St. Louis Therapy Group Trains Teachers at Trautwein Elementary School in Mehlville Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates trained the teachers at Trautwein Elementary School in the Mehlville School District on Friday, April 15, 2016. The training focused on working with students that display oppositional, defiant and explosive behaviors in school. The presenters shared some techniques, suggestions and tools that can be used with school age children that struggle with making appropriate behavior choices. Dr. Bryan Pearlman and Debra Johnson, LCSW were the co-presenters. The model that they referenced includes viewing child misbehaviors as a form of a learning disability. In this model, the goal is to help build the skills behind the poor choices. This focuses on problem solving, flexibility and frustration tolerance. Many students that are lacking in these areas, tend to be the children that struggle the most with behaviors. These are the children that are often the ones that face consequences in school, get sent to the principal’s office, and are suspended. An additional critical piece in this process is to identify the teachers concern, the child’s concern, and then to problem solve collaboratively for a mutually agreeable solution to the challenge. This becomes a win-win for everyone. Teachers in the training were asked to think about challenging students that they work with currently and/or those who they worked with in the past. They were encouraged to problem solve and reflect with the new lens to determine if the outcome for the child would have been different had they utilized the building skills model instead of just the consequence model. In addition to these tools, the speakers shared that this is a process for growing and learning for the child and also a learning process for teachers. Traditionally and historically, teachers (and parents) define the problem, come up with the solution, and enforce the rules. Over 50 years of research, support the belief that having a child involved in the problem, brainstorming, and solutions – provides a significantly higher likelihood of this plan being a success. The presenters stated that the research for this approach was developed by Dr. Ross Greene. Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates (www.STLmentalhealth.com) is a mental health therapy practice in St. Louis, Missouri. The practice works with children, teens, adults, couples and families. The team specializes in stress management, anxiety, depression, relationships, and other mental health related issues. Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is located at 655 Craig Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63141. They can be reached by phone at 314-942-1147 or by email at bryan@stlmentalhealth.com.
MENTAL HEALTH THERAPY PRACTICE PROVIDES FREE TRAINING TO HUNDREDS OF PARENTS & EDUCATORS (St. Louis, Missouri): Dr. Lena Pearlman and her husband Dr. Bryan Pearlman have spent the majority of 2016 traveling to schools, district offices, and community meeting spaces to help educate and train parents and educators about mental health related issues that impact school age children and teens. The topics of these trainings have included: school stress, self-harm, anxiety, depression, peer pressure, aggressive behaviors, substance abuse, relationships, and trauma. To date, the duo has presented to close to a thousand people. Lena shared her reasoning for starting the trainings, “I believe that there is a real lack of good information and resources out there for parents who have children or teens that are struggling. Many of the parents have no idea where to turn. Some parents view mental health related issues as a stigma and often have a hard time seeking out treatment. There is something special and non-threatening about the format of our trainings. Nobody is made to feel as though they are to blame or that they have done something wrong as a parent. We believe it also helps that it is held in the school and community. This makes it more accessible and parents are more likely to stay after school to acquire information and resources.” Bryan’s reasoning for participating has a lot to do with his former career, “As a former principal and teacher, getting into the community to help kids was a no-brainer. I saw so many kids struggle in school and in life. What they were missing was access to quality therapeutic and counseling information and care. Unfortunately, this is not always possible in schools. Most schools have a few counselors and hundreds if not thousands of students on their caseload. It is really hard to meet some of the more acute needs of these children. Getting out into the community was my first goal in joining the team.” The couple and their team of five licensed mental health therapists plan additional trainings throughout the summer and fall. More information is available on the practice website at www.STLmentalhealth.com or by calling Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates at 314-942-1147.
