Helping Professionals Interview Series: Lindsay Simons, MSW, LCSW
Lindsay Simmons, MSW, LCSW
We are so excited to have interviewed Lindsay Simons, MSW, LCSW to learn more about her approach and treatment as a social worker in St. Louis, MO.
Lindsay draws on various approaches to provide mental health services to people ages 15 and up.
Read more about Lindsay’s experience and practice below!
Why did you choose to become a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in St. Louis?
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker originally from St. Louis. I initially went to college to pursue a degree in Mass Communications at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. I thought I wanted to be a meteorologist, but after attending my first Social Work class, I quickly realized I wanted to help people weather a different kind of storm -- life.
After graduating with a Bachelors in Social Work, I volunteered with AmeriCorps and provided support for people whose lives had been impacted by natural disasters. I came back to St Louis to attend grad school at Wash U for my Masters in Social Work. I enjoy St. Louis because of the positive professional and personal relationships I have made throughout the years.
What kind of treatment do you provide?
My mission with The Empowerment Spot is to help people enhance their personal strengths, forge deeper connections with themselves and others, and foster an appreciation for all that life has to offer through individual, couples and group counseling.
My approach to therapy is client centered and strengths based. I blend elements from several evidence-based treatment approaches that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Brainspotting. I utilize a trauma-informed lens, which means I am attentive, have a caring awareness and sensitivity that acknowledges the need to understand how a client’s life experiences impacts their nervous system. Treatment is tailored to meet the needs and goals of each client.
What age group/population do you work with?
I work with clients who are ages 15 and up. Many of the clients I meet with are experiencing anxiety, grief and/or sadness surrounding a significant life event or series of events, some that are traumatic. During times of change, such as experiencing trauma (directly or indirectly), grief and loss, or major life shifts, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, anxious or uncertain.
What can parents expect to leave with after working with you?
Having a child who is struggling with big feelings can bring up feelings of shame, guilt and fear for many parents. Unprocessed issues from childhood may become triggered. Parents are human too, and it really is everyone’s first rodeo. Parents can expect to explore these feelings, gain more self-compassion, insight and understanding, and feel empowered in the many roles they fill.
How long have you been working with anxiety?
Now you’re going to age me! I have worked with anxiety in a variety of treatment settings for nearly 15 years.
Who are your favorite types of clients to work with?
Clients who are invested in the process, open-minded and are ready to engage would be ideal, though it’s common for people who are starting therapy to be cautious. Collaborating with clients through therapy can help them learn what motivates them, better understand the unhelpful thoughts and responses that are no longer serving them and how to become more curious with themselves. My role as a therapist is helping with this process, so I suspect everyone has the potential to be a ‘favorite’.
What happens during a first appointment with you?
The first appointment is about creating a comfortable therapeutic relationship and easing any worries about starting something new. I will ask questions about reasons for wanting to come to therapy, what they’re hoping to achieve, and exploring important things about their history that would be helpful for me to know. After getting to know a client, I provide my recommendation for frequency of sessions, then we come to a mutually agreed upon plan for moving forward.
Could you talk a little about your approach and how it plays into your work with people recovering from anxiety?
I appreciate the courage it takes for people to engage in therapy. It can be hard to talk openly about thoughts, feelings and experiences. I take pride in creating a space that is comfortable and feels safe. I have an understanding of the challenges people are experiencing, and when I don’t, I seek to understand with gentle curiosity. My clients know themselves better than anyone else. Respect, empathy and positive regard are the foundations for my counseling approach.
What do you wish people knew about getting treatment for anxiety disorders?
Getting started is probably the hardest part, because trying new things can cause nervous feelings. I like to remind people that there is no wrong way to do therapy. Just keep showing up with an open mind and trust the process. When we allow ourselves to be uncomfortable with some grace and self-compassion, we allow ourselves to grow. Life really can be enjoyable!
How can people learn more and contact you?
People are welcome to call or email me with any questions.
My email is lindsay@theempowermentspottherapy.com and my phone number is 314-936-6105.
You can also find more information on my website here and my instagram page here!
My office is located at 13422 Clayton Road, Suite 220, St. Louis, MO 63131 @ the corner of Clayton and Mason Road.
Share one fun fact about you that most people don’t know.
I am naturally talented at wrapping gifts of all shapes and sizes.
Curious to learn more about getting treatment for anxiety? Wondering if you need to connect with a therapist in St. Louis? Contact Compassionate Counseling St. Louis to set up a free 15-minute phone consult. We’ll talk about what’s going on and best next steps - and if we’re not the right fit, we’ll connect you with other wonderful St. Louis-based therapists, like Lindsay!
Compassionate Counseling St. Louis provides specialized anger management and anxiety therapy in St. Louis for kids, teens, and college students. We work in Clayton, MO and serve kids, teens, and college students throughout St. Louis City, St. Louis County, Ladue, University City, Town and Country, Webster Groves, Creve Coeur, Kirkwood, Richmond Heights, and Brentwood.
