Shelby Zurick Beasley, MA, LPC
Director of Clinical Services
Shelby leads the counseling, psychiatric and crisis intervention services departments. The primary goal she has for her team is:
“My goal is to help Provident’s clinical team work together to create new and innovative ways to meet the needs of our ever-changing community. Our clinical departments provide excellent counseling, psychiatric and crisis intervention services daily to the St. Louis area. I’d love to help find ways to extend our reach by creating new programming focused on underserved groups while continuing to ensure that Provident is one of the top places to work for our clinicians who do the life-changing work.”
LaTanya Mackey, LPC
Associate Director of Counseling
LaTanya leads our team of talented clinicians. Her treatment philosophy:
“It’s incredible to watch clients develop confidence in their own ability to manage toxic stress and behavioral health symptoms. The work we do allows them to feel better and live the lives they want. I believe that therapy is a path that leads to peace and healing and each client's treatment plan should be unique to achieve the desired outcome.”
Jai Wilson, M.ED, LPC, NCC
Associate Director of Crisis Services
Jai leads our Crisis Service team. His treatment philosophy:
“Therapy is for everyone. It’s a space for us to pause for a moment, focus on ourselves, and better understand our thoughts and our needs.”
Downtown Office - In-person and telehealth
2650 Olive, St. Louis, MO 63103 314-371-6500 Click for map
“My approach to therapy begins with seeking to provide a safe place for clients. I believe the foundation of any counseling experience starts with building trust and a supportive relationship. I utilize a wide variety of therapy approaches based on each individual and take a wholistic perspective to explore areas of anxiety, depression, grief, loss and trauma."
Karsee has extensive experience working in another country with people from many cultural backgrounds. She has worked for over 20 years with people from many religious backgrounds as well as those with no religious beliefs.
Karsee attended Truman State University and earned a BA at Covenant Theological Seminary and an MA in Counseling. She also has EMDR Therapy training.
Specialties:
- Women's Issues
- Women of color and from diverse backgrounds
- Religious Trauma
- LGBQTIA+
"I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to help reduce the stigmas regarding mental health, especially within underserved communities. I am committed to the client’s wellness by providing education, patient-centered interventions, and shared decision-making."
Brenda Harris, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC is a highly experienced nurse practitioner with 14 years in nursing and 6 years as a nurse practitioner. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Southeast Missouri State University, a Master of Science in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner from Chamberlain University, and a Post-Master’s Certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Brenda serves patients at the Downtown location and via Telehealth, bringing her extensive expertise in family and psychiatric mental health care to those she serves.
- Accepting referrals for children and adolescents
- Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
- Fees based on a sliding scale
- Youth under age 20 in St. Louis County may be eligible to receive services with no out-of-pocket costs thanks to funding from the St. Louis County Children's Services Fund
- Many insurances accepted
- Services available Monday-Friday
- Contact the Psychiatric Services Department
at 314.802.2670.
"The most fulfilling aspect of my work is helping clients live happier and fuller lives. Provident Behavioral Health exemplifies an agency with a mission, putting the clients and their loved ones first. I am privileged to be a part of this group of client-centered clinicians."
Provident Behavioral Health offers outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management services at our St. Louis City office and through telehealth for Missouri residents.
Alexander's videos:
What is the most valuable service you provide?
How do I know when I need psychiatric services?
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?
Why did I choose this field?
- Accepting referrals for children and adolescents
- Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
- Fees based on a sliding scale
- Youth under age 20 in St. Louis County may be eligible to receive services with no out-of-pocket costs thanks to funding from St. Louis County Children's Services Fund
- Many insurances accepted
- Services available Monday-Friday
- Contact the Psychiatric Services Department
at 314.802.2670.
“For me, there is no greater gift than to be able to serve others and assist them on their journey to greater mental and physical health. The impact when one is out of balance with the other is incredibly profound and affects not just the individual, but whole families. I could not turn my back on the need I have seen for improved overall quality of life and how I might be able to facilitate that."
Povident Behavioral Health offers outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management services at our St. Louis City office and through telehealth for Missouri residents.
Tanja Johnson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing psychiatric medication management to children, adolescents, and adults. Tanja is Board Certified in: Family Practice, Emergency Medicine, Psychiatric Mental Health, she has been a Nurse Practitioner since 2014, and a nurse since 1992.
