Adoption Therapists in Affton, MO
I am passionate about creating a safe, inviting space for clients to work through any struggles they may encounter. I strive to meet clients where they are and support them through figuring out how to reach their therapy goals.
I am passionate about creating a safe, inviting space for clients to work through any struggles they may encounter. I strive to meet clients where they are and support them through figuring out how to reach their therapy goals.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
The clients I serve are often at a crossroads in their life story and unsure of how to close one chapter and begin anew. Clients I enjoy working with recognize that counseling continues outside of the session in self reflection, exploring behavior change, and shifting how we think and relate to ourselves. I find that counseling helps meet goals and needs as diverse as the client, and sometimes goals arise throughout the course of the relationship. No one needs a "good reason" to come to counseling, for the desire to reach out and try will always be sufficient.
The clients I serve are often at a crossroads in their life story and unsure of how to close one chapter and begin anew. Clients I enjoy working with recognize that counseling continues outside of the session in self reflection, exploring behavior change, and shifting how we think and relate to ourselves. I find that counseling helps meet goals and needs as diverse as the client, and sometimes goals arise throughout the course of the relationship. No one needs a "good reason" to come to counseling, for the desire to reach out and try will always be sufficient.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
More Therapists Nearby
Karen R Moist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
University City, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
Many children I see have pre-verbal trauma from parental stress during pregnancy, adoption, neglect, or abuse.
My objective is to help a child and family move from surviving to thriving by helping the child heal from trauma and the family system heal and change to support each individual.
Many children I see have pre-verbal trauma from parental stress during pregnancy, adoption, neglect, or abuse.
My objective is to help a child and family move from surviving to thriving by helping the child heal from trauma and the family system heal and change to support each individual.
Hello, I'm Ameerah specializing in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have been providing therapy to clients for over 15 years utilizing a variety of therapies including an eclectic approach to therapy, trauma- focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in helping my clients to reach their goals.
Hello, I'm Ameerah specializing in providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults. I have been providing therapy to clients for over 15 years utilizing a variety of therapies including an eclectic approach to therapy, trauma- focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in helping my clients to reach their goals.
I’m Ashley, a trauma-informed therapist in St. Louis, Missouri, with a passion for supporting individuals and families. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Washington University in St. Louis’ George Warren Brown School of Social Work, where my concentration was children, youth and families. My therapeutic methods include Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices. I’m also working toward play therapy certification. I believe every human being has the power within to overcome fear, anxiety and other obstacles preventing us from reaching our full potential.
I’m Ashley, a trauma-informed therapist in St. Louis, Missouri, with a passion for supporting individuals and families. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from Washington University in St. Louis’ George Warren Brown School of Social Work, where my concentration was children, youth and families. My therapeutic methods include Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness practices. I’m also working toward play therapy certification. I believe every human being has the power within to overcome fear, anxiety and other obstacles preventing us from reaching our full potential.
Many parents come to me feeling worried, confused and burnt out. You might be wondering whether your child’s challenges are “just a phase,” navigating new ADHD or Autism diagnoses, or trying to make sense of behaviors that feel overwhelming when emotions run high. Maybe your child feels different, misunderstood, or is exploring their LGBTQ+ identity. You want to feel more confident, strengthen your relationship, and understand what your child is communicating beneath the behaviors. You’re doing your best — and you deserve support, too.
Many parents come to me feeling worried, confused and burnt out. You might be wondering whether your child’s challenges are “just a phase,” navigating new ADHD or Autism diagnoses, or trying to make sense of behaviors that feel overwhelming when emotions run high. Maybe your child feels different, misunderstood, or is exploring their LGBTQ+ identity. You want to feel more confident, strengthen your relationship, and understand what your child is communicating beneath the behaviors. You’re doing your best — and you deserve support, too.
We’re Bud to Bloom Play Therapy! We help St. Louis families heal and thrive through play therapy, play-based therapy and, engaging and effective approaches to support children’s emotional wellbeing. Is your child's behavior challenging or difficult to understand? Are you unsure how to help your child after a trauma or big life transition? We specialize in trauma, big behaviors and adoptive and foster families. Whether you are a caregiver looking for therapy for your child, your family or yourself we're happy to help!
We’re Bud to Bloom Play Therapy! We help St. Louis families heal and thrive through play therapy, play-based therapy and, engaging and effective approaches to support children’s emotional wellbeing. Is your child's behavior challenging or difficult to understand? Are you unsure how to help your child after a trauma or big life transition? We specialize in trauma, big behaviors and adoptive and foster families. Whether you are a caregiver looking for therapy for your child, your family or yourself we're happy to help!
You are worthy of delight, safety, and care. Through various trials and experiences, this inherent belief has been squashed, marred, or denied. Whether you are off-kilter internally, relationally, or with the world around you, my office is a steady space for you. Balance can be found again, and I hope to be a secure presence, navigating you through the imbalance you are experiencing. I see you. I know there is a blend of grief, pain, shame, strength, and joy all tangled up within you. Together, we can face these and move towards flourishing and wholeness.
