Therapists for Toddlers in Saint Louis, MO
You’re exhausted from constant battles, worried about your child or teen, and longing for a calmer home where they can thrive. I help families whose children struggle with anxiety, anger outbursts, or meltdowns feel less overwhelmed and more hopeful.
Together, we’ll uncover what’s fueling these behaviors—using cognitive-behavioral therapy, parent coaching, and practical strategies tailored to kids, teens, young adults, and their parents. You’ll learn tools to de-escalate the BIG emotions, build confidence, and strengthen your bond, so family life feels connected and joyful again.
You’re exhausted from constant battles, worried about your child or teen, and longing for a calmer home where they can thrive. I help families whose children struggle with anxiety, anger outbursts, or meltdowns feel less overwhelmed and more hopeful.
Together, we’ll uncover what’s fueling these behaviors—using cognitive-behavioral therapy, parent coaching, and practical strategies tailored to kids, teens, young adults, and their parents. You’ll learn tools to de-escalate the BIG emotions, build confidence, and strengthen your bond, so family life feels connected and joyful again.
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.
My name is Claire and I'm the owner and sole therapist at Play As You Are Therapy, a practice that is dedicated to helping children and their caregivers. In our work together, I will encourage you to grow how you grow, learn as you learn, heal as you heal, and play as you are!
My goal is to match my expertise in child development & mental health to your expertise in you and your child. If your child is struggling with behavior outbursts, anxiety, depression, trauma, or a recent life transition, such as divorce, adoption, loss, or death, I can help.
My name is Claire and I'm the owner and sole therapist at Play As You Are Therapy, a practice that is dedicated to helping children and their caregivers. In our work together, I will encourage you to grow how you grow, learn as you learn, heal as you heal, and play as you are!
My goal is to match my expertise in child development & mental health to your expertise in you and your child. If your child is struggling with behavior outbursts, anxiety, depression, trauma, or a recent life transition, such as divorce, adoption, loss, or death, I can help.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost a decade of experience working with parents, young adults, and families with a variety of concerns. Adapting to life changes, parenting challenges, anxiety and depression, self harming thoughts and behaviors, trauma/abuse history, family conflict, and ADHD are areas that I feel most comfortable helping clients navigate through. I help support children and parents after trauma or abuse, experiencing anxiety, depression, grief or with autism, Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) and other mental health diagnoses or developmental delays.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with almost a decade of experience working with parents, young adults, and families with a variety of concerns. Adapting to life changes, parenting challenges, anxiety and depression, self harming thoughts and behaviors, trauma/abuse history, family conflict, and ADHD are areas that I feel most comfortable helping clients navigate through. I help support children and parents after trauma or abuse, experiencing anxiety, depression, grief or with autism, Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) and other mental health diagnoses or developmental delays.
I work with children ages 3-9 and their families to encourage self-understanding, emotional regulation, and coping strategies. 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. Click on "website" below my picture to see more about me.
I work with children ages 3-9 and their families to encourage self-understanding, emotional regulation, and coping strategies. 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. Click on "website" below my picture to see more about me.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming — but you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based approach to therapy, working with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families to build the skills they need to thrive. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in your life and relationships.
Navigating life's challenges can feel overwhelming — but you don't have to face them alone. I offer a compassionate, collaborative, and evidence-based approach to therapy, working with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families to build the skills they need to thrive. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you feel genuinely heard, understood, and empowered to create meaningful change in your life and relationships.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples and families from a relational, trauma informed, attachment informed, developmental perspective. Trained in child psychotherapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I work to understand clients within the context of their primary and family relationships. I especially enjoy working with couples and families. I work to identify the emotional and interpersonal obstacles to further growth, and build on the strength and resilience of the individual, couple and family. .I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing the full range of emotional, social and developmental difficulties.
