About Cass Palacios, LCSW — Holistic Virtual Therapist
Hello, I’m Cass, and I’m so glad you’re here. Thank you for visiting Starfish Wellness, PLLC.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who provides therapy services for residents of Missouri, Illinois, and Florida. I have more than a decade of experience supporting individuals as they navigate life's challenges. I truly believe that healing and growth happen when people feel seen, supported, and understood—and it’s an honor to walk alongside my clients in that process.
I specialize in helping individuals experiencing chronic stress, burnout, emotional exhaustion, and life transitions. Many of the people I work with are used to carrying a lot for others and often feel disconnected from themselves, overwhelmed, or unsure of what they need anymore. Together, we create space to slow down, reconnect with what matters most, and build a life that feels more balanced, intentional, and fulfilling.
I also provide support with educational and occupational guidance, values exploration, life alignment strategies, and personal and professional boundary work. My approach is holistic, collaborative, and tailored to your unique experiences, goals, and strengths. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I strive to create a space where you can show up exactly as you are without judgment.
I know that reaching out for support can feel vulnerable, especially when you’ve been managing stress or burnout for a long time. My goal is to make the process feel welcoming, supportive, and approachable from the very beginning. I encourage you to explore my specialties and FAQ page to learn more about my approach and see if we may be a good fit.
When you’re ready to get started, simply click the “Schedule a Session” button to book through the client portal.
I look forward to connecting with you soon. Until then, take good care of yourself.
Areas of Specialty
Chronic Stress & Burnout Recovery
Workplace Anxiety & Imposter Syndrome
Values Assessment & Life Alignment Strategies
Stress Management & Coping Skills
Techniques Used
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
A practical, short-term talk therapy that treats mental health by changing the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It focuses on identifying and reframing negative or irrational thought patterns to help you respond to difficult situations in healthier, more productive ways
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
An action-oriented psychotherapy that teaches you to observe difficult thoughts and feelings without judgment. Instead of trying to control or eliminate painful emotions, ACT helps you accept them as natural responses and commit to behaviors that align with your personal values.
Mindfulness Based Therapy
An approach where individuals learn meditation and self-awareness skills to foster present-moment awareness. Rather than trying to change negative thoughts, it teaches clients to observe their feelings without judgment, helping them break automatic, unhelpful behavioral responses and accept their emotions.
Solution-Focused Therapy
A short-term, goal-directed approach to psychotherapy. Rather than dwelling on past traumas or analyzing the root causes of problems, SFT helps you identify your existing strengths and build actionable, positive solutions for the future.
Person-Centered Therapy
A humanistic approach that empowers you to take the lead in your own healing. Rooted in the belief that you are the expert on your own life, the therapy focuses on self-discovery, personal growth, and self-actualization rather than treating specific symptoms.
Existential Therapy
Focuses on free will, self-determination, and the search for meaning—often centering on the individual rather than on their symptoms.