Existential Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Kathryn Beskrowni, LPC, NCC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Beskrowni
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Integrating existential and philosophical perspectives with a systemic lens, applying aspects of attachment, inherited trauma, and solution-based conflict management, we will explore identity, connection, intention, and deeper understandings of selfhood.
I provide therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Clients that tend to best fit my approach are seeking purpose and meaning, navigating feelings of uncertainty, alienation, or perpetual conflict, and are interested in examining ways outward dynamics reflect their inner selves. In other words, my work specializes in relational growth and development – in our communities, families, partnerships, and within ourselves.
Integrating existential and philosophical perspectives with a systemic lens, applying aspects of attachment, inherited trauma, and solution-based conflict management, we will explore identity, connection, intention, and deeper understandings of selfhood.
I provide therapeutic services to adults, adolescents, couples, and families. Clients that tend to best fit my approach are seeking purpose and meaning, navigating feelings of uncertainty, alienation, or perpetual conflict, and are interested in examining ways outward dynamics reflect their inner selves. In other words, my work specializes in relational growth and development – in our communities, families, partnerships, and within ourselves.
(314) 949-3992 View (314) 949-3992
Photo of Jaquette Ebony Sterling-Ransom, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jaquette Ebony Sterling-Ransom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
I have experience helping clients with addiction, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, stress management, existential, and spiritual exploration.
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 have experience helping clients with addiction, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, stress management, existential, and spiritual exploration.
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 Ronald Laney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronald Laney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
If you’ve been longing to develop a deeper understanding of self and others in the context of a more longterm, intimate therapeutic relationship—one in which you are free and encouraged to be your authentic self, we may very well be a good fit. I’m certified in existential-humanistic therapy from the Existential-Humanistic Institute in California, and while I do incorporate other modalities of therapy, I take a predominantly philosophical approach, focusing on the human condition and how we might best navigate a variety of existential concerns that may hinder us from living fully—engaging in self-sabotage for example.
If you’ve been longing to develop a deeper understanding of self and others in the context of a more longterm, intimate therapeutic relationship—one in which you are free and encouraged to be your authentic self, we may very well be a good fit. I’m certified in existential-humanistic therapy from the Existential-Humanistic Institute in California, and while I do incorporate other modalities of therapy, I take a predominantly philosophical approach, focusing on the human condition and how we might best navigate a variety of existential concerns that may hinder us from living fully—engaging in self-sabotage for example.
(314) 912-4575 View (314) 912-4575
Photo of Dr. Sarah E. Bollinger, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Sarah E. Bollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
My hope is that our work together can reignite those things that bring you the most joy and life. Often this process involves working through the impact of loss, pain, or trauma in a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work extensively with artists, musicians, womxn and queer folx, and much of my experience centers around religious trauma and spiritual wounding. My work is informed by humanistic and existential perspectives of psychotherapy, and I often incorporate the use of mindfulness techniques. I am also trained in a number of evidence-based clinical treatments including IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
My hope is that our work together can reignite those things that bring you the most joy and life. Often this process involves working through the impact of loss, pain, or trauma in a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship. I work extensively with artists, musicians, womxn and queer folx, and much of my experience centers around religious trauma and spiritual wounding. My work is informed by humanistic and existential perspectives of psychotherapy, and I often incorporate the use of mindfulness techniques. I am also trained in a number of evidence-based clinical treatments including IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
(615) 815-1568 View (615) 815-1568
Photo of Ryan Thomas Neace, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Ryan Thomas Neace
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience helping people with existential crises, finding direction in life, thematic/recurring problems in relationships, and difficulties related to religious/spiritual matters.
Understanding ourselves and our lives can be difficult. On the one hand, we may be prone to a sea of critical internal or external voices which make self-examination torturous. On the other, well-meaning people in our lives may be so eager to validate us that we are never quite able to face ourselves honestly. So, counseling is essentially about receiving the support to work creatively with all of this noise long enough to allow change to happen in and through you. The only way to do this to let someone get to know the real you. If we can do that, therapy can be a deeply authentic, radically human, even life-changing encounter!
I have extensive experience helping people with existential crises, finding direction in life, thematic/recurring problems in relationships, and difficulties related to religious/spiritual matters.