SkiWise Health & Wellness Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, IECMH-E, ERS
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Alicia Buck - Hall is passionate about providing informed and practical guidance / recommendations for improving social-emotional outcomes for all experiencing behavioral health challenges. Functioning from a culturally relevant lens, the goal is to reduce the stigmas surrounding mental health that will lead to a more informed and relevant practice of addressing problematic concerns from a clinically informed perspective. Focus is placed on attending to social emotional needs while learning to build healthy supportive relationships, encouraging early intervention, being able to adapt, self-regulate, and develop resilience.
Alicia Buck - Hall is passionate about providing informed and practical guidance / recommendations for improving social-emotional outcomes for all experiencing behavioral health challenges. Functioning from a culturally relevant lens, the goal is to reduce the stigmas surrounding mental health that will lead to a more informed and relevant practice of addressing problematic concerns from a clinically informed perspective. Focus is placed on attending to social emotional needs while learning to build healthy supportive relationships, encouraging early intervention, being able to adapt, self-regulate, and develop resilience.
Children, teens and parents, alike, are facing new challenges in today's fast-paced world of ever-changing technology, expectations and youth culture. For over 15 years, I have been working as a Psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, young adults and families to address the emotional and behavioral challenges of everyday life as well as those unique to ADHD, child development, anxiety and other mood disturbances. When working with clients, I feel it is important to develop a strong therapeutic alliance in which to learn new behaviors, coping strategies and ways of thinking and problem solving.
Children, teens and parents, alike, are facing new challenges in today's fast-paced world of ever-changing technology, expectations and youth culture. For over 15 years, I have been working as a Psychologist specializing in the treatment of children, teens, young adults and families to address the emotional and behavioral challenges of everyday life as well as those unique to ADHD, child development, anxiety and other mood disturbances. When working with clients, I feel it is important to develop a strong therapeutic alliance in which to learn new behaviors, coping strategies and ways of thinking and problem solving.
The Right Solution offers counseling services for individuals, families and children. We offer both in person and tele-health options.
The Right Solution offers counseling services for individuals, families and children. We offer both in person and tele-health options.
You’re doing everything you can for your child, yet the big feelings, tough transitions, and friendship struggles can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to help. You want support that truly sees your child — beyond the behaviors— and helps them express themselves, build confidence, and find their rhythm again. You’re longing for calmer days, a deeper connection, and a clearer understanding of what’s really going on beneath the surface. Most of all, you want to feel hopeful and supported, not alone.
You’re doing everything you can for your child, yet the big feelings, tough transitions, and friendship struggles can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure how to help. You want support that truly sees your child — beyond the behaviors— and helps them express themselves, build confidence, and find their rhythm again. You’re longing for calmer days, a deeper connection, and a clearer understanding of what’s really going on beneath the surface. Most of all, you want to feel hopeful and supported, not alone.
"I don't think I can repeat often enough how grateful I am that we found our way to you." - Parent Testimonial. Since 2001, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents and families as they have faced some of life's most challenging obstacles. Using a strengths based approach, all that I say and do, is individualized to meet the specific needs of each person. Empowering the individual by encouraging positive coping and stress transformation is at heart of what I do. As a Mother of 3 children, one of which has a rare health condition, I deeply understand the importance of meeting the unique needs of each individual.
"I don't think I can repeat often enough how grateful I am that we found our way to you." - Parent Testimonial. Since 2001, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents and families as they have faced some of life's most challenging obstacles. Using a strengths based approach, all that I say and do, is individualized to meet the specific needs of each person. Empowering the individual by encouraging positive coping and stress transformation is at heart of what I do. As a Mother of 3 children, one of which has a rare health condition, I deeply understand the importance of meeting the unique needs of each individual.
Life is a sensory experience, and for many of us, it can feel like the world is turned up to eleven. I’m here to help you bridge the gap between deep healing and life transitions—like school, career shifts, or the beautiful chaos of motherhood. Your nervous system isn’t broken; it’s just tuned to a different frequency. If you’ve spent your life trying to turn down your own volume or following a map that wasn't drawn for you, I’m glad you are here. Together, we’ll build a creative path forward—one where you don’t have to "perform" or be "fixed," but where you are seen, understood, and empowered to show up exactly as you are.
