Seniors, middle-aged people, and young adults may face different challenges, but working with a therapist can help anyone learn to cope. If you are looking for individual therapy in Missouri, consider online treatment. It can be challenging to find in-person care if there’s a lack of providers in your area or you cannot easily reach Kansas City or Saint Louis therapists. An online treatment platform like BetterHelp can make access to therapy more convenient and flexible. 

With BetterHelp, you can access mental health care from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. Your provider will use a holistic approach to treatment and work with you to determine what treatment approach may help you meet your goals, whether dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, or another treatment option.

While BetterHelp does not currently offer group therapy or services like play therapy or adolescent intensive outpatient programming to children or adolescents, the providers are skilled in various modalities, including commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and eye movement desensitization. 

Therapy can help you learn healthy coping skills and improve low self-esteem so you can work toward your individual goals. If you’re looking for an online therapist, MO has many options available. The providers below are licensed to provide virtual therapy across the state.

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Kathleen (Kathy) Abeln

Offering therapy in Missouri
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
6 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with 6 years of experience in providing counseling and direct mental health to my clients. I have worked with clients from ages 6 to adults with a multitude of presenting issues such as developmental trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, PTSD, self-esteem and self-identity issues and neurodevelopmental disorders. I started off at St. Louis University where I got my bachelor's of Arts in Psychology. I worked in the work force for about 15 years, before going back and pursing my graduate degree in Counseling. I graduated from Missouri Baptist University where I got my Masters in Counseling. I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults that have experienced trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression. My experience is varied and across many different settings, as I have provided group therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy in residential treatment programs, community mental-health agencies, school settings and private practice settings. I believe that relationships are the true agent for change and I am currently working in a program that is relationship based. I also have experience working with family systems dealing with attachment and relationship issues. My main focus in therapy is to meet my client where they are at with acceptance and non-judgement and to use an approach that will work best for us as we work toward meeting your therapy goals. With my experience, I truly believe I can help families and adults heal their relationships and work through the struggles they face. I am here to support you through your journey.

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Dr. Cherie Swingler

Offering therapy in Missouri
License: PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dr. Chérie Swingler, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri. I have over 12 years of experience working in the arena of counseling and therapeutic services. Much of my education and work experience has been focused on issues related to careers/education, anxiety, anger management, depression, trauma, ADHD and relationship/family conflicts. My approach belief is that everyone is unique and therefore, I utilize a combination of motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy and person centered techniques to assist my clients in obtaining a personalized counseling experience. I believe in building a rapport with clients that includes respect, non-judgment, empathy and trust. I do not tell clients what to do with their lives because I believe that the client is the expert in that area; it is my job to guide/assist in obtaining insight and strategies while I walk the journey with them. It takes courage to seek a more satisfying and fulfilling life and to take the initiative to make the change. I am eager to assist you with your goals by using techniques that empower, support and challenge in order to bring out the best you! I would be honored to work with you, Chérie Swingler, PhD, LPC

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Shakea Roper

Offering therapy in Missouri
License: LSCSW,LCSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

Confidential talk without judgement. Hi, I’m Shakea “Kea” Roper. I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Do you need someone to talk to that will be understanding, compassionate, and encouraging? If so, you have reached the right therapist. I’m a single mother from the inner city. I’ve been through many struggles. From parenting, to family, to work, and just life. I’ve learned you can always work on yourself to help break cycles/patterns that once held you back. I value honesty and keeping it real. When there is free time, I like to sleep, spend time with family, board games, and of course diamond painting/other crafts. I often work with clients to address anxiety, depression, racing undesirable thoughts, and handling day to day life. My counseling style is active, honest, and straight-forward. Many of my clients have said "Kea is a great listener who isn't afraid to challenge my thoughts." I take the time to care. For me, it's an honor to work together to make progress! One of my favorite quotes is “everything seems impossible until it's done” by Nelson Mandela because I know everyone can push past the uncomfortableness of change to accomplish their goals. I have worked in various fields of social work such as: working with survivors of abuse, half-way houses, reunification of children with their families, youth homes, and psychiatric hospitals. Expect a sense of relief, release, and progress after each session. Each session is geared towards you and your needs. It’s based off what you feel you need to talk about, not a set curriculum. You bring the topic, and we will discuss, and problem solve as needed. If you just want a listener, you can have that also. Know that I will be honest and straight forward with you. Know that your thoughts may be challenged to help your personal growth. You may even have action or thinking tasks to complete. I have over 14 years of experience focusing on mood disorders and any symptoms that affect daily life. I can work with clients from the following states: Kansas, Missouri, Utah, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania. I spent my last college years at the University of Missouri – Columbia (MIZZOU) earning a master’s degree in social work (c/o/2009). In my sessions, I focus on using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (thinking processes), Strengths Based, Brief Therapy, Problem Solving, DBT (mindfulness), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), and Solution Focused to help clients improve all areas of their life. I am a facilitator of Making Sense of Your Worth (MSoYW).

