Sandplay Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Rachel Wethers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Wethers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63111  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart) and teens who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart) and teens who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
(314) 441-7189 View (314) 441-7189
Photo of McCoy Edmonds, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
McCoy Edmonds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63104
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm McCoy and an AutPlay Certified Therapist. I work with Neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, etc.) and their families. When I work with Neurodivergent kids, my job is not to change their brain but to work with them to help kids become their best selves. I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including big emotional outbursts, social isolation, high discipline at school, self injurious behavior, and parent overwhelm. My demeanor is calm and validating. I aim to make a space for everybody and every kind of human struggle. You and your child are welcome here.
Hello! I'm McCoy and an AutPlay Certified Therapist. I work with Neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, etc.) and their families. When I work with Neurodivergent kids, my job is not to change their brain but to work with them to help kids become their best selves. I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including big emotional outbursts, social isolation, high discipline at school, self injurious behavior, and parent overwhelm. My demeanor is calm and validating. I aim to make a space for everybody and every kind of human struggle. You and your child are welcome here.
(314) 266-3489 View (314) 266-3489
Photo of Dr. Cherie L Swingler, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Cherie L Swingler
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
My name is Dr. Chérie Swingler, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri. I have over 12 years experience working in the arena of counseling and therapeutic services. Much of my education and work experience has been focused on issues related to careers/education, anxiety, anger management, depression, trauma, ADHD and relationship/family conflicts.
My name is Dr. Chérie Swingler, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri. I have over 12 years experience working in the arena of counseling and therapeutic services. Much of my education and work experience has been focused on issues related to careers/education, anxiety, anger management, depression, trauma, ADHD and relationship/family conflicts.
(314) 916-6014 View (314) 916-6014
Photo of Yvette Kristine Pelikan - Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creative Counseling 4 Kids and Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 21 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
I believe that every child has the right to feel loved, safe and heard. Working in the Counseling/ Social Work profession for 21 years, I have gained great insight in what helps children develop self-acceptance, self-awareness, self-regulation and many more essential qualities. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I engage children in play and art therapy to assist them with having their voices heard.
(314) 270-1336 View (314) 270-1336
Photo of Kylie Lowrie, MA, NCC, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kylie Lowrie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I specialize in working with children aged 3-18 and their families, addressing a range of challenges including effects of childhood neglect or trauma, parental separation, problem behaviors, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and life transitions. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, and I utilize a person-centered methodology to ensure that each client receives an individualized experience tailored to their unique needs. I strive to maintain client autonomy and promote a fluid and collaborative approach, because everyone deserves a say in their treatment.
I specialize in working with children aged 3-18 and their families, addressing a range of challenges including effects of childhood neglect or trauma, parental separation, problem behaviors, ADHD, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, and life transitions. My approach is rooted in attachment theory, and I utilize a person-centered methodology to ensure that each client receives an individualized experience tailored to their unique needs. I strive to maintain client autonomy and promote a fluid and collaborative approach, because everyone deserves a say in their treatment.
(314) 350-4270 View (314) 350-4270
Photo of Carol Love, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
I specialize in working with families who have had, or are going through a divorce or parental separation. Chronic conflict will have a lasting negative effect on you and your children BUT if you are able to manage your emotions and parent successfully, you and your children can thrive in the future. It is important to develop a good coparenting relationship and make sure your children have the support they need to deal with divorce/separation issues. In order to facilitate a positive outcome for families, I provide Coparent Counseling, Family Therapy, Reunification Therapy Group and Individual Therapy (adult and child).