St. Louis Therapist Dr. Lena Pearlman Shares 10 Easy Things to Make You More Happy Who wouldn’t want to be more happy? Below find 10 easy things you can do to make yourself more happy and to feel better. 1.) Get Outside: The combination of fresh air, sunlight and looking at nature’s beauty will make you happier. 2.) Move: Any form of exercise will release endorphins and increase blood flow. This will make you feel better. 3.) Stand-Up: Sitting for long periods of time has a negative impact on your health and mood. Something as simple as standing-up can improve your mood. 4.) Release Your Inner Rock Star: Listening to music and singing is another natural stress reliever. 5.) Belly Laugh: There has been a great deal of research on the numerous health benefits of laughing. 6.) Get a Hobby: Participating in activities that you enjoy can reduce stress and give you something to look forward to. 7.) Talk (and Listen): Communicating with others is a basic human need and one that reduces stress. 8.) Help Others: Volunteering is a great way to help the community. This self-less act is also a huge benefit to you as well. Giving back and doing something positive for others has been shown to improve your own health. 9.) Journal: Journaling is a great way to process what is going on now and your plans for the future. Reading your journal later can help you reflect on the past and help you move forward. For a lot of people, getting thoughts on paper can be a major stress reliever – which makes you more happy. 10.) Meditation, Yoga or Tai Chi: Taking time to relax, stretch and process relieves stress and naturally makes you happy. Without sounding too much like a therapy commercial, many people find that participating in therapy can reduce stress, improve one’s outlook, and make you feel happy. Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is a therapy and counseling practice in St. Louis, Missouri. The practice specializes in stress management, depression, anxiety, relationships and other mental health related issues. The team works with children, teens, adults, couples and families. More information about Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates can be found at: https://www.stlmentalhealth.com. The office is located at: 655 Craig Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63141.
St. Louis therapist Dr. Lena Pearlman shares advice for teachers on dealing with students who have been traumatized -40% of school age children say they experienced a physical assault during the past year, with one in 10 receiving an assault-related injury. -25 % of children state they were the victim of robbery, vandalism or theft during the previous year. -20% of children witnessed violence in their family or the neighborhood during the previous year. -In a recent study of a school, 30% of the children reported that they had witnessed a stabbing and 26% had witnessed a shooting in the previous year. What can be done to help the children to be successful in school? -Create predictable routines in your classroom (also predictable reaction to their behaviors, outbursts, internalizing, etc.) -Give choices – traumatic events involve loss of control/chaos. Kids feel safe when they have some control. -Increase the level of support/encouragement – designate an adult who can provide additional support if necessary. -Set clear, firm limits for inappropriate behavior and develop logical rather than punitive consequences. Don’t take offense to their outburst or behaviors (this has nothing to do with you!). Realize that there will be set-backs. Have realistic expect. for success. -Provide a safe place for the child to talk about what happened (designated time and place to share). -Be sensitive to cues in the environment that may cause a reaction (storms, emergency vehicles responding, etc.) – anticipate difficult times and provide additional support (upcoming court dates, stressful times of the school year, etc). -Warn children in advance if you will be doing something out of the ordinary (intruder drill, turning out lights, etc.) -Look for ways to provide accommodations – not every traumatized child will meet criteria for an IEP, consider 504 or just best practices (shorten assignments, allow addi’ time, process for visiting designated adult, safe place, team plan for what to do if/when there is a significant behavioral outburst, etc.). ———–Fair isn’t always equal! -Team approach and outside resources – utilizing talents, strengths, and ideas from a group will provide more tools in the toolbox. This will certainly give a higher likelihood of success. — Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is a therapy and counseling practice in St. Louis, Missouri. The practice specializes in working with kids, teens and adults. The five therapists provide services to those dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma, and other mental health related items. The practice is located at 655 Craig Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63141. The office phone number is 314-942-1147. Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is online at www.STLmentalhealth.com. The practice provides free training and professional development for teachers, counselors, principals, and other educators in the St. Louis region.
Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates, a well-established St. Louis therapy practice, is excited to announce another phase of growth as it continues serving individuals, couples, and families throughout St. Louis County, Missouri. Known for its compassionate, evidence-based approach to mental health care, the practice has become a trusted resource for the local community. As mental health needs continue to rise across the St. Louis region, Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates remains committed to expanding access to high-quality therapy services. The practice currently includes a dedicated team of five Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) therapists and is actively seeking two additional licensed therapists to join the growing team. This expansion reflects the practice’s ongoing mission to meet increasing demand while maintaining personalized, client-centered care. Comprehensive Therapy Services in St. Louis Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates provides professional counseling and therapeutic services for a wide range of mental health concerns. The practice specializes in treating anxiety, depression, stress management challenges, relationship issues, and other emotional or psychological concerns that impact daily life. Services are tailored to support individuals at every stage of their mental health journey, from early intervention to long-term emotional wellness. Clients in St. Louis benefit from therapy that is grounded in proven clinical methods while remaining flexible and responsive to individual needs. Whether someone is seeking support for personal stress, relationship difficulties, or ongoing mental health challenges, the practice offers a safe and supportive environment for growth and healing. Experienced & Compassionate Therapy Team The strength of Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates lies in its highly qualified team of licensed therapists. Each clinician brings extensive experience, empathy, and professional expertise to their work. By expanding the team, the practice aims to reduce wait times and ensure that St. Louis residents can access timely mental health care when they need it most. The hiring of additional therapists also allows the practice to broaden service availability and continue delivering high standards of care across individual, couples, and family therapy sessions. Supporting Mental Health Education in the Community Beyond clinical services, Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates plays an active role in mental health education across St. Louis. The practice conducts monthly mental health trainings for local school district personnel and businesses throughout the area. These sessions focus on building awareness, improving emotional well-being, and promoting healthier work and learning environments. By partnering with schools and organizations, the practice helps strengthen mental health resources at a community level. This outreach reflects a deep commitment to improving overall mental wellness in St. Louis, not just within the therapy office, but throughout the region. A Trusted Mental Health Resource in St. Louis Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates continues to work tirelessly to provide reliable St. Louis mental health resources that empower individuals and families. Through professional therapy services, educational initiatives, and community engagement, the practice remains focused on making mental health care accessible, effective, and supportive. As the practice expands once again, it reinforces its dedication to serving the evolving needs of the St. Louis community with compassion, professionalism, and clinical excellence.
Finding the right mental health therapist can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, or emotional burnout. In St. Louis, there are many counseling options, but not every therapist will be the right fit for your personal needs. Just like in the movie Taken, where a character relies on a “particular set of skills,” a great therapist brings experience, compassion, structure, and commitment to your care. Choosing wisely increases your chances of real progress, long-term healing, and confidence in your therapy journey. If you’re searching for a mental health therapist in St. Louis, MO, here are the five most important things to look for before starting treatment. 1. Professional Experience That Matches Your Needs Experience matters in therapy just as much as it does in medicine, finance, or law. A seasoned therapist has worked with many personalities, emotional patterns, and life situations. That allows them to customize treatment instead of using a one-size-fits-all approach. An experienced therapist in St. Louis will already have proven strategies for treating anxiety, depression, stress management, and relationship challenges. They can adjust techniques as you grow and respond to your progress rather than following rigid scripts. 2. Strong Education and Clinical Training Licensed therapists must complete a master’s degree, supervised clinical hours, and state testing. But beyond licensing, quality education means ongoing training and real-world application. When choosing a mental health counselor in St. Louis, look for professionals who stay updated on therapy models, trauma-informed care, and modern psychological research. Education combined with experience leads to safer, more effective outcomes. 3. Trust and Comfort in the Relationship Therapy only works when you feel safe opening up. You should feel respected, heard, and understood, not judged or rushed. A good therapist builds trust from the first session by listening carefully and explaining your treatment path clearly. Many people in St. Louis find therapists through referrals, reviews, and first-visit impressions. If you don’t feel comfortable, it’s okay to keep searching until you do. 4. Positive, Supportive, and Goal-Focused Approach Your therapist should be realistic but hopeful. Therapy isn’t just about talking, it’s about growth. A professional mental health therapist in St. Louis, MO should help you understand what’s happening emotionally and provide a plan for moving forward. Optimism paired with structure gives you confidence that your time and effort will lead somewhere meaningful. 5. Long-Term Partnership and Commitment Therapy is not a one-visit process. It’s a partnership built on consistency, trust, and availability. You deserve a therapist who plans for long-term care and continuity. Starting therapy and losing your provider halfway through can disrupt progress. Look for clinics in St. Louis that value relationships, stability, and patient-centered care. Why Choosing the Right Therapist in St. Louis Matters The right therapist doesn’t just treat symptoms, they help improve your daily life, relationships, career confidence, and emotional balance. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, work stress, or relationship struggles, personalized counseling can change the way you cope and grow. At Pearlman & Associates, our team focuses on evidence-based therapy, compassion, and long-term results for individuals, couples, and families across St. Louis. Ready to Start Therapy in St. Louis? If you’re searching for a trusted mental health therapist in St. Louis, MO, Pearlman & Associates is here to help. Our licensed professionals provide support for anxiety, depression, relationships, stress, and life transitions. Location: 655 Craig Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63141Phone: (314) 942-1147 Call today or schedule your first consultation online and begin your journey toward better mental health.
