Why I Do This Work
I created Authentic Roots Counseling because I believe people heal best when they feel safe and connected. Trauma can shake the very core of how we see ourselves, others, and the world but with the right support, healing can take root. My work is about helping children and adults rebuild safety, strengthen relationships, and find steadiness again.
My journey started at Vanderbilt University, where I studied Child Development alongside Musicology. After college, I served as a Youth Development Volunteer with the Peace Corps in Ukraine, an experience that deepened my commitment to helping young people and families thrive even in the face of hardship.
I went on to earn my Master’s in Social Work from Washington University’s Brown School of Social Work, focusing on clinical work with children and youth healing from trauma. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to supporting kids, adults, and families navigating abuse, neglect, foster care, adoption, and the long-lasting effects of developmental trauma.
The Approaches I Use
Every person and family is different, which is why I draw from a range of evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches in my work. Some of the modalities I use include:
- Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy (DDP): An attachment-focused therapy that helps children and caregivers rebuild trust, safety, and connection after trauma.
- Brainspotting: A powerful, brain-body therapy that uses eye positions to access unprocessed trauma stored in the nervous system. This approach helps clients release what’s been “stuck” so they can heal on a deeper, somatic level.
- PCIT (Parent-Child Interaction Therapy): Coaching caregivers in real time to improve communication, reduce conflict, and create more consistent, supportive interactions with their children.
- ITCT (Integrative Treatment of Complex Trauma): A flexible, individualized approach designed to meet the unique needs of children and adolescents who’ve experienced multiple or prolonged traumas.
No matter the method, my focus is on creating a safe, steady relationship where healing can happen.
Who I Work With
- Children and Teens (Ages 3–18): Kids healing from abuse, neglect, foster care, or adoption who need a safe place to process their experiences and rebuild trust.
- Adults: Individuals who feel weighed down by past trauma and want to feel more grounded, connected, and confident in their lives.
Prelicensed Clinicians: LMSWs seeking supportive, trauma-informed supervision as they grow into steady, authentic therapists.
Therapy is not about being perfect. It’s about being present: with yourself, with your loved ones, and with your story. I show up as a steady guide, offering both professional expertise and genuine care.
I am also proud to provide Queer-Affirming Care as a lesbian therapist. This means I hold space for all identities and family structures, ensuring that every client feels respected, valued, and supported in their full humanity.
Outside the Office
I find grounding in nature, hiking, exploring new landscapes, and noticing the small details that remind me of resilience and growth. I also find peace in being around people who fill my bucket, connecting with friends whether outside, at a concert, or playing games. Music is another steady anchor, I play flute, and the mix of nature, music, and meaningful connection keeps me centered, steady, and rooted in what matters most.
Healing is Never Easy, But It Is Always Possible
Whether you’re a parent supporting a child, an adult carrying the weight of past trauma, or a new clinician learning the ropes, you don’t have to do this alone. I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
Start Today
Anne Benson, LCSW
Authentic Roots Counseling, LLC
Phone:
314-718-9946
Office:
7310 Manchester Ave, Suite 200C
Maplewood, MO 63143
