Therapists in Missouri

Hello! Thanks for stopping by. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I also hold a PhD in Cultural Anthropology (you can read more about how these two things go together on my website at www.rebeccalester.com). I have been in private clinical practice for over 10 years. I am passionate about helping people and I would love the opportunity to work with you. In my work, I engage the whole person--not just a "disorder." My therapeutic approach is characterized by compassion, warmth, and respect. My work is eclectic and personalized--I prioritize working collaboratively with clients to discover what best works for you and your needs. In addition to having proficiency in psychodynamic humanistic, existential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies, I have pursued additional trainings in DBT, IFS, and Sensorimotor Therapy. But I follow psychiatrist Irvin Yalom's philosophy: "for each new client, a new psychotherapy," meaning that every person is unique, and you deserve an approach specifically tailored to you. I specialize in the following areas: • eating disorders • mood disorders (depression, bipolar) • anxiety • self-harm • stress and coping • trauma/PTSD • personality disorders • LGBTQIA+ issues • sexual/relationship concerns Choosing a therapist is an important and courageous decision. I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have about the process or my approach. I look forward to working with you!

Hello and welcome! Because you're reading this, you're probably thinking about therapy. Let me tell you that you've done a great job so far in seeking help, it's definitely not an easy step to take and I'm a huge believer in celebrating the small things. There's something to be said about a person who wants to better themselves; whatever draws you here, I hope you find what you're looking for. Here's a little about me to help clarify any questions you may have: I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2016) from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. I later moved to Missouri and am now a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I've worked as a therapist in several different settings such as college counseling centers, rehabilitation centers for drug and alcohol use, and in the private practice setting. In these environments I've helped people manage concerns with depression, suicide and self harm, issues related to relationships with themselves and others, anxiety, sexuality and the LGBTQ population, and addiction. I've also been able to work with people that have experienced trauma and family conflicts. Each therapist operates from a certain style and orientation in which they approach the counseling process. Usually, it's a multi-faceted approach and I believe that the key is to remain flexible. That being said, my main approach tends to be relatable, personal, and straight forward. I believe in transparency in sessions, meaning I'm not afraid to be real with you while helping to guide, support, and validate your experiences. Therapy is a vulnerable process so it's my job to help you feel safe and empowered. In doing this, we'll talk about your strengths and what makes you who you are, and use those to help achieve your goals. I believe that you're the expert of your life; I'm just here to help you talk through it and I find that through positivity and humor, life seems a bit more manageable.

I am an individual and family counselor who has 10 years of experience working with families in crisis. I am trauma focused and use differing therapies depending on the needs of the person I am talking to. I often use DBT, Solution Focused, and Holistic approaches. I believe that everyone can and will, if given the correct tools, get through the harder times in life. I think everyone should be treated with respect and a mutual understanding that it is our differences that make us the best people we can be. I look forward to working with you and am here to help.

It's an honor to be considered as a partner in your quest to feel better. Reaching out for help is not easy, but I know first hand how much courage it takes and the benefit from professional therapy when you find a good fit. I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri (LCSW) and in Kansas (LSCSW) and have provided therapy services for 16 years to individuals, couples, and families with a client-centered approach. I listen first before jumping in with any suggestions. You are the expert on you and your situation and I offer options from which you can choose. I also believe if you are not getting what you need in therapy, you have a right and obligation to let me know so we can find a solution that works for you. If you need something that I cannot provide, a referral will be made to someone with that particular training. I believe in short-term therapy to reach the goals you are looking to achieve. My expertise includes working with those struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, marital conflict, mid-life crises, aging, grief and loss, parenting issues, and faith-based issues. I provide a non-judgmental approach and encourage self-esteem and improved communication to have the life we all need and deserve. Thank you again for considering me as a possible source of help.

Courtney Kempker is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. She earned her Master of Education degree in Counseling Psychology from University of Missouri-Columbia. Courtney received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Central Methodist University. Courtney has over three years of experience providing tele-mental health services, including virtual Brainspotting. She is passionate about serving youth and families and has over four years of experience working with clients that have experienced developmental trauma. Courtney also enjoys working with adults experiencing transitions in life such as going off college, starting a new job, moving, and parenthood. Courtney has received training in Brainspotting Phase I and II, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment, and Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga. She is passionate about learning innovative interventions and evidence based practices for trauma integration. Courtney strives to provide culturally competent care and continues to expand her skillset.

I am a clinical social worker in Missouri who has over 14 years of experience providing therapeutic services. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with a diverse group of clients from different ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds. They’ve struggled with an equally diverse set of challenges. Some of the issues I’ve worked with most frequently have been relationship and communication issues. Additionally, I work with people struggling with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, low self-esteem and low self-confidence. Some of the clients I see regularly have been diagnosed with adjustment disorder, major depressive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, bi-polar disorder, etc. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, as well as a mindfulness-based approach. I work with clients on setting goals, and together, we take baby steps toward reaching those goals. In the process of reaching your personal goals, you’ll learn ways to recognize what triggers your negative moods, and how your thoughts, behaviors, and moods are all directly related to one another. I practice a comforting, conversational approach to therapy. My goal is to make you feel safe, secure, and free to discuss your concerns and worries. We’ll work together to create a therapeutic relationship that is encouraging, inspiring, and teaches you effective coping skills to ensure you are successful in your everyday life.

I am a licensed professional counselor in Missouri with over 12 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, autism, learning disabilities, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, dialectic behavior therapy, EMDR, and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

Him my name is Tim and I am licensed in Missouri with 6+ years of professional clinical work experience and over 22+ years of experience in the mental health field as a social worker. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, bipolar disorder, depression and many other areas that impact our daily mental health. I also work with a lot of athletes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! If you feel you have lost steam dealing with anxiety or depression, or if you are an athlete losing your drive due to the demands of your work, school or sport, I'd like to talk with you about how we can overcome your struggles. As a therapist, I can help you understand important experiences in your life while coping with difficulties, such as stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use disorders. With my Mental Game Coaching Professional certification, I can help you uncover mindsets that lead to a loss in confidence, composure, focus and enjoyment, so that you thrive and have fun again. I am caring, motivating and enjoy helping my clients along their path of self discovery. Your individual journey is unique and important to me. You deserve to have a therapist, coach, and helper that is supportive and knowledgeable.

I have been licensed in Missouri since 2007 and through the years I have worked with children, teens and adults in group and therapeutic settings. Outside of a traditional counseling setting, I have worked with youth, adults and families within the Missouri Foster Care system for the majority of my career. A little history on how I got here! Growing up, I wanted to be a rockstar, teacher, ballerina, and veterinarian. What I ended up realizing is that I had a pull towards wanting to understand human behavior and to help people be the best versions of themselves. I went to a small liberal arts college and majored in psychology and then attended Saint Louis University for my Masters degree in Community Counseling, graduating in 2004. And here I am! During my professional career, I have gained an understanding of the affects of Trauma and how to identify and process trauma responses. I have training in EMDR which provides me an understanding around how stuck points connected to life experiences can keep an individual from moving forward. I am very solution focused in my approach and I want to help the client identify ways to move forward without getting bogged down in the past. Most of all, I believe the most important part of counseling is to provide an active ear and to be present while walking through an experience with the client. The client is the expert in their life and my purpose is to help them to see what they already know, which is all the strength they bring to the table.