Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, 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 Kit Lentini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
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 Summer Morefield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Summer Morefield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63102  (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, SUD’s, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and empathic. I believe in treating everyone with respect & sensitivity.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, SUD’s, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and empathic. I believe in treating everyone with respect & sensitivity.
(314) 907-3582 View (314) 907-3582
Photo of Cristina Marie Smugala, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Cristina Marie Smugala
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127  (Online Only)
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
My passion is to empathetically guide and support transformation of traumatic experience. I will empower you to face your fears, unburden toxic shame, heal traumatic wounds and help you reclaim the courage that you know is inside of you. The ability to have love, compassion and acceptance for yourself are powerful healing forces that I strive to ignite, recover and unlock in my clients. Through EMDR and Somatic Experiencing I focus on restoring a sense of calm, centered connectedness within the brain and body. I work to inspire courage, promote healing so you can embody radical acceptance, release fear and embrace authenticity.
(314) 888-5212 x3 View (314) 888-5212 x3
Photo of Katie L Arnold, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Katie L Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
I have a diverse background in the evidence-based treatment of persons with trauma, eating disorders, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, mood disorders, LGBTQIA+ challenges and gender dysphoria. For clients with PTSD and other trauma, common goals include symptom reduction, coping, exploration and healing. With eating disorders, my practice is most appropriate for clients who have attended a higher level of care (e.g. Intensive Outpatient, Residential, PHP) and are looking to confront issues underlying the eating disorder. Clients seeking gender affirming care will find support with expression, transition, relationships and more.
(314) 375-4887 View (314) 375-4887
Photo of Nathaniel T Brack, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Nathaniel T Brack
Counselor, MA, LPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training in traumatic stress and addiction and use an attachment focused perspective taking special care to understand present difficulties in the context of early relational experiences. As a therapist I believe that symptoms resulting from stressful life experiences can be treated using validated scientific interventions. Addiction can often accompany traumatic stress. In an effort to cope, individuals frequently find themselves trapped by the comforting yet costly effects of addictive or compulsive behaviors.
I have specialized training in traumatic stress and addiction and use an attachment focused perspective taking special care to understand present difficulties in the context of early relational experiences. As a therapist I believe that symptoms resulting from stressful life experiences can be treated using validated scientific interventions. Addiction can often accompany traumatic stress. In an effort to cope, individuals frequently find themselves trapped by the comforting yet costly effects of addictive or compulsive behaviors.
(314) 626-9084 View (314) 626-9084
Photo of Carly Sparks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Carly Sparks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 14 years of experience in family social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 14 years of experience in family social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
(314) 310-0186 View (314) 310-0186
Photo of Danielle Endejan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Danielle Endejan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, PLPC, CRAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130
I look forward to meeting you! I was born and raised in St. Louis, & obtained my undergraduate degree with honors in Counseling and Education followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling for Licensure in Professional Counseling from MBU. I utilize empirically proven interventions (such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT) interwoven with compassionate wisdom for the therapeutic goal of coming alongside you in your unique journey and extending the opportunity and hope for healing & growth through the situation you find yourself in. My desire is to provide an authentic and compassionate environment that fosters continuous healing.
I look forward to meeting you! I was born and raised in St. Louis, & obtained my undergraduate degree with honors in Counseling and Education followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling for Licensure in Professional Counseling from MBU. I utilize empirically proven interventions (such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT) interwoven with compassionate wisdom for the therapeutic goal of coming alongside you in your unique journey and extending the opportunity and hope for healing & growth through the situation you find yourself in. My desire is to provide an authentic and compassionate environment that fosters continuous healing.
(314) 470-9169 View (314) 470-9169
Photo of LaTrece M Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
LaTrece M Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
When everyday challenges become too much to handle or life has lost its luster, it may be time to partner with us to take the next step on your journey. The inner you is calling and it's time to answer. Check in to who you really are and become who you desire with EPIR Source Therapy. We look forward to walking through this cave like experience and assisting you with defining the light at the end. Our goal is to give you the space to explore your current life situation and use it as fuel for your future. Call today to set up your free 15 minute consultation.
