Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Ladue, MO

Photo of Katherine Fezzi, Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Katherine Fezzi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LMSW
Ladue, MO 63124
Katherine Fezzi is a LMSW with a focused practice in addiction recovery and co-occurring mental health conditions. With a warm, pragmatic, and client-centered approach, Katherine supports individuals and families navigating the complex challenges of substance use, emotional distress, and interpersonal conflict. Those experiences offer deep insight into the personal and systemic stressors people face—especially when emotional and behavioral health issues intersect.
Katherine Fezzi is a LMSW with a focused practice in addiction recovery and co-occurring mental health conditions. With a warm, pragmatic, and client-centered approach, Katherine supports individuals and families navigating the complex challenges of substance use, emotional distress, and interpersonal conflict. Those experiences offer deep insight into the personal and systemic stressors people face—especially when emotional and behavioral health issues intersect.
(314) 272-4755 View (314) 272-4755
Photo of Laila Merz, Psychologist, PhD
Laila Merz
Psychologist, PhD
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 Julie Geeting - Julie Geeting Counseling & Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBC-HWC
Julie Geeting Counseling & Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBC-HWC
Ladue, MO 63124
I draw on ACT, CBT and the TCI personality inventory to support insight, skill development, and lasting change.
Stress, Anxiety and Burnout Therapy for Adults. Integrative Care in Kirkwood & St. Louis - I provide therapy for adults and teens experiencing stress, anxiety, grief and life transitions in Kirkwood and the St. Louis area. Many adults come to therapy with insight into their patterns but struggle to follow through on change. Especially when stress is high. Communication breaks down, old habits resurface, and progress feels harder to sustain. My work focuses on helping clients understand how emotional patterns, stress responses, and behavior interact - and how to apply insight in real-life situations where it matters most.
I draw on ACT, CBT and the TCI personality inventory to support insight, skill development, and lasting change.
Stress, Anxiety and Burnout Therapy for Adults. Integrative Care in Kirkwood & St. Louis - I provide therapy for adults and teens experiencing stress, anxiety, grief and life transitions in Kirkwood and the St. Louis area. Many adults come to therapy with insight into their patterns but struggle to follow through on change. Especially when stress is high. Communication breaks down, old habits resurface, and progress feels harder to sustain. My work focuses on helping clients understand how emotional patterns, stress responses, and behavior interact - and how to apply insight in real-life situations where it matters most.
(314) 451-5593 View (314) 451-5593
Photo of Gabrielle Krus-Whiteside, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Gabrielle Krus-Whiteside
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I mostly pull from ACT, CBT, MI, narrative therapy, DBT skills (and other skills training), and self compassion work.
I am a licensed professional counselor who helps people get unstuck from anything: a toxic relationship, addiction, depression, anxiety, stagnation, feeling lost, etc. I teach people coping skills and help them find insight that will assist them on their journey to become a better version of themselves. I deliver the best outcomes to people who come with an open mind and are willing to work on themselves between sessions. My goal is to help each client find a live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I work in a group private practice called Healthy Minds Counseling and Wellness based in Kirkwood, MO.
I mostly pull from ACT, CBT, MI, narrative therapy, DBT skills (and other skills training), and self compassion work.
I am a licensed professional counselor who helps people get unstuck from anything: a toxic relationship, addiction, depression, anxiety, stagnation, feeling lost, etc. I teach people coping skills and help them find insight that will assist them on their journey to become a better version of themselves. I deliver the best outcomes to people who come with an open mind and are willing to work on themselves between sessions. My goal is to help each client find a live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I work in a group private practice called Healthy Minds Counseling and Wellness based in Kirkwood, MO.
(314) 470-1612 View (314) 470-1612
Photo of Haley Dirkes-Jacks, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Haley Dirkes-Jacks
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
You may be seeking therapy because of changes in behavior, challenges with mental or emotional health, relationship conflicts, school or work stress, or major life transitions. Perhaps you want to better understand your own patterns, explore the systems that shape your life, and identify areas for growth and healing. You may be hoping to deepen your self-awareness, or to better understand your child, and to build healthier, more meaningful connections with those around you.
You may be seeking therapy because of changes in behavior, challenges with mental or emotional health, relationship conflicts, school or work stress, or major life transitions. Perhaps you want to better understand your own patterns, explore the systems that shape your life, and identify areas for growth and healing. You may be hoping to deepen your self-awareness, or to better understand your child, and to build healthier, more meaningful connections with those around you.
(314) 528-9418 View (314) 528-9418
Photo of Teresa Strong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Teresa Strong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
My goal is to help you build self-connection (IFS), gently challenge old patterns keeping you stuck ( ACT), and confidently advocate for yourself (DBT).