Understanding ourselves and our lives can be difficult. On the one hand, we may be prone to a sea of critical internal or external voices which make self-examination torturous. On the other, well-meaning people in our lives may be so eager to validate us that we are never quite able to face ourselves honestly. So, counseling is essentially about receiving the support to work creatively with all of this noise long enough to allow change to happen in and through you. The only way to do this to let someone get to know the real you. If we can do that, therapy can be a deeply authentic, radically human, even life-changing encounter!
(760) 824-3092 View (760) 824-3092
Photo of Bridget Kromrey, PsyD, MA , Psychologist
Bridget Kromrey
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63101
In my practice, I draw primarily from existential/humanistic models, Jungian depth psychology, attachment theory, & multicultural models of therapy.
Therapy can be an invitation to explore our inner world and how it relates to the development of the self, relationships, and our way of making meaning in this world. My aim as a psychologist is to offer that unique space to clients where transformation, challenge and deeper understanding can occur. I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ youth and adults, in grief and loss, end of life concerns, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and psychosocial oncology. I work with adults, children, and adolescents for psychotherapy and provide assessments for autism, learning disabilities and social/emotional concerns.
In my practice, I draw primarily from existential/humanistic models, Jungian depth psychology, attachment theory, & multicultural models of therapy.
Therapy can be an invitation to explore our inner world and how it relates to the development of the self, relationships, and our way of making meaning in this world. My aim as a psychologist is to offer that unique space to clients where transformation, challenge and deeper understanding can occur. I specialize in work with LGBTQ+ youth and adults, in grief and loss, end of life concerns, identity development, trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness, and psychosocial oncology. I work with adults, children, and adolescents for psychotherapy and provide assessments for autism, learning disabilities and social/emotional concerns.
(720) 727-6282 View (720) 727-6282
Photo of Jillayna Adamson, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jillayna Adamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I utilize existential and inner-self exploration, and am down to earth, open and positive.
Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, feel stuck within the cycles of depression or anxiety, or are seeking greater fulfilment and authenticity in your life, therapy can empower you with tools, support and a confiding, trusting relationship. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship created with the purpose of self-healing is a necessary and powerful framework from which a person can transform their lives. I believe in therapy, and I love what I do! I specialize in working with women and mothers, not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, the motherhood identity, parenting, relationships, sexuality, and life changes. I also specialize in working with teens that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and identity, including LGBTQIA and questioning/curious youth.
I utilize existential and inner-self exploration, and am down to earth, open and positive.
Whether you are struggling with a specific issue, feel stuck within the cycles of depression or anxiety, or are seeking greater fulfilment and authenticity in your life, therapy can empower you with tools, support and a confiding, trusting relationship. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship created with the purpose of self-healing is a necessary and powerful framework from which a person can transform their lives. I believe in therapy, and I love what I do! I specialize in working with women and mothers, not limited to Depression, Anxiety, Postpartum Depression/Anxiety, the motherhood identity, parenting, relationships, sexuality, and life changes. I also specialize in working with teens that struggle with Depression, Anxiety and identity, including LGBTQIA and questioning/curious youth.
(314) 789-7507 View (314) 789-7507
Photo of Caitlin McDaniel, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caitlin McDaniel
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
If you are anything like me, you know that life is not only hard, it can sometimes feel impossible. Fortunately, counseling can be both a refuge and a catalyst for life-changing growth. I believe there’s something mysterious within all of us that already knows what we need and how to get there - sometimes we just need support in figuring out what’s getting in the way. There is no world where I am an expert on you, but I am an expert in feeling pretty miserable. And it’s from my own struggles as a complex human that I am able to be a passionately knowledgeable and creative resource for you.
If you are anything like me, you know that life is not only hard, it can sometimes feel impossible. Fortunately, counseling can be both a refuge and a catalyst for life-changing growth. I believe there’s something mysterious within all of us that already knows what we need and how to get there - sometimes we just need support in figuring out what’s getting in the way. There is no world where I am an expert on you, but I am an expert in feeling pretty miserable. And it’s from my own struggles as a complex human that I am able to be a passionately knowledgeable and creative resource for you.
(314) 312-3723 View (314) 312-3723
Photo of Macie Roorda, PLPC, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Macie Roorda
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146
As a mom you feel like you don’t know who you are anymore and you feel overwhelmed with anxiety, stress, and the constant to-do list. As a couple, you feel like nothing is working to get back to the connection you once had and you miss how it once was together. Either way, you may wonder if you’ll ever feel like yourself again.
