For Men Who Carry It All: When “Handling It” Isn’t Working Anymore

Man at his laptop with head in his hands. Text reads: "For Men Who Carry It All When “Handling It” Isn’t Working Anymore"

If you’re a man in Ballwin, Chesterfield, Kirkwood, or anywhere in St. Louis, chances are you’ve spent years carrying heavy responsibilities. You provide, perform, and show up for others, often at the expense of your own well-being. From business owners in Clayton to dads in St. Charles, this drive to “handle it” runs deep, but … Read more

Co-Parenting Therapy: How to Strengthen Family Bonds After Divorce or Separation

Co-Parenting Therapy How to Strengthen Family Bonds After Divorce or Separation

Parenting is one of life’s most rewarding and challenging roles. When two individuals share the responsibility of raising a child, the dynamics of their relationship, whether they are together or separated, impact the emotional well-being of their children. Co-parenting therapy provides essential tools to navigate parenting together, fostering stability and collaboration no matter the relationship … Read more

How Holiday Expectations Impact Kids: Navigating Anxiety, Perfectionism, and Social Pressures

How Holiday Expectations Impact Kids Navigating Anxiety, Perfectionism, and Social Pressures

The holiday season is often pictured as a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration but for many children and teens, it can also be a source of stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. Between packed schedules, shifting routines, and the pressure to be cheerful or “perfect,” kids may find themselves struggling beneath the surface. As parents, … Read more

EMDR Therapy in Ballwin: A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Teen Heal

Mother and Child with Text: EMDR Therapy in Ballwin A Parent’s Guide to Helping Your Teen Heal

Is your teen struggling to cope with challenges at home, in school, or within their community? You’re not alone—parents in Ballwin, Chesterfield, and throughout St. Louis often feel overwhelmed as they watch their teens battle stress, anxiety, past traumas, or big life transitions. When traditional talk therapy isn’t quite the right fit, EMDR therapy (Eye … Read more

Warning Signs of Depression in Teens During the Holidays: What Parents Need to Know

Teen looking sad, sitting with head on legs. Text reads: Warning Signs of Depression in Teens During the Holidays What Parents Need to Know" from a St. Louis Therapist for Teens in Ballwin, MO and St. Louis, MO

The holidays are often painted as a season of joy, connection, and celebration. But for many teens, this time of year can amplify feelings of isolation, sadness, and stress. Between disrupted routines, social pressures, and complex family dynamics, holiday mental health challenges can quietly take root, and depression may go unnoticed. As a parent, knowing … Read more

But Won’t They Get Behind? Reframing the Guilt About Missing School for Therapy

Blog post cover "But Won’t They Get Behind Reframing the Guilt About Missing School for Therapy" Thoughts from a St. Louis area play therapist for children.

If you’re a parent in Ballwin, Kirkwood, Frontenac, or anywhere across St. Louis, you’ve likely felt a pang of guilt at the thought of pulling your child out of school for therapy. You might worry about missed instruction, falling behind, or how teachers and other parents will perceive your decision. This concern is deeply rooted … Read more

Is It Okay to Miss School for Therapy?

Is It Okay to Miss School for Therapy? Thoughts from a St. Louis area play therapist for children.

As a parent, you’re constantly making choices that shape your child’s well-being—from keeping them safe and supported to helping them grow emotionally and academically. But sometimes, even the smallest decisions bring up big questions. Why Midday Appointments Might Be Exactly What Your Child Needs One common dilemma for many parents is whether it’s okay for … Read more

ChatGPT Can’t Be Your Therapist: The Limits of AI in Emotional Emergencies

Human and robot hand shaking with text "ChatGPT Can’t Be Your Therapist The Limits of AI in Emotional Emergencies": a St. Louis therapist reacts to emerging news on AI and Mental Health emergencies.

In the past year, unprecedented numbers of people have been seeking help from AI for urgent mental health needs. According to OpenAI, out of 800 million weekly users, about 0.15%—roughly 1.2 million people—talk to ChatGPT about suicide each week. Additionally, hundreds of thousands display signs of mania or psychosis, and many others show intense emotional … Read more

Why Many Adults Still Struggle with Childhood Trauma

Woman looking upset with text "Why Many Adults Still Struggle With Childhood Trauma" by a St. Louis area trauma therapist. Get help in Ballwin or Lake St. Louis for trauma therapy today.

Childhood trauma doesn’t simply fade as time passes. For many adults in the St. Louis area, early emotional wounds continue to influence everyday life—affecting relationships, confidence, and stress response. The struggle isn’t about willpower or inability to “move on.” Trauma leaves a lasting imprint on the brain and body, shaping how we experience safety, love, … Read more