Life is a sensory experience, and for many of us, it can feel like the world is turned up to eleven. I’m here to help you bridge the gap between deep healing and life transitions—like school, career shifts, or the beautiful chaos of motherhood. Your nervous system isn’t broken; it’s just tuned to a different frequency. If you’ve spent your life trying to turn down your own volume or following a map that wasn't drawn for you, I’m glad you are here. Together, we’ll build a creative path forward—one where you don’t have to "perform" or be "fixed," but where you are seen, understood, and empowered to show up exactly as you are.
I support individuals and families moving through the effects of life transitions. Changes in relationships, parenting, feeling overwhelmed and healing from pain. Together we can make a plan for you to navigate these transitions and healing at your own pace.
I support individuals and families moving through the effects of life transitions. Changes in relationships, parenting, feeling overwhelmed and healing from pain. Together we can make a plan for you to navigate these transitions and healing at your own pace.
Kara is a Licensed Professional Counselor at The Center for Mindfulness & CBT with a background rooted in Mental Health, Social Service, and Educational Leadership. With a BA in Psychology and a MA in Clinical Counseling, Kara has had the privilege of supporting and advocating for children and teens within schools, local agencies, and in group private practice over the past two decades.
Kara is a Licensed Professional Counselor at The Center for Mindfulness & CBT with a background rooted in Mental Health, Social Service, and Educational Leadership. With a BA in Psychology and a MA in Clinical Counseling, Kara has had the privilege of supporting and advocating for children and teens within schools, local agencies, and in group private practice over the past two decades.
For me, it's all about working with kids and families. Often the issues are behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, trauma and loss, or the parent - child relationship. I enjoy meeting people 'where they are at' on their own journey of growth. I respect and honor who you are and want to help you use your strengths in counseling. Whether you are a parent trying to re-connect with a child after a separation or you are a child with a disability struggling to express how you feel, I'm here to help by listening to you first.
For me, it's all about working with kids and families. Often the issues are behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, trauma and loss, or the parent - child relationship. I enjoy meeting people 'where they are at' on their own journey of growth. I respect and honor who you are and want to help you use your strengths in counseling. Whether you are a parent trying to re-connect with a child after a separation or you are a child with a disability struggling to express how you feel, I'm here to help by listening to you first.
Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Saint Louis, MO 63132
Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) offers FREE counseling for kids 3–19 in St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Franklin County. We also provide FREE counseling for qualifying children and adults in Jefferson County, as well as FREE psychiatric services for kids 8–19 in St. Louis and Franklin counties. We offer services at multiple offices and satellite counseling locations to make care accessible across the communities we serve.
At LFCS, we are deeply committed to removing barriers to care and ensuring all individuals have access to the mental health support they need to thrive.
Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) offers FREE counseling for kids 3–19 in St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Franklin County. We also provide FREE counseling for qualifying children and adults in Jefferson County, as well as FREE psychiatric services for kids 8–19 in St. Louis and Franklin counties. We offer services at multiple offices and satellite counseling locations to make care accessible across the communities we serve.
At LFCS, we are deeply committed to removing barriers to care and ensuring all individuals have access to the mental health support they need to thrive.
You're parenting while healing from your own childhood wounds. You yell, shut down, or respond in ways that don't feel aligned with the parent you want to be. The mental load of household management and child-rearing isn't fairly distributed in your home and something needs to change. You're struggling with constant family conflict around screens, routines, and limits. You're helping a child heal from trauma while managing your own fear, anger, or grief. You're embarrassed or anxious about your child's behavior in public- you dread public meltdowns and calls home from school. Your kid's already in services and they're not working.
You're parenting while healing from your own childhood wounds. You yell, shut down, or respond in ways that don't feel aligned with the parent you want to be. The mental load of household management and child-rearing isn't fairly distributed in your home and something needs to change. You're struggling with constant family conflict around screens, routines, and limits. You're helping a child heal from trauma while managing your own fear, anger, or grief. You're embarrassed or anxious about your child's behavior in public- you dread public meltdowns and calls home from school. Your kid's already in services and they're not working.
