Child and Adolescent Therapy, Peer Conflicts, Social Skills, Anxiety in Ballwin, MO

Emily Mikusch, LPC

Therapist in Ballwin, MO

Meet Emily
Navigating childhood and adolescence can be especially challenging in a world filled with pressure to “measure up.” Whether facing grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, or struggles with self-image, I help children and teens build confidence, self-worth, and emotional balance. My approach centers on body positivity, self-esteem, and self-compassion, helping young people reconnect with their strengths and learn to see themselves through a kinder, more accepting lens. I provide a safe, nurturing space where kids and teens can heal, grow, and discover that they are enough—just as they are.

What I Offer

I support children (ages 7+) and adolescents experiencing:

  • Anxiety, Stress & Perfectionism
  • Depression & Low Self-Esteem
  • Body Image Concerns & Disordered Eating
  • Trauma & PTSD
  • Grief & Loss
  • Family Conflict
  • OCD & Coping Skill Development
  • Self-Harming & Suicidal Ideation
  • LGBTQ+ Identity Support (Transgender, Bisexual, Lesbian, and broader LGBTQ+ experiences)

Together, we work to foster confidence, resilience, and self-acceptance—helping clients move from self-criticism toward body confidence, inner strength, and emotional healing.

Why Choose Emily

  • Safe, Nonjudgmental Space: Every child and teen deserves to be accepted fully for who they are. I create a compassionate environment where clients can explore their feelings, bodies, and identities safely.
  • Focus on Body Positivity & Self-Esteem: I help young people challenge negative self-talk and cultural pressures, encouraging self-respect and body acceptance.
  • Compassionate Accountability: I support growth with empathy—helping clients set goals and celebrate progress without shame.
  • Individualized Approach: Each client’s story is unique, and therapy is tailored to fit their strengths, personality, and needs.
  • Experience with Kids & Teens: With a strong background in youth mental health, I understand the importance of connection, creativity, and trust in therapy.
  • Collaborative Partnership: I view therapy as a shared journey of exploration and empowerment.

Client Focus

My ideal clients are children and adolescents ready to understand themselves more deeply and build confidence in who they are—inside and out. Together, we might work to:

  • Improve body image and develop a positive self-view
  • Build emotional awareness and self-acceptance
  • Heal from trauma, grief, or loss
  • Strengthen coping skills and resilience
  • Explore identity and creative self-expression
  • Navigate social pressures or family challenges

If you or your child is ready to develop confidence, emotional balance, and self-love, I’m here to help every step of the way.

Therapeutic Modalities I Use

I take an integrative and trauma-informed approach, drawing from:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Compassion-Focused Therapy
  • Person-Centered & Humanistic Approaches
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy
  • Expressive Arts & Creative Therapies
  • Family Systems Therapy
  • Feminist & Body-Positive Frameworks

This flexible, creative approach encourages emotional expression, self-awareness, and lasting confidence—helping clients replace self-doubt with empowerment.

What Clients Say

Clients and families often describe feeling:

  • Seen, accepted, and supported for who they truly are
  • Encouraged to view their bodies and emotions with kindness
  • Empowered to express themselves authentically
  • Guided toward growth without pressure or criticism
  • More confident, connected, and at peace within themselves

Ready to Start?

Taking the first step toward therapy is an act of courage and self-respect. Whether you or your child is struggling with confidence, emotional pain, or identity challenges, I offer a space of safety, creativity, and empowerment. Let’s begin the journey toward healing, self-esteem, and body confidence—one compassionate step at a time.