Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists in Central West End, Saint Louis, MO

Photo of David K McGraw, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
David K McGraw
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Improving the quality of your life begins with a simple act of reaching out.
Our world often stigmatizes needing support, but let's face it: no one gets anywhere without help! Change and growth come with challenges, and having the support of a genuine and compassionate therapist can make a positive difference. Whether you are experiencing a significant personal development, struggling to relate to others, or feeling stuck and looking for a change for the better, reaching out to someone trained to help is a critical step towards finding a way to live more authentically. As a therapist, I work with individuals & couples to create a space to process experiences and find a path forward to greater well-being.
Improving the quality of your life begins with a simple act of reaching out.
Our world often stigmatizes needing support, but let's face it: no one gets anywhere without help! Change and growth come with challenges, and having the support of a genuine and compassionate therapist can make a positive difference. Whether you are experiencing a significant personal development, struggling to relate to others, or feeling stuck and looking for a change for the better, reaching out to someone trained to help is a critical step towards finding a way to live more authentically. As a therapist, I work with individuals & couples to create a space to process experiences and find a path forward to greater well-being.
(314) 926-9030 View (314) 926-9030
Photo of Karla Pollock-Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Pollock-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
You are a successful career woman who is fighting anxiety every stinking day. You say “yes” without considering your schedule or your needs. You worry all of the time about what others think about you and you tend to act differently depending on who you are around. You are scared of being rejected or abandoned, and you spend way too much time in your head replaying conversations you’ve had, fearful that you said something wrong. You doubt yourself frequently and hate to make decisions! Your body has a lot of tension and you’ve been to your doctor or an ER because you thought you were having a heart attack. Time to invest in you.
You are a successful career woman who is fighting anxiety every stinking day. You say “yes” without considering your schedule or your needs. You worry all of the time about what others think about you and you tend to act differently depending on who you are around. You are scared of being rejected or abandoned, and you spend way too much time in your head replaying conversations you’ve had, fearful that you said something wrong. You doubt yourself frequently and hate to make decisions! Your body has a lot of tension and you’ve been to your doctor or an ER because you thought you were having a heart attack. Time to invest in you.
(816) 310-4006 View (816) 310-4006
Photo of Melissa A Peterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
She also has advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Mindfulness.
**CURRENTLY HAVE WAITLIST FOR NEW CLIENTS** Melissa has been practicing clinical social work/psychotherapy with adolescents and adults for over 15 years, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injury and grief/loss. She has an eclectic approach, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal and skills-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems (IFS) dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Her approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative and integrative. She has a profound respect for the complexity of people's lives and experiences.
She also has advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy ( ACT) and Mindfulness.
**CURRENTLY HAVE WAITLIST FOR NEW CLIENTS** Melissa has been practicing clinical social work/psychotherapy with adolescents and adults for over 15 years, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injury and grief/loss. She has an eclectic approach, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal and skills-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems (IFS) dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Her approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative and integrative. She has a profound respect for the complexity of people's lives and experiences.
(314) 696-6232 View (314) 696-6232
Photo of Kelly Stickley, MAG, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Stickley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MAG, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
I am comfortable with CBT, ACT, Trauma-focused therapy, and several other methods of practice.
Every new day presents the opportunity to begin a new chapter. What is already written on our pages may shape us, but it does not define us. Every obstacle, experience, and transition we encounter brings opportunity for joy, growth, meaning, and connection. Therapy provides support to reflect on where you have been, where you are now, and where you want to be. New Chapter offers therapy services that fit your life and comfort level.
I am comfortable with CBT, ACT, Trauma-focused therapy, and several other methods of practice.
Every new day presents the opportunity to begin a new chapter. What is already written on our pages may shape us, but it does not define us. Every obstacle, experience, and transition we encounter brings opportunity for joy, growth, meaning, and connection. Therapy provides support to reflect on where you have been, where you are now, and where you want to be. New Chapter offers therapy services that fit your life and comfort level.
(314) 470-9485 View (314) 470-9485
Photo of Erin Elking, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Elking
