Parenting Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Kathy Bleitner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Kathy Bleitner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63122
My name is Kathy Bleitner. I earned my Master of Education in Counseling Degree from the University of Missouri St. Louis and am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I have experience working with children and families. I use play therapy with young clients, and incorporate cognitive behavior and person centered therapy with adolescents, teens and adults. I believe that with support, patience, and caring, most problems can be overcome. My clinical experience includes: Therapy for depression and anxiety, stress reduction, parenting challenges, autism, ADD and ADHD, learning issues and effective communication skills.
My name is Kathy Bleitner. I earned my Master of Education in Counseling Degree from the University of Missouri St. Louis and am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I have experience working with children and families. I use play therapy with young clients, and incorporate cognitive behavior and person centered therapy with adolescents, teens and adults. I believe that with support, patience, and caring, most problems can be overcome. My clinical experience includes: Therapy for depression and anxiety, stress reduction, parenting challenges, autism, ADD and ADHD, learning issues and effective communication skills.
(314) 207-3092 View (314) 207-3092
Photo of Desley Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Desley Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Illinois and a Certified Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Practitioner.
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and feel it is an honor to be a part of someone's journey through therapy. I truly enjoy supporting others in finding and becoming the very best version of themselves. I think it is important that my clients feel heard and understood and I strive to create a therapeutic environment where my clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. I have spent the majority of my career working with children, youth, adults, and families in various capacities. I have a strong background in trauma, family dynamics, child development, foster care, adoption, and mental health of all ages.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Illinois and a Certified Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Practitioner.
I am extremely passionate about helping those in need and feel it is an honor to be a part of someone's journey through therapy. I truly enjoy supporting others in finding and becoming the very best version of themselves. I think it is important that my clients feel heard and understood and I strive to create a therapeutic environment where my clients can feel safe to be their authentic selves. I have spent the majority of my career working with children, youth, adults, and families in various capacities. I have a strong background in trauma, family dynamics, child development, foster care, adoption, and mental health of all ages.
(314) 907-3710 View (314) 907-3710
Photo of Heather Barker, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Heather Barker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that relationships are central to our well-being and am passionate about working with all of the individual pieces of a family – children, teens, parents, couples – and the family unit itself.
I came to counseling as a second profession. In my undergraduate studies, I completed a degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Business & Statistics, graduating with honors and publishing several articles in psychological research journals. After a career in business, I went on to pursue my Masters in Counseling with a couples & family counseling focus.
I believe that relationships are central to our well-being and am passionate about working with all of the individual pieces of a family – children, teens, parents, couples – and the family unit itself.
I came to counseling as a second profession. In my undergraduate studies, I completed a degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Business & Statistics, graduating with honors and publishing several articles in psychological research journals. After a career in business, I went on to pursue my Masters in Counseling with a couples & family counseling focus.
(314) 858-5163 View (314) 858-5163
Photo of Ginny Kappel, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, Coach
Ginny Kappel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, Coach
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
If you are feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed, you are not alone. Many of my clients feel this way when they first call me. I specialize in helping overwhelmed moms and college students find clarity and relief from stress. Certified in CBT and ACT, I use evidence-based tools alongside Brainspotting—an amazing, gentle, trauma-informed approach that works at a deep level to help you heal. As one of the few Brainspotting practitioners in the area, I create a space where you’re truly heard and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. We will move at your pace to help you finally heal and create a life you want.
If you are feeling stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed, you are not alone. Many of my clients feel this way when they first call me. I specialize in helping overwhelmed moms and college students find clarity and relief from stress. Certified in CBT and ACT, I use evidence-based tools alongside Brainspotting—an amazing, gentle, trauma-informed approach that works at a deep level to help you heal. As one of the few Brainspotting practitioners in the area, I create a space where you’re truly heard and supported as you navigate life’s challenges. We will move at your pace to help you finally heal and create a life you want.
(314) 403-2960 View (314) 403-2960
Photo of Ronita Herron, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Ronita Herron
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Online Only
I support individuals navigating parenting challenges, relationship issues, family conflict, career stress, anxiety, and depression.