As a mom you feel like you don’t know who you are anymore and you feel overwhelmed with anxiety, stress, and the constant to-do list. As a couple, you feel like nothing is working to get back to the connection you once had and you miss how it once was together. Either way, you may wonder if you’ll ever feel like yourself again.
(636) 429-4650 View (636) 429-4650
Photo of Steven Carlson, MATS, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven Carlson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MATS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Hello! I am an intuitive therapist who holds safe space for individuals to gain insight, understanding, and healing into themselves and their life experiences. I support you in living an authentic, empowered, creative and meaningful life. Being seen, understood and accepted as we actually are in this present moment is essential. I am committed to being a compassionate witness and mirror in your transformative journey of healing and (re)discovery. If you’re looking for a philosophically and metaphysically informed psychotherapist, I am your person. I work especially well with creatives, artists, and other sensitives.
Hello! I am an intuitive therapist who holds safe space for individuals to gain insight, understanding, and healing into themselves and their life experiences. I support you in living an authentic, empowered, creative and meaningful life. Being seen, understood and accepted as we actually are in this present moment is essential. I am committed to being a compassionate witness and mirror in your transformative journey of healing and (re)discovery. If you’re looking for a philosophically and metaphysically informed psychotherapist, I am your person. I work especially well with creatives, artists, and other sensitives.
(314) 207-8220 View (314) 207-8220
Photo of Krissi Franzen, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krissi Franzen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63106  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My role is to help support you to lead happier, healthier life. Sometimes this means lessening your symptoms of anxiety or depression, or maybe it's working towards a specific goal like changing jobs or making friends. It can also look like wanting to find your true, authentic self, which can be exploring gender, sexuality, life after loss, or even just trying to figure out who you are!
My role is to help support you to lead happier, healthier life. Sometimes this means lessening your symptoms of anxiety or depression, or maybe it's working towards a specific goal like changing jobs or making friends. It can also look like wanting to find your true, authentic self, which can be exploring gender, sexuality, life after loss, or even just trying to figure out who you are!
(314) 370-2758 View (314) 370-2758
Photo of Heather Barker, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Barker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
As a licensed professional counselor, I bring 14 years of clinical experience to my private practice and use a variety of treatment modalities to help clients navigate a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and relationship problems. I believe that relationships are central to our well-being and am passionate about working with all of the individual pieces of a family – children, teens, parents, couples – and the family unit itself. On a personal level, I bring unconditional acceptance, an emphasis on grace for self and others, and genuine compassion to each one of my clients.
As a licensed professional counselor, I bring 14 years of clinical experience to my private practice and use a variety of treatment modalities to help clients navigate a wide range of issues including stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and relationship problems. I believe that relationships are central to our well-being and am passionate about working with all of the individual pieces of a family – children, teens, parents, couples – and the family unit itself. On a personal level, I bring unconditional acceptance, an emphasis on grace for self and others, and genuine compassion to each one of my clients.
(314) 858-5163 View (314) 858-5163
Photo of Moira Killoran, PLPC, NCC
Moira Killoran
PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63141
I work with clients seeking deep and transformative healing. Together, we hold space to witness your inner world with curiosity and compassion to guide the once disconnected parts of you back to your self. Through this work, we support your system in releasing the burdens you have carried to reinstate a sense of wholeness and knowing. I am trans and queer affirming, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressionist.
I work with clients seeking deep and transformative healing. Together, we hold space to witness your inner world with curiosity and compassion to guide the once disconnected parts of you back to your self. Through this work, we support your system in releasing the burdens you have carried to reinstate a sense of wholeness and knowing. I am trans and queer affirming, trauma-informed, and anti-oppressionist.
(314) 461-1748 View (314) 461-1748
Photo of Mark Patrick, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mark Patrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Waitlist for new clients
I provide compassionate, nonjudgmental counseling to individuals and families. I am particularly passionate about working with adolescents and their family systems. Learn more and contact me for a free consultation at www.markpatrickcounseling.com.
I provide compassionate, nonjudgmental counseling to individuals and families. I am particularly passionate about working with adolescents and their family systems. Learn more and contact me for a free consultation at www.markpatrickcounseling.com.
(314) 325-1691 View (314) 325-1691
Photo of Leah Polk, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Polk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Have you ever wanted to begin counseling, but didn’t feel like your problems were big enough? Or, have you ever ghosted a therapist because you didn’t feel helped? Me too. So, we go it alone - doing everything to change ourselves and our relationships. We continuously find ourselves stuck between what we want to do and what we “should” do. This dilemma often shows up as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. That’s why it’s my mission to provide approachable counseling that works.
