Stephanie Kippenberger is a licensed clinical social worker and therapist dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety and depression. With a specialization in relationships, she provides personalized support for couples, families, and individuals, guiding them toward self-acceptance and enhanced self-worth. Stephanie’s approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, drawing on her extensive training in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Play Therapy, Trauma-Informed care, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused theories. Known for her non-judgmental and supportive demeanor, she collaborates closely with her clients to foster meaningful connections and personal growth. The time to invest in oneself is now, and Stephanie is prepared to usher clients into a transformative space where they can reach their full potential.

Katie Lange is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages, from preteens to adults. By seeking support at Strong Mind Counseling & Wellness (SMCW), clients exhibit emotional strength and take proactive steps towards healing and well-being. With a belief that everyone experiences life uniquely, SMCW utilizes a diverse array of treatment modalities designed to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. Katie has over 9 years of experience providing both inpatient and outpatient services, specializing in Trauma and PTSD, Coping Skills, and Family Therapy. She is rostered in the state of Missouri to deliver Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). At SMCW, clients can explore the powerful connection between physical activity and mental health, delve into the relationship between food and mood, or work on constructing a personalized self-care plan. With a focus on mindfulness and positive psychology, Katie cultivates a supportive environment for building assertive communication skills and enhancing overall mental wellness. For those uncertain about their journey, SMCW offers an initial free phone consultation to explore options together.

Alyssa Loman is a dedicated licensed professional counselor, holding an MS and certifications as both an LPC and an LCPC. She understands that many individuals often feel as though they are engaged in an internal battle, experiencing overwhelming thoughts and feelings that seem unmanageable. With a compassionate approach, Alyssa employs trauma-informed, evidence-based practices, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to assist her clients in breaking free from these cycles and achieving their personal goals. With specialized training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy - Level 1, she fosters a supportive, safe, and non-judgmental environment where clients can reconnect with the present moment. Alyssa empowers individuals to engage in actions that resonate with who they aspire to be, transforming their relationship with thoughts and emotions to live authentically. Acknowledging the exhaustion that comes from facing these challenges alone, she is committed to guiding her clients towards the fulfilling life they desire and deserve. Alyssa is ready to partner with clients on this rewarding journey whenever they are prepared to take that first step.

Geno Martino is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, deeply passionate about empowering individuals to recognize their full potential across emotional, physical, social, and spiritual dimensions. As a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) with expertise spanning over 15 years, he specializes in working with adults and elders, focusing on addiction treatment and life coaching. Geno understands the profound challenges posed by addiction and has skillfully guided individuals and families through the complexities of substance use, helping them identify strengths and cultivate healthy self-care practices. His approach is rooted in Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Culturally Sensitive practices, allowing him to work effectively with clients by identifying obstacles and fostering paths toward achieving personal goals. Known for creating a safe and supportive environment, he encourages bravery in seeking help, emphasizing that reaching out is a critical step in addressing life challenges. By intertwining the threads of their life stories, Geno supports clients as they navigate their journeys toward coherence, integration, and hope for the future.

Brittni Nicole Collins is a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master of Education and holds multiple credentials including LPC and NCC. She understands that individuals seek counseling for a myriad of reasons, and believes that everyone can thrive in a supportive, non-judgmental environment to explore their challenges, successes, and hardships. Whether someone feels they are functioning adequately while grappling with subtle disruptive thoughts, or they are facing serious disruptions impacting their daily lives, Brittni is committed to providing the space needed for individuals—and their children—to be heard. She is dedicated to helping clients learn new skills and techniques through a variety of therapeutic approaches. Brittni draws from her extensive experience in play therapy, art therapy, DBT, CPT, CBT, trauma-informed care, solution-focused therapy, and narrative therapy. She fosters a trusting and impactful relationship with her clients, working collaboratively towards their therapeutic goals. For those considering taking the next step in their journey towards well-being, she encourages investing in oneself. Brittni offers flexible availability for virtual and in-person sessions to cater to individual needs, walking alongside her clients on their path to healing.

Kelly Odonnell, an experienced clinical social worker and therapist, understands that many individuals appear confident and in control while silently grappling with their struggles. Clients often feel overwhelmed by the pressure to be a rock for everyone else, leaving them riddled with frustration and anxiety. They may question their identity outside the roles they have taken on automatically and long to find relief from these burdens. Kelly emphasizes that she is here for those ready to release their pent-up emotions and step away from the cycle of burnout and numbness. Her approach nurtures an authentic relationship with oneself and with others, fostering growth and self-discovery. <br /> <br /> As a warm and compassionate therapist, she utilizes a blend of talking, emotional and social skill building, and mindfulness exercises in her sessions. Together with her clients, she cultivates authenticity and confidence, laying the foundation for fulfilling relationships while proceeding at a comfortable pace for everyone involved. Kelly resonates with the experience of losing oneself amid the demands of loved ones and values every step her clients take toward healing. She believes everyone deserves rest, care, and fulfillment in their lives. Individuals do not have to navigate this journey alone; support is available when they are ready to embrace it.