You are worthy of delight, safety, and care. Through various trials and experiences, this inherent belief has been squashed, marred, or denied. Whether you are off-kilter internally, relationally, or with the world around you, my office is a steady space for you. Balance can be found again, and I hope to be a secure presence, navigating you through the imbalance you are experiencing. I see you. I know there is a blend of grief, pain, shame, strength, and joy all tangled up within you. Together, we can face these and move towards flourishing and wholeness.
Graduate of The Accredited Training for Adoption Competency 2023.
Throughout life we experience many seasons and sometimes life does not go as we have planned. Are you seeking additional support as you face a new season in your life? Counseling offers the opportunity to work through challenges and to move toward a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
Graduate of The Accredited Training for Adoption Competency 2023.
Throughout life we experience many seasons and sometimes life does not go as we have planned. Are you seeking additional support as you face a new season in your life? Counseling offers the opportunity to work through challenges and to move toward a more satisfying and fulfilling life.
I also specialize in areas related to adoption as an adoption counselor, consultant, search specialist, or mediator.
When I first walked into a therapist's office as a client, I was a ball of knotted yarn, twisted with emotion, anxiety, and confusion. I needed something...relief; to make sense of things once again; to understand myself; to identify and solve a problem. I needed someone to help me sort it out. I want to help you unknot that ball of yarn. I want my clients to feel accepted and understood, recognizing their inherent value and strength, through our interactions and exploration of themselves. You are the expert on you. I am the witness, reflection, and guide. I would be honored to help you work through whatever it is you need.
I also specialize in areas related to adoption as an adoption counselor, consultant, search specialist, or mediator.
When I first walked into a therapist's office as a client, I was a ball of knotted yarn, twisted with emotion, anxiety, and confusion. I needed something...relief; to make sense of things once again; to understand myself; to identify and solve a problem. I needed someone to help me sort it out. I want to help you unknot that ball of yarn. I want my clients to feel accepted and understood, recognizing their inherent value and strength, through our interactions and exploration of themselves. You are the expert on you. I am the witness, reflection, and guide. I would be honored to help you work through whatever it is you need.
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I'm Cynthia, and I’m here to support you in navigating your challenges and achieving emotional and social fulfillment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I use an eclectic therapeutic approach, combining CBT, experiential therapy, and parent coaching to guide you toward positive change. Together, we’ll identify your unique needs, overcome obstacles, and empower you or your teen to live the life you desire. Let’s start your journey toward healing today.
Life can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. I'm Cynthia, and I’m here to support you in navigating your challenges and achieving emotional and social fulfillment. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, trauma, or life transitions, I use an eclectic therapeutic approach, combining CBT, experiential therapy, and parent coaching to guide you toward positive change. Together, we’ll identify your unique needs, overcome obstacles, and empower you or your teen to live the life you desire. Let’s start your journey toward healing today.
My speciality is treating children and adults with attachment disturbances. Most of the children I see have been adopted, but many have had other medical and other relationship traumas that have contributed to their current acting out or anxiety issues. Many of the children I see have been previously diagnosed as having Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, and Bi-Polar Disorders. I also see adults who have experienced childhood trauma.
My speciality is treating children and adults with attachment disturbances. Most of the children I see have been adopted, but many have had other medical and other relationship traumas that have contributed to their current acting out or anxiety issues. Many of the children I see have been previously diagnosed as having Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, ADHD, and Bi-Polar Disorders. I also see adults who have experienced childhood trauma.
Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and can deter us from moving forward, but we also have a long list of personal strengths within our authentic “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to identify your authentic self while collectively working to understand your addiction. As a gay male living in recovery from alcohol, my life has prompted me to be the support for those with similar barriers in their life. In addition to my personal life experiences, I also teach an Addiction Counseling course at the graduate level.
Life is full of experiences that hold a lasting effect on us and can deter us from moving forward, but we also have a long list of personal strengths within our authentic “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to identify your authentic self while collectively working to understand your addiction. As a gay male living in recovery from alcohol, my life has prompted me to be the support for those with similar barriers in their life. In addition to my personal life experiences, I also teach an Addiction Counseling course at the graduate level.
We are a counseling practice that serves both adults and children. We offer individual, family, and couples therapy. It is an honor to have numerous therapists on staff with a variety of specialties and experiences. We currently have immediate openings for daytime, evening and weekends with both our provisional therapists, Stepping Stones therapists (Interns) and in our groups. We also have openings in our Intensive Outpatient program. Our ultimate goal is to help you find a good fit.
We are a counseling practice that serves both adults and children. We offer individual, family, and couples therapy. It is an honor to have numerous therapists on staff with a variety of specialties and experiences. We currently have immediate openings for daytime, evening and weekends with both our provisional therapists, Stepping Stones therapists (Interns) and in our groups. We also have openings in our Intensive Outpatient program. Our ultimate goal is to help you find a good fit.
