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 Grace Griffin-Spain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Grace Griffin-Spain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
I tailor my approach to the individual needs of each client and utilize a diverse array of counseling approaches, such as person-centered therapy, attachment-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I have seen both professionally and personally how transformative the therapeutic process can be when seeking change, growth, and healing. I focus on individuals and couples whose concerns may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems. My goal is to provide clients a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and process their pain and help them reflect on how their experiences influence their perception of themselves, others, and the world. With empathy, understanding, acceptance, and encouragement, I work with clients on integrating changes so that they have the tools they need to live a happy and healthy life.
I tailor my approach to the individual needs of each client and utilize a diverse array of counseling approaches, such as person-centered therapy, attachment-based therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I have seen both professionally and personally how transformative the therapeutic process can be when seeking change, growth, and healing. I focus on individuals and couples whose concerns may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems. My goal is to provide clients a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore and process their pain and help them reflect on how their experiences influence their perception of themselves, others, and the world. With empathy, understanding, acceptance, and encouragement, I work with clients on integrating changes so that they have the tools they need to live a happy and healthy life.
(816) 355-6143 View (816) 355-6143
Photo of Sarah Yeo, Counselor in Missouri
Sarah Yeo
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
My main modalities are attachment-based approach; CBT and DBT methods; strength-based; client-centered; and interpersonal processing.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with adult clients in individual therapy. I have a special heart for working with individuals who struggle with boundary issues, codependency, self-esteem, and shame. I also work with survivors of emotional/narcissistic abuse; clients with adult ADHD; and those with relational/attachment trauma through abuse and neglect in their family of origin. I also have a passion for walking with individuals who are in their faith deconstruction journey or have experienced spiritual abuse. My clients are of all faith backgrounds but for those who are seeking it, I offer Christian counseling as well.
My main modalities are attachment-based approach; CBT and DBT methods; strength-based; client-centered; and interpersonal processing.
I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with adult clients in individual therapy. I have a special heart for working with individuals who struggle with boundary issues, codependency, self-esteem, and shame. I also work with survivors of emotional/narcissistic abuse; clients with adult ADHD; and those with relational/attachment trauma through abuse and neglect in their family of origin. I also have a passion for walking with individuals who are in their faith deconstruction journey or have experienced spiritual abuse. My clients are of all faith backgrounds but for those who are seeking it, I offer Christian counseling as well.
(724) 633-1309 View (724) 633-1309
Photo of Emily Viet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Emily Viet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64109
I offer a holistic, trauma-informed approach to therapy, change and healing that is informed by neuroscience, including: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, attachment-based, IFS/parts, Play Therapy, iRest, yoga.
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
I offer a holistic, trauma-informed approach to therapy, change and healing that is informed by neuroscience, including: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, attachment-based, IFS/parts, Play Therapy, iRest, yoga.
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
(816) 327-9194 View (816) 327-9194
Photo of Karissa Curtis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Karissa Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative therapeutic approach often including attachment-based therapies, parts work, Voice of the Heart, and the Enneagram.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
I use an integrative therapeutic approach often including attachment-based therapies, parts work, Voice of the Heart, and the Enneagram.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
(636) 306-3471 View (636) 306-3471
Photo of Dawn Stillinger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dawn Stillinger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC/KS, LPC/MO, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
(913) 728-4016 View (913) 728-4016
Photo of Linda Simmons, Psychologist in Missouri
Linda Simmons
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111  (Online Only)
Dr. Linda Simmons is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults achieve healing and greater life fulfillment. Dr. Simmons specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, pain management, relationship issues, faith issues, and major life transitions. She sees psychotherapy as a collaborative process with her clients, providing education and expert guidance, and encouraging clients to reach their goals. Psychotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and she will change her approach per client's needs.
Dr. Linda Simmons is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults achieve healing and greater life fulfillment. Dr. Simmons specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, pain management, relationship issues, faith issues, and major life transitions. She sees psychotherapy as a collaborative process with her clients, providing education and expert guidance, and encouraging clients to reach their goals. Psychotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and she will change her approach per client's needs.
(816) 320-6166 View (816) 320-6166
Photo of Dominique Begnaud, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Dominique Begnaud
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-IL, ATR, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Waitlist for new clients
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
Life is challenging. So many ebbs and flows. I recognize that and would love to help you on your journey. We can all use a little support from time to time. Relationships can be difficult to manage. Setting (and keeping) boundaries at home, at work, or within relationships is hard work. If you or your child are looking for support with issues such as anxiety, depression, bullying, domestic violence, abuse or trauma, I'd love to help. I use creative therapy techniques in-person and via tele-health to support you or your child.
