Therapists in Affton, MO
![Photo of Krystal Iris Llera - Blooming Oasis Therapy Services, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e036264-94a1-4ed0-b347-659ff6e431e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Blooming Oasis Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to feel accepted & comfortable in your own skin? Blooming Oasis is a private practice that focuses on individual, couples, and LGBTQ+. We are located in Affton and Saint Louis area as well as telehealth therapy. We help by actively listening to your story and fostering a calm environment by providing a healthy model for boundaries and relationships. We help clients navigate through change and life events. We will take a person-centered integrated approach to help you gain healthy, effective coping skills and balance in your daily life.
Are you struggling to feel accepted & comfortable in your own skin? Blooming Oasis is a private practice that focuses on individual, couples, and LGBTQ+. We are located in Affton and Saint Louis area as well as telehealth therapy. We help by actively listening to your story and fostering a calm environment by providing a healthy model for boundaries and relationships. We help clients navigate through change and life events. We will take a person-centered integrated approach to help you gain healthy, effective coping skills and balance in your daily life.
![Photo of Lindsey Eilers, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fba03446-b754-4523-b7ce-6622c9a1ab2d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. We understand that addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we tailor your treatment plan to fit your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. We understand that addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we tailor your treatment plan to fit your unique needs.
![Photo of Haley Fisher, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d59dbd66-2aac-42c2-8ee1-5ce0bf76b269/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
![Photo of Michael Singleton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcca0824-946e-4ef0-ad6b-d7e6c4791eca/2/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers.
![Photo of Christina Bardle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30d11ab2-adca-435c-9ffc-fccd679a92e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution which is why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use or Alcohol Use Disorders? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. At Sana Lake Recovery, we offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution which is why we offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your unique needs.
![Photo of Erin Maloney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f2555e6-2ca5-4932-999a-114da9378310/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Maloney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
It is tough when you get stuck in a cycle of using unhealthy coping tools to make it through the day. It can feel challenging and scary to face what is there. You may feel lost and have forgotten or lost track of what you want from life. You may be looking for motivation, fulfillment, a way forward, and effective ways to get through life’s challenges. With all of the things you have to do, it can make it difficult to make you a priority. I would be honored to help you find your way forward. My overall approach is to help clients accept what they cannot control while working toward building a life that reflects their values.
It is tough when you get stuck in a cycle of using unhealthy coping tools to make it through the day. It can feel challenging and scary to face what is there. You may feel lost and have forgotten or lost track of what you want from life. You may be looking for motivation, fulfillment, a way forward, and effective ways to get through life’s challenges. With all of the things you have to do, it can make it difficult to make you a priority. I would be honored to help you find your way forward. My overall approach is to help clients accept what they cannot control while working toward building a life that reflects their values.
![Photo of Jennifer Pires, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c3e12fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/7/320x400.jpeg)
Change can be overwhelming at times. Sometimes the change seems so big it is hard to know where to start. The focus of my work is to meet the client where he/she is at and help identify steps for change. I use a variety of cognitive and sensory techniques to help clients break out of old patterns and cope with the stressors of life.
Change can be overwhelming at times. Sometimes the change seems so big it is hard to know where to start. The focus of my work is to meet the client where he/she is at and help identify steps for change. I use a variety of cognitive and sensory techniques to help clients break out of old patterns and cope with the stressors of life.
![Photo of Anne Adams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/81d844d1-bb25-45e4-8f03-6ed45010ad69/4/320x400.jpeg)
I understand that beginning therapy is not easy and takes many people out of their comfort zone. I believe in a warm and nurturing environment that allows clients to work at their own pace. Your journey is your own, and I offer a non-judgmental approach with each person I work with. I enjoy meeting with individuals, couples, and families. I have specialized training in Internal Family Systems (IFS). This model allows clients the opportunity to get to know each "part" of themselves and provides a way to regulate emotions and improve problem solving skills.
I understand that beginning therapy is not easy and takes many people out of their comfort zone. I believe in a warm and nurturing environment that allows clients to work at their own pace. Your journey is your own, and I offer a non-judgmental approach with each person I work with. I enjoy meeting with individuals, couples, and families. I have specialized training in Internal Family Systems (IFS). This model allows clients the opportunity to get to know each "part" of themselves and provides a way to regulate emotions and improve problem solving skills.
![Photo of Kate MacLeod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/999d9ebb-b417-41d8-ad9d-f681fcd6d813/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I specialize in working with adults that are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, or other issues that are causing stress in their lives. My treatment approach is a mix of learning coping strategies to manage current issues, often referred to as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with discussing childhood, family relationships, and past experiences through a family systems lens. I am licensed in IL and MO however my office is located in St. Louis, MO. Due to my office location, I can provide virtual sessions for IL residents and for MO residents I can provide in person or virtual sessions.
