Adoption Therapists in University City, MO

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
The Art and Play Therapy Center
Counselor, LPC, , ATR, BC
University City, MO 63130
Jane has extensive experience in working with children and families of all ages. She specializes in working with trauma, ADHD and sensory interventions. She uses art and play therapy as well as sand tray and experiential play to address the difficulties of learning and growing.
Jane has extensive experience in working with children and families of all ages. She specializes in working with trauma, ADHD and sensory interventions. She uses art and play therapy as well as sand tray and experiential play to address the difficulties of learning and growing.
(314) 916-4797 View (314) 916-4797
Photo of Kristin A Wright, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Kristin A Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
CHANGE: "to make or become different." Chances are if you're checking out websites for therapists, you're likely thinking about change-either change that you're interested in initiating or change that has been thrust upon you. Regardless, it can be a daunting experience and taking the first step is sometimes the most challenging. Take a look at the information here and on my website, and give me a call if you'd like to talk.
CHANGE: "to make or become different." Chances are if you're checking out websites for therapists, you're likely thinking about change-either change that you're interested in initiating or change that has been thrust upon you. Regardless, it can be a daunting experience and taking the first step is sometimes the most challenging. Take a look at the information here and on my website, and give me a call if you'd like to talk.
(314) 269-0831 View (314) 269-0831
Photo of Melissa T Scolaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
Areas of special interest or experience include: anxiety, depression, gay and lesbian issues, women's issues including fertility and parenting, men's issues, veterans (trauma, PTSD), grief/loss, life transition, sexuality, attachment, adoption, marriage/couples, premarital work.
When the challenges of life and relationship present you with complex dilemmas and create painful or uncomfortable symptoms, therapy offers an opportunity for healing and long-lasting psychological change. The power of therapy is in the way it expands your choice in behaviors or ways of seeing others, yourself and your life circumstances. Through a compassionate journey of self-exploration I will help you work toward a fuller understanding of yourself which will lead to greater choice in how you live, love, work and play. It is a privilege to join you on your journey of self-discovery and healing.
(314) 828-1020 View (314) 828-1020
Photo of Lou Carmichael, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Lou Carmichael
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist dedicated to helping you achieve inner balance and self-awareness. In addition to IFS, I incorporate Mindfulness meditation and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) into my practice to provide a holistic approach to your well-being. Licensed to practice in Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri, I offer in-person therapy sessions in Lincoln, NE, as well as convenient online sessions accessible across all three states.
I am a certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist dedicated to helping you achieve inner balance and self-awareness. In addition to IFS, I incorporate Mindfulness meditation and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) into my practice to provide a holistic approach to your well-being. Licensed to practice in Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri, I offer in-person therapy sessions in Lincoln, NE, as well as convenient online sessions accessible across all three states.
(402) 226-1387 View (402) 226-1387
Photo of Jordan Langley, Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MA, PLMFT
Jordan Langley
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS, MA, PLMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Starting therapy is no small task. It is hard to come to terms with needing help but you deserve to feel better. I strive to make clients feel welcomed, heard and understood in their thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and commitment to providing the best possible resources and interventions to make positive change and help to meet personal goals.
Starting therapy is no small task. It is hard to come to terms with needing help but you deserve to feel better. I strive to make clients feel welcomed, heard and understood in their thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and commitment to providing the best possible resources and interventions to make positive change and help to meet personal goals.
(314) 350-7482 View (314) 350-7482
Photo of Tina Marie Dale Neuro Psa
Tina Marie Dale Neuro Psa
Verified Verified
Serves Area
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.
(314) 287-5387 View (314) 287-5387
Photo of Gabrielle Mischel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Gabrielle Mischel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in anxiety, depression, perfectionism, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach to therapy is unique. I strive to build a genuine, person-centered relationship with you. Using a solution-focused and motivational approach, my goal is to provide you with tools and skills that will help you understand yourself better. Through the therapy process, I will assist you in the process of boosting your self-esteem, confidence, and empower you to take on life's challenges.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, perfectionism, relationship challenges, and life transitions. My approach to therapy is unique. I strive to build a genuine, person-centered relationship with you. Using a solution-focused and motivational approach, my goal is to provide you with tools and skills that will help you understand yourself better. Through the therapy process, I will assist you in the process of boosting your self-esteem, confidence, and empower you to take on life's challenges.
(540) 699-0226 x1 View (540) 699-0226 x1
Photo of Matt Shatzman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Matt Shatzman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Therapy is an experience where human beings learn to live differently. Differently is the key word. Different can look like less depression, more spontaneity, or deeper and more mutual relationships. Different can be learning to say "yes," "no," or "maybe." Different can be improved physical health, less anxiety, or sustained sobriety. When one begins treatment there's usually a percolating idea of what needs to be different. Helping you clarify the ways you'd like to live differently, what has gotten in your way up to this point, and how those changes can be made is psychotherapy.