- Accepting referrals for children, adolescents, and adults
- Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
- Fees based on a sliding scale
- Youth under age 20 in St. Louis County may be eligible to receive services with no out-of-pocket costs thanks to funding from St. Louis County Children's Services Fund
- Many insurances accepted
- Services available Monday-Friday
Contact the Psychiatric Services Department at 314.802.2670.
“I chose this profession because I want to help individuals through
the most challenging times in life. Every day I continue to learn more from those around me, both my fellow clinicians and the people I serve. Together, we discover new ways to overcome my clients’ challenges and get past their limits.”
Dayton has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Saint Louis University and Master’s in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis. He has been a part of Provident’s Crisis Services team since 2016 and has experience working with individuals of all ages who struggle with thoughts of suicide, self-injury, depression, and anxiety.
Dayton is passionate about serving those who suffer with mental health issues and using evidence-based treatments to help clients achieve their goals. He has experience in crisis intervention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT).
Dayton's videos:
How are goals determined for clients?
How do you personalize your experience with your clients?
How do you practice self-care?
What do you enjoy most about being a therapist?
What kind of therapy do you offer?
Why did you choose to become a therapist?
How will I know if I'm a good fit with my therapist?
Why is honesty an important part of therapy?
Specialties:
- Suicide/Crisis Intervention
- Self-Injury
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief/Loss
“The most gratifying 
thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness."
Courtney is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, providing psychiatric medication management to adults in Provident’s Downtown office. She is also available via Telehealth.
- Accepting referrals for adults
- Treating a variety of problems such as depression, mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma
- Fees based on a sliding scale
- Many insurances accepted
- Services available Monday-Friday
“I believe that your mental health is top priority to get through your daily routine and to enjoy life. Without understanding how your past affects your present thoughts and behaviors, you can’t operate at your fullest potential. You’re existing instead of truly living. With the history of mistreatment of Black and Brown people by the medical community, it affects so many at a deeper level than any of us recognizes or wants to believe. I want every person (no matter their race or ethnicity) to understand that they deserve to be mentally healthy and happy."
Alexandrea chose counseling because she grew up seeing the disparities within the Black community in regards to mental health. She grew up understanding that it was something taboo, to not be spoken of and ignored. As Alexandrea grew older, she learned that you can’t truly take care of yourself or those you love (children, spouse, family members) if you are ignoring your mental health in any way. She also learned that the history of mistreatment within the medical field contributed to the fear and discomfort that so many Black and Brown people feel and carry with them for generations.
Alexandrea has two years of clinical practice with clients. She holds a MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Webster University and is a Nationally Certified Counselor from NBCC.
Alexandra's videos:
How are goals determind for clients?
How do you personalize your experience with your clients?
How do you practice self-care?
What do you enjoy most about being a therapist?
What kind of therapy do you offer?
Why did you choose to become a therapist?
How do you personalize your experience with your clients?
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Anger Management
- Family Conflict
- Stress Management
- Trauma
South County Office - In-person and telehealth
"Therapy is a space where individuals can find a dedicated space and time in their life where they can receive caring and non-judgmental support. Growing and developing new skills to navigate through life can be a difficult process, and therapy provides a safe, calming space to make this growth process easier."
Daniel has worked for Provident Behavioral Health since 2016. He began working as a crisis intervention specialist with Provident Crisis Services where he focused on suicide prevention. He completed his counseling practicum at the UMSL Child Advocacy Center, where he assessed and treated children with histories of severe abuse and sexual behavior problems. Daniel has received training in both Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Daniel provides a truly genuine and caring therapeutic environment that is tailored to each client’s needs and personalities providing an eclectic and adaptive approach for each individual client. He's worked with clients of all ages with a wide variety of therapeutic needs.
Daniel's videos:
What's the initial intake session like?
How does CBT help children and families?
What kind of therapy do you provide?
Specialties:
- Suicidal ideation
- Trauma
"I am a patient person and my counseling office is a safe space. I know how hard life can be and it is important to be kind to ourselves. I will meet a person where they are in life and collaborate with them to meet their goals."
Cindy has worked in counseling for over four years and says she chose this profession because she used counseling while going through a hard time in her own life. She realized she wouldn't have made it without someone there to listen and provide support. She knows the importance first-hand and wants to provide the same care she depended on during difficult times.
What is your personal philosophy on therapy? Therapy is an awakening of who we are as a person. It happens in the time frame it is supposed to happen. If a client is ready to work on their goals, then I am happy to help them on their journey to who they want to become.
