Adoption Therapists in North County, MO

Photo of Naomi Britton, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Naomi Britton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We all face hardships, stressors, and traumas within our lives. My goal is to help individuals cope, learn about, and process those hardships with empathy and compassion. I want to provide you a safe space to get to the root cause and really work through things that may be uncomfortable and distressing. I welcome and invite you to sit with, discover and learn new insights that may be life changing. I would love you to chat with me. Let me invite you to first have either a virtual or phone consultation to give you the opportunity to share, ask questions, and hopefully eliminate some fears associated to therapy.
We all face hardships, stressors, and traumas within our lives. My goal is to help individuals cope, learn about, and process those hardships with empathy and compassion. I want to provide you a safe space to get to the root cause and really work through things that may be uncomfortable and distressing. I welcome and invite you to sit with, discover and learn new insights that may be life changing. I would love you to chat with me. Let me invite you to first have either a virtual or phone consultation to give you the opportunity to share, ask questions, and hopefully eliminate some fears associated to therapy.
(816) 542-6249 View (816) 542-6249
Photo of Natalie Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Natalie Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I am an open-minded, optimistic person who enjoys dancing and singing loudly. I love relaxing and watching good shows or movies as well as working in the garden. Based on the person's needs, I may use a variety of modalities including CBT, Humanistic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. It's all about what's best for you. This is a time for you to work though understanding your emotions and thoughts. Therapy is a time for you to find clarity, and that's what I hope to help you do.
I am an open-minded, optimistic person who enjoys dancing and singing loudly. I love relaxing and watching good shows or movies as well as working in the garden. Based on the person's needs, I may use a variety of modalities including CBT, Humanistic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. It's all about what's best for you. This is a time for you to work though understanding your emotions and thoughts. Therapy is a time for you to find clarity, and that's what I hope to help you do.
(618) 677-5512 View (618) 677-5512
Photo of Michelle Maguire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michelle Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(510) 616-9250 View (510) 616-9250
Photo of Dr. Jeanna R. Knight, Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT
Dr. Jeanna R. Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
A medical diagnosis can profoundly impact your life, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. Do you seek a compassionate and insightful partner to help you navigate this challenging journey? Working with a seasoned therapist who combines empathy with expertise can offer a transformative experience, bringing clarity and empowerment as you move forward with renewed hope and strength. With two decades of experience in counseling and therapeutic services, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals of all ages through life's diverse challenges.
A medical diagnosis can profoundly impact your life, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and uncertain. Do you seek a compassionate and insightful partner to help you navigate this challenging journey? Working with a seasoned therapist who combines empathy with expertise can offer a transformative experience, bringing clarity and empowerment as you move forward with renewed hope and strength. With two decades of experience in counseling and therapeutic services, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals of all ages through life's diverse challenges.
(314) 943-2399 View (314) 943-2399

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Laura Winters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Laura Winters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Chesterfield, MO 63017
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.
(314) 501-9283 View (314) 501-9283
Photo of Devin Feeney, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Devin Feeney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
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.
(314) 897-3947 View (314) 897-3947
Photo of Jasmine Berger - Bud to Bloom Play Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bud to Bloom Play Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63103
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!
(314) 948-5268 View (314) 948-5268
Photo of Scott S. Heuer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
Scott S. Heuer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
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.
(314) 328-8731 View (314) 328-8731
Photo of Molly Rush, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Molly Rush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63103
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.
(314) 948-5457 View (314) 948-5457
Photo of Ameerah Ali, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Ameerah Ali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63136
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.
(314) 684-8363 View (314) 684-8363
Photo of Cynthia M Ross, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Cynthia M Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
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.
(314) 947-5898 View (314) 947-5898
Photo of Ashley Bonner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ashley Bonner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(314) 804-1817 View (314) 804-1817
Photo of Lara C Kelso, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Lara C Kelso
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(636) 481-0055 View (636) 481-0055
Photo of Shirley Crenshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Shirley Crenshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
(314) 551-9323 View (314) 551-9323
Photo of Karen R Moist, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
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.
