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 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 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 Lisa C. York, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Lisa C. York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Springfield, MO 65806  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone looking for a significant change in their life. They may struggle with past hurts, shame, isolation, trauma, low self image, resentment, self-hatred, depression, or anxiety. They need someone to listen and to provide a safe place free of judgement where they will be heard. Their goals might include finding freedom, seeing their situation in a new light, gaining hope, finding their voice, or integrating their life experience and their spirituality.
My ideal client is someone looking for a significant change in their life. They may struggle with past hurts, shame, isolation, trauma, low self image, resentment, self-hatred, depression, or anxiety. They need someone to listen and to provide a safe place free of judgement where they will be heard. Their goals might include finding freedom, seeing their situation in a new light, gaining hope, finding their voice, or integrating their life experience and their spirituality.
(417) 216-7961 View (417) 216-7961
Photo of Kimberly Elder, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kimberly Elder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
Congratulations on making the decision to bring positive change into your life! I have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, first responder trauma, post-partum depression, family conflicts, pre-marital counseling, polyamorous relationships, domestic violence, multiple personality disorder (DID), Asperger’s Disorder, relationship issues, identity crisis, LGBT specific problems and concerns, grief and loss, as well as people struggling with bipolar disorder. I also have experience in paranormal psychology. All sessions are telehealth/online!
Congratulations on making the decision to bring positive change into your life! I have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, first responder trauma, post-partum depression, family conflicts, pre-marital counseling, polyamorous relationships, domestic violence, multiple personality disorder (DID), Asperger’s Disorder, relationship issues, identity crisis, LGBT specific problems and concerns, grief and loss, as well as people struggling with bipolar disorder. I also have experience in paranormal psychology. All sessions are telehealth/online!
(314) 925-2634 x720 View (314) 925-2634 x720
Photo of Megan Judy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Megan Judy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LIMHP, CMSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Manchester, MO 63021
I believe in the importance of getting to know ourselves to our best ability, as this is key in overcoming life's obstacles and healing from past and present pain. One of the biggest joys in my life is having the privilege of getting to know my clients and helping them access their full potentials to get through difficult times. I'm dedicated to forming a strong and caring therapeutic alliance. Your goals will always be my priority in treatment, and I am genuine and straight-forward in my approach. I'm here to be your biggest ally!
I believe in the importance of getting to know ourselves to our best ability, as this is key in overcoming life's obstacles and healing from past and present pain. One of the biggest joys in my life is having the privilege of getting to know my clients and helping them access their full potentials to get through difficult times. I'm dedicated to forming a strong and caring therapeutic alliance. Your goals will always be my priority in treatment, and I am genuine and straight-forward in my approach. I'm here to be your biggest ally!
(314) 888-9163 View (314) 888-9163
Photo of Derek Keath Faulkner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Derek Keath Faulkner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64057
Do you feel alone, and like no one cares? I care about you and your well being. I want to help you win against the struggles you are facing. You are capable of more than you think and I want to bring out the best in you. I am confident that i can help you. I want to be a shoulder to lean on emotionally as well as to cry on. I love working with new people, of all differences, and diversities. Given the chance, I would love to serve and care for you in your time of need.
Do you feel alone, and like no one cares? I care about you and your well being. I want to help you win against the struggles you are facing. You are capable of more than you think and I want to bring out the best in you. I am confident that i can help you. I want to be a shoulder to lean on emotionally as well as to cry on. I love working with new people, of all differences, and diversities. Given the chance, I would love to serve and care for you in your time of need.
(816) 253-8421 x702 View (816) 253-8421 x702
Photo of First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
(314) 310-5648 View (314) 310-5648
Photo of Midwest Trauma Recovery Center, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Midwest Trauma Recovery Center
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, MO 63144
Living in a constant state of threat, insecurity, and anxiety does not need to be your normal. Together we will explore the root of your concerns and address them so that you’re no longer living in survival mode. My hope is that you walk away from therapy having gained an understanding of yourself and a sense of harmony with your mind, body, and spirit.