Ashley Rickert-Diestelkamp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63123
I believe that all clients deserve an open, safe, and non-judgmental space where they can explore stressors and other life situations. My goal is to foster a collaborative environment where clients can feel empowered and supported in their journey to healing. I use a variety of counseling techniques but I am very person-centered. While I have a wide range of experience working with people of all ages and needs, my expertise stressed working with children, ages 5 and up, teens, adults, and families with specializations in; anxiety, bullying, behavioral issues, depression, domestic violence, relational issues, and stress.
I believe that all clients deserve an open, safe, and non-judgmental space where they can explore stressors and other life situations. My goal is to foster a collaborative environment where clients can feel empowered and supported in their journey to healing. I use a variety of counseling techniques but I am very person-centered. While I have a wide range of experience working with people of all ages and needs, my expertise stressed working with children, ages 5 and up, teens, adults, and families with specializations in; anxiety, bullying, behavioral issues, depression, domestic violence, relational issues, and stress.
Health, nutrition, self & interpersonal relationships with family, friends & colleagues have a major influence on overall well-being. How do you seek, expect & provide attunement to self & others? Unrecognized intergenerational neuro-relational themes play a part in the manner thru which one seeks life, connection & success. Attachment & neurorelational patterns meant to gain love & closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or sadly invisible & rejected. Tina helps one learn to listen to the self with open-minded curiosity in order to identify relational styles, understanding how they support or hinder one in all areas of life.
Health, nutrition, self & interpersonal relationships with family, friends & colleagues have a major influence on overall well-being. How do you seek, expect & provide attunement to self & others? Unrecognized intergenerational neuro-relational themes play a part in the manner thru which one seeks life, connection & success. Attachment & neurorelational patterns meant to gain love & closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or sadly invisible & rejected. Tina helps one learn to listen to the self with open-minded curiosity in order to identify relational styles, understanding how they support or hinder one in all areas of life.
See more therapy options for Saint Louis
Nearby Toddlers Therapists Searches for Saint Louis
- Brentwood
- Clayton
- Creve Coeur
- Florissant
- Hazelwood
- Kirkwood
- Ladue
- Maplewood
- Olivette
- Richmond Heights
- University City
- Webster Groves
FAQ - About Therapy for Toddlers and Preschoolers
What are the behavioral signs indicating a toddler might need counseling?
Common behavioral signs that a child may need counseling include high levels of emotional distress or anxiety, learning challenges, interpersonal conflict, anger, or social withdrawal. Any drastic changes in toddler behavior or self-esteem can be indicative that a child may benefit from therapy. Seeing a therapist at the early stages of any behavioral changes can be most impactful on behavior, as well as helpful to caregivers who may receive guidance on what symptoms to look for in their child in the future, even if therapy is not warranted at that time.
Can a two-year-old see a psychologist?
Children and adults of all ages can see psychologists and other forms of mental health professionals, such as counselors, psychiatrists, and social workers. Families seeking therapy for their toddler should just be aware that any guidance they seek should come from a professional who has specific experience working with young children, as well as the specific modalities that are appropriate for young children, such as play therapy.
What is the most effective type of therapy for toddlers and preschoolers?
In general, play therapy is the most effective and common form of therapy for young children. Play therapy helps facilitate behavior change by offering an age-appropriate way for children to express their emotions and develop more effective coping strategies. Toddlers with specific concerns may benefit from more specialized forms of therapy, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for toddlers in families in which there is significant parent-child relational conflict.
What happens during therapy sessions for toddlers?
What occurs in therapy sessions for toddlers depends on the therapeutic approach being used by the therapist. Most toddler therapists will use some form of play therapy in sessions to encourage toddler engagement. In play therapy sessions, children are encouraged to use toys within the therapy setting to express their emotions; subsequent responses by the therapist and/or family members can help guide toddler behavior and behavior change. Toddler therapy sessions can also involve family therapy or Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), which can help improve parenting behaviors and reduce strain on families.