Kathy Simmons M.Ed., LPC, NCC

Kathy brings a compassionate and strengths-based approach to her counseling practice, guiding individuals and families through life’s challenges. She believes deeply that we heal through our connections, and that the therapeutic relationship can serve as a model for how this is done.

Working across the lifespan, Kathy focuses on building connections, increasing self-awareness, and developing the skills necessary for change. With warmth, empathy, and a touch of humor, she creates a nurturing environment where clients feel supported on their journey towards healing and growth.

In her work with young people, Kathy employs different approaches including CBT techniques and child-friendly interventions such as play and art. Through these methods, she focuses on emotional regulation, coping skills, and empowerment. She collaborates closely with parents and caregivers so they can practice effective interventions at home. Kathy wants young people to be equipped for a variety of life’s obstacles while embracing the joys of childhood.

Kathy works with adults reflecting on how their early experiences, relationships, and core beliefs may influence their current circumstances. She provides a safe space for exploration, recognizing that all are deserving of acceptance and belonging. Being a parent herself, Kathy empathizes with the challenges and emotional toll of caretaking and wants her parent clients to feel seen and understood.

Kathy’s professional journey spans diverse settings including residential programs, schools, and community mental health. She has extensive experience addressing a wide range of issues, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, family conflict, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and problematic drinking’s impact on families.

Kathy graduated from the CACREP-accredited Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at the University of Missouri – St Louis. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). She is actively training for her Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential to be used with children and adolescents. In addition to her work with clients, she is the Manager of the Get Centered CIT/PLPC Academy providing on-site clinical supervision for graduate interns. Kathy also serves on UMSL’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Advisory Board and has been invited as a guest on KMOV’s My Mom Club.

• Monday – Thursday 10:00am -6:00pm
• Extended hours available upon request