From the outside, you are a high-achieving person, the one who everyone in the family relies on to be "fine." But on the inside, you feel like you are drowning in household chores, high expectations, taking care of your kids, holding your partner's emotions together—and you just can't do it all. Many of my clients grew up with a dysfunctional, chaotic family and learned from a young age that the people in their lives couldn’t handle them having a bad day. In therapy, we won’t just talk about your stress and overwhelm; we will challenge the old patterns that cause it. I want you to connect with your feelings and take up more space!
My goal is to help you build self-connection (IFS), gently challenge old patterns keeping you stuck ( ACT), and confidently advocate for yourself (DBT).
From the outside, you are a high-achieving person, the one who everyone in the family relies on to be "fine." But on the inside, you feel like you are drowning in household chores, high expectations, taking care of your kids, holding your partner's emotions together—and you just can't do it all. Many of my clients grew up with a dysfunctional, chaotic family and learned from a young age that the people in their lives couldn’t handle them having a bad day. In therapy, we won’t just talk about your stress and overwhelm; we will challenge the old patterns that cause it. I want you to connect with your feelings and take up more space!
(314) 228-9447 View (314) 228-9447
Photo of Dori Scallet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Dori Scallet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Through a blend of Mindfulness, "parts work," EMDR, and acceptance and commitment therapy, I hold space for my clients to identify, feel, and accept their feelings while recognizing what is within their power to change.
Maybe you've tried all the things: you've read the books, you're following tips from social media, you go on 'stupid walks for your stupid mental health,' maybe you even use ChatGPT to get advice. But you're still feeling stuck — unable to make the changes in your life or relationships that you've been longing for. I can help you dismantle the barriers that are getting in your way and develop a path forward, one where you actually feel better: more connected, more compassionate, more curious. I'd love to help. Reach out for a free consultation today.
Through a blend of Mindfulness, "parts work," EMDR, and acceptance and commitment therapy, I hold space for my clients to identify, feel, and accept their feelings while recognizing what is within their power to change.
Maybe you've tried all the things: you've read the books, you're following tips from social media, you go on 'stupid walks for your stupid mental health,' maybe you even use ChatGPT to get advice. But you're still feeling stuck — unable to make the changes in your life or relationships that you've been longing for. I can help you dismantle the barriers that are getting in your way and develop a path forward, one where you actually feel better: more connected, more compassionate, more curious. I'd love to help. Reach out for a free consultation today.
(314) 470-1836 View (314) 470-1836
Photo of Madeline Senay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Madeline Senay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also informed on evidence based treatments for anxiety, depression, and low self esteem such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
I am also informed on evidence based treatments for anxiety, depression, and low self esteem such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
(314) 254-9841 View (314) 254-9841
Photo of Shelley Wolfmeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Shelley Wolfmeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use an eclectic approach tailored to you, drawing from Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and ACT.
Life is messy. The constant changes and transitions are hard. It’s exhausting to keep it all together when you feel like you could unravel at any minute. Maybe you look fine on the outside, but inside, you're feeling stressed, stuck and overwhelmed by self doubt. It feels like no one really understands. The constant changes have led to an overwhelming sense of uncertainty and anxiety. By the end of the day you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your phone just to disconnect. You know that there’s more to life than this and you're ready to get out of this cycle. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I'm here to help.
I use an eclectic approach tailored to you, drawing from Person-Centered Therapy, CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, and ACT.
Life is messy. The constant changes and transitions are hard. It’s exhausting to keep it all together when you feel like you could unravel at any minute. Maybe you look fine on the outside, but inside, you're feeling stressed, stuck and overwhelmed by self doubt. It feels like no one really understands. The constant changes have led to an overwhelming sense of uncertainty and anxiety. By the end of the day you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your phone just to disconnect. You know that there’s more to life than this and you're ready to get out of this cycle. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I'm here to help.
(314) 266-5129 View (314) 266-5129
Photo of Irma Hagarty, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Irma Hagarty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Serves Area
I serve individuals, couples, and families seeking professional therapeutic services. My areas of expertise include relationship and family dynamic concerns, grief and loss, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility counseling, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
I serve individuals, couples, and families seeking professional therapeutic services. My areas of expertise include relationship and family dynamic concerns, grief and loss, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility counseling, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
(314) 310-0743 View (314) 310-0743
Photo of Alli Gannon, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Alli Gannon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, I’m Alli Gannon! I’m a licensed mental health therapist in St. Louis, Missouri with a passion for helping people live healthy, authentic, and meaningful lives. I specialize in anxiety, relationship conflicts, self-esteem, and trauma.
