no shame is seeking treatment. Making the initial decision to begin therapy can feel both daunting and relieving. While having connections with others is a central need for all human beings, this need is often most deeply felt during times of distress.
Life can present many challenges. Often times, these challenges may result in feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. There is no shame is seeking treatment. Making the initial decision to begin therapy can feel both daunting and relieving. While having connections with others is a central need for all human beings, this need is often most deeply felt during times of distress.
(660) 207-5298 View (660) 207-5298
Photo of Jamie Crouch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jamie Crouch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Macon, MO 63552
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (MO) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (KS) with over 9 years of experience working with teens and adults coming from diverse backgrounds providing individual, family and couples therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (MO) and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (KS) with over 9 years of experience working with teens and adults coming from diverse backgrounds providing individual, family and couples therapy.
(660) 301-2054 View (660) 301-2054
Photo of Catherine L Kendrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Catherine L Kendrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63304  (Online Only)
Are you a mom, couple, college student or professional that is struggling to make sense of your life? Do you need help setting boundaries and making yourself a priority in your own story? When you are struggling, therapy can help you find a way forward. Life can be challenging but it doesn't have to be overwhelming! My passion is working with individuals and couples going through transitions in life. Relationships are such an integral part of life's journey; if you're experiencing difficulty in yours we might be a good fit. Now offering therapy intensives- ask about how you can feel better sooner!
Are you a mom, couple, college student or professional that is struggling to make sense of your life? Do you need help setting boundaries and making yourself a priority in your own story? When you are struggling, therapy can help you find a way forward. Life can be challenging but it doesn't have to be overwhelming! My passion is working with individuals and couples going through transitions in life. Relationships are such an integral part of life's journey; if you're experiencing difficulty in yours we might be a good fit. Now offering therapy intensives- ask about how you can feel better sooner!
(636) 306-4715 View (636) 306-4715
Photo of Miranda L Backes, Counselor in Missouri
Miranda L Backes
Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Does the stress of everyday life feel like "too much?" Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, excessive worrying, panic attacks, or shame? Do these issues pour over into other areas in your life such as your marriage or work? If any of these things sound like something you experience, then you've likely found the right therapist! Its time you found the strength to surrender these feelings and begin to feel empowered to make brave changes.
Does the stress of everyday life feel like "too much?" Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, excessive worrying, panic attacks, or shame? Do these issues pour over into other areas in your life such as your marriage or work? If any of these things sound like something you experience, then you've likely found the right therapist! Its time you found the strength to surrender these feelings and begin to feel empowered to make brave changes.
(636) 330-4297 View (636) 330-4297
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.