I specialize in working with families who have had, or are going through a divorce or parental separation. Chronic conflict will have a lasting negative effect on you and your children BUT if you are able to manage your emotions and parent successfully, you and your children can thrive in the future. It is important to develop a good coparenting relationship and make sure your children have the support they need to deal with divorce/separation issues. In order to facilitate a positive outcome for families, I provide Coparent Counseling, Family Therapy, Reunification Therapy Group and Individual Therapy (adult and child).
(314) 665-2301 View (314) 665-2301
Photo of Alice Kinsella, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alice Kinsella
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
6-8 sessions may be all you need. Do you often think/say to yourself: “I should know this?” “I’ve read all the self-help books.” “I’ve done therapy in the past.” "I was doing great." “What are you going to tell me that I don’t already know?” or "I have never done this before" I get it. I work with negative, self-limiting beliefs and past traumas that may be holding you back.
6-8 sessions may be all you need. Do you often think/say to yourself: “I should know this?” “I’ve read all the self-help books.” “I’ve done therapy in the past.” "I was doing great." “What are you going to tell me that I don’t already know?” or "I have never done this before" I get it. I work with negative, self-limiting beliefs and past traumas that may be holding you back.
(314) 328-7516 View (314) 328-7516
Photo of Jill Carron, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Carron
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63122
Waitlist for new clients
Jill Carron, MS, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, relationships, anger management, ADHD, trauma, and family conflict. Jill uses various types of therapy in her sessions including Person-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Jill Carron, MS, LPC, is a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in working with children, adolescents, and adults with a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, self-harm behaviors, relationships, anger management, ADHD, trauma, and family conflict. Jill uses various types of therapy in her sessions including Person-Centered Therapy, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(314) 347-3090 View (314) 347-3090
Photo of Shanon Harlow - Understanding Minds Psychological Services, Psychologist
Understanding Minds Psychological Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63123
Understanding Minds provides trusted, confidential, and comprehensive mental health services. Our supportive team of providers take a proactive approach with assessment, collaborative treatment planning, progress review, and validated approaches to make progress achievable. Your needs are important to us, and we strive to offer the best possible experience in mental healthcare. This is why we have administrative staff available to assist you 5 days a week and we request feedback from you about your experience and fit with your provider.
Understanding Minds provides trusted, confidential, and comprehensive mental health services. Our supportive team of providers take a proactive approach with assessment, collaborative treatment planning, progress review, and validated approaches to make progress achievable. Your needs are important to us, and we strive to offer the best possible experience in mental healthcare. This is why we have administrative staff available to assist you 5 days a week and we request feedback from you about your experience and fit with your provider.
(314) 897-7736 View (314) 897-7736
Photo of Kolleen Lyn Simons - The Right Solution Counseling Service, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Right Solution Counseling Service
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
The Right Solution offers counseling services for individuals, families and children. We offer both in person and tele-health options.
The Right Solution offers counseling services for individuals, families and children. We offer both in person and tele-health options.
(314) 315-4348 View (314) 315-4348
Photo of Tosha T Pearson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tosha T Pearson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Hello, everyone! My name is Tosha Pearson, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis. I'm here to support individuals of all ages with their social-emotional needs, and well-being. Whether you're a child, a teenager, or an adult, I firmly believe that taking care of our emotional health is crucial for our overall development and success. In a safe and welcoming environment we can explore your feelings, address challenges, and develop effective strategies to navigate life's ups and downs.
Hello, everyone! My name is Tosha Pearson, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis. I'm here to support individuals of all ages with their social-emotional needs, and well-being. Whether you're a child, a teenager, or an adult, I firmly believe that taking care of our emotional health is crucial for our overall development and success. In a safe and welcoming environment we can explore your feelings, address challenges, and develop effective strategies to navigate life's ups and downs.
(314) 312-1760 View (314) 312-1760
Photo of Rita Skiba-Mathews, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Skiba-Mathews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Are you seeking a therapist who is committed to providing a safe and affirming environment where your experiences, feelings, and identity are respected and valued? Perhaps you have experienced hardship or traumas and feel stuck in a loop of past memories. Or maybe you are finding it challenging to be effective in your day to day life. If something about this resonates with you, I think we might be a good fit! I hope to provide a comfortable and nonjudgemental environment where you can safely show up as your authentic self to work on treatment goals that fit your current struggles.