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here! I'm a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals live a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where you can feel vulnerable and validated as you work through challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here! I'm a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals live a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where you can feel vulnerable and validated as you work through challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
(314) 936-4644 View (314) 936-4644
Photo of Alexis Short, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults. However, I really enjoy working with any individual that wants to explore their mental health or maybe just needs someone to talk to. I am here to help you express and process through many different ways such as art, games, talking, mindfulness exercises, and much more.
I am passionate about working with adolescents and young adults. However, I really enjoy working with any individual that wants to explore their mental health or maybe just needs someone to talk to. I am here to help you express and process through many different ways such as art, games, talking, mindfulness exercises, and much more.
(314) 789-3047 View (314) 789-3047
Photo of Erin Elking, PLPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Erin Elking
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here. I'm a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals discover a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where you can feel vulnerable and validated as you work through challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
Welcome! I'm glad you found your way here. I'm a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals discover a life worth living. I hold a PLPC license and am supervised by an LPC. I have been endorsed by the National Board for Certified Counselors. My therapeutic approach is centered around creating a strong therapeutic alliance, practicing unconditional positive regard, empathy, and creating a space where you can feel vulnerable and validated as you work through challenges. I have developed a niche for working with self-harm, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma.
(314) 274-1747 View (314) 274-1747
Photo of Nancy K. Kerne, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy K. Kerne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
Are you standing in the face of uncertainty in your life or career and confused as to how to move forward? Does performance paralysis settle in when considering a risk? Do you lack confidence and avoid social situations? Having lived through Hurricane Katrina, resulting in an abrupt relocation to St. Louis in 2008 (after forty years in Louisiana), I can relate to starting over, the absence of family, and the need for grounding. The Covid pandemic was a reminder of how quickly life can change and the necessity for resources. Cumulative traumatic grief is evident in its aftermath as is the need for trauma specialist care in healing.
Are you standing in the face of uncertainty in your life or career and confused as to how to move forward? Does performance paralysis settle in when considering a risk? Do you lack confidence and avoid social situations? Having lived through Hurricane Katrina, resulting in an abrupt relocation to St. Louis in 2008 (after forty years in Louisiana), I can relate to starting over, the absence of family, and the need for grounding. The Covid pandemic was a reminder of how quickly life can change and the necessity for resources. Cumulative traumatic grief is evident in its aftermath as is the need for trauma specialist care in healing.
(281) 609-3380 View (281) 609-3380
Photo of Alicia Buck Hall - SkiWise Health & Wellness Services, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
SkiWise Health & Wellness Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central West End, 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.
(314) 948-6939 View (314) 948-6939
Photo of Matthew Morgan Henderson - Matthew Morgan Henderson Counseling LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Morgan Henderson Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63110
I can help you deal with difficult life circumstances and transitions, work through relationship problems, get a handle on anxiety and depression, and break free from trauma and addictions.
I can help you deal with difficult life circumstances and transitions, work through relationship problems, get a handle on anxiety and depression, and break free from trauma and addictions.
(314) 668-9198 View (314) 668-9198
Photo of Claudine Miller, LPC(MO), LCPC(IL, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claudine Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC(MO), LCPC(IL
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
Change can create stress, depression and anxiety or it can be a transformative experience. I help individuals and couples cope with changes in career, relationships, and life goals. Whether you are unhappy in your relationships, your work, or some other aspect of your life, counseling can help. If you are recognizing the need to create change in your life, I would love to help you create the life you desire. My primary focus is on helping others transform and create joy in their lives.
Change can create stress, depression and anxiety or it can be a transformative experience. I help individuals and couples cope with changes in career, relationships, and life goals. Whether you are unhappy in your relationships, your work, or some other aspect of your life, counseling can help. If you are recognizing the need to create change in your life, I would love to help you create the life you desire. My primary focus is on helping others transform and create joy in their lives.
(314) 310-4088 View (314) 310-4088