Specialties:
- Rehabilitation Counseling
- Vocational Counseling
- Counseling people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (including ADHD, Autism, Down Syndrome, traumatic brain injury)
- Depression
- Bi-polar disorder
- Anxiety and Grief
-
I have a long history of working with the geriatric population and volunteering with the Alzheimer’s Association
"It’s an honor and privilege to sit with an individual when they share their most intimate parts of themselves while working towards better lives. Watching a person change and transform from their struggles in life to celebrating their accomplishments is something I truly love being able to see. My goal is to help individuals feel safe and comfortable as they begin down their path."
Carol has Masters of Arts in Counseling from Webster University and a Bachelors of Science in Psychology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Near the beginning of the Covid Pandemic, Carol noticed the multiple dynamics and trauma impacting family, friends, and her community. At that time, she decided to become trained in Eye Movement Desinsitation and Reprocessing (EMDR), a technique used to assisted with the processing of trauma. Currently Carol is a trained EMDR Therapist and is working towards becoming a Certified EMDR Therapist.
Carol is passionate about working with individuals who have experienced unanticipated changes within their lives. She recognizes that road from mental illness to mental health for an individual can be accomplished through a variety of paths. She uses evidence based techiques such as EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Bahavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Family Systems. Carol will explore the needs and goals of her client and develop an individualized treatment plan in a supportive environment.
Carol has over 20 years experience working in the in the field of mental health, with 14 years focused on individual and family counseling and 6 years working in community mental health and hospital services.
Specialties:
- Trauma
- Depression
- Bi-polar disorder
- Anxiety
- Grief
- Aging Issues
- Crisis
"I believe we are so much more than a diagnosis or collection of symptoms."
McKinleigh has a Masters of Social Work from Saint Louis University and Bachelors of Social Work from Saint Louis University. Her passion for service, integrity, and the value of relationships led her to the social work field. She has been in practice for 2 years working primarily with children, adolescents, young adults, and families.
I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and crises. I believe that we are so much more than a diagnosis or collection of symptoms. I work with people to identify struggles and areas they would like to see change. I find immense value in creating a non-judgmental environment based on curiosity and empathy. My role is not to solve the problem, but rather to empower people to learn from themselves and trust themselves. Therapy allows us to dedicate time to understanding ourselves, improving our overall wellbeing, and brightening our futures.
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Mood disorder
- Trauma
- Crises
“I truly feel everyone should seek counseling when needed, even counselors, to be sure we are tuning in to our own needs for support and overall care. I love the work I do because I feel therapy can be a positive way to help lift my clients and support them until they can feel empowered and have the confidence to address life’s challenges on their own.”
Sarah believes addressing mental health challenges is key to overall self-care and can often be a first defense for healing and addressing emotional needs.
Sarah Paradise has been a dedicated member of the Provident team since 2014. During her time, she has served in both the Crisis and Counseling Departments. She provides compassionate therapy to her clients and has always been one to help her fellow colleagues feel supported and grow in their clinical skills. She enjoys continuing to use her crisis intervention knowledge to help those who struggle with mental health issues, self-injury, grief/loss, and survivors of suicide. She also has a passion of working with clients of all ages to address child/adolescent issues, family/relationship conflict, and LGBT/sexual minority concerns.
Sarah graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis with a Master’s of Education in Counseling.
Specialties:
- Crisis intervention
- Mental health issues
- Personality disorders
- Self-injury
- Grief/loss
- Survivors of suicide
- Family dynamics
- Relationship issues
- Child and adolescent issues
- LGBT/sexual minority concerns
"I like to use creative ways and a sense of humor when working with clients. Therapy can be fun!"
Bridget Sims, MSW, LMSW, specializes in working with children, adolescents, parents, and families, integrating creativity and humor into her therapeutic approach. She earned her BA in Political Science from Loyola University Chicago and her MSW from Norfolk State University, with a strong emphasis on social justice, advocacy, and empowering marginalized voices. Bridget is nearing the completion of a yearlong certification in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), a specialized treatment for children with behavioral concerns from 18 months to 6 years old.
Bridget's goal is to make mental health care accessible to everyone, regardless of age, income, location, education level, race, or ethnicity. She is dedicated to normalizing mental health care and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. Her practice focuses on helping clients recognize their strengths and discover new ways to achieve their goals for an improved quality of life.
As a former military spouse, Bridget has lived in diverse places and met many people, which has deepened her empathy and understanding. These experiences have shaped her non-judgmental and open-minded approach to therapy. She aims to create a safe and calming space where clients feel understood and supported.