When everyday challenges become too much to handle or life has lost its luster, it may be time to partner with us to take the next step on your journey. The inner you is calling and it's time to answer. Check in to who you really are and become who you desire with EPIR Source Therapy. We look forward to walking through this cave like experience and assisting you with defining the light at the end. Our goal is to give you the space to explore your current life situation and use it as fuel for your future. Call today to set up your free 15 minute consultation.
(314) 947-4059 View (314) 947-4059
Photo of Jeanna Knight PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Jeanna Knight PhD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
A medical diagnosis can be life altering. Do you want to be heard, understood, and supported as you try to make sense of this part of your life? Seeing an experienced and empathic therapist can provide a positive transformation that's refreshing and liberating!
A medical diagnosis can be life altering. Do you want to be heard, understood, and supported as you try to make sense of this part of your life? Seeing an experienced and empathic therapist can provide a positive transformation that's refreshing and liberating!
(314) 943-2399 View (314) 943-2399
Photo of Abigail Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Abigail Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
I have 20 years of experience helping people of diverse backgrounds to navigate through difficult times in their lives. I listen carefully and work hard to understand how you feel. I have hope that people can overcome depression, calm anxiety, be transformed through grief, and find their peaceful center in the midst of over-stimulation and busyness. I have extensive experience in working with couples, individuals with chronic pain and autoimmune disorders, and PTSD/complex trauma. My goal is to create space for you to explore yourself, your relationship with others, and work towards living a life of greater pleasure and meaning.
I have 20 years of experience helping people of diverse backgrounds to navigate through difficult times in their lives. I listen carefully and work hard to understand how you feel. I have hope that people can overcome depression, calm anxiety, be transformed through grief, and find their peaceful center in the midst of over-stimulation and busyness. I have extensive experience in working with couples, individuals with chronic pain and autoimmune disorders, and PTSD/complex trauma. My goal is to create space for you to explore yourself, your relationship with others, and work towards living a life of greater pleasure and meaning.
(314) 730-9777 View (314) 730-9777
Photo of Erin Elking, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Erin Elking
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I'm glad you found your way here! I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals live a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where clients can feel vulnerable and validated as they work through their challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
I'm glad you found your way here! I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals live a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where clients can feel vulnerable and validated as they work through their challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
(314) 274-1747 View (314) 274-1747
Photo of Michelle Perotta, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Michelle Perotta
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Michelle earned her Masters of Social Work degree from Saint Louis University & her Licensed Master of Social Work License 2011. Michelle has worked with a diverse population over the years, primarily focusing on children, teenagers, & families, as well as individuals facing trauma. Michelle believes that all individuals wish to be heard, accepted & understood, but when faced with stressful & challenging situations life can seem overwhelming, unmanageable, and out of control, but therapy can help bring you peace, or "calm the chaos" as she frequently says.
Michelle earned her Masters of Social Work degree from Saint Louis University & her Licensed Master of Social Work License 2011. Michelle has worked with a diverse population over the years, primarily focusing on children, teenagers, & families, as well as individuals facing trauma. Michelle believes that all individuals wish to be heard, accepted & understood, but when faced with stressful & challenging situations life can seem overwhelming, unmanageable, and out of control, but therapy can help bring you peace, or "calm the chaos" as she frequently says.
(314) 582-5126 View (314) 582-5126
Photo of Meghan (Mclaughlin) Mischel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Meghan (Mclaughlin) Mischel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I help women find balance in their life without having to sacrifice the things they love most. My clients feel overwhelmed and tired of feeling like they can’t manage their life. Life feels chaotic making it difficult to be present in each area of their life. My clients are under constant pressure to put on a smile and present themselves like they have it all together.
I help women find balance in their life without having to sacrifice the things they love most. My clients feel overwhelmed and tired of feeling like they can’t manage their life. Life feels chaotic making it difficult to be present in each area of their life. My clients are under constant pressure to put on a smile and present themselves like they have it all together.
(314) 310-7561 View (314) 310-7561
Photo of Julia C Rothermich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Julia C Rothermich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Are you tired of answering the question "What's wrong?" One of the hardest things in life is having words in your heart that you can't speak. Together, we can find your voice and explore whatever brings you to counseling in a collaborative, safe and supportive setting. Mental health is just as critical as your physical health and you don't need to suffer in silence. You deserve an emotional check-up.