Immediate Openings/Accepting Aetna Insurance... My clients are often emotionally overwhelmed moms, young adults trying to figure life out, and couples struggling to reconnect. Many come to therapy feeling anxious, burned out, disconnected, or stuck in repeating patterns that no longer serve them. My style is warm, relatable, and easy to talk to while still offering meaningful support and practical tools. I help clients gain clarity, improve communication, manage emotions more effectively, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships with themselves and others.
I support individuals navigating parenting challenges, relationship issues, family conflict, career stress, anxiety, and depression.
Immediate Openings/Accepting Aetna Insurance... My clients are often emotionally overwhelmed moms, young adults trying to figure life out, and couples struggling to reconnect. Many come to therapy feeling anxious, burned out, disconnected, or stuck in repeating patterns that no longer serve them. My style is warm, relatable, and easy to talk to while still offering meaningful support and practical tools. I help clients gain clarity, improve communication, manage emotions more effectively, and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships with themselves and others.
(314) 501-5805 View (314) 501-5805
Photo of Sarah Thakur, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Thakur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience supporting adults through challenges in all stages of life. I have worked with clients managing anxiety, depression, stress, health concerns, substance and alcohol use, PTSD, grief, and more. I also have experience supporting individuals who have served in the military. My goal is to create a compassionate and supportive space where you can begin your journey toward healing and growth.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience supporting adults through challenges in all stages of life. I have worked with clients managing anxiety, depression, stress, health concerns, substance and alcohol use, PTSD, grief, and more. I also have experience supporting individuals who have served in the military. My goal is to create a compassionate and supportive space where you can begin your journey toward healing and growth.
(314) 463-4577 View (314) 463-4577
Photo of Sara Schuessler, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sara Schuessler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
I have experience with family conflict, parenting problems, relationship issues, school problems, trauma, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, and anger management.
Hello! My name is Sara and I have over 15 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor in St. Louis, Missouri. I have experience working with individuals, families, teenagers, and children. I have provided services in a variety of settings including residential treatment centers, homes, and schools. I am a rostered Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and a Nationally Certified Clinician.
I have experience with family conflict, parenting problems, relationship issues, school problems, trauma, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, self esteem, and anger management.
Hello! My name is Sara and I have over 15 years of clinical experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor in St. Louis, Missouri. I have experience working with individuals, families, teenagers, and children. I have provided services in a variety of settings including residential treatment centers, homes, and schools. I am a rostered Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and a Nationally Certified Clinician.
(636) 597-6449 View (636) 597-6449
Photo of Devora Tulcensky, Psychologist, PhD
Devora Tulcensky
Psychologist, PhD
Saint Louis, MO 63130
Waitlist for new clients
As a psychologist, my approach is based on the simple premise that change and growth through psychotherapy depends upon a trusting relationship between client and psychotherapist. As that trust deepens, so does one's ability to articulate what has not yet been been articulated, to make connections that have not yet been made, and to be aware of greater subtleties in one's internal emotional states. This newly felt understanding, in an emotionally sensitive and supportive context is what leads to change. In this way, change may be seen to occur as an outcome of emotional growth, rather than primarily effortful behavior.
As a psychologist, my approach is based on the simple premise that change and growth through psychotherapy depends upon a trusting relationship between client and psychotherapist. As that trust deepens, so does one's ability to articulate what has not yet been been articulated, to make connections that have not yet been made, and to be aware of greater subtleties in one's internal emotional states. This newly felt understanding, in an emotionally sensitive and supportive context is what leads to change. In this way, change may be seen to occur as an outcome of emotional growth, rather than primarily effortful behavior.
(314) 266-5513 View (314) 266-5513
Photo of Luann Spencer-Steele, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Luann Spencer-Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
When life has its challenges there is hope. Finding the right therapist during these challenges is important. As your therapist, I will focus on improvement in your relationships, developing personal goals for growth, and finding your own voice.