Bridget's specialties include treating anxiety, depression, transitional issues, supporting military members and their families, crisis intervention, and emotional/behavioral regulation. Her commitment to evidence-based and academic theories, combined with empathy, compassion, and advocacy, defines her approach to social work and underscores her dedication to her clients' well-being.
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Transitional Issues
- Military Members/Families
- Crisis Intervention
- Emotion/Behavioral Regulation
Creve Coeur Office - In-person and telehealth
A full list of clinicians at this location will be published soon.
“Often times people struggle to communicate their needs to others effectively, resulting in not feeling heard and invalidated. I can be that pathway to empower people to express themselves and have their needs met in a safe and healthy way.”
Megan believes that therapy starts with building rapport, identifying her client's natural strengths and their current coping strategies and then building upon these strengths using a strength based, client centered, and trauma informed treatment model.
Megan has five years of clinical practice with clients and three years working as a home-based family therapist. She holds a Masters in Social Work degree from Saint Louis University and is experienced in CBT, TF-CBT, PCIT, and sensory-based interventions.
Megan's video interviews:
- Click here to see the most common challenge she helps adults face
- Click here to learn about how Parent Child Interaction Therapy can help
- Click here to see how Megan works with children
Specializations
- Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
- Trauma
- Abuse/Neglect
- Attachment
- Foster care
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Family dynamics/relationships
Victoria's approach to therapy includes developing a strong therapeutic relationship with the client and ensuring the sessions are individualized to the client with creative interventions and evidence-based strategies that are relevant to their concerns.
"Therapy is a safe space for feeling seen and heard, learning about oneself, and growing through our experiences."
Victoria says she chose this profession because she is passionate about helping people discover their inner strength, build secure relationships, process difficult experiences, and practice self-compassion to heal and thrive. "Everyone has inherent strengths that make them unique and resilient. We can heal through our relationships to others and through improving the relationship we have with ourselves."
She was a graduate of Washington University in St. Louis with a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health in 2020. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Missouri-Columbia with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology.
Before coming to Provident Behavioral Health, Victoria was a social worker at Every Child's Hope for nearly 2 years, where she provided intensive outpatient individual and family therapy. She has worked in the social services, child welfare, and mental health fields for 7 years.
During her undergraduate years from 2012-2014, Victoria worked in psychology research labs on Mizzou’s campus as a research assistant. She also has experience in early childhood education and worked at a preschool after her undergraduate years. From 205-2017, she worked at a transitional living group home for teenagers and from 2016-2018, she was a community support specialist for children and adolescents with severe and persistent mental illness. Victoria began her clinical practicum at Keystone Mental Health with Our Little Haven, where she provided individual therapy to children and completed her foundation practicum at ALIVE, providing services to survivors of intimate partner violence.
Specializations
- Adults and Older Adults
- Abuse/Neglect
- Foster Care
- Adoption
- LGBTQ+ Issues
- Families
- Self-Injury
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
Emory says she chose this 
profession because she wants to give back to her community and help others.
"As people we all have unique strengths, needs, goals, and abilities. Therapy offers a space for individuals to display those strengths, better understand their needs, and work toward their goals. I want to help others on that journey and provide a safe space to do so."
Emory is a recent graduate of the Brown School of Washington University in St Louis where she graduated with her Master's degree in Social Work with a concentration in clinical mental health. Her undergraduate degree is from Mississippi State University with a BA of Sociology.
Before coming to Provident Behavioral Health, Emory worked in an elementary school for a year before completing her Master's degree. During her Master's studies she also worked as a graduate research assistant and completed a practicum at a local non-profit serving individuals living with disabilities through art modalities. Emory also completed a practicum at Provident’s Access Center serving a range of clients with many different life experiences.
Emory also has additional experience in cognitive behavioral therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and art therapy.
Specializations
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-esteem
- LGBTQIA+ concerns
- Trauma
- Artistic Expression Methods
"My goal as a counselor is to foster a
safe and nonjudgmental space in which people have the freedom to explore their inner selves, their source of pain, and the path towards growth. I value this therapeutic process and strive to ensure this level of care with each individual. It’s a great honor to witness someone embrace vulnerability and work towards change."
Gabby holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Childhood Studies from Stockton University. She graduated from Webster University with a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling and has been working with adults in a therapeutic capacity since 2018. Gabby often utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as a therapeutic framework to explore the interconnectedness of one’s thoughts, behaviors, and emotions.
