Sound Mind Cafe Now Open In Creve Coeur

If you can walk in and get your car's oil changed, get a haircut or have your nails done, isn't it about time to be able to find mental health resources available?

That's the premise being tested by a new business now open in Creve Coeur, Sound Mind Cafe, located at 662 North New Ballas Road.

Owner and therapist Susie Berg opened the business June 24, after most recently being associated with St. Anthony's Medical Center in South County. The mission appears to be focused on taking the stigma out of accessing mental health services.

"We wanted it to feel very warm and inviting and not threatening and that’s why, you know, it looks the way it does," she said. A walk in the door reveals a food and beverage area, and seating that has the look and feel of a small coffee shop, complete with free wifi.

The difference is that there is also space for three private counseling sessions with mental health professionals. 

Berg doesn't believe there's anything else like this in the St. Louis area at least and hopes that it "changes the paradigm of what counseling is." Creve Coeur's central location will allow the Cafe to draw from Chesterfield, Clayton and Manchester, in addition to the established clients the therapists bring with them. 

Sessions run from $25 to $125, but Berg said it's ok if people just stop by and use wifi without spending a dime.

"Yes you can just come in and not spend a penny," she said. "You’re welcome here."