(314) 748-0120 View (314) 748-0120
Photo of Ritika Chand-Bergfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Ritika Chand-Bergfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
Hello:) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in St. Louis, MO. I specialize in providing support through psychotherapy for both adults and teens. I use a strengths-based approach focusing on your needs. My passion is in helping individuals navigate tough issues, whether it's dealing with relationships, coping with grief, managing anxiety, parenting challenges, or handling transitions and trauma. I've had the privilege of working with adolescents, families and adults.
Hello:) I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in St. Louis, MO. I specialize in providing support through psychotherapy for both adults and teens. I use a strengths-based approach focusing on your needs. My passion is in helping individuals navigate tough issues, whether it's dealing with relationships, coping with grief, managing anxiety, parenting challenges, or handling transitions and trauma. I've had the privilege of working with adolescents, families and adults.
(314) 461-1715 View (314) 461-1715
Photo of Joy Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Joy Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BCN
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64163
When survival becomes the focus of our childhood, we miss pertinent opportunities to develop life skills that are necessary for meaningful relationships and our own personal well-being. Joy considers counseling as an amazing opportunity to rediscover and learn new life skills so that we can embark on a journey of wellness and leave dysfunctional coping behind.
When survival becomes the focus of our childhood, we miss pertinent opportunities to develop life skills that are necessary for meaningful relationships and our own personal well-being. Joy considers counseling as an amazing opportunity to rediscover and learn new life skills so that we can embark on a journey of wellness and leave dysfunctional coping behind.
(816) 649-5074 View (816) 649-5074
Photo of Tessa Michaud, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Tessa Michaud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63304  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with children of all ages, adults, and families in an effort to help others identify and build on current strengths and promote positive change where desired. My experience, training, and years of ongoing supervision enables me to offer you effective, quality, individualized care.
I enjoy working with children of all ages, adults, and families in an effort to help others identify and build on current strengths and promote positive change where desired. My experience, training, and years of ongoing supervision enables me to offer you effective, quality, individualized care.
(314) 582-4631 View (314) 582-4631
Photo of Sabrina May Heidemann-Wells, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Sabrina May Heidemann-Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bridgeton, MO 63044
It is important to me to build an open, inclusive, and non-judge mental environment through focusing on your whole self. Creating a safe and supportive space is my first priority. From there we can process stressors, explore growth points, and pursue goals. I am a gentle and compassionate listener who works hard to understand you and your concerns. I can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings so that you can make sense of the past and implement a plan for the future which includes clarity and compassion for yourself and others.
It is important to me to build an open, inclusive, and non-judge mental environment through focusing on your whole self. Creating a safe and supportive space is my first priority. From there we can process stressors, explore growth points, and pursue goals. I am a gentle and compassionate listener who works hard to understand you and your concerns. I can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings so that you can make sense of the past and implement a plan for the future which includes clarity and compassion for yourself and others.
(636) 317-5117 View (636) 317-5117
Photo of Chelsea Albus Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Chelsea Albus Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkwood, MO 63122
I work with individuals who are navigating grief and loss, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions and identity development. In therapy, I balance addressing symptoms and looking beyond the surface to address the underlying emotions driving behavioral and interpersonal patterns. By learning new adaptive coping strategies and gaining insight into the early development of current emotional wounds or maladaptive behaviors, clients can feel empowered to create positive change.
I work with individuals who are navigating grief and loss, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, life transitions and identity development. In therapy, I balance addressing symptoms and looking beyond the surface to address the underlying emotions driving behavioral and interpersonal patterns. By learning new adaptive coping strategies and gaining insight into the early development of current emotional wounds or maladaptive behaviors, clients can feel empowered to create positive change.
(833) 325-0157 View (833) 325-0157
Photo of Sara Schmitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Sara Schmitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Park, MO 63088
Currently accepting new clients! After school and evening appointments available! Childhood and young adulthood is a time of great change and growth and often times this can be painful and confusing. There are times when trauma adds to the stress of growing through young adulthood. When these things happen, it can often be helpful to reach out for help.
Currently accepting new clients! After school and evening appointments available! Childhood and young adulthood is a time of great change and growth and often times this can be painful and confusing. There are times when trauma adds to the stress of growing through young adulthood. When these things happen, it can often be helpful to reach out for help.
(314) 408-6645 View (314) 408-6645
Photo of Erin Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Erin Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
(816) 209-1522 View (816) 209-1522
Photo of Cassie Galmiche, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Cassie Galmiche
Licensed Professional Counselor, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ballwin, MO 63011
It’s not easy to maintain a relationship and grow as individuals at the same time. Sometimes relationships can get stuck when you’re arguing about the same thing, or, maybe your relationship is changing in a big way—parenthood, marriage, someone’s career—and you want to work through that decision or create a plan. Whether you are in a new relationship, contemplating marriage, or have been married for many years, counseling can be a great place to update the relationship and come together in an intentional way. I would be honored to work with you and rebuild your connection and grow stronger as a couple!