Living in a constant state of threat, insecurity, and anxiety does not need to be your normal. Together we will explore the root of your concerns and address them so that you’re no longer living in survival mode. My hope is that you walk away from therapy having gained an understanding of yourself and a sense of harmony with your mind, body, and spirit.
(314) 804-3911 View (314) 804-3911
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 First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, Counselor in Missouri
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Counselor, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
(314) 947-3660 View (314) 947-3660
Photo of Brightside Counseling Services, Counselor in Missouri
Brightside Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Willard, MO 65781
“Just a small-town girl, living in a lonely world…” Hi there! I never thought I’d have a good excuse to use a Journey song as my introduction, but here we are! I am a small-town girl; I grew up in Willard, graduated from Willard, and have returned. While driving home for Christmas in 2015, I realized Willard needed a counseling center--and I have officially taken the leap! My hope is this can help Willard and the smaller surrounding towns not have to drive all the way to Springfield. "Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable..." - Mr. Fred Rogers
“Just a small-town girl, living in a lonely world…” Hi there! I never thought I’d have a good excuse to use a Journey song as my introduction, but here we are! I am a small-town girl; I grew up in Willard, graduated from Willard, and have returned. While driving home for Christmas in 2015, I realized Willard needed a counseling center--and I have officially taken the leap! My hope is this can help Willard and the smaller surrounding towns not have to drive all the way to Springfield. "Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable..." - Mr. Fred Rogers
(417) 308-8479 View (417) 308-8479
Photo of Katie M. Hurley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Katie M. Hurley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
Accepting New Clients in 2024! Katie Hurley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and has additional certifications in EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). As a clinician, she is trained to treat PTSD/complex trauma, depression, low self worth, anxiety, shame, and family conflict. She utilizes many treatment modalities including: EMDR, TF-CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Sand Tray Therapy.
Accepting New Clients in 2024! Katie Hurley is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and has additional certifications in EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). As a clinician, she is trained to treat PTSD/complex trauma, depression, low self worth, anxiety, shame, and family conflict. She utilizes many treatment modalities including: EMDR, TF-CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Sand Tray Therapy.
(314) 690-1667 View (314) 690-1667
Photo of Sarah Linn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Sarah Linn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
As a woman, you experience the intense anxiety of being the "perfect" spouse, parent, and/or adult child. You may be tired of feeling unseen, unheard, and alone. You might experience reoccurring intrusive thoughts of “am I messing it all up?” or "am I making the right parenting/life choices?" Even worse, the difficulty in saying "no" means far more on your plate than possible. Feeling anything else may seem like a distant memory. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief! You're ready to feel seen and heard! But most of all you're ready to feel safely and securely connected to the most important people in your life!
As a woman, you experience the intense anxiety of being the "perfect" spouse, parent, and/or adult child. You may be tired of feeling unseen, unheard, and alone. You might experience reoccurring intrusive thoughts of “am I messing it all up?” or "am I making the right parenting/life choices?" Even worse, the difficulty in saying "no" means far more on your plate than possible. Feeling anything else may seem like a distant memory. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief! You're ready to feel seen and heard! But most of all you're ready to feel safely and securely connected to the most important people in your life!
(636) 389-4114 View (636) 389-4114
Photo of Leigh Anne Randa, Psychologist in Missouri
Leigh Anne Randa
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chesterfield, MO 63017
Hello! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Randa, PhD. I am a multiply licensed Clinical Psychologist with active licenses in Missouri, Kansas, Arizona and Oregon. I believe each of my clients is unique and deserves a personalized approach to treatment that honors their preferences and needs balanced with clinical expertise. My goal is to tailor interventions that work with the very real constraints of time and finances that exist in our hectic modern culture. I am experienced and happy to help you from single session brief intervention to long term treatment for serious mental health concerns.
Hello! My name is Dr. Leigh Anne Randa, PhD. I am a multiply licensed Clinical Psychologist with active licenses in Missouri, Kansas, Arizona and Oregon. I believe each of my clients is unique and deserves a personalized approach to treatment that honors their preferences and needs balanced with clinical expertise. My goal is to tailor interventions that work with the very real constraints of time and finances that exist in our hectic modern culture. I am experienced and happy to help you from single session brief intervention to long term treatment for serious mental health concerns.