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Allison Price

Offering therapy in Missouri
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a Trauma Specialist licensed in the state of Missouri with over 3 years of direct counseling experience in a private practice setting and more than 10 years of counseling in a case management, supervisory, and humanitarian role with populations including Active Duty Military, Veterans, Families in the Foster Care System, First Responders, Athletes; and Individuals seeking Symptomatic Relief, Purpose and Fulfillment. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Humanities from Michigan State University and a Masters Degree in Clinical Psychology with a Focus on Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University. I use primarily EMDR with a blend of solution focused, narrative therapy, and client centered treatment to help you reach your healthiest most authentic and inspiration driven self. I believe that the client knows themselves best, and my job is to help you find that inner voice of strength and guidance. I admire your courage and curiosity in seeking counseling as a way to care for yourself and I look forward to working with you when you're ready to get started!

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Dr. Robert Bowman

Offering therapy in Missouri
License: PhD,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

Welcome! I’m Robert (Bob) Bowman and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I have worked as a counselor in both community and educational settings and have taught counseling skills to hundreds of counselors in training as a university professor (my students refer to me as Dr. Bob). I have a Master’s degree in counseling and completed my doctoral work at Purdue University. My approach is a mixture of person-centered and cognitive theories. I believe that an honest and genuine relationship between counselor and client is important in pursuing your goals. My hope is to provide an empathic environment where we will explore problems, goals, hopes and dreams and make decisions that will move you forward. Since a person-centered approach focuses on understanding the situation from your point of view, I find that I can work with people from a wide range of racial, religious, and cultural backgrounds. While I favor person-centered and cognitive approaches, I firmly believe our approach must be tailored to you as a unique individual. I have experience working with teens, college students, adults, and couples. Common topics include: divorce, relationships/intimacy, stress, anxiety, grief, and coping with change among others. If you choose me as your helper and teammate we’ll begin by building a relationship in which we explore the dynamics of your current situation, clarify what you want, and develop plans to solve problems or pursue opportunities. You will be treated with respect, warmth, and good humor as we find our way forward.

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Gabriele Hoog

Offering therapy in Missouri
License: LCSW,ICCCDPD,MARS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

We all face challenges in life. Reaching out for help requires strength and courage, and as a therapist, it is important to me to provide an environment where the client can feel heard, validated and safe. My name is Gabby and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I will provide a supportive and compassionate environment that allows space to explore challenges, intense emotions, and trauma. With over 20 years of clinical experience, I provide support for clients living with depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use. I also address relationship issues, anger management and self-esteem . In additional to providing an environment to process emotions, I feel it is imperative to explore and develop new strategies for managing intense emotions. This allows for forward progress, by learning new skills to manage old behaviors and thought patterns. This encompass not only mental and emotional health ,but also overall wellness, including diet, exercise, sleep and self-care. I believe the client is the expert on their life and therefore my role as the therapist is to empower them to identify, utilize and build on their personal strengths. Through a strengths-based and solutions-focused lens, I collaborate with clients to develop personal treatment plans. Utilizing CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I teach clients how to recognize the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors . I provide insight and encouragement as the client begins to challenge their thoughts, thus learning how to choose actions instead of continuing the cycle of reacting. Finally, I teach distress tolerance skills using Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), including mindfulness, grounding skills and breathing techniques as a way to manage intense emotions. Taking the step to seek therapy is a sign of strength. My primary goal as the therapist is to promote and encourage change within clients that bring peace and balance back to their lives.

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Kari Petersen

Offering therapy in Missouri
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

"Speaking with Kari is like catching up with a friend I have known forever and her wisdom and insight bring a lot of clarity and peace to my current situations. Very thankful to have been matched with her." I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I have been an adoptive and foster parent. I taught 6th grade for 14 years and am a certified Special Education teacher in the state of Missouri. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I utilize solution focused and cognitive behavioral styles of therapy. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Amber Siefkas

Offering therapy in Missouri
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri & Kansas, with 3 years of counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Diana Gregory

Offering therapy in Missouri
Family conflicts
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Bethye Valenzuela

Offering therapy in Missouri
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
25 years of experience

I am an Army Veteran and a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Virginia with 25 years of professional work experience. My experience is in helping clients with stress , anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & anger management. I have an extensive history counseling active duty/retired military and their family members. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.

Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 4,029,515 people live in MO, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.  

The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.

Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?

People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in Missouri support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • Challenging situations or life stressors
  • Eating disorders
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression or depressive conditions
  • Adjustment issues
  • Emotional support for a terminal illness
  • Chronic pain emotional support
  • Grief
  • Personality disorders
  • Trauma
  • Relationship conflicts and concerns

Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.

If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.

Emergency services to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.

How much does a therapist cost?

Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location. 

BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.

Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.

When should I get a therapist in Missouri?

Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?

Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.

Is online therapy the safe option?

Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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