Photo of Perry Huff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Perry Huff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63112  (Online Only)
I've worked extensively with adolescents in foster care and adoption.
Hi, my name is Perry, and my approach to therapy involves helping clients to: gain new perspectives, relate differently to their identified problems, and discover more in their stories. I encourage my clients to challenge, explore and reimagine the narratives that they have formed or were formed about themselves. I apply several counseling techniques to therapy like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and more. Ultimately, I aim to provide support and practical feedback to my clients as they embark on the path towards self-love, gratitude, belonging, and healing.
I've worked extensively with adolescents in foster care and adoption.
Hi, my name is Perry, and my approach to therapy involves helping clients to: gain new perspectives, relate differently to their identified problems, and discover more in their stories. I encourage my clients to challenge, explore and reimagine the narratives that they have formed or were formed about themselves. I apply several counseling techniques to therapy like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and more. Ultimately, I aim to provide support and practical feedback to my clients as they embark on the path towards self-love, gratitude, belonging, and healing.
(561) 448-6209 View (561) 448-6209
Photo of J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D., Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Extensive experience with children and adolescents experiencing social and emotional problems, including adoption and attachment 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.
Extensive experience with children and adolescents experiencing social and emotional problems, including adoption and attachment 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.
(314) 858-5040 View (314) 858-5040
Photo of Melissa T Scolaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Melissa T Scolaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
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 Debra H Zand, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Debra H Zand
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63127
Dr. Debra Zand, founder and co-owner of Midwest Psychological Services LLC, is a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with children and their families. She has particular expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological testing, as well as individual and family therapies. Dr. Zand uses an integrative, playful approach to conducting therapy She routinely see families to address: adoption issues, attachment, developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationship struggles, self-regulation difficulties, communication struggles, divorce, and remarriage.
Dr. Debra Zand, founder and co-owner of Midwest Psychological Services LLC, is a clinical psychologist with 20+ years of experience working with children and their families. She has particular expertise in conducting comprehensive psychological testing, as well as individual and family therapies. Dr. Zand uses an integrative, playful approach to conducting therapy She routinely see families to address: adoption issues, attachment, developmental trauma, anxiety, depression, parent-child relationship struggles, self-regulation difficulties, communication struggles, divorce, and remarriage.
(314) 858-8067 View (314) 858-8067
Photo of Juliana Varela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Juliana Varela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
People seek therapy for variety of reasons, ranging from difficulties with a specific life event or a general pursuit for greater purpose and connectedness. Psychotherapy offers an arena for self exploration unlike any other and can prove to be a profoundly moving experience. I work with individuals affected by trauma, difficulties in relationships, depression/post-partum depression, infertility, adoption, parenting, struggles in cultural adaptation and immigration, identity, self-esteem, sexuality, etc. Often I find that the most meaningful change comes from those who are open and willing to engage in the journey. The change you seek comes from you and will be our guiding force.
(314) 591-5187 View (314) 591-5187
Photo of Chester Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Chester Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63106
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
With over 30 years in practice I have experience working with people of all ages with a range of concerns. People come to me to learn more about themselves and the source of their symptoms. It is through better understanding that we are able to heal and grow. My work with children/adolescents includes those dealing anxiety, adoption issues, depression, family issues, and behavioral problems. My work with adults includes those challenged with anxiety, depression, loss/grief, and relationship issues, and chronic medical conditions.
(314) 207-8599 View (314) 207-8599
Photo of Aya B Kawasaki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Aya B Kawasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LLM
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63109
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
(314) 932-2368 View (314) 932-2368
Photo of Desley Wells, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Desley Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
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 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 Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
We have experience helping with: Anxiety, Trauma, Depression, Grief & Loss, Behavioral Problems, Separation & Divorce, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Family Disruption and Foster Care/Adoption, Self-Harm, and much more.
We know how hard it is to ask for help. It is easy to become overwhelmed by struggles. Life can seem unmanageable. Lutheran Family & Children's Services of Missouri (LFCS) can help you find hope and discover solutions. LFCS provides outpatient therapy throughout the state in one of our convenient locations and provides telehealth through a virtual platform. LFCS has offices in: St. Louis (Olivette), St. Peters, Union, Columbia, Cape Girardeau, and satellite offices throughout the Greater St. Louis Region. Coming soon in Kansas City, Springfield, and Joplin!
(314) 819-9852 View (314) 819-9852
Photo of Michael Deal, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Michael Deal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
When working with individuals, I aim to help them through a collaborative process to understand the underlying issues that are causing them to not live up to their potential. The model which I employ assumes that many of our struggles are connected to conflicts within us of which we are not completely aware. I feel that therapy is most effective when the entire person's personality and history are considered instead of just focusing on current problematic behaviors. My work focuses on recognizing long standing relationship patterns that are troublesome as well as developing a more emotionally stable and adaptive personality.
(314) 561-7106 View (314) 561-7106
Photo of Shirley Crenshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Shirley Crenshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
My speciality is treating children 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 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 Alice Leckenby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Alice Leckenby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63102  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) with over 10 years’ experience working with families. As a Registered Play Therapist, I use non-directive play therapy to allow children to experience control and increase their ability to make their own healthy decisions.
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a Registered Play Therapist (RPT-S) with over 10 years’ experience working with families. As a Registered Play Therapist, I use non-directive play therapy to allow children to experience control and increase their ability to make their own healthy decisions.