Specializations
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-Esteem
- Identity
- LBGTQ+ Concerns
- Trauma
“My goal in therapy is to provide a safe environment for individuals to explore their feelings and identify their needs while connecting with themselves."
Brooke has a Masters Degree in Social Work from Washington University.
She enjoys weaving family systems, CBT, client-centered and mindfulness-based methods into therapy sessions. She has been working in the mental health field for 25 years gaining experience with adults and teens with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, relationship stress, body image and eating issues and perinatal mood struggles.
Brooke's specialty is working with women of all ages as they navigate through life stages such as the transition to college/work/motherhood. She says these times often bring challenges with identity, life purpose, mood, body image, and weight issues.
Brooke's videos:
How are goals determind for clients?
How do you practice self-care?
What do you enjoy most about being a therapist?
What kind of therapy do you offer?
Why did you choose to become a therapist?
How do you personalize your experience with your clients?
How will I know if I'm a good fit for therapy?
Why is honesty an important part of therapy?
Specialties:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Grief/loss
- Relationship stress
- Body image and eating issues
- Perinatal mood struggles
“We are all walking our own paths in life. Sometimes those paths intersect, either for a moment or for a while, and we can share in the bewildering experience that is being Human. Sometimes, we come across people who no longer feel that they can continue walking, and that is where I aspire to be someone who will walk it with them."
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Philosophy from Westminster College and recently graduated from Webster University with a Master’s Degree in Professional Counseling. I utilize a blended approach of Strengths-Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients not only challenge and overcome negative thoughts, feelings, and behaviors but also discover their strength within their struggle.
Before coming to work for Provident, I completed my practicum at Provident’s Access Center, a community crisis center where I gained experience counseling clients from all walks of life. I have experience working with clients struggling with lifelong trauma, depression, attachment disorders, mood disorders, grief, and loss. I also have additional experience working with neurodivergent clients such as those with Autism and ADHD.
Specializations
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Self-esteem
- Grief/loss
- Mood Disorders
- Trauma
"I think it’s important to help people determine what they have been conditioned to believe about themselves, and help them discover to what they know, or want, to be true of themselves."
Emily is a recent graduate of Lindenwood University where she received her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Prior to obtaining her Master's degree she got her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Missouri State University. Emily's modalities are combinations of CBT, Experiential, and Narrative therapies. Emily is also nearing the end of a yearlong certification process in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). PCIT is a specialized treatment for children ages 18 months through the age of 6 with behavioral concerns. Learn more at pcit.org.
Emily chose to go into counseling because she firmly believes that nobody should have to navigate life’s challenges alone. Whether that is recognizing a problem, desiring growth and change, or needing support, she thinks everyone deserves to have someone walk with them on that journey. Emily says, "It is an honor and a privilege to witness people step into their full power, and we achieve this together by collaborating in a safe and supportive space."
Specialties:
- LGBTQIA+
- Gender and Sexuality
- Eating Disorders
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Grief/Loss, Trauma
- Emotion/Behavioral Regulation
Jefferson County - In-person and telehealth
"I believe every person has the strength and capability to overcome challenges and become the happiest and healthiest version of themselves."
Brittany Casnar has a Master's in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. She uses an integrated approach to provide individualized therapy to clients of all ages; assisting them in gaining personal insight, learning new ways to cope with everyday life, and processing difficult life experiences in a safe and judgement-free space.
Ms. Casnar works with clients of all ages in an individual or family setting.
Specialties:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Self-esteem
- Mood disorders
- Trauma
- Grief/Loss
- Relationship Improvement
- Common Life Stressors (work, interpersonal relationships, etc.)
- Child and Adolescent Issues
- Life Transitions (change of employment, divorce, retirement, etc.)
- Suicide/Self-harm
- Pre-menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
Remote Clinical Team - Telehealth only
“I want any prospective client to know that every individual has the capacity to overcome challenges. My goal is to help them to discover their inner strengths and to build from there.”
Angela has a Masters of Education in Counseling from University of Missouri-St. Louis. She uses an integrated approach when working with clients to ensure their treatment is individualized to meet their needs. Angela believes that therapy is a path to self-discovery and improved well-being. This path begins with a safe and non-judgmental environment and building rapport between client and counselor. Angela incorporates the practice of self-compassion and mindfulness into her practice.
