Attachment-based Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

I consider it a privilege to come alongside courageous clients in the areas of depression, anxiety, abuse, PTSD, as well as strained & broken relationships. I integrate Christian spirituality with IFS (Internal Family Systems), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), EMDR, and attachment-based models of psychotherapy. I help clients connect what they "know" about God and living that knowledge out with the goal of a "head-heart" connection. Through this process, clients experience long-lasting healing as they learn to live in the freedom of authenticity.

Living in a broken world naturally means we may often feel broken ourselves, detached from who we genuinely are, who we once were, and who we long to be. It is easy to lose connection with our true selves as we attempt to navigate our external relationships, past traumas, societal expectations, and the daily demands of this world. This disconnection can disrupt our sense of equilibrium and wholeness and can bring on feelings of anxiety, depression, anger, and a general dissatisfaction with life.

My name is Michelle Maguire, I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri and Kansas. I believe trust, compassion and respect are essential for effective treatment. I will create a safe and non-judgmental space for healing and change. I studied at Kansas State University for my undergraduate degree in social work. I obtained my graduate degree in social work from the University of Missouri. I have been a practicing therapist since 2003. My clinical experience spans clients of all ages and backgrounds.

I went into the field of psychology because I love helping people transform to the best version of themselves. We all need a safe place to understand ourselves and how we relate to others/self. I often say "We need to be Mindful of our Total-Well Being and that our minds and our bodies are an inter-connected systems. Where the mind goes, so does the man or woman in their actions and body states. We go to the physician for our physical health, so how much healthier would we be if we went to our psychologist for our mental health?" At heart, I am a holistic practitioner and love seeing my clients Thrive.

I am a Licensed Marital & Family Therapist (MFT) and an approved supervisor through the State of Missouri Board of MFT and the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy. My clinical experience is with individuals, couples, and families related to sexuality, communication, conflict, and parent-child relationships with queer & trans youth. I utilize emotionally-focused, attachment-based, and playful interventions for unsticking the stuck parts of life. I have extensive couple & sexuality training and experience as a certified Sex Therapist through the American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists.

We are wired to repeat deeply learned patterns that, at a certain point, no longer serve us. Whether it’s in your personal relationships, or your relationship with yourself, at times you may find yourself feeling stuck in a repetitive loop, with outcomes that feel undesirable or out of your control. Together we can identify and explore these patterns in order to define your goals and work towards meaningful growth.

I am a trauma-informed therapist who works with adult clients in individual therapy. I have a special heart for working with individuals who struggle with boundary issues, codependency, self-esteem, and shame. I also work with survivors of emotional/narcissistic abuse; clients with adult ADHD; and those with relational/attachment trauma through abuse and neglect in their family of origin. Another area I serve is supporting individuals who are in their faith deconstruction journey or have experienced spiritual abuse. My clients are of all faith backgrounds but for those who are seeking it, I also offer Christian counseling.

I come to the counseling room as a fellow traveller with a strong desire to create emotional and spiritual safety, regardless of what must be faced. Much of my experience has been focused on helping men find hope and a voice amid brokenness, loneliness, and relational trouble. I meet with individuals wrestling with anxiety, depression, past or present abuse, sexual confusion, sexual addiction, and spiritual and emotional health in general. Real relief and real growth are really possible!

Now Accepting New Clients! When we experience difficult situations in our lives there is nothing more empowering than having a support system to help you find your voice and identity. You have taken a courageous step in seeking counseling and I will provide support and encouragement. I will help in undoing aloneness, increasing one’s capacity to self-love and co create the narrative to become your self at best. You will experience an empathetic, non-judgmental, holistic and strength-based approach to conquering your challenges and relationship barriers.

July 17, 2024 - Now accepting new private pay clients and those seeking a superbill for insurance reimbursement. Let’s talk trauma. Most of us have experienced a traumatic event during the course of our lives; recovery is directly impacted by the kind of support you have in your life. Experiencing trauma & abuse could mean you have fewer internal resources to combat the impact. This can lead to unhealthy ways of dealing with the pain such as addictions, self-harm, destructive relationships, isolation. Through healthy connections and therapy, you can process traumatic experiences and find joy again.

Are you scared of what’s to come? Do you sometimes feel lonely, confused? Maybe unheard or misunderstood. Perhaps it’s a transitional time in your life. Have you lost someone (or something) dear to you? Do you have a decision to make but don’t quite know how to launch? A counselor can be a resource to help you through these adjustments. A set of ears, a sounding board... Whether there’s difficulty with interpersonal relationships you need to further explore, or challenges with current situations you suspect stem from your past, let's explore and navigate

I believe almost all problems are solvable. If you decide to see me for therapy, the first thing I'll probably ask is, "What's going on? Why have you come?" Perhaps you're having difficulty with a relationship or your struggling with a child or your weight. You may be trying to decide if you want to continue in a relationship or look for another job. Or you've noticed that you're drinking too much or getting too angry or obsessing. Maybe you're feeling anxious, depressed or lonely, and despite your best efforts, you can't seem to shake these feelings.

I am trauma-informed therapist that has experience working with a diverse population that includes children, adolescents and adults. Dedicated to creating an inclusive environment, I continue my training throughout the year to effectively serve marginalized communities, including those related to the LGBTQIA community. Born and raised in St. Louis City, I am aware of some of the treasures and challenges that come from living in the area. However, I remain committed to serving the systemic issues that face the clientele in other states, including California and Texas. I strive to provide a safe, client-focused environment.

The past few years have undoubtedly taken a toll on people, and families' emotional and mental health. The effects are evident, but not irreversible. Circumstances have changed our mood, how we react, interact and cope with the world and those around us. Family, intimate, personal, and work relationships have been affected. Coping skills that have worked in the past, may no longer serve us well, and could be hindering our overall health, happiness, contentment and wellbeing.

I invite everyone to share the counseling space with me, but I have experience working with those dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and OCD. I enjoy working with people who are looking to create a change in their life or those who are seeking to explore themselves. Additionally, I seek to make my space a comfortable one for those are LGBTQIA+ and love working with clients on topics related to their gender or sexuality.

Did you know that couples on average wait 6 years before seeking help for a troubled marriage. Are you and your spouse wanting renewal, connection and joy. There is hope whether the problem is trust, emotional distance, or escalating conflict. I start with a strengths based focus using research based Gottman method interventions that work. Do you have more than 20 days in the month of sadness, irritability or anxious worry? Individual counseling is a place to tell your story in order to build new skills and experiences to increase the days of happiness and contentment each month.

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Weighed down by anxiety? Difficulties in relationships or tensions with your children? I can provide you with tools and teach you how to use them, which can help to provide a more satisfying life and to help you become a healthier individual. I am driven by a passion for improving the lives of others and work diligently to provide a custom approach to meet client’s needs. I want to help individuals discover their true identities and God-given gifts, potential, and purposes in life. My approach is to provide empathy and challenge and help clients move toward transformation to make necessary changes.

My practice is highly specialized using evidence-based methods that help couples, families and individuals. I am certified by both the Gottman Institute and the International Center for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy to help couples. I also work with individuals experiencing the challenge of depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, parenting issues or those needing to improve their relationships with the important people in their lives.

There's this lingering sense of negativity, self-doubt, and not being good enough. Stress is accumulating and the demands you're facing are outweighing your resources. Your drive to reach goals, connect with others, and enjoy life is declining. You notice that same cycle of perfectionism, anxiety, and shame repeating itself, causing you to feel trapped, overwhelmed, and powerless. It's not just affecting your mind. It's also taking a toll on your body and your relationships. Avoid the burnout. Make a choice to make a change.