Callie Chunodkar, LPC, children's therapist with Open Arms Wellness in Brentwood, MO

Callie Chunodkar, LPC

Therapist in Brentwood, MO

Meet Callie Chunodkar, LPC – Helping Children Heal, Grow, and Thrive

When a child is struggling emotionally, it can be difficult for families to know where to begin. I’m Callie Chunodkar, a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than eight years of experience working with children and families. I specialize in supporting children ages 5–10 as they work through big emotions, challenging experiences, and important life transitions.

My goal is to create a warm, supportive environment where children feel safe expressing themselves while also partnering closely with families to strengthen connection, resilience, and emotional well-being.

 

What I Offer

I provide individual and family-based therapy designed to meet children where they are—emotionally, developmentally, and relationally. Through engaging, supportive sessions, children can learn to express their feelings, develop healthy coping skills, and build confidence in themselves.

I support children and families navigating:

  • ADHD and attention challenges
  • Anxiety and emotional overwhelm
  • Anger management and emotional regulation
  • Grief, loss, and separation
  • Family transitions such as divorce or relocation
  • Mood dysregulation
  • Stress and school-related struggles
  • Sleep difficulties and behavioral concerns
  • Parenting challenges and parent-child relationship building
  • Peer relationship concerns and social challenges
  • Self-esteem and confidence development

Together, we work to create a supportive path forward that recognizes each child’s unique strengths, needs, and personality.

 

Why Choose Callie?

🧸 Child-Centered and Compassionate
Children thrive when they feel safe and understood. I prioritize creating a welcoming environment where kids can explore their thoughts and emotions in ways that feel natural and comfortable.

🧠 Specialized Experience with Children and Families
With extensive experience supporting children through emotional challenges and developmental transitions, I help young clients develop the skills they need to manage feelings and navigate life’s changes.

🤝 Collaborative Family Support
Therapy is most effective when families are involved. I partner with parents and caregivers to strengthen communication, build understanding, and create meaningful progress at home.

🛠️ Flexible and Individualized Approach
Every child is different. I tailor each session to meet the child’s developmental stage, emotional needs, and personality using engaging, evidence-based approaches that keep therapy meaningful and effective.

 

Client Focus

I work with children ages 5–10 and their families who may be experiencing:

  • Anxiety, depression, and mood dysregulation
  • ADHD, attention difficulties, and school challenges
  • Anger and emotional regulation concerns
  • Grief and loss related to death, divorce, or separation
  • Peer relationship difficulties and social stress
  • Parenting challenges and family communication struggles
  • Low self-esteem and confidence concerns
  • Sleep disruptions and behavioral challenges
  • Stress related to school or family changes
  • Life transitions such as relocation or blended family adjustments

In addition to supporting children, I provide caregivers with practical tools and insights that help strengthen family relationships and promote healthier communication.

 

Therapeutic Modalities I Use

My approach to therapy is integrative, creative, and developmentally informed. I combine evidence-based practices with engaging, expressive methods that allow children to process emotions in ways that feel comfortable and natural.

Approaches I incorporate include:

  • Play-Based Therapy – Using play as a natural form of communication and emotional processing
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helping children identify thoughts, feelings, and behaviors while building effective coping skills
  • Person-Centered Therapy – Creating a supportive space rooted in empathy, respect, and acceptance
  • Expressive Arts Techniques – Encouraging creativity to support emotional expression and healing
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Skills – Teaching children tools for calm, focus, and emotional regulation
  • Eclectic and Strength-Based Approaches – Integrating multiple therapeutic techniques tailored to each child’s needs and strengths

 

What Clients Say

"Callie helped my child navigate grief and loss in such a gentle and supportive way. The tools she taught us have made a huge difference in our family dynamics."
— Parent of a former client

 

Ready to Support Your Child’s Emotional Wellness?

Seeking support for your child is a meaningful step toward building emotional health and resilience. I’m here to walk alongside your family—providing compassionate guidance, practical tools, and a supportive space for growth.

Together, we can help your child feel understood, confident, and empowered.

Contact today to begin your child’s journey toward healing, growth, and emotional well-being.