When life has its challenges there is hope. Finding the right therapist during these challenges is important. As your therapist, I will focus on improvement in your relationships, developing personal goals for growth, and finding your own voice.
(314) 350-1200 View (314) 350-1200
Photo of Kristin Seymour Msn Rn Aprn, MSN, RN, APRN, ADHD, CCSP
Kristin Seymour Msn Rn Aprn
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63124
I partner with parents and help navigate the unknown and often cumbersome world of ADHD, especially with regard to requesting academic accommodations.
"If you have a chance to work with Kristin, don't think twice. I have referred clients to her and can tell you, she has magic. Not only does she have all the knowledge she needs, but she has the knack, the understanding & natural empathy of one who has been there, of one who really burns to make sure others do not suffer the way she did. This tenacious, loving guide is sent from heaven. Seek her out, trust her & give thanks you've found her" (Dr. Edward 'Ned' Hallowell, MD, 2020).
I partner with parents and help navigate the unknown and often cumbersome world of ADHD, especially with regard to requesting academic accommodations.
"If you have a chance to work with Kristin, don't think twice. I have referred clients to her and can tell you, she has magic. Not only does she have all the knowledge she needs, but she has the knack, the understanding & natural empathy of one who has been there, of one who really burns to make sure others do not suffer the way she did. This tenacious, loving guide is sent from heaven. Seek her out, trust her & give thanks you've found her" (Dr. Edward 'Ned' Hallowell, MD, 2020).
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Photo of Marian Wandall-Kern, Counselor, MA, LPC
Marian Wandall-Kern
Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Marian Wandall-Kern, LPC. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, particularly those with Autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivity. My work focuses first on helping clients develop understanding, acceptance, and practical ways to live well as a neurodivergent person. Many of my clients are navigating burnout, unmasking, perfectionism, or years of feeling misunderstood in a neurotypical world. My practice is neuro-affirming, trauma-informed, and grounded in nervous system and body-based work. Many people I work with have spent years masking, pushing through overwhelm, or living in survival mode.
Hi, I’m Marian Wandall-Kern, LPC. I specialize in working with neurodivergent adults, particularly those with Autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivity. My work focuses first on helping clients develop understanding, acceptance, and practical ways to live well as a neurodivergent person. Many of my clients are navigating burnout, unmasking, perfectionism, or years of feeling misunderstood in a neurotypical world. My practice is neuro-affirming, trauma-informed, and grounded in nervous system and body-based work. Many people I work with have spent years masking, pushing through overwhelm, or living in survival mode.
(314) 804-2849 View (314) 804-2849
Photo of Diane Davis, PLPC
Diane Davis
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Waitlist for new clients
This relational approach is also useful for anxiety, parenting, attachment, and complex trauma.
Complex trauma is a big term. You might not have heard it before, or you may have heard it and think it doesn’t apply to you. To put it simply: shock or single-incident trauma affects you on a neurobiological level, having to do with fear (fight, flight, freeze). Complex trauma—including developmental, cultural, or relational trauma—affects you on a psychobiological level, having to do with shame and the ways we shut ourselves down around relationship and belonging. We do a lot to protect ourselves against relational loss and environmental failures.
This relational approach is also useful for anxiety, parenting, attachment, and complex trauma.
Complex trauma is a big term. You might not have heard it before, or you may have heard it and think it doesn’t apply to you. To put it simply: shock or single-incident trauma affects you on a neurobiological level, having to do with fear (fight, flight, freeze). Complex trauma—including developmental, cultural, or relational trauma—affects you on a psychobiological level, having to do with shame and the ways we shut ourselves down around relationship and belonging. We do a lot to protect ourselves against relational loss and environmental failures.
(314) 907-0639 View (314) 907-0639
Photo of Susan Gartenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC-S, RPT-S
Susan Gartenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC-S, RPT-S
Saint Louis, MO 63117
My role is to create a safe, supportive space where children feel understood and empowered, and where parents and caregivers feel included and respected as part of the process.