Hi, I’m Alli Gannon! I’m a licensed mental health therapist in St. Louis, Missouri with a passion for helping people live healthy, authentic, and meaningful lives. I specialize in anxiety, relationship conflicts, self-esteem, and trauma.
(314) 451-7966 View (314) 451-7966
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Romo, Psychologist, PsyD
Dr. Jennifer Romo
Psychologist, PsyD
Online Only
I mostly utilize cognitive behavioral and acceptance-based strategies, though I tend to conceptualize emotional suffering through an existential lens informed by both attachment theory and neuroscience.
I'm a clinical psychologist with over 13 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, life transitions, and the management of complex health concerns. I have a particular passion for supporting the mental health needs of caregivers of all kinds. I also have expertise in supporting mental health concerns among medical providers and mental health professionals.
I mostly utilize cognitive behavioral and acceptance-based strategies, though I tend to conceptualize emotional suffering through an existential lens informed by both attachment theory and neuroscience.
I'm a clinical psychologist with over 13 years of experience specializing in the treatment of mood disorders, life transitions, and the management of complex health concerns. I have a particular passion for supporting the mental health needs of caregivers of all kinds. I also have expertise in supporting mental health concerns among medical providers and mental health professionals.
(314) 272-3110 View (314) 272-3110
Photo of Kathryn Louise Manley, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, CST
Kathryn Louise Manley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, CST
Serves Area
Kathryn Manley is a seasoned licensed mental health practitioner and licensed AASECT sex therapist. For over 25 years, she has helped individuals and couples navigate difficult issues relating to communication skills, sexuality, autonomy, and attachment. Kathryn understands the importance of having a safe and trustworthy clinician. Sex therapy can include the many physiological and emotional aspects of intimacy encountered during seasons of life including but not limited to postpartum depression, differences in sexual desire, infidelity, betrayal trauma, erectile dysfunction, pain, sexless marriage and difficulty with orgasm.
Kathryn Manley is a seasoned licensed mental health practitioner and licensed AASECT sex therapist. For over 25 years, she has helped individuals and couples navigate difficult issues relating to communication skills, sexuality, autonomy, and attachment. Kathryn understands the importance of having a safe and trustworthy clinician. Sex therapy can include the many physiological and emotional aspects of intimacy encountered during seasons of life including but not limited to postpartum depression, differences in sexual desire, infidelity, betrayal trauma, erectile dysfunction, pain, sexless marriage and difficulty with orgasm.
(636) 205-1296 View (636) 205-1296
Photo of Edie Rasmussen, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Edie Rasmussen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break? You’re not alone. When anxiety, trauma, stress, or major life transitions take over, it can feel difficult to slow your thoughts, trust yourself, or feel grounded in your daily life. You may find yourself overthinking, emotionally drained, struggling in relationships, or constantly feeling like you’re falling behind no matter how hard you try.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break? You’re not alone. When anxiety, trauma, stress, or major life transitions take over, it can feel difficult to slow your thoughts, trust yourself, or feel grounded in your daily life. You may find yourself overthinking, emotionally drained, struggling in relationships, or constantly feeling like you’re falling behind no matter how hard you try.
(314) 248-6838 View (314) 248-6838
Photo of Susan Wise, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Susan Wise
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Serves Area
Do you feel like you are fighting life’s stressors alone? Maybe you feel like you keep having the same drama and problems over and over. You have probably already listened to podcasts, read books, and talked to people about it. And you still feel lost and are unsure about how to get out of this cycle. Let me be your ally. I have over 30 years of experience helping people understand and overcome conditions like depression, anxiety, adhd, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the underlying issues that are causing your stress and pain. And together, we will create a clear path towards your future.
Do you feel like you are fighting life’s stressors alone? Maybe you feel like you keep having the same drama and problems over and over. You have probably already listened to podcasts, read books, and talked to people about it. And you still feel lost and are unsure about how to get out of this cycle. Let me be your ally. I have over 30 years of experience helping people understand and overcome conditions like depression, anxiety, adhd, and eating disorders. In therapy, we will identify the underlying issues that are causing your stress and pain. And together, we will create a clear path towards your future.
(636) 538-2456 View (636) 538-2456
Photo of Kyla Hadenfeldt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kyla Hadenfeldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I'm glad you're here. Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions? Maybe a recent life change has created some new problems for you, or brought up old stuff. Or perhaps, you're doing okay in your day-to-day life, but have been wondering if therapy could help you do some deeper work. In any case, I'm here to help. I support folks in learning more effective ways to work through their emotional struggles, and create a life of meaning, pleasure, and authenticity. I also enjoy working with folks on identity, life transitions, personal growth, and sexual self-empowerment.