Throughout our lives, we all have thresholds we must cross. Some of these are easier than others. When these thresholds become a sticking point or seem impossible to cross is when the therapeutic journey can be most impactful. As a polyamorous gay man that grew up in the South, I have often found myself at different thresholds trying to figure out how to move through them. Because of this, as your therapist, I will work to help you find the ability to push through your own thresholds.
Throughout our lives, we all have thresholds we must cross. Some of these are easier than others. When these thresholds become a sticking point or seem impossible to cross is when the therapeutic journey can be most impactful. As a polyamorous gay man that grew up in the South, I have often found myself at different thresholds trying to figure out how to move through them. Because of this, as your therapist, I will work to help you find the ability to push through your own thresholds.
Maureen Mcgowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, NCC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Richmond Heights, MO 63117
Are you hurting? Have you tried everything you can think of to find peace ... answers ... freedom from the pain? I would like to help you. Help give you the knowledge and tools to free you from unhealthy and hurtful communication and relationship patterns. Help you to let go of the painful negative thoughts behind your depression and anxiety. Help you to learn and implement healthy boundaries in your intimate and professional relationships. Professional counseling is so much more than talking ... it is a unique and individualized collaboration between you and the counselor to work together toward your goals for yourself.
Are you hurting? Have you tried everything you can think of to find peace ... answers ... freedom from the pain? I would like to help you. Help give you the knowledge and tools to free you from unhealthy and hurtful communication and relationship patterns. Help you to let go of the painful negative thoughts behind your depression and anxiety. Help you to learn and implement healthy boundaries in your intimate and professional relationships. Professional counseling is so much more than talking ... it is a unique and individualized collaboration between you and the counselor to work together toward your goals for yourself.
Providing virtual therapy and coaching support to clients age 12+ in the states of Illinois, Michigan, and Missouri. Therapy for trauma, mood, or anxiety work with EMDR, IFS parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, Narrative and Nurturing/Relational approaches. Coaching areas for life skills and accommodations for neurodivergent affirming support, business and leadership development, parent coaching for neurodivergence or trauma education and support, as well as support for alternative lifestyles, including but not limited to spirituality, astrology and tarot, and LGBTQ+ and kink/poly-affirming education.
Providing virtual therapy and coaching support to clients age 12+ in the states of Illinois, Michigan, and Missouri. Therapy for trauma, mood, or anxiety work with EMDR, IFS parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, Narrative and Nurturing/Relational approaches. Coaching areas for life skills and accommodations for neurodivergent affirming support, business and leadership development, parent coaching for neurodivergence or trauma education and support, as well as support for alternative lifestyles, including but not limited to spirituality, astrology and tarot, and LGBTQ+ and kink/poly-affirming education.
Are you feeling depressed? Anxious? Does pain from the past affect your happiness today? Do you feel at a loss of what to do to feel better? There is hope! You can find a resolution and move forward for the life you want! Together we will work on the issues that are causing you pain and distress. You will receive insight and practical tools you can use every day.
Are you feeling depressed? Anxious? Does pain from the past affect your happiness today? Do you feel at a loss of what to do to feel better? There is hope! You can find a resolution and move forward for the life you want! Together we will work on the issues that are causing you pain and distress. You will receive insight and practical tools you can use every day.
See more therapy options for Affton
Nearby Adoption Therapists Searches for Affton
- Brentwood
- Clayton
- Des Peres
- Fenton
- Kirkwood
- Ladue
- Maplewood
- Oakville
- Richmond Heights
- Saint Louis
- University City
- Webster Groves
Adoption Therapists
Does my adopted child need therapy?
Not every adopted child needs therapy. However, many can benefit from seeing an adoption-informed therapist, especially if they were victims of abuse or neglect, appear withdrawn or disconnected, have behavioral or developmental issues (which may or may not be related to their adoption), are struggling with feelings of grief or loss surrounding their birth parents, or find it difficult to establish an identity, a challenge that often becomes most apparent during adolescence.
When should adoptive parents seek therapy?
Prospective parents can benefit from therapy even before an adoption—for example, to voice worries and fears; to reconcile infertility struggles, if relevant; or simply to prepare themselves for parenthood. After the adoption, parents who are struggling to bond with their child; are unsure how to talk about adoption or related issues, such as race; or whose child is dealing with developmental, behavioral, or psychiatric concerns can address these and other issues with the help of an adoption-competent therapist.
Is family therapy appropriate for adoptive families?
Family therapy can be invaluable for strengthening the bond between adoptive parents and children, helping the latter feel more secure in their place in the family. Family therapy can also help adoptive families navigate complex communication issues—for example, parents who feel uncomfortable discussing race with their child, who in turn feels invalidated by their silence, or a child who has questions about his birth parents but avoids asking them out of fear of hurting his adoptive parents’ feelings.
What therapy is not appropriate for adoption issues?
A discredited therapy known as “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy” or “rebirthing therapy”) should not be used to treat adopted and foster children, though it was largely designed for this population. Attachment therapy involves restraining, coercing, and punishing the child in order for them to “release” negative emotions and attach to their new caregivers—techniques that are abusive and dangerous and have even proven fatal in some cases.