Frontenac, MO Local Support & Community Resources

Donald Respess, PsyD, BCBA, is a dedicated psychologist known for his extensive experience in mental health. He began his career as a Mental Health Technician at a psychiatric hospital, where he spent two years gaining invaluable exposure to individuals facing mental health challenges. Following this, Donald served as an Admission's Specialist for five years, during which he earned Master of Science degrees in Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis, as well as a Doctor of Psychology. His time as an Admission's Specialist, working night shifts, allowed him to further deepen his understanding of diverse mental health issues. Donald received specialized training in couple's and sex therapy at the Florida Institute of Technology, under the mentorship of Dr. Richard Elmore, equipping him with the skills to assist numerous couples and individuals in identifying their core struggles and exploring effective resolutions. As both a psychologist and a behavior analyst, he expertly integrates behavioral principles into the treatment of children experiencing behavioral challenges. Donald empowers parents by teaching effective techniques such as reinforcement and extinction, leading to surprising improvements in their children's behavior while reducing emotional reactivity. His commitment to building strong therapeutic relationships ensures that clients feel supported on their journey toward healing and personal growth.