Are you seeking a therapist who is committed to providing a safe and affirming environment where your experiences, feelings, and identity are respected and valued? Perhaps you have experienced hardship or traumas and feel stuck in a loop of past memories. Or maybe you are finding it challenging to be effective in your day to day life. If something about this resonates with you, I think we might be a good fit! I hope to provide a comfortable and nonjudgemental environment where you can safely show up as your authentic self to work on treatment goals that fit your current struggles.
(314) 804-7725 View (314) 804-7725
Photo of Amy Goldstein - Therapy Nest        Accepting New Clients!, LPC , LCSW, LMFT, CSAT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Therapy Nest Accepting New Clients!
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , LCSW, LMFT, CSAT, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
Accepting new clients! We are a diverse group of licensed wellness professionals that have come together to help those in need. We are knowledgeable, compassionate and honored to help Individuals, couples and families. If you are a practicum internship student looking for a site inquire today!
Accepting new clients! We are a diverse group of licensed wellness professionals that have come together to help those in need. We are knowledgeable, compassionate and honored to help Individuals, couples and families. If you are a practicum internship student looking for a site inquire today!
(636) 577-2397 View (636) 577-2397
Photo of Jasmine Berger - Bud to Bloom Play Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bud to Bloom Play Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
Bud to Bloom Play Therapy is a place for the whole family to play, grow and heal! Is your child's behavior challenging of difficult to understand? Are you unsure how to help your child after a trauma or big life transition? We support children, families and parents healing from trauma, attachment disruptions and many of life's other challenges . We specialize in trauma, big behaviors and adoptive and foster families. We believe the powers of play can help build connection, regulation and allow for emotional expression. Whether you are a caregiver looking for therapy for your child, your family or yourself we're happy to help!
Bud to Bloom Play Therapy is a place for the whole family to play, grow and heal! Is your child's behavior challenging of difficult to understand? Are you unsure how to help your child after a trauma or big life transition? We support children, families and parents healing from trauma, attachment disruptions and many of life's other challenges . We specialize in trauma, big behaviors and adoptive and foster families. We believe the powers of play can help build connection, regulation and allow for emotional expression. Whether you are a caregiver looking for therapy for your child, your family or yourself we're happy to help!
(314) 948-5268 View (314) 948-5268
Photo of Megan J Adamo, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan J Adamo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
I work with adults, adolescents, and children. Often, as adults, we find ourselves stuck. You keep trying, yet things aren’t getting better. Usually, this means you have developed a self-limiting belief. Let’s talk. Together we can identify the root of the issue, develop new core beliefs, and create a plan to develop a more fulfilling life. Children and adolescents need a safe space and a person that accepts them for who they truly are, so they can express themselves openly. I focus on helping them see their true worth to enhance their growth and development, while teaching them skills to express emotions and cope with stressors.
I work with adults, adolescents, and children. Often, as adults, we find ourselves stuck. You keep trying, yet things aren’t getting better. Usually, this means you have developed a self-limiting belief. Let’s talk. Together we can identify the root of the issue, develop new core beliefs, and create a plan to develop a more fulfilling life. Children and adolescents need a safe space and a person that accepts them for who they truly are, so they can express themselves openly. I focus on helping them see their true worth to enhance their growth and development, while teaching them skills to express emotions and cope with stressors.
(636) 428-3547 x417 View (636) 428-3547 x417
Photo of Heather Barker, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Barker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed professional counselor, I bring 18 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 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 18 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 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 Emily Mitchell-Harris, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Mitchell-Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63127  (Online Only)
Growing up is HARD. You get home after a tiring day at school where you felt invisible. You sat with friends at lunch, but left feeling like they don’t really get you. You open your backpack to loads of homework, when your mom reminds you to work on your college applications. The overwhelm takes over. You grab your phone and start to scroll, which leaves you feeling numb, empty and alone. After a tense family dinner, you go back to your room, feeling unheard and misunderstood. Figuring out who you are and what you want is hard while navigating school, work, friends, family, and relationships. You just wish things were easier.