Hello! I'm glad you're here. Are you struggling with painful thoughts and emotions? Maybe a recent life change has created some new problems for you, or brought up old stuff. Or perhaps, you're doing okay in your day-to-day life, but have been wondering if therapy could help you do some deeper work. In any case, I'm here to help. I support folks in learning more effective ways to work through their emotional struggles, and create a life of meaning, pleasure, and authenticity. I also enjoy working with folks on identity, life transitions, personal growth, and sexual self-empowerment.
(314) 207-7894 View (314) 207-7894
Photo of Jenna Poppe, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, PLPC
Jenna Poppe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, PLPC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use CBT, ACT, EMDR therapy as well as other types of therapies and treatments depending on your goals.
Does your brain feel like a million tabs are open and none of them are closing? Are you constantly swimming upstream and feeling exhausted from trying to explain how your mind works to people who just don't get it? Are you having relationship conflict on loop? You are not broken. You are not lazy. Your brain may be different and you need a different type of therapy. You are in the right place! I work with individuals and couples who are ready to stop fighting themselves and start actually feeling better. This is a space with zero judgment and a whole lot of heart. I'm told I'm warm, no-nonsense, funny and real. Let's do this!
I use CBT, ACT, EMDR therapy as well as other types of therapies and treatments depending on your goals.
Does your brain feel like a million tabs are open and none of them are closing? Are you constantly swimming upstream and feeling exhausted from trying to explain how your mind works to people who just don't get it? Are you having relationship conflict on loop? You are not broken. You are not lazy. Your brain may be different and you need a different type of therapy. You are in the right place! I work with individuals and couples who are ready to stop fighting themselves and start actually feeling better. This is a space with zero judgment and a whole lot of heart. I'm told I'm warm, no-nonsense, funny and real. Let's do this!
(314) 886-7702 View (314) 886-7702
Photo of Amy Kersten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amy Kersten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Do you find yourself lying awake at night, replaying the day while already worrying about tomorrow? When your mind won’t slow down, it can feel exhausting to be caught in cycles of overthinking, people-pleasing, or perfectionism—especially when you’re already giving so much of yourself. Maybe work feels overwhelming, relationships feel harder to navigate, or you’re adjusting to the changes of pregnancy or postpartum life, trying to find your footing in a season that feels both meaningful and heavy. You don’t have to hold all of this on your own.
Do you find yourself lying awake at night, replaying the day while already worrying about tomorrow? When your mind won’t slow down, it can feel exhausting to be caught in cycles of overthinking, people-pleasing, or perfectionism—especially when you’re already giving so much of yourself. Maybe work feels overwhelming, relationships feel harder to navigate, or you’re adjusting to the changes of pregnancy or postpartum life, trying to find your footing in a season that feels both meaningful and heavy. You don’t have to hold all of this on your own.
(573) 492-3528 View (573) 492-3528
Photo of Kim Oliver, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kim Oliver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
I have learned that no one is immune to mental health stress, trauma, OR substance abuse. With intervention, most really can find recovery and wellness. Since 2000, I began my career in the addiction field specializing in coping methods vs. "using" substances. I work with all arrangements of families (CNM & polyamory). Relationships are sacred. Expert family/couples counseling requires expert training. The premier approach - the Gottman Method is taught in 3 levels. I completed those in 2017. My intensive couples approach is successful in improving communication and provides tools and practical results in a reasonable time frame.
I have learned that no one is immune to mental health stress, trauma, OR substance abuse. With intervention, most really can find recovery and wellness. Since 2000, I began my career in the addiction field specializing in coping methods vs. "using" substances. I work with all arrangements of families (CNM & polyamory). Relationships are sacred. Expert family/couples counseling requires expert training. The premier approach - the Gottman Method is taught in 3 levels. I completed those in 2017. My intensive couples approach is successful in improving communication and provides tools and practical results in a reasonable time frame.
(573) 340-4179 View (573) 340-4179
Photo of Elizabeth Sullivan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Elizabeth Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Online Only
Sometimes the experiences we carry—whether from relationships, family dynamics, or past events—can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or unsure of ourselves. Therapy can be a place to not only grow in a deeper understanding of yourself, but also begin to heal.
Sometimes the experiences we carry—whether from relationships, family dynamics, or past events—can leave us feeling anxious, disconnected, or unsure of ourselves. Therapy can be a place to not only grow in a deeper understanding of yourself, but also begin to heal.
(417) 391-8946 View (417) 391-8946

See more therapy options for Ladue

Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists
How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?
The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?
Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?
A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.