As a school counselor I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of children and parents, helping them navigate uncharted waters. I continue to be humbled by the dedication and tenacity put forth by parents and caregivers. I see my role as supportive, working collaboratively to help build skills and stronger relationships.
My role is to create a safe, supportive space where children feel understood and empowered, and where parents and caregivers feel included and respected as part of the process.
As a school counselor I have had the privilege of working with hundreds of children and parents, helping them navigate uncharted waters. I continue to be humbled by the dedication and tenacity put forth by parents and caregivers. I see my role as supportive, working collaboratively to help build skills and stronger relationships.
(314) 470-1299 View (314) 470-1299
Photo of Bo Minner, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Bo Minner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents concerning anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, men’s issues, and parenting.
I believe that all people hold within themselves the resources and strengths to foster deep and meaningful change, and he creates a warm, supportive environment where clients can discover and rediscover those abilities. Grounded in my own ongoing work and journey, I bring presence, humility, and genuine care into the therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy working with adults and adolescents concerning anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, men’s issues, and parenting.
I believe that all people hold within themselves the resources and strengths to foster deep and meaningful change, and he creates a warm, supportive environment where clients can discover and rediscover those abilities. Grounded in my own ongoing work and journey, I bring presence, humility, and genuine care into the therapeutic relationship.
(314) 228-3828 View (314) 228-3828
Photo of Moyenda Anwisye, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Moyenda Anwisye
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Greetings! Welcome and thank you for considering me as your therapist. It is said that the reason two antelope walk side by side is to blow the dust from each other's eyes (African proverb). In today's world, it seems harder than ever to find clarity in the midst of chaos. Living with unaddressed chaos and unresolved pain can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from those who love us and who may be able to help us. Sometimes, due to life circumstances, we struggle to find our way back to ourselves, our family and our God.
Greetings! Welcome and thank you for considering me as your therapist. It is said that the reason two antelope walk side by side is to blow the dust from each other's eyes (African proverb). In today's world, it seems harder than ever to find clarity in the midst of chaos. Living with unaddressed chaos and unresolved pain can leave us feeling stuck and disconnected from those who love us and who may be able to help us. Sometimes, due to life circumstances, we struggle to find our way back to ourselves, our family and our God.
(314) 408-5053 View (314) 408-5053
Photo of Mark Patrick, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Mark Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Waitlist for new clients
I provide compassionate, nonjudgmental counseling to individuals and families. I am particularly passionate about working with adolescents and their family systems. Learn more and contact me for a free consultation at www.markpatrickcounseling.com.
I provide compassionate, nonjudgmental counseling to individuals and families. I am particularly passionate about working with adolescents and their family systems. Learn more and contact me for a free consultation at www.markpatrickcounseling.com.
(314) 325-1691 View (314) 325-1691
Photo of Arkila Covington, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Arkila Covington
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I've worked with many individuals who have experienced trauma and have supported parents on their journey to compassionate parenting.
Hello there! I'm Arkila J. Covington, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and groups grow personally and emotionally. With a diverse educational background and extensive experience, I've been fortunate to guide countless clients on their journeys, overcoming obstacles, achieving goals, and adopting practical behavior modifications that improve their personal and professional lives. From the St. Louis, MO Housing Projects, I learned ambition, tenacity, and determination. Despite facing adversity, I excelled academically and pursued higher education alongside my siblings.
I've worked with many individuals who have experienced trauma and have supported parents on their journey to compassionate parenting.
Hello there! I'm Arkila J. Covington, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) dedicated to helping individuals, couples, and groups grow personally and emotionally. With a diverse educational background and extensive experience, I've been fortunate to guide countless clients on their journeys, overcoming obstacles, achieving goals, and adopting practical behavior modifications that improve their personal and professional lives. From the St. Louis, MO Housing Projects, I learned ambition, tenacity, and determination. Despite facing adversity, I excelled academically and pursued higher education alongside my siblings.
