Lakaysha Shields, LMSW

Play Based Therapy for Children and Teens in St. Louis

Helping young people build confidence, process life’s challenges, and discover who they are.

Childhood and adolescence are full of changes. For some, those changes come with grief, bullying, friendship struggles, or big life transitions. As a parent, you may notice your child pulling away, feeling down about themselves, or losing interest in things they once loved.

It’s hard to know how to help. You want to support them but the teen years especially can feel like a whole new language. Your teem may struggle to open up with out and figure out to express themselves.

Growing Up Can Feel Overwhelming

Many parents worry about whether their child will be okay, whether they’re making the right choices, or how to handle the big emotions that come with this stage of life. Kids, meanwhile, often feel pressure to “keep it together” or say what they think adults want to hear.

Therapy gives the child and teen a safe space to process, question, and grow without judgment and gives parents the peace of knowing their child is supported.

You Don’t Have to Navigate The Teen Years Alone

With the right support, your child or teen can:

  • Build self-esteem and confidence

  • Navigate grief, loss, or big transitions

  • Handle bullying and peer challenges with resilience

  • Strengthen friendships and healthy relationships

  • Develop tools for emotional regulation and communication

And for parents, therapy provides reassurance that your child has a safe place to be heard, explore their feelings, and grow into themselves.

Am I The Right Fit For Your Family?

I love working with youth of all ages, but I’m especially passionate about tweens and teens who are finding their way through life’s challenges.

Some of my specialties include:

  • Grief and loss

  • Bullying and peer struggles

  • Self-esteem and self-discovery

  • Foster and adopted youth

  • Major life transitions (school, family, or identity)

My background includes years of school-based social work, where I’ve designed and led girl groups like Sister Circle and Girl Chat , spaces where teens learn confidence, build friendships, and discover their strengths.

I also bring experience in social emotional learning and restorative practices, which help kids navigate real-life conflicts and relationships in empowering ways. I believe youth deserve a space to be heard, to feel safe, and to discover who they are and I consider it an honor to walk alongside them and their families on that journey.

Outside of the therapy room, I love reading, crocheting, and playing board and card games with my siblings.

Start Today

Your child doesn’t have to face grief, self-doubt, or peer struggles alone. Let’s work together to help them find their voice, build confidence, and grow into their best self.

How to Get Started

1. Reach Out
Take the first step by contacting our Client Care team. We’ll listen to your family’s needs and match you with the therapist who’s the best fit. From there, we’ll get your parent intake scheduled.

2. Your Intake Session
In this 60-minute session I like to meet with parents to give them a chance to speak frankly about their concerns. I will get to know you and your child, hear your story, and work with you to create a personalized plan for care for. This is your chance to feel heard and supported from the very beginning.

3. Begin the Journey
Your child’s therapy officially begins. Through play, connection, and support, your family will take steps toward growth, healing, and blooming into your best selves.

Learn more about :

Child Therapy, Teen Therapy, Group Therapy

Training and Credentials:

Trained in Restorative Practices

Currently working toward Registered Play Therapist Certification

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