4 Myths About Mental Health Therapy I don’t need a therapist. I’m smart enough to solve my own problems. We all have our blind spots. Intelligence has nothing to do with it. A good therapist doesn’t tell you what to do or how to live your life. He or she will give you an experienced outside perspective and help you gain insight into yourself so you can make better choices. Therapy is for crazy people. Therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and want to learn tools and techniques to become more self-confident and emotionally balanced. All therapists want to talk about is my parents. While exploring family relationships can sometimes clarify thoughts and behaviors later in life, that is not the sole focus of therapy. The primary focus is what you need to change unhealthy patterns and symptoms in your life. Therapy is not about blaming your parents or dwelling on the past. Therapy is self-indulgent. It’s for whiners and complainers. Therapy is hard work. Complaining won’t get you very far. Improvement in therapy comes from taking a hard look at yourself and your life, and taking responsibility for your own actions. Your therapist will help you, but ultimately you’re the one who must do the work. From HelpGuide.org —— Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is a mental health therapy practice in St. Louis, Missouri. The practice provides counseling and therapy services for individuals, couples and families. Specializing in anxiety, stress management, depression, relationships, and other mental health related issues. The practice has five experienced LCSW therapists. More information available at www.stlmentalhealth.com.
St. Louis therapy practice Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates (www.STLmentalhealth.com) has 10 things you can do to be more mentally and physically healthy. 1). Get a good night sleep. 2). Pursue a passion or interest. 3). Have a belly laugh at least a few times a day. 4). Help a charity or do something to better your community. 5). Eat fresh and healthy foods. 6). Set goals and challenge yourself. 7). Try to live in the now. 8). Walk, jog, run or do anything that gets you out of your seat. 9). Let go of grudges or other items that make you angry or stressed. 10). Listen to music, read a book and write (anything). Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates is a therapy practice in St. Louis, MO that provides individual, couples and family therapy and counseling. The practice specializes in depression, anxiety, stress management, relationships and other mental health related issues. The practice is located in Creve Coeur, Missouri and online at www.STLmentalhealth.com.
St. Louis Therapy Practice Targets Childhood Trauma There is a student who has and is enduring some major life challenges. She has seen things that we hope nobody ever has to see. She has been abused in many ways and completely neglected. I know her and her situation very well. She is passed back and forth to different caregivers. Best case scenario is that she believes her mom is very busy. A more likely scenario is that she knows that her mom does not care about her at all and does everything possible to have nothing to do with her. Adding to this situation is the fact that the other caregivers don’t care very much for her either. They feed her and put a roof over her head (most nights), but they too want very little to do with her. Her home existence is one of little contact with others, no love or support. The little contact she gets is negative reinforcement – which includes a great deal of yelling, frustration, and punishments. She struggles with academics. She struggles with behaviors. She is very hard to manage in a school. She is dying for even the smallest amount of attention, love and kindness. Somehow this student gets out of bed, takes an hour bus ride to school, and walks into a school every day! This student is one of the major reasons why our practice is so committed to helping children who have endured traumatic experiences. We train teachers, counselors, educators, and relatives. We also provide specific counseling and therapy sessions for children who have been traumatized. Please learn more about our practice and services at: www.STLmentalhealth.com.