It’s not easy to maintain a relationship and grow as individuals at the same time. Sometimes relationships can get stuck when you’re arguing about the same thing, or, maybe your relationship is changing in a big way—parenthood, marriage, someone’s career—and you want to work through that decision or create a plan. Whether you are in a new relationship, contemplating marriage, or have been married for many years, counseling can be a great place to update the relationship and come together in an intentional way. I would be honored to work with you and rebuild your connection and grow stronger as a couple!
(314) 804-3365 View (314) 804-3365
Photo of Lisa D Fisher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Lisa D Fisher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Joseph, MO 64506
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I have experience working with clients who are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma in a variety of outpatient settings. I utilize a holistic, strengths based approach that combines elements from Neuroscience, Attachment theory, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral theory, Art and Play therapy. I am now offering Direct Neurofeedback, which offers a drug-free approach to improving brain performance and forming new and enhanced patterns of functioning.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adults, adolescents, children and families. I have experience working with clients who are experiencing symptoms of stress, depression, anxiety, emotional dysregulation, and trauma in a variety of outpatient settings. I utilize a holistic, strengths based approach that combines elements from Neuroscience, Attachment theory, Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral theory, Art and Play therapy. I am now offering Direct Neurofeedback, which offers a drug-free approach to improving brain performance and forming new and enhanced patterns of functioning.
(816) 844-6643 View (816) 844-6643
Photo of Kit Lentini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Kit Lentini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Throughout our lives, many of us adopt narratives that don’t align with our actual experiences — they may leave out important details about our families or our make-up, the ways we were hurt, or the ways in which we have succeeded. But in all cases, they don’t do justice to the depth of our experiences, and in fact, when we have been abused or mistreated, the very purpose of these false narratives may be to obscure the truth of who we are and what we’ve been through. My greatest hope is that our work together will allow you to come home to yourself as you learn to tell stories that honor the core of who you are.
Throughout our lives, many of us adopt narratives that don’t align with our actual experiences — they may leave out important details about our families or our make-up, the ways we were hurt, or the ways in which we have succeeded. But in all cases, they don’t do justice to the depth of our experiences, and in fact, when we have been abused or mistreated, the very purpose of these false narratives may be to obscure the truth of who we are and what we’ve been through. My greatest hope is that our work together will allow you to come home to yourself as you learn to tell stories that honor the core of who you are.
(314) 788-2805 View (314) 788-2805
Photo of Kim Oliver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Kim Oliver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203
I have learned that no one is immune to mental health stress, trauma, OR substance abuse. Most really can find recovery and wellness. In 2000, I began my career providing counseling services in a treatment center and have continued to specialize in coping methods vs. "using." Relationships are sacred. I work with all arrangements of families (CNM & polyamory). Expert family/couples counseling requires expert training. The Gottman Method is taught in three levels and I completed all three in 2017. My intensive couples approach is successful in improving communication and provides many tools and results in a reasonable time frame.
I have learned that no one is immune to mental health stress, trauma, OR substance abuse. Most really can find recovery and wellness. In 2000, I began my career providing counseling services in a treatment center and have continued to specialize in coping methods vs. "using." Relationships are sacred. I work with all arrangements of families (CNM & polyamory). Expert family/couples counseling requires expert training. The Gottman Method is taught in three levels and I completed all three in 2017. My intensive couples approach is successful in improving communication and provides many tools and results in a reasonable time frame.
(573) 340-4179 View (573) 340-4179
Photo of Shelley Clayton Duality Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
Shelley Clayton Duality Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I am licensed in Missouri, Iowa, and Kansas with 20 years within the social work, mental health, and the medical fields. I have experience in helping clients with a myriad of mental health issues. I particularly enjoy working with those that are dealing with narcissism and the fall out it can have on our mental health and relationships. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I pride myself in looking at people as a whole as well as their parts. You can expect empathy, honesty, humor, and most likely random movie quotes, TikTok's, or song lyrics during our sessions.
I am licensed in Missouri, Iowa, and Kansas with 20 years within the social work, mental health, and the medical fields. I have experience in helping clients with a myriad of mental health issues. I particularly enjoy working with those that are dealing with narcissism and the fall out it can have on our mental health and relationships. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I pride myself in looking at people as a whole as well as their parts. You can expect empathy, honesty, humor, and most likely random movie quotes, TikTok's, or song lyrics during our sessions.
(816) 494-2065 View (816) 494-2065
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.