(314) 501-5306 View (314) 501-5306
Photo of Maria Miller - Maria Miller- Holistic Therapy for People Pleasers, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
Maria Miller- Holistic Therapy for People Pleasers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
You don't have to be perfect. Do you find yourself constantly striving for validation and acceptance? Are your days consumed by endless to-do lists, relentless self-criticism, and the paralyzing fear of being judged? Perfectionism & people pleasing isn't about doing your best—it's a crushing cycle of never feeling good enough. Your inner critic is always watching, always judging, never satisfied. The result? Chronic stress, anxiety, and a profound sense of exhaustion that leaves you feeling trapped and depleted. I get it, I've been there, and there is a way out.
You don't have to be perfect. Do you find yourself constantly striving for validation and acceptance? Are your days consumed by endless to-do lists, relentless self-criticism, and the paralyzing fear of being judged? Perfectionism & people pleasing isn't about doing your best—it's a crushing cycle of never feeling good enough. Your inner critic is always watching, always judging, never satisfied. The result? Chronic stress, anxiety, and a profound sense of exhaustion that leaves you feeling trapped and depleted. I get it, I've been there, and there is a way out.
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Photo of Katie Taggart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Katie Taggart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I work with clients to navigate parenting, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, major life changes, as weIl as many others.
We all go through times in our lives when we feel lost and overwhelmed. In our individually focused therapy sessions we will work together to gain insight into your current struggles. I want you to feel safe and comfortable so that real change can be made. When a person feels safe, they are able to be open and honest about their feelings.
I work with clients to navigate parenting, grief, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, major life changes, as weIl as many others.
We all go through times in our lives when we feel lost and overwhelmed. In our individually focused therapy sessions we will work together to gain insight into your current struggles. I want you to feel safe and comfortable so that real change can be made. When a person feels safe, they are able to be open and honest about their feelings.
(314) 876-0686 View (314) 876-0686
Photo of Lee Bascom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Lee Bascom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Saint Louis, MO 63132
I am a registered play therapist and clinical social worker who primarily uses Child Centered Play Therapy and I am trained in Theraplay, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Working with children and their families to help them function more harmoniously and peacefully takes collaboration, humor, humility, and an open mind. As needed, I consult with doctors, teachers, diagnosticians, and, of course, parents in creating a treatment plan and throughout the process that a client sees me.
I am a registered play therapist and clinical social worker who primarily uses Child Centered Play Therapy and I am trained in Theraplay, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Trauma-Focused CBT.
Working with children and their families to help them function more harmoniously and peacefully takes collaboration, humor, humility, and an open mind. As needed, I consult with doctors, teachers, diagnosticians, and, of course, parents in creating a treatment plan and throughout the process that a client sees me.
(314) 649-5725 View (314) 649-5725

See more therapy options for Saint Louis

Parenting Therapists
What does therapy for parenting look like?
Therapists may work with parents individually, together, or include the whole family to find solutions for the problems a parent faces. Many parent-based therapies work on a parent’s relationship with their children, problem-solving within the family, and analysis of family dynamics. Therapy conducted remotely by video may be helpful in allowing a therapist to observe how families interact in their own homes.

When should a parent seek therapy?
When behavioral problems begin to disrupt the healthy functioning of a family, it may be a good time to look into therapy. If parents find that children are acting out in school, have started using drugs or alcohol, have developed eating disorders, or other similar red flags, a therapist may be able to help.

How long does therapy take for parenting problems?
Depending on the severity of a family’s challenges and the type of treatment utilized, therapy for parenting can last from weeks to months. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a pragmatic therapy type that can be brief, most often ranging from between 5 and 20 sessions. Structural family therapy, which inspects family dynamics, often takes several months. Parent-child interaction therapy is typically shorter-term, lasting between 10 and 20 sessions. For any therapy, the duration will depend on the progress made and results realized.

Can therapy help parents dealing with burnout or stress?
Parenting is difficult. Parents may dismiss or conceal feelings of exhaustion, overwhelm, or escape ideation—imagining withdrawing from their parental obligations altogether. but left unattended, these feelings can have negative effects on the whole family. A therapist can help parents work on the skills they might need to better cope with the burdens of parenting and help them be the best parents they can be.