(660) 527-7622 View (660) 527-7622
Photo of Devin Feeney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Devin Feeney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
I believe that we were all created to be in community with one another. Many things, such as stress, trauma, or loss can disrupt our ability to do so. I am passionate about helping individuals and families learn healthier ways of relating by promoting safety and attachment within relationships. I believe you, the caregiver, are the best resource for your child. I hope to see your family flourish and find a way to rely on one another through life's difficulties.
I believe that we were all created to be in community with one another. Many things, such as stress, trauma, or loss can disrupt our ability to do so. I am passionate about helping individuals and families learn healthier ways of relating by promoting safety and attachment within relationships. I believe you, the caregiver, are the best resource for your child. I hope to see your family flourish and find a way to rely on one another through life's difficulties.
(314) 897-3947 View (314) 897-3947
Photo of Emotional Change Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Emotional Change Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LCSW, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Please email us or visit our website to schedule an appointment as most of our "in office" staff are working remotely at this time. However our ongoing process will ensure you will have a great, competent therapist. Emotional Change provides quality therapy to diverse populations with diverse needs by providing a variety of therapists to meet those needs. By calling us, you will get a really good feel for who we are. We'll do our best to meet your needs. We accept most Insurances/Victims-of-Crime and private pay. We'll help take the stress out of finding a therapist. Individual/Couple/Group therapy is available.
Please email us or visit our website to schedule an appointment as most of our "in office" staff are working remotely at this time. However our ongoing process will ensure you will have a great, competent therapist. Emotional Change provides quality therapy to diverse populations with diverse needs by providing a variety of therapists to meet those needs. By calling us, you will get a really good feel for who we are. We'll do our best to meet your needs. We accept most Insurances/Victims-of-Crime and private pay. We'll help take the stress out of finding a therapist. Individual/Couple/Group therapy is available.
(314) 720-3033 View (314) 720-3033
Photo of Sarah F Coffman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Sarah F Coffman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63143
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
Focused on women and female youth, Sarah's practice offers therapy for individuals, families and groups, within a safe and nurturing environment. This strong therapeutic alliance affords clients the comfort in which to develop greater self-awareness, heal from past traumas, and learn to cope with present difficulties. Along with her full-time private practice, Sarah is an Adjunct Professor at Washington University Brown School, where she received her graduate degree, and maintains an active presence in the community as a private doula and as the Missouri Co-Coordinator for Postpartum Support International.
(314) 527-3084 View (314) 527-3084
Photo of Understanding Minds Psychological Services, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Understanding Minds Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Understanding Minds provides trusted, confidential, and comprehensive mental health services. Our supportive team of providers take a proactive approach with assessment, collaborative treatment planning, progress review, and validated approaches to make progress achievable. Your needs are important to us, and we strive to offer the best possible experience in mental healthcare. This is why we have administrative staff available to assist you 5 days a week and we request feedback from you about your experience and fit with your provider.
Understanding Minds provides trusted, confidential, and comprehensive mental health services. Our supportive team of providers take a proactive approach with assessment, collaborative treatment planning, progress review, and validated approaches to make progress achievable. Your needs are important to us, and we strive to offer the best possible experience in mental healthcare. This is why we have administrative staff available to assist you 5 days a week and we request feedback from you about your experience and fit with your provider.
(314) 897-7736 View (314) 897-7736
Photo of Jeanna Knight PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Jeanna Knight PhD
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
A medical diagnosis can be life altering. Do you want to be heard, understood, and supported as you try to make sense of this part of your life? Seeing an experienced and empathic therapist can provide a positive transformation that's refreshing and liberating!
A medical diagnosis can be life altering. Do you want to be heard, understood, and supported as you try to make sense of this part of your life? Seeing an experienced and empathic therapist can provide a positive transformation that's refreshing and liberating!
(314) 943-2399 View (314) 943-2399
Photo of Karen Lynn Becker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Karen Lynn Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed, or just trying hard to maintain? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you frustrated by the day to day conflict with your teenager? Do unresolved painful memories keep you from the happy fulfilled life you were meant to live? Let's work together to find the answers you need. Counseling is the first step in regaining control of your life. As a therapist, I love working with people, finding out what is unique about them personally, and seeing how that can be used to work through difficult circumstances. .
Are you feeling alone, overwhelmed, or just trying hard to maintain? Are you struggling in a relationship? Are you frustrated by the day to day conflict with your teenager? Do unresolved painful memories keep you from the happy fulfilled life you were meant to live? Let's work together to find the answers you need. Counseling is the first step in regaining control of your life. As a therapist, I love working with people, finding out what is unique about them personally, and seeing how that can be used to work through difficult circumstances. .
(314) 403-1437 View (314) 403-1437
Photo of Austin E Wilmot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Austin E Wilmot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
I have experience treating all ages with an in-depth approach, beginning with meeting you and working to understand the difficulties you are facing. I offer a space that fosters fuller experiencing and understanding of your inner emotional life, including feelings, thoughts, dreams and fantasies. In connection with me, your symptoms and problematic patterns can become understood in new ways, leading to emotional growth and a greater capacity to make meaningful changes in your life. I provide dynamic therapy in-office and by videoconference to people whose location or commitments make it difficult to attend in-person meetings.
(314) 907-3197 View (314) 907-3197
Photo of Jacqueline Fay Langley, Psychologist in Saint Louis, MO
Jacqueline Fay Langley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
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

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.