Have you ever wanted to begin counseling, but didn’t feel like your problems were big enough? Or, have you ever ghosted a therapist because you didn’t feel helped? Me too. So, we go it alone - doing everything to change ourselves and our relationships. We continuously find ourselves stuck between what we want to do and what we “should” do. This dilemma often shows up as anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. That’s why it’s my mission to provide approachable counseling that works.
(314) 794-5846 View (314) 794-5846
Photo of Jenny Stanuch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny Stanuch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
I work with clients who want to find clarity and fulfillment in their lives. Sometimes life feels overwhelming or stuck, full of new challenges or old hurts. My goal is for you to regain your liveliness. You may be facing a mismatch between who you are and the life you’re living, questions about identity, relationship challenges, family stress, depression, anxiety, past pain like abuse or trauma, or other sources of dissatisfaction. I also specialize in working on burnout and secondary trauma with therapists and helping professionals. Your first steps toward growth and well-being can start with our conversation.
I work with clients who want to find clarity and fulfillment in their lives. Sometimes life feels overwhelming or stuck, full of new challenges or old hurts. My goal is for you to regain your liveliness. You may be facing a mismatch between who you are and the life you’re living, questions about identity, relationship challenges, family stress, depression, anxiety, past pain like abuse or trauma, or other sources of dissatisfaction. I also specialize in working on burnout and secondary trauma with therapists and helping professionals. Your first steps toward growth and well-being can start with our conversation.
(314) 710-2753 View (314) 710-2753
Photo of Amanda Diamond, MA, PLPC, CRC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda Diamond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Asking for help is not easy and it takes courage to recognize you want to change something. From navigating a life transition, experiencing PTSD from a traumatic event, struggling with your self-esteem, dealing with career challenges, battling ADHD, or just feeling the overwhelm of everyday life... you are not alone! What you are experiencing is very real and seeking help shows strength. I believe that with the right support and approach, healing and lasting change are possible and within reach. I am here to support and walk alongside you as we navigate this together.
Asking for help is not easy and it takes courage to recognize you want to change something. From navigating a life transition, experiencing PTSD from a traumatic event, struggling with your self-esteem, dealing with career challenges, battling ADHD, or just feeling the overwhelm of everyday life... you are not alone! What you are experiencing is very real and seeking help shows strength. I believe that with the right support and approach, healing and lasting change are possible and within reach. I am here to support and walk alongside you as we navigate this together.
(314) 742-8166 View (314) 742-8166
Photo of Taylor J Scott, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor J Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108  (Online Only)
I provide a unique and practical approach to therapy that focuses on integrating the spiritual, physical, and emotional parts of a person. This union reduces anxiety and increases confidence along with creativity. We deserve to live from the little fire in our souls, creating the life we not only deeply desire but the one we desperately need. I would love to journey alongside you as you take back your personal power!
I provide a unique and practical approach to therapy that focuses on integrating the spiritual, physical, and emotional parts of a person. This union reduces anxiety and increases confidence along with creativity. We deserve to live from the little fire in our souls, creating the life we not only deeply desire but the one we desperately need. I would love to journey alongside you as you take back your personal power!
(314) 501-9092 View (314) 501-9092
Photo of Cristina Cousins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cristina Cousins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I work with clients dealing with anxiety or depression rooted in perfectionism, challenging family dynamics, work/life imbalance, OCD, coping with neurodivergence in a neurotypical world, and religious trauma. I enjoy working with women and non-binary individuals who feel uncomfortable with the cultural norms forced upon them. I am a neurodivergent (ND) friendly therapist, and have experience supporting clients to identify and work with their ND characteristics - including those who believe they may have undiagnosed ADHD or Autism. I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
I work with clients dealing with anxiety or depression rooted in perfectionism, challenging family dynamics, work/life imbalance, OCD, coping with neurodivergence in a neurotypical world, and religious trauma. I enjoy working with women and non-binary individuals who feel uncomfortable with the cultural norms forced upon them. I am a neurodivergent (ND) friendly therapist, and have experience supporting clients to identify and work with their ND characteristics - including those who believe they may have undiagnosed ADHD or Autism. I am LGBTQIA+ allied.
(314) 207-2532 View (314) 207-2532
Photo of James Douglas Pettinelli - J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
J. Douglas Pettinelli, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
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.
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

Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.