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.
Kay Adkins
My name is Kay Adkins and I am a Professional Licensed Counselor (LPC). I started my education at College of the Ozarks, Point Lookout, Missouri where I received my Bachelor of Science in Philosophy/Religion and Psychology. I went on to complete my Master's in Science in Counseling from Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri. I am trained primarily in Person-Centered Therapy, a client centered approach that allows the client to lead the session. I have over seven years of experience providing individual, group, and family therapy using Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), components of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), rational perspective, and Solution Focused therapy. I am also finishing up a certificate course in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT). I have experience working in a variety of settings including office and in-home private practice, residential care for adolescents, 7 Day Follow-up, and intensive outpatient within a medical facility. I have worked with a diverse population including children, adults, geriatrics, foster care, low socioeconomic levels, and supporting others with varying disabilities. I have experience working with a wide range of disorders and concerns, including depression, anxiety, life adjustment, daily stress management, childhood trauma, Gay-Lesbian, and self-esteem related concerns. I trust in my clients and believe that that they can make effective decisions regarding their personal counseling goals and treatment. And I believe that it is up to the client to determine his or her own personal progress and growth according to what is best for the individual. I believe each one of us has the ability to make choices and face challenges, but at times we need a word of encouragement or even a strong nudge to get started. Sometimes we just need one other person to validate, hear, and believe in us. I hope that together we will be able to find the healing, support, and growth you are searching for through counseling.
Dr. Paul Wright
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Missouri. For over ten years, I have been offering counseling and life coaching services to individuals, couples, and families. Some of my specializations include working with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, emotional trauma, work-related problems, arousal dysregulation, OCD issues, self-sabotaging thought processes, clinical mental health issues, career struggles, and many other significant life challenges. As a mental health specialist and performance consultant, I also enjoy the challenge of working with athletes, businessmen/women, musicians, teachers, artists, and members of the military forces. My professional orientation centers on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and solution-focused counseling. I believe that therapy is much like a beautiful choreographed dance step. Client and counselor work together to achieve success through a reciprocal relationship built upon respect, trust, and positivity. Entering into the counseling relationship takes extraordinary courage and strength of character. I pride my practice on being welcoming, positive, genuine, and client-centered. This responsibility to help my clients is a sacred trust not taken lightly. Counseling sessions are generally a combination of talk therapy, discussion, problem-solving exercises, and experiential activities designed specifically to help each client overcome their unique challenges. Some of the tools used in the counseling process include mindfulness training, cognitive reframing, goal setting, positive self-talk, communication skill building, introspection, motivational interviewing, and traditional narrative discourse. In addition to the more traditional approaches, I carry specializations and certifications in performance psychology, clinical hypnotherapy, wellness coaching, and career counseling. I have spent many years living in Europe, Asia, and North America. As such, I enjoy the opportunity to work with clients from very diverse backgrounds. I truly look forward to working beside you through the counseling relationship. I truly count it as an honor and a privilege to share your life experience.
Kathleen (Kathy) Abeln
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.
Sherrie Stafford
I am a medically retired police officer turn mental health therapist. I am a licensed professional counselor with a certification in sex addiction treatment, I am a police trainer of trainers for domestic violence. I have been on certified DBT teams, I am EMDR l&ll trained, my thesis was on attachment disorders in adults, I have worked the suicide hotline, I investigated rape and sexual assault cases, many hours in trauma education and training. I helped develop Building Resiliency for First Responders 4 hour training. I have worked with Fort Carson, Fort Hood, FE Warren AFB, Air Force Academy and Schriever AFB and provided therapy for those with special clearances, individuals and couples. I have worked closely with mental health court, drug court on both the state and city level, I have also worked with family drug court and juvenile drug court. I have worked with many trauma survivors. I teach some mindfulness and meditation classes and love providing education on neurotransmitters. I provide counseling to couples on relationship issues, attachment issues, and intimacy issues, and infidelity issues. I worked at a care clinic for HIV/ AIDs and HEP C specific patients with emphasis on LGBTQ clients.
