April Baerga-Scruggs, MA, LMSW
Supervised by ArisZa Hillman, LCSW-S
“I must first ask, are we all not human? In what rule book of life does it say we can’t ask for help? “I think my whole world has changed and I am not sure if anyone understands”. I remember these being my words while cycling through the expected and unexpected transitions of life. I am here for YOUR journey. Each path we take and choices we make creates a piece of who we are, yet it doesn’t define the complete YOU.
My approach to Psychotherapy carries a Cognitive Behavioral emphasis and is grounded in deep compassion and understanding. I strive to meet each person where they are in their journey, recognizing that every individual’s experience is unique. I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you can feel seen, heard, and validated in your feelings. While I provide empathy and kindness, I also believe in the power of gentle challenges, helping you move beyond your comfort zones and discover new perspectives.
I bring a patient, attentive presence to our sessions, listening deeply and without judgment. My goal is not only to understand your thoughts and emotions but also to empower you to tap into your own inner strength. We’ll work together as equals, exploring your experiences with curiosity, honesty, and trust. I will support you through moments of vulnerability while also encouraging growth, resilience, and insight.
One of the unique strategies I use is strength-based reframing: I’ll help you see your struggles from a different angle, recognizing the strength and wisdom that can emerge from difficult experiences. This approach allows us to focus on your innate capabilities while also addressing challenges in a way that fosters confidence and long-term healing. Above all, I’m here to walk beside you, as human as you are, in a collaborative, compassionate partnership on your path toward well-being.”
More About April:
Experience: April is a Licensed Master Social Worker Psychotherapist and a University of Missouri-Columbia graduate with a Master’s degree in Social Work. April has worked in the helping profession for 17 years. Over the past 5 years, April has worked as a Clinical Director, QMHP-CS, Registered Behavioral Technician, and EAP Consultant with a vast array of targeted populations and cultures assessing and providing psychosocial rehabilitation to clients in schools, community, jails, outpatient clinics, and group homes. April has assessed clients utilizing the biopsychosocial model with efforts to ensure clients achieve the best quality of life possible. April is also skilled in Crisis Intervention and an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Client Focus: Adults, Children (age 5+) and Adolescents
Types of Therapy: CBT, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic
Issues: Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Grief, Stress Management, Life Transitions, Self-Identity
Specialties: Personal Growth, Grief and Loss, Trauma, Neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+
More than just my work: “I LOVE plants/nature, yet I do not like bugs. Camping is a bit difficult for me given these preferences, yet I absolutely LOVE it at the same time.”