Hello! I specialize in working with adults that are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationships, or other issues that are causing stress in their lives. My treatment approach is a mix of learning coping strategies to manage current issues, often referred to as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, along with discussing childhood, family relationships, and past experiences through a family systems lens. I am licensed in IL and MO however my office is located in St. Louis, MO. Due to my office location, I can provide virtual sessions for IL residents and for MO residents I can provide in person or virtual sessions.
![Photo of Peter Kopcha, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c6fc9ee-c055-49b0-88a9-cd52e01b1c5f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Peter and I provide general purpose mental health counseling. My goal is to help you restore emotional control of your life. I firmly believe that you are capable of positive change, that you can overcome distress, and that you will emerge a stronger person from your ordeal. Whether your struggles are temporary or more chronic in nature, I would be honored to listen to you, provide feedback, assist you in designing a treatment plan, and be your support throughout the process. I recognize your uniqueness as an individual and I will always respect your right to make decisions regarding treatment.
Hello, my name is Peter and I provide general purpose mental health counseling. My goal is to help you restore emotional control of your life. I firmly believe that you are capable of positive change, that you can overcome distress, and that you will emerge a stronger person from your ordeal. Whether your struggles are temporary or more chronic in nature, I would be honored to listen to you, provide feedback, assist you in designing a treatment plan, and be your support throughout the process. I recognize your uniqueness as an individual and I will always respect your right to make decisions regarding treatment.
I love to work with clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, who they are, and how they connect with the world. Society is a complicated thing, and it didn't come with a manual, but we can work together to to learn, or decide, what it will be for you. Clients who find themselves in my office may have concerns about their relationships, about whether or not they're worthy as people, about how their mind works, or might just have questions about what it means to be a person. I see adults, teenagers, individuals, and couples. Occasionally I run groups.
I love to work with clients to develop a deeper understanding of themselves, who they are, and how they connect with the world. Society is a complicated thing, and it didn't come with a manual, but we can work together to to learn, or decide, what it will be for you. Clients who find themselves in my office may have concerns about their relationships, about whether or not they're worthy as people, about how their mind works, or might just have questions about what it means to be a person. I see adults, teenagers, individuals, and couples. Occasionally I run groups.
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I am ready to offer therapeutic space to address the current challenges you may be experiencing in life right now. I help clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Identity Confusion or Strained Relationships. They seek support in navigating these challenges, valuing self-exploration and growth. They need a safe, supportive space to cultivate self-acceptance and develop coping skills. I can help develop presence and awareness, access more choices, and find freedom from limiting narratives.
I am ready to offer therapeutic space to address the current challenges you may be experiencing in life right now. I help clients who struggle with Depression, Anxiety, Identity Confusion or Strained Relationships. They seek support in navigating these challenges, valuing self-exploration and growth. They need a safe, supportive space to cultivate self-acceptance and develop coping skills. I can help develop presence and awareness, access more choices, and find freedom from limiting narratives.
![Photo of Catherine Travelstead, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17a67796-8468-4acc-90fe-0b50cc0d4a24/5/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Travelstead
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
Catherine Travelstead is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate about helping children and families thrive in times of distress. Catherine has extensive experience in working with children and adolescents with behavioral and mental health concerns. Additionally, she is comfortable working with high needs and intense behaviors.
Catherine Travelstead is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who is passionate about helping children and families thrive in times of distress. Catherine has extensive experience in working with children and adolescents with behavioral and mental health concerns. Additionally, she is comfortable working with high needs and intense behaviors.
![Photo of Halston Hutchison, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f1289ba-ad66-4e97-a5e4-d30e8ef6a7b0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Halston Hutchison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
First, I would like to say welcome and congratulate you on taking the necessary steps to getting the care, attention and support you deserve! I personally know from previous experience that these first steps can sometimes feel the most difficult; but with encouragement, determination and perseverance, you will be revealed as the conqueror you already are!
First, I would like to say welcome and congratulate you on taking the necessary steps to getting the care, attention and support you deserve! I personally know from previous experience that these first steps can sometimes feel the most difficult; but with encouragement, determination and perseverance, you will be revealed as the conqueror you already are!
![Photo of Kayla Theberge, LPC, MEd, CRADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7795a089-acf2-48d0-85ea-131f83820588/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kayla Theberge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, CRADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
Hi there! My name is Kayla! I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked and interned in several settings, including adolescent and women's drug treatment centers, drug prevention programs, community outreach, and schools. I've worked with clients to address a variety of concerns, such as drug use, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, self-harm, and gender identity. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health, while maintaining a humorous and lighthearted nature. I am a cat mom, bookworm, and cardigan thrifter.
