Rachel West
St. Louis Child Therapist
Compassionate, Play-Based Therapy for Children, Teens, and Families in Missouri
Creating a warm, non-judgmental space where your child can feel safe, seen, and fully themselves.
Child Therapy in St. Louis
Your child is one of a kind—and so is the way they experience the world.
Behind the big emotions, meltdowns, and challenging behaviors is a kid doing their best to communicate, connect, and feel secure. Just like adults, kids rely on the tools they have. Sometimes they need more support and tools to navigate what they’re going through. Together, we can expand their toolbox.
In the playroom, your child doesn’t have to “have the right words” or behave a certain way. Play is their natural language. Through it, they can safely express big feelings, process difficult experiences, build confidence, and practice new ways of relating to others.
Support for Parents, Too
You don’t have to figure this out alone.
As a parent or caregiver, you’re an essential part of your child’s growth. We’ll work together to better understand what your child is communicating with their behavior, while strengthening your confidence as a parent.
You’ll have space to ask questions, feel supported, and learn to nurture your child’s emotional world at home.
Areas of Focus & Approach
As a child therapist in St. Louis, I support children, teens, and families with:
Helping little kids move through big feelings with safer behaviors
Supporting children with anxiety and OCD
Meeting a child with trauma where they are and supporting healing at the pace they need, in a safe, compassionate environment
Building self-esteem and skills for navigating social and peer dynamics
My approach to play therapy is warm, playful, and rooted in your child’s strengths.
I meet each child exactly where they are—with curiosity, compassion, and zero judgment. Sessions often include creativity, imagination, and silliness, because feelings safe and connected is what allows real growth to happen.
Whether we’re building with blocks, creating art, or telling stories, each session is designed to help your child feel understood while expanding their ability to cope, connect, and thrive!
My Education and Experience
I earned my Master of Social Work from the Brown School at WashU. I’ve worked with children ages 0-12 across school, home, and clinical settings, supporting a wide range of emotional and behavioral needs.
I can’t wait to use the power of play based therapy to support you and your child’s healing.
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, Family Therapy, Parent Support
