Therapists in Missouri

I believe that every person possesses the inner strength and resources needed to find happiness and healing. As a transgender woman, I understand both the internal and external forces that can stir self-doubt, amplify fear, and lead to deep feelings of loneliness and uncertainty. I also know—through both personal and professional experience—that self-acceptance and joy are not only possible, but also within reach. Science consistently shows that those who seek support often find meaningful relief and lasting change. I bring to my practice a mindfulness-based approach grounded in compassion, presence, and affirmation. My work is especially focused on serving the LGBTQAI+ community, though I warmly welcome anyone seeking an empathic, nonjudgmental partner in their journey toward a more fulfilling life. In addition to my clinical work, I have served as an adjunct and visiting professor at Washington University in St. Louis, and as professor and dean of the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. My academic and clinical experiences have always been deeply interconnected, and both continue to inform my commitment to human dignity, resilience, and transformation.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps individuals, couples, and families navigate challenges with compassion and evidence-based care. I specialize in perinatal mental health, supporting new and expecting mothers. As a parent who has supported my son through anxiety, I bring both lived experience and professional expertise to create a safe, supportive, and understanding space for meaningful healing.

I’m a Missouri-licensed therapist with 19 years of experience. My style is warm, inviting, and deeply accepting—I meet you where you are and celebrate the courage it takes to show up. I lean on cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to build awareness of how your life experiences shape today’s thoughts, feelings, and responses. For 15 years I’ve supported active-duty service members and their families, and I’ve also worked in schools—experiences that taught me to listen closely, honor each person’s story, and tailor care to your unique needs. I’m an ordained clergy member and can integrate a faith-based perspective when that feels meaningful for you, while also offering a safe space to process spirituality or church hurt.

Hello, my name is Vanessa, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in Florida, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, and South Carolina. I am bilingual in English and Spanish, and I provide counseling in both languages to best support my clients’ needs. My professional background in mental health began during my undergraduate and graduate studies, where I gained experience working with children through the Department of Children & Families, with older adults in skilled nursing facilities, and with adolescents in group homes. Over the years, I have expanded my work to include diverse populations and settings. I served as a Nurse Navigator at one of the largest cancer hospitals in South Florida, providing counseling and advocacy for oncology patients and their families. I have also worked with adults in inpatient rehabilitation for substance use treatment, facilitated care for court-ordered clients, and supported outpatient clients within the LGBTQ+ community. I draw from multiple evidence-based approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and individualized treatment planning. My focus is to meet clients where they are, help them return to a baseline where they feel comfortable and capable, and empower them to navigate life’s challenges. I consider myself open-minded, compassionate, and deeply empathetic. My mantra is simple: I am here for you. My role is to walk alongside you, provide tools and support, and help you manage both daily stressors and long-standing challenges. Life can feel like a roller coaster—full of unexpected changes, emotions, and pressures—but with the right support, it’s possible to find balance, peace, and overall well-being.

You may be someone others rely on—at work, in your relationships, or within your family—but internally you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained. You might find yourself overthinking conversations, struggling to set boundaries, or feeling responsible for everyone else’s needs while your own take a back seat. I work with adults navigating anxiety, stress, burnout, and relationship challenges. Many of my clients are high-functioning individuals who feel stuck in patterns like overthinking, people-pleasing, or difficulty communicating their needs. I also have a strong interest in working with veterans and understand the unique stressors that can come with both military and post-service life.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and Illinois. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from diverse backgrounds and in a variety of settings. Life comes with many challenges and we often find ourselves overwhelmed by what has come our way. Together we can identify concerns and find ways to move through life challenges. Through exploring and learning ways to manage emotions, I feel there are opportunities for growth. I believe it is important to identify individual strengths and will guide you towards positive self worth. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term counseling, I will work with you to achieve a greater self-fulfillment.