Hi there! My name is Kayla! I have over 11 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked and interned in several settings, including adolescent and women's drug treatment centers, drug prevention programs, community outreach, and schools. I've worked with clients to address a variety of concerns, such as drug use, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, stress, self-harm, and gender identity. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and young adults. I am passionate about breaking the stigma of mental health, while maintaining a humorous and lighthearted nature. I am a cat mom, bookworm, and cardigan thrifter.
![Photo of Emily Scheaffer, M Ed, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79fe90ef-8506-4b9b-b6a8-494ffcf60d85/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Scheaffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, NCC
Verified Verified
Affton, MO 63123 (Online Only)
My ideal client is a courageous heart who is looking to take control of their life to get what they want! I work best with clients who are motivated, ready to make a change in their lives and who are a little outside the norm. I want you to get what you want out of therapy, so we will set personalized goals and move forward with intention while handling any bumps along the way.
My ideal client is a courageous heart who is looking to take control of their life to get what they want! I work best with clients who are motivated, ready to make a change in their lives and who are a little outside the norm. I want you to get what you want out of therapy, so we will set personalized goals and move forward with intention while handling any bumps along the way.
![Photo of James P Ahearn, MEd, LPC, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d36b757-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
James P Ahearn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
The clients I serve are often at a crossroads in their life story and unsure of how to close one chapter and begin anew. Clients I enjoy working with recognize that counseling continues outside of the session in self reflection, exploring behavior change, and shifting how we think and relate to ourselves. I find that counseling helps meet goals and needs as diverse as the client, and sometimes goals arise throughout the course of the relationship. No one needs a "good reason" to come to counseling, for the desire to reach out and try will always be sufficient.
The clients I serve are often at a crossroads in their life story and unsure of how to close one chapter and begin anew. Clients I enjoy working with recognize that counseling continues outside of the session in self reflection, exploring behavior change, and shifting how we think and relate to ourselves. I find that counseling helps meet goals and needs as diverse as the client, and sometimes goals arise throughout the course of the relationship. No one needs a "good reason" to come to counseling, for the desire to reach out and try will always be sufficient.
![Photo of Erica Lynn Braun, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4718f657-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erica Lynn Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
![Photo of Taylor Jacks, MA, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8be0f64-7541-448b-9f50-6ac20dcbef19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life is full of pivotal moments that can attempt to define our stories and our personhood. Unfortunately, it often feels like our most painful encounters seem to have the greatest impact. This can leave us feeling confused, angry, and grieved. Whether you are dealing with struggles in the present, grappling with trials from your past, or just looking for a safe space to process and grow, you are more than the pain you have endured, and healing. is. possible. If this story feels all too familiar for you, I understand, and I am glad you are here.
Life is full of pivotal moments that can attempt to define our stories and our personhood. Unfortunately, it often feels like our most painful encounters seem to have the greatest impact. This can leave us feeling confused, angry, and grieved. Whether you are dealing with struggles in the present, grappling with trials from your past, or just looking for a safe space to process and grow, you are more than the pain you have endured, and healing. is. possible. If this story feels all too familiar for you, I understand, and I am glad you are here.
![Photo of Stephanie Stockham-Ronollo, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b65b9a8-80f8-4f9a-86d0-de9c76bac3b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Stockham-Ronollo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Affton, MO 63123 (Online Only)
If you've found yourself here, then I imagine you are looking for support to make a change in your life. It can be so challenging when you are shifting through all of these profiles to understand who can help you and how. It is true, there is not one counselor that is a great fit for each person. However, with over 14 years of therapist experience, I have seen that therapy REALLY works! I have also noticed that underneath a lot of anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship concerns is trauma. I specialize in working with trauma using EMDR. I help people move from a life of pain to one where they experience thriving.
If you've found yourself here, then I imagine you are looking for support to make a change in your life. It can be so challenging when you are shifting through all of these profiles to understand who can help you and how. It is true, there is not one counselor that is a great fit for each person. However, with over 14 years of therapist experience, I have seen that therapy REALLY works! I have also noticed that underneath a lot of anxiety, depression, eating disorders and relationship concerns is trauma. I specialize in working with trauma using EMDR. I help people move from a life of pain to one where they experience thriving.
See more therapy options for Affton
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Affton, MO
20+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Affton, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
80% | Stress |
76% | Peer Relationships |
76% | Coping Skills |
68% | Relationship Issues |
68% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
94% | Aetna |
83% | Optum |
How Therapists in Affton, MO see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
31% | Male |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Affton?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.