(314) 310-0413 View (314) 310-0413
Photo of Colleen Smithson - St. Louis Play Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
St. Louis Play Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have a child or teen who is struggling with things such as anxiety, depression, anger? Do you have a young child who has tantrums and difficulty listening at home and school? Are you a parent who needs help managing your child's behaviors?
Do you have a child or teen who is struggling with things such as anxiety, depression, anger? Do you have a young child who has tantrums and difficulty listening at home and school? Are you a parent who needs help managing your child's behaviors?
(314) 207-8589 View (314) 207-8589
Photo of Quila Gant, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Quila Gant
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63301
Starting therapy can feel like a brave step and you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where individuals feel seen, heard, and understood. My goal is to help you make sense of what you’re carrying, build healthier coping tools, and reconnect with the strength and clarity already inside you. In our work together, you can expect an empathic, nonjudgmental environment where all feelings and experiences are welcome. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, school stress, behavioral challenges, etc. we will move at your pace and explore what feels important to you.
Starting therapy can feel like a brave step and you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a warm, supportive space where individuals feel seen, heard, and understood. My goal is to help you make sense of what you’re carrying, build healthier coping tools, and reconnect with the strength and clarity already inside you. In our work together, you can expect an empathic, nonjudgmental environment where all feelings and experiences are welcome. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, school stress, behavioral challenges, etc. we will move at your pace and explore what feels important to you.
(636) 630-1917 View (636) 630-1917
Photo of Steven Charles May, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MA MFT, CJP, APP
Steven Charles May
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , MA MFT, CJP, APP
2 Endorsed
High Ridge, MO 63049
Change does not occur by magic but through courage. You may want to change by tomorrow or you just may want to window shop what change might look like in your life. Wherever you are at in process of change I can collaborate with you on the goals that you wish to achieve. With almost 20 years of experience in psychotherapy practice as well as post-graduate certified training and supervision in a multitude of therapeutic modalities, I would be honored to serve you in the empathic, and collaborative process of change.
Change does not occur by magic but through courage. You may want to change by tomorrow or you just may want to window shop what change might look like in your life. Wherever you are at in process of change I can collaborate with you on the goals that you wish to achieve. With almost 20 years of experience in psychotherapy practice as well as post-graduate certified training and supervision in a multitude of therapeutic modalities, I would be honored to serve you in the empathic, and collaborative process of change.
(314) 347-8250 View (314) 347-8250
Photo of Erick Kenneth French, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACHT
Erick Kenneth French
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACHT
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I like to work with people who are internally motivated to learn and grow and desire to live meaningful and fulfilling lives. Whatever challenges they are facing I want them to know that working with me will at some point mean paying attention to and allowing themselves to feel their feelings. A conscious relationship with self is had through attending to the feelings we have about ourselves. Understanding feelings will be essential in generating improved self-awareness and a sense of personal integrity.
I like to work with people who are internally motivated to learn and grow and desire to live meaningful and fulfilling lives. Whatever challenges they are facing I want them to know that working with me will at some point mean paying attention to and allowing themselves to feel their feelings. A conscious relationship with self is had through attending to the feelings we have about ourselves. Understanding feelings will be essential in generating improved self-awareness and a sense of personal integrity.
(314) 310-8414 View (314) 310-8414
Photo of Sarah Sanburn, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Sarah Sanburn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
1 Endorsed
Webster Groves, MO 63119
Are you looking for a therapist in Webster Groves? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with experience and a passion for working with children, teens and young adults that are experiencing anxiety, big behaviors or trauma. I utilize play therapy to help children (2+) build emotional strength, resilience and an internal sense of calm.
Are you looking for a therapist in Webster Groves? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with experience and a passion for working with children, teens and young adults that are experiencing anxiety, big behaviors or trauma. I utilize play therapy to help children (2+) build emotional strength, resilience and an internal sense of calm.
(314) 876-8812 View (314) 876-8812
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.