Specialties:
- Crisis/suicide intervention and prevention
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Self-esteem
- LGBT/ issues
“I am deeply committed to the belief that everyone has the capacity for change and growth. My therapeutic approach is eclectic, integrating various modalities to meet each client's unique needs. I draw on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, and other techniques to create a customized plan that aligns with your personal goals.”
With two decades of experience as a Social Worker, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to my practice. My educational background includes an undergraduate degree in Social Welfare from a Women’s College, followed by a graduate degree in Social Work from the University of Kansas. This foundation, coupled with my Clinical License, equips me with a robust framework to support clients through a variety of life challenges.
Life is filled with transitions and challenges—whether they involve loss, major life changes, or unexpected medical issues. Therapy serves as a crucial support system when our usual coping mechanisms and support networks are insufficient.
In our sessions, we will work collaboratively to explore your feelings, identify your goals, and develop strategies for moving forward. I focus on empowering clients by recognizing their strengths and addressing unhealthy patterns. My aim is to help you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life marked by self-acceptance and personal growth.
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Grief/Loss
- Family Concerns
- LGBTQ+Community
- Women's Issues
- Domestic Violence
- Religious Trauma
- Sexual Trauma
- PTSD
- Complex Medical Needs
"I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, where we work together to explore your unique experiences and develop strategies that resonate with you. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, grief, or simply seeking personal development, I’m here to provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to express yourself and work towards your goals."
Jillian has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri and a Master's in Professional Counseling from Lindenwood University. She has been working in the field for 10 years with experience as a School Based Trauma Therapist as well as working with parents and families, running substance abuse groups, seeing individuals from children aged 4 through adults.
Jillian's approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, as well as respect and empathy towards each client in order to help support the client in finding their way to well-being, personal growth, and healing. Jillian is trained in and utilizes TF-CBT, CBT, play therapy techniques, and mindfulness practices.
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Trauma
- Grief/Loss
- Family Concerns
"My work allows for individuals to step outside the darkness that they have found themselves in. I believe, through therapy, individuals are more readily able to handle every day stressors, as well as being fully present and able to see the beauty in daily life."
Karolyn has a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services from Columbia College and Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University. She has four years in practice and says she chose this profession because she enjoys learning about and working with individuals that are resilient. She loves seeing her clients overcoming personal obstacles to become the best versions of themselves.
Karolyn is a huge advocate for everyone going to therapy. "I think everyone can benefit from having someone in their corner at all times. Someone to vent too, celebrate with and do the difficult work with as well."
Specialties:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- LGBTQIA+
- Postpartum Depression and Gender Affirmation
"I like using a client-centered approach with my clients, which includes providing a nurturing and supportive environment, free of judgement. I’m here to cheer on my clients as I assist them on their journey.”
Samantha is a graduate of the University of Missouri – St. Louis, with a Master’s of Education in Counseling. She has been working with clients in clinical and school settings since 2017 and has experience in play therapy, caregiver/child interactions, child/adolescent issues, and anxiety.
Samantha strongly believes in the teamwork provided by the client/therapist relationship. She says, "clients are the experts on themselves and I, as the therapist, will offer the professional knowledge and therapeutic tools to help them achieve their goals. I act as a guide to facilitate the client’s journey of self-exploration and awareness."
Samantha's videos:
Helping your child develop a positive body image
How to get the most our of your therapy appointment
How play therapy helps children and adults
Specialties:
- Play Therapy
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Common Life Issues
- Self-esteem
- Family Therapy
Mary Ryder Home
4361 Olive St.
St Louis, MO 63108 314-531-2981
"Mental health is finally starting to get the recognition and understanding that it deserves, and I’m proud to be an advocate and a voice for those who didn’t get the opportunity or safe space to be heard in a time when those issues were not discussed or “swept under the rug.”"
Rachel obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology to learn more about the human body with the ultimate goal to become a doctor, she then decided to shift her focus to learning more about how to help others struggling with mental health issues. She continued her education to obtain her Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Maryville University and Doctorate in Psychology from California Southern University. "I’ve always been the one others turned to for help or assistance growing up, so it felt like a natural choice for me to continue on the path of helping others. I also had the opportunity to watch my mother do this type of work in our community during my teenage years, so I began fundraising and leading others to provide help from a very young age."
Rachel feels it's important for her to help in providing an education to the future mental health providers, which she's been given the opportunity to do through being an adjunct professor in the Psychology Department at St. Louis University this year, as well as the amazing opportunity to lead current mental health providers at Mary Ryder Home as the Clinical Supervisor.