Therapy is an experience where human beings learn to live differently. Differently is the key word. Different can look like less depression, more spontaneity, or deeper and more mutual relationships. Different can be learning to say "yes," "no," or "maybe." Different can be improved physical health, less anxiety, or sustained sobriety. When one begins treatment there's usually a percolating idea of what needs to be different. Helping you clarify the ways you'd like to live differently, what has gotten in your way up to this point, and how those changes can be made is psychotherapy.
(314) 480-3895 View (314) 480-3895
Photo of Elizabeth Bloomfield-Deal, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Elizabeth Bloomfield-Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, adults and couples. I approach psychotherapy as an opportunity to address unresolved issues and conflicts as they arise in life through the therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to examine the various ways and places in one's life that symptoms present, and to work to understand the function and underlying meanings of the symptoms.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who works with adolescents, adults and couples. I approach psychotherapy as an opportunity to address unresolved issues and conflicts as they arise in life through the therapeutic relationship. I believe it is important to examine the various ways and places in one's life that symptoms present, and to work to understand the function and underlying meanings of the symptoms.
(314) 254-9694 View (314) 254-9694
Photo of Tiffany J Walehwa, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tiffany J Walehwa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.
I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.
(314) 701-7058 View (314) 701-7058
Photo of Jessica H Rosenberg, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Jessica H Rosenberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are going through life surviving but aren't really thriving. On the outside, people might not even notice anything is wrong. Inside, you're second guessing yourself & struggling to find balance. It's difficult to feel like you know who you are or how to be yourself around other people. These feelings may be affecting your relationships, school, parenting or career. Through our work together I will help you engage more fully in the present, & work towards the best version of yourself. It is hard work but can be done with gentle guidance. I'm trained in EMDR, CBT and EFT.
You are going through life surviving but aren't really thriving. On the outside, people might not even notice anything is wrong. Inside, you're second guessing yourself & struggling to find balance. It's difficult to feel like you know who you are or how to be yourself around other people. These feelings may be affecting your relationships, school, parenting or career. Through our work together I will help you engage more fully in the present, & work towards the best version of yourself. It is hard work but can be done with gentle guidance. I'm trained in EMDR, CBT and EFT.
(314) 350-8785 View (314) 350-8785
Photo of Hope Missey-Wodarczyk, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Hope Missey-Wodarczyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Online Only
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I believe that healing and growth happen when we feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk with you through the process of change and self-discovery. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I believe that healing and growth happen when we feel seen, heard, and supported. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, or relationship challenges, I’m here to walk with you through the process of change and self-discovery. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental, and tailored to your unique needs and goals.
(618) 726-9435 View (618) 726-9435
Photo of Jacqueline Fay Langley, Psychologist, PhD
Jacqueline Fay Langley
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I have been treating all age groups in the St. Louis area for over 35 years. My in depth training as both a psychologist and psychoanalyst for children and adults provides a full spectrum of skills to treat short and long term issues for all age groups. I am highly skilled at meeting a person where they are to help them, through connection with me and my understanding of them, reach new and emotionally healthier places in their life. In addition to the areas of specialties listed I work with mother/infant dyads and children who are adopted and their parents achieve more satisfying attachments.
I have been treating all age groups in the St. Louis area for over 35 years. My in depth training as both a psychologist and psychoanalyst for children and adults provides a full spectrum of skills to treat short and long term issues for all age groups. I am highly skilled at meeting a person where they are to help them, through connection with me and my understanding of them, reach new and emotionally healthier places in their life. In addition to the areas of specialties listed I work with mother/infant dyads and children who are adopted and their parents achieve more satisfying attachments.
(314) 527-1227 View (314) 527-1227

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 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 “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to understand your addiction and become secure in recovery. With living as an alcoholic in recovery for nearly 17 years, and as an adjunct professor teaching the graduate level Addiction Counseling course at McKendree University, addictions are my passion. I am also a gay man, who thrives in helping people who are struggling with personal identify and finding their safe place.
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 “SELF” that too often go unnoticed due to the overwhelm of life in general. I will work with you to understand your addiction and become secure in recovery. With living as an alcoholic in recovery for nearly 17 years, and as an adjunct professor teaching the graduate level Addiction Counseling course at McKendree University, addictions are my passion. I am also a gay man, who thrives in helping people who are struggling with personal identify and finding their safe place.
(314) 328-8731 View (314) 328-8731
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 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 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

See more therapy options for University City

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.