(314) 408-6299 View (314) 408-6299
Photo of Courtney Michelle Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Courtney Michelle Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I specialize in couples, working with those experiencing conflict, conflict-avoidance, infidelity/trust issues, communication problems, parenting/co-parenting struggles, and or when one or both partners experience depression, anxiety, or trauma. Relationships are the most important things in our lives, and when we get disconnected, everything in life can feel so much harder. I also see individuals who are struggling with self-worth issues, excessive worry, past history of trauma. Therapy can do a world of good, especially when life has been painful. I am dedicated to the therapy process, and help clients find hope and relief.
I specialize in couples, working with those experiencing conflict, conflict-avoidance, infidelity/trust issues, communication problems, parenting/co-parenting struggles, and or when one or both partners experience depression, anxiety, or trauma. Relationships are the most important things in our lives, and when we get disconnected, everything in life can feel so much harder. I also see individuals who are struggling with self-worth issues, excessive worry, past history of trauma. Therapy can do a world of good, especially when life has been painful. I am dedicated to the therapy process, and help clients find hope and relief.
(636) 442-0231 View (636) 442-0231
Photo of Rachel Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Rachel Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm so glad you're looking into therapy, and I know starting therapy can be very overwhelming. If you're feeling lost in your life, career, or relationships, therapy can assist you in finding what makes your life worth living. I can help you create a life that is intentional and full of things that bring you genuine happiness. You deserve a life that is full of joy and fulfillment. I enjoy working with queer folk, college students, young women, and people who want to become an active participant in their lives. Website: www.learntolovetherapy.com
Hello! I'm so glad you're looking into therapy, and I know starting therapy can be very overwhelming. If you're feeling lost in your life, career, or relationships, therapy can assist you in finding what makes your life worth living. I can help you create a life that is intentional and full of things that bring you genuine happiness. You deserve a life that is full of joy and fulfillment. I enjoy working with queer folk, college students, young women, and people who want to become an active participant in their lives. Website: www.learntolovetherapy.com
(314) 408-6137 View (314) 408-6137
Photo of Joy Gillespie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Joy Gillespie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkwood, MO 63122  (Online Only)
My clients describe me as someone they feel safe and comfortable with, someone they feel they can trust, and someone that genuinely cares for them. Some of my clients describe themselves as perfectionists or high achievers; others identify as "people pleasers" struggling with setting healthy boundaries. Many of my clients have unhealed childhood wounds, and struggle with anxiety, depression or interpersonal relationship issues. It is my passion to help my clients figure out why they feel or react the way they do so that they can feel "good enough" about themselves on the inside and build healthier relationship with others.
My clients describe me as someone they feel safe and comfortable with, someone they feel they can trust, and someone that genuinely cares for them. Some of my clients describe themselves as perfectionists or high achievers; others identify as "people pleasers" struggling with setting healthy boundaries. Many of my clients have unhealed childhood wounds, and struggle with anxiety, depression or interpersonal relationship issues. It is my passion to help my clients figure out why they feel or react the way they do so that they can feel "good enough" about themselves on the inside and build healthier relationship with others.
(314) 501-7828 View (314) 501-7828
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 Elizabeth Sterbenz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Elizabeth Sterbenz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CFT-I™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Has a change in your relationship, work or stage of life left you with the feeling that you are not living the life you want? Are you struggling to find balance in a demanding career that leaves you feeling unfulfilled in the other areas of your life? Do the behaviors that once seemed to help you deal with these emotions now feel out of your control? Have you experienced distressing life events that continue to trigger you in your day-to-day world? Whatever the reason you are thinking of coming to therapy now, we can work together to find a path to your fullest and most rewarding life.
Has a change in your relationship, work or stage of life left you with the feeling that you are not living the life you want? Are you struggling to find balance in a demanding career that leaves you feeling unfulfilled in the other areas of your life? Do the behaviors that once seemed to help you deal with these emotions now feel out of your control? Have you experienced distressing life events that continue to trigger you in your day-to-day world? Whatever the reason you are thinking of coming to therapy now, we can work together to find a path to your fullest and most rewarding life.
(323) 616-2142 View (323) 616-2142
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.