Photo of Maria Kometer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Kometer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
If you are reading this, there’s a good chance you feel unknown. Your family and friends think highly of you, but you’re afraid that might be because you’ve fooled them. Deep down you feel like there is something wrong with you, and no amount of “doing the right thing” can change that. You’ve spent much of your life between procrastination and perfection, but nothing really calms the racing thoughts and anxiety. A lifetime of trying to fix what feels broken in your family has taken its toll. It’s actually been pretty tough—and there’s a lot of pain.
If you are reading this, there’s a good chance you feel unknown. Your family and friends think highly of you, but you’re afraid that might be because you’ve fooled them. Deep down you feel like there is something wrong with you, and no amount of “doing the right thing” can change that. You’ve spent much of your life between procrastination and perfection, but nothing really calms the racing thoughts and anxiety. A lifetime of trying to fix what feels broken in your family has taken its toll. It’s actually been pretty tough—and there’s a lot of pain.
(314) 274-6510 View (314) 274-6510
Photo of Clayton A. Clark, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clayton A. Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
Something’s not right, and maybe it hasn’t been for a while, but you know it’s time to make some changes. If you (or you & your partner) need help making that change, I’d be honored to work with you. I take a flexible approach, bringing thoughtfulness and creativity to the process to meet you where you are. Here are areas I help people with most often: anxiety & stress, depression, couples counseling (Gottman Method), trauma (Brainspotting), career counseling & life design, substance use & addiction, men's issues, life transitions, anger, mindfulness, and grief.
(314) 666-6308 View (314) 666-6308
Photo of Emily Lombardo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Lombardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
Young adulthood is an exciting journey of SELF discovery- so why is it so easy to obsess about the approval of OTHERS? Whether it’s food & body image, academics, or relationships, the pressure to compete & compare is not only overwhelming, it implies personal failure when we fall short of unrealistic standards. Imagine the possibilities if we all felt empowered to embrace uncertainty & authenticity- rejoicing in the knowledge that we don’t owe anyone perfection at the expense of being ourselves.
Young adulthood is an exciting journey of SELF discovery- so why is it so easy to obsess about the approval of OTHERS? Whether it’s food & body image, academics, or relationships, the pressure to compete & compare is not only overwhelming, it implies personal failure when we fall short of unrealistic standards. Imagine the possibilities if we all felt empowered to embrace uncertainty & authenticity- rejoicing in the knowledge that we don’t owe anyone perfection at the expense of being ourselves.
(314) 671-0603 View (314) 671-0603
Photo of Carly Sparks, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Sparks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 20 years of experience in social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 20 years of experience in social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
(314) 310-0186 View (314) 310-0186
Photo of Jaquette Ebony Sterling-Ransom, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaquette Ebony Sterling-Ransom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
I provide a nonjudgmental and warm therapeutic environment, which enables my patients to feel comfortable and trust the process. Only the patient's culture and values exist during session and I have experience successfully utilizing a patient's faith in therapy (previously unknown to me). I like to have fun with everything I do. So we will definitely share some laughs and maybe some tears. We will work together as equals to reach your mental health goals. I understand you are the expert on yourself and I am here to help you solve your own problems.
I provide a nonjudgmental and warm therapeutic environment, which enables my patients to feel comfortable and trust the process. Only the patient's culture and values exist during session and I have experience successfully utilizing a patient's faith in therapy (previously unknown to me). I like to have fun with everything I do. So we will definitely share some laughs and maybe some tears. We will work together as equals to reach your mental health goals. I understand you are the expert on yourself and I am here to help you solve your own problems.
(314) 876-8758 View (314) 876-8758
Photo of Jessica Rosenberg - Open Arms Wellness - Ballwin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Open Arms Wellness - Ballwin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Struggling to connect with therapists and feeling unheard? Our commitment is to link you with skilled mental health therapists across various specialties in the greater St. Louis area, offering immediate openings in 1 of our 4 locations: Brentwood, Ballwin, CWE, or Columbia. Our approach involves delving into the root of your concerns—we listen attentively, devising unique strategies that align with your passions to foster healing in your life. Witness a remarkable transformation when collaborating with our carefully chosen professionals.
Struggling to connect with therapists and feeling unheard? Our commitment is to link you with skilled mental health therapists across various specialties in the greater St. Louis area, offering immediate openings in 1 of our 4 locations: Brentwood, Ballwin, CWE, or Columbia. Our approach involves delving into the root of your concerns—we listen attentively, devising unique strategies that align with your passions to foster healing in your life. Witness a remarkable transformation when collaborating with our carefully chosen professionals.