Are you tired of answering the question "What's wrong?" One of the hardest things in life is having words in your heart that you can't speak. Together, we can find your voice and explore whatever brings you to counseling in a collaborative, safe and supportive setting. Mental health is just as critical as your physical health and you don't need to suffer in silence. You deserve an emotional check-up.
(636) 779-4040 View (636) 779-4040
Photo of Roberta Kerosevic, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Roberta Kerosevic
Counselor, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Have open availability for winter 2024! Sliding scale and some Medicaid; can be weekly or every other week sessions. My goals are to give clients and their families tools, and offer genuine support in daily and/or lifelong struggles. My belief is that change is possible for anyone, but the client and their loved ones need to have an open mind, and believe in love and support. Getting out of your comfort zone is a guarantee, and therapy is the first step. I will work with you and others who support you to reach your goals and make changes that lead to lifelong healthy habits of self care and thriving personal relationships.
Have open availability for winter 2024! Sliding scale and some Medicaid; can be weekly or every other week sessions. My goals are to give clients and their families tools, and offer genuine support in daily and/or lifelong struggles. My belief is that change is possible for anyone, but the client and their loved ones need to have an open mind, and believe in love and support. Getting out of your comfort zone is a guarantee, and therapy is the first step. I will work with you and others who support you to reach your goals and make changes that lead to lifelong healthy habits of self care and thriving personal relationships.
(314) 408-5054 View (314) 408-5054
Photo of Dr. Annalise Millet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Dr. Annalise Millet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
Unresolved trauma affects us deeply. Are you feeling numb and shut down or agitated and on alert. Does that resonate for you? Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; how you recover is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again. I’m eager to help.
Unresolved trauma affects us deeply. Are you feeling numb and shut down or agitated and on alert. Does that resonate for you? Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; how you recover is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma, abuse, or neglect could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again. I’m eager to help.
(314) 948-3493 View (314) 948-3493
Photo of Macaela Gilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Macaela Gilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
It’s so common to find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, self-critical, anxious, or lonely. When we do, it’s all the more common to want to avoid looking at what’s transpiring for us out of fear for what we might find. However, not looking tends to mean that we’re bound to misunderstand our experiences, and over time, adding more layers of distress, disconnection, and dissatisfaction — we are suffering and by refusing to look at our suffering, we suffer more. I can help! Together, we’ll create an honest, non-judgmental space in which you can begin to look inward, to listen to the deep strength and internal wisdom you already posses.
It’s so common to find ourselves feeling overwhelmed, self-critical, anxious, or lonely. When we do, it’s all the more common to want to avoid looking at what’s transpiring for us out of fear for what we might find. However, not looking tends to mean that we’re bound to misunderstand our experiences, and over time, adding more layers of distress, disconnection, and dissatisfaction — we are suffering and by refusing to look at our suffering, we suffer more. I can help! Together, we’ll create an honest, non-judgmental space in which you can begin to look inward, to listen to the deep strength and internal wisdom you already posses.
(314) 949-5113 View (314) 949-5113
Photo of Helen R Friedman, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Helen R Friedman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63130  (Online Only)
Dr. Helen Friedman is a compassionate and interactive clinical psychologist with 10 years of additional formal training after her Ph.D. and 41 years in practice. She works with anxiety, stress, depression, grief, divorce, sexual and relationship issues. Specialty areas are child sexual abuse (children, adults, victims and perpetrators), compulsive sexual behavior (including porn addiction and partners), dissociative identity disorder, and gender identity. Trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities (family systems, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, etc.), she tailors her approach to the individual, couple, or family.
Dr. Helen Friedman is a compassionate and interactive clinical psychologist with 10 years of additional formal training after her Ph.D. and 41 years in practice. She works with anxiety, stress, depression, grief, divorce, sexual and relationship issues. Specialty areas are child sexual abuse (children, adults, victims and perpetrators), compulsive sexual behavior (including porn addiction and partners), dissociative identity disorder, and gender identity. Trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities (family systems, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, gestalt, etc.), she tailors her approach to the individual, couple, or family.
(314) 781-4500 View (314) 781-4500
Photo of Rachel Wethers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Rachel Wethers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63111  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
No current openings at this time. Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart), teens, and children as young as age 10 who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
No current openings at this time. Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart), teens, and children as young as age 10 who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
(314) 441-7189 View (314) 441-7189

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.