Kelly Oneal is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist, holding a MSW and LCSW credential. She understands the struggles of those who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or just barely making it through the day. With her evidence-based techniques tailored to individual goals, Kelly is committed to helping her clients rediscover their spark. She has completed Level 1 Gottman couples counseling training and specializes in stress management for both individuals and couples. Her approach to therapy encompasses supporting individuals in coping with anxiety and depression while regaining joy in life. Additionally, Kelly excels in chronic health management and has substantial experience addressing body image issues. By fostering a collaborative environment, she emphasizes teamwork to develop strategies that promote self-compassion and improve behavior patterns. Unlike many therapists, Kelly views therapy as a mutual conversation, engaging side-by-side with clients throughout their journey to explore effective coping skills rooted in mindfulness and emotional support.

Claire Pfeifer is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor who offers a nonjudgmental space for clients to process their feelings. Clients may find themselves overwhelmed by emotions, and Claire helps them take a step back to name and locate what they are feeling. She works with individuals and couples of diverse backgrounds, sexual orientations, genders, and relationship structures, specializing in dual diagnosis, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues. Claire assists adults and couples in recognizing and disrupting existing patterns learned throughout their lives that can have a significant impact on their well-being. She provides practical skills that can be applied immediately to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles, ultimately enhancing overall functioning. Utilizing a variety of evidence-based modalities, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, Claire tailors her approach to meet each client's unique needs. Recognizing that no two individuals are alike, she emphasizes the importance of having a space where clients can show up exactly as they are, which can be just as transformative as learning new tools. Claire is committed to creating an environment where clients feel heard, accepted, comfortable, and seen in their journey toward healing.

Allison Reichert, a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s in Education, specializes in addressing a variety of psychological concerns spanning the lifespan. With a profound dedication to individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families, she cultivates an atmosphere of acceptance and openness, prioritizing the unique lived experiences of each client. Her therapeutic approach encompasses a range of modalities, including Play Therapy and Structural Family Therapy, allowing her to work effectively with couples, individuals, and families. Allison believes that everyone possesses unique skills and gifts that serve as a foundation for personal growth. Through collaborative exploration of goals, challenges, and desired outcomes, she aims to support her clients in enhancing their understanding and relationships. Recognizing the significance of individual experiences, particularly for those with developmental disorders such as Autism, Allison emphasizes the importance of considering both lived realities and underlying neurological differences. She is committed to guiding her clients through life's challenges with warmth and expertise.

Rachael Rice, a pre-licensed professional with a Bachelor's degree, provides compassionate support to clients facing a myriad of challenges, including anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and various relationship issues. She is dedicated to assisting individuals dealing with self-esteem concerns, identity struggles, and significant life transitions. Rachael has experience working with clients who have encountered trauma and are seeking healing and freedom in their lives. Currently a Counseling Intern at Upaya Counseling, LLC, she is completing her studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Missouri St. Louis. Rachael is an active member of Upaya's Dialectical Behavior Therapy consultation team, where she is training in the diligent application of DBT and trauma-informed CBT. Her passion for suicide prevention and crisis intervention resonates through her belief in a safe, collaborative, and compassionate therapeutic approach. Rachael is committed to establishing a strong working alliance with her clients, one that fosters meaningful and lasting change. Her inviting demeanor encourages those interested in exploring therapy to consider her as their guide on this journey to greater well-being.

Jen Volpitto is a compassionate and skilled Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience in mental health therapy. Just as physical therapy retrains and strengthens the body, Jen believes that mental health therapy retrains and enriches the mind, emotions, and relationships. She empowers and encourages clients to find balance and peace, whether navigating through conditions like depression, relational challenges, or the effects of trauma and abuse, including spiritual or religious abuse. Clients are reminded that they matter enough to take care of themselves. Jen walks alongside her clients, reframing their experiences without judgment or shame. She champions the belief that everyone is enough, whole, and deserving. Specializing in EMDR, CBT, IFS, and person-centered therapy, Jen serves a diverse clientele, including children, teens, adults, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community, catering to those who hold spiritual beliefs as well as those who do not.

Christina Warden is a Licensed Professional Counselor (MEd, LPC) dedicated to empowering freethinking women, sexual and gender minorities, and nontraditional couples who have overcome significant challenges yet still feel hindered by various obstacles. She works with individuals and couples who are not seeking to conform to societal norms but are eager to explore their authentic selves. Christina thrives in supporting those who have a solid foundation in self-reflection but are in need of fresh insights and robust support. With expertise in recovery from cults and narcissistic abuse, she is particularly attuned to diverse experiences, including unique relationship styles, abilities, and cultural identities. Her approach is deeply compassionate and systemic, as she skillfully examines the interconnectedness of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and relationships within the broader sociopolitical context. By fostering an environment that values personal growth, reflection, and authenticity, Christina invites individuals to uncover new possibilities for their lives.

Manuel Bryant is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist who understands the challenges individuals face in various areas of life, such as school, relationships, work, and family. With a rich background both professionally and personally, he offers a unique perspective that empowers his clients to navigate feelings of hopelessness and despair. Manuel has extensive experience working in the juvenile court system as a Deputy Juvenile Officer, serving in foster care homes as a Therapeutic Case Manager, managing milieu services in a residential facility, providing support in public schools as a Social Worker, and working within a hospital setting as a Behavioral Health Therapist. His goal is to help clients establish and pursue their objectives while fostering pathways to improve their mental health. Manuel is committed to creating a secure and safe environment where individuals can explore their strengths and work towards building a better version of themselves.