Dr. Julie Downs
My name is Julie Downs and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri. I earned my Masters Degree from the University of Missouri/Columbia in 2000. I earned my Certification from the University of Indiana in career counseling in 2012. I have worked in various settings over the past 26 years that include outpatient mental health and private practice settings serving children, families, and adults. I have also worked in educational settings from higher education to elementary and secondary education. My areas of expertise include trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationships, and parenting. I enjoy working with children, but have also worked with adults, specifically when addressing family needs. I definitely take a holistic and systemic approach when looking at family dynamics, relationships, interactions, and functioning. I look at my relationships with clients as a partnership. I am very resourceful and creative in my approaches so if I do not have the knowledge or information, I will locate it for my clients. I take a non-judgmental stance because I believe diversity is what enriches my life and those around me. I also adhere to my professional code of ethics where taking an unbiased approach is a necessity. I am extremely energetic and creative in my approach with therapy. I strive to keep my clients engaged providing various options and encouraging them to overcome challenges, fears, or reservations about trying new things. I do regular check-ins to make sure my approach is having a positive impact on my clients' lives and that there is a continuation of progress towards goals. My clients are treated with dignity and respect, but I will be assertive in a respective manner when addressing patterns of behaviors that are impeding progress. Cognitive behavioral approaches are the foundation of my therapy, but I also use eclectic interventions through trauma, solution focused, and client centered modalities, making adjustments that fit my clients' communication and personality styles and needs. I am also a trained Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist. I believe continuity of care and ongoing support is crucial in therapy services and check my messages minimally three times a day. I look forward to working with you and forging a partnership in helping you reach your goals!
John DeCarlis
I am an experienced therapist, licensed as a clinical social worker in Maryland, Missouri, and Kansas. My therapy style is direct, approachable and interactive. I am privileged to work with those who have taken the first steps toward change, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines strengths-based, acceptance and commitment, cognitive behavioral, and solution-focused therapies with a strong focus on skill-building. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. I practice a type of therapy that aims to help clients accept what is out of their control, and commit instead to actions that enrich their lives. Our goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life. I have specialized experience in several areas including depression, anxiety, stress, grief and loss, relationship, trauma, and career/workplace issues. As a retired Army officer and former therapist to post-deployment military, I am honored to work with fellow veterans. Most importantly, however, I know that whatever the intervention, the real change comes from you, the strengths that you may not be currently aware of, and our partnership. I have a master’s degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. I have been a licensed clinical social worker for over 22 years. I engage with clients with admiration and respect in their journey to a better quality of life. I look forward to hearing your story and concerns and working with you to develop new skills and find solutions.
David Markowitz
As a Missouri Licensed Counselor with over 25years experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, 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, psychodynamic 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!
Steven Forsyth
I began my addictions counseling career six years after entering recovery from alcohol/drug use, on 5/13/1982. My original counseling schooling was in Rational Emotive Therapy, which evolved into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and led to my schooling in Narrative Therapy and Transactional Analysis. Most recently, I have become interested in Miller & Rollnick's Motivational Interviewing, Prochaska & Diclemente's Stages of Change model of behavior change, Berg & Miller's Solution-Focused Therapy, Marlatt & Donovan's relapse prevention strategies and techniques, ACT therapy, and Internal Family Systems therapy. My most recent Certification is in Robin Shapiro's Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing-EMDR-, through the EMDRIA International Institute in November of 2021. As a Therapist, I necessarily became conversant in telehealth methodology during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. I approach counseling holistically: I understand individuals as "whole cloth", i.e., as the current product(s) of their total life experiences. I also firmly believe in all-ways maintaining a positively enthusiastic outlook on life and living!
Amy Studer
I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!
Jamy VanSyckle
I am licensed in Missouri with over 20 years of professional work experience in working with individuals, children, teens, and families. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I believe in partnering and empowering individuals, couples, and families to feel integrated and find a deep joy in life. I meet the person where they are at in the moment without having my own agenda. I want to hear from you and help you discover the path to healing and wholeness. I will work with you to create a plan that meets 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. I am honored and humbled to walk with you.
Tracy Vacca
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & parenting issues. 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!
Lindsay Pennell
I am a professional counselor licensed in Missouri with 9 years of work in the counseling field. My main clinic experience has focused on adults with mental health diagnoses as well as substance use problems. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, boundary setting, & trauma and abuse. My style of therapy is warm and open. I work with my clients and strive to meet them where they are at so they can continue to progress, feel understood, and make the changes they desire. My approach combines motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and a strength based focus. My goal is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, to focus on a person’s strengths and abilities, and to work with each person as an individual with their own needs and learning style. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and strength. I am here to support you