Growing up is HARD. You get home after a tiring day at school where you felt invisible. You sat with friends at lunch, but left feeling like they don’t really get you. You open your backpack to loads of homework, when your mom reminds you to work on your college applications. The overwhelm takes over. You grab your phone and start to scroll, which leaves you feeling numb, empty and alone. After a tense family dinner, you go back to your room, feeling unheard and misunderstood. Figuring out who you are and what you want is hard while navigating school, work, friends, family, and relationships. You just wish things were easier.
(314) 690-5049 View (314) 690-5049
Photo of Jessica Kershenski, MSW, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Kershenski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
Is your child or teen struggling with feeling worried, sad or angry? Are they struggling to adjust to and cope with stressors in their lives? Are you unsure as to how to help them? I would feel privileged to assist your child on their journey to building emotional balance. As a registered play therapist, I utilize both directive and non-directive play and creative therapy techniques, allowing clients the ability to express their difficult emotions, struggles, past traumas, and ultimately their strengths and coping skills.
Is your child or teen struggling with feeling worried, sad or angry? Are they struggling to adjust to and cope with stressors in their lives? Are you unsure as to how to help them? I would feel privileged to assist your child on their journey to building emotional balance. As a registered play therapist, I utilize both directive and non-directive play and creative therapy techniques, allowing clients the ability to express their difficult emotions, struggles, past traumas, and ultimately their strengths and coping skills.
(314) 931-3339 View (314) 931-3339
Photo of Lee Bascom, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lee Bascom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
As a clinical social worker/registered play therapist, I work with children ages 3-9 and their families. I primarily use Child Centered Play Therapy and I am also trained in Theraplay, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Trauma-Focused CBT. Click on "website" below my picture to see more about me.
As a clinical social worker/registered play therapist, I work with children ages 3-9 and their families. I primarily use Child Centered Play Therapy and I am also trained in Theraplay, SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions) and Trauma-Focused CBT. Click on "website" below my picture to see more about me.
(314) 649-5725 View (314) 649-5725
Photo of Holly Pfisterer Strelow, LPC, NCC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Pfisterer Strelow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
About a decade ago I attended a conference at the Omega Institute and was reawakened to the immense suffering in the world and I realized there was no more time to waste. I needed to change careers in order to be of service. All of my life I wanted to be a healer and pursued a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health. My approach is mindful, practical, respectful and always hopeful. I believe each of us holds the key to our own healing within our highest sense of Self. My role is to help support that discovery process through thoughtful exploration, creativity and a little humor.
About a decade ago I attended a conference at the Omega Institute and was reawakened to the immense suffering in the world and I realized there was no more time to waste. I needed to change careers in order to be of service. All of my life I wanted to be a healer and pursued a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health. My approach is mindful, practical, respectful and always hopeful. I believe each of us holds the key to our own healing within our highest sense of Self. My role is to help support that discovery process through thoughtful exploration, creativity and a little humor.
(314) 309-3605 View (314) 309-3605
1

Sandplay Therapists

What problems are best treated with sandplay therapy?

Research has examined this therapy’s utility in young people and found positive results. It has been shown to be useful for those who suffer from autism, attention deficit disorder, anxiety, and or aggressive behavior. Children who have suffered abuse, neglect, or trauma have also seen improvement through this therapy. Abused children are often fearful and anxious about their safety, making verbal communication more difficult.

Is sandplay therapy suitable for children and teenagers?

Children and adolescents are good candidates for sandplay therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts, let alone the emotions they are experiencing. Through this play therapy, they will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.

Is sandplay suitable for adults?

This type of therapy can be useful for adults who have difficulties expressing themselves. People who have suffered neurological changes after a brain injury or because of a traumatic event might be good candidates for this therapy. In fact, anything that has had an effect on the brain, such as substance abuse, can make non-verbal sandplay a valuable option.

Does sandplay therapy work?

There have been studies on the effectiveness of sandplay therapy, and it appears to improve difficult behaviors in children. It may also enhance self-esteem and lessen feelings of physical anxiety as well as hypersensitivity. This type of therapy is based on non-verbal communication and may feel less threatening to the individual.