(636) 942-6611 View (636) 942-6611
Photo of Justin Hampton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justin Hampton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Waitlist for new clients
Need help, support, or just feeling stuck? Let's talk. Clients often report they have found me to be warm and genuine, while also being committed to offering effective, research supported treatments. While my experience has spanned across a diversity of people, various settings, and presenting issues I have a specialty and passion for working with the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) population. My work and relationship with each client is unique and guided by their needs. I view therapy as a collaboration used to facilitate growth, change, and create a more fulfilling life.
Need help, support, or just feeling stuck? Let's talk. Clients often report they have found me to be warm and genuine, while also being committed to offering effective, research supported treatments. While my experience has spanned across a diversity of people, various settings, and presenting issues I have a specialty and passion for working with the LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) population. My work and relationship with each client is unique and guided by their needs. I view therapy as a collaboration used to facilitate growth, change, and create a more fulfilling life.
(314) 300-7973 View (314) 300-7973
Photo of Brandi Wilson, MA, NCC, LPC
Brandi Wilson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Hi there, I'm Brandi! I specialize in working with adults and young adults who are healing from the imp act of being raised in highly dysfunctional families. This can include but is not limited to individuals from families affected by issues such as emotional neglect or abuse, addiction, abandonment, eating disorders, codependency, enmeshment, infidelity, and highly controlling behaviors. I help these individuals learn to heal emotional wounds related to their experiences and in finding a way to establish fulfilling relationships with themselves and others, with honesty and clarity.
Hi there, I'm Brandi! I specialize in working with adults and young adults who are healing from the imp act of being raised in highly dysfunctional families. This can include but is not limited to individuals from families affected by issues such as emotional neglect or abuse, addiction, abandonment, eating disorders, codependency, enmeshment, infidelity, and highly controlling behaviors. I help these individuals learn to heal emotional wounds related to their experiences and in finding a way to establish fulfilling relationships with themselves and others, with honesty and clarity.
(314) 916-3103 View (314) 916-3103
Photo of Nigel Cook, MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nigel Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Central West End, Saint Louis, MO 63108
Sexuality should be celebrated! Society often makes it difficult for people to express themselves in this way, and therefore I try to offer a space for clients to freely explore all aspects of their sexuality without judgement. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to develop sexual communication skills, process shame associated with sexuality, and learn how to practice safer (more pleasurable) sex. I have experience with many types of clients, including LGBTQ+ people, femme-people, sex workers, and people discovering themselves later in life.
Sexuality should be celebrated! Society often makes it difficult for people to express themselves in this way, and therefore I try to offer a space for clients to freely explore all aspects of their sexuality without judgement. In my practice, I work collaboratively with clients to develop sexual communication skills, process shame associated with sexuality, and learn how to practice safer (more pleasurable) sex. I have experience with many types of clients, including LGBTQ+ people, femme-people, sex workers, and people discovering themselves later in life.
(539) 245-6060 View (539) 245-6060
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Acceptance and Commitment (ACT) Therapists

How does acceptance and commitment therapy work?

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy encourages a person to listen to their self-talk. A person’s inner dialog can be indicative of how they treat themselves. ACT also encourages self-compassion; this can lead to a better understanding of negative thought patterns and emotional states. This understanding can then lead the individual to needed behavior change.

What are the goals of acceptance and commitment therapy?

The goal of acceptance and commitment is to expand a person’s psychological flexibility, a trait that encourages an individual to live in the present moment and to accept all their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, even ones that are difficult such as sadness and anxiety. In ACT, this acceptance is congruent with the individual’s values and beliefs.

Does acceptance and commitment therapy work for depression?

Acceptance and commitment therapy is effective for depression because it allows the individual to view their discomfort and suffering differently. Depressive feelings about relationship heartaches, for example, are a part of life. A despondent person learns to let go of their struggles and instead view their painful thoughts and feelings with compassion. This will lead the individual toward positive change.

How long are people typically in acceptance and commitment therapy?

A typical acceptance and commitment therapy session is 50 minutes long with one session per week. Treatment for common problems such as anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties can last between eight weeks to four months. However, more severe cases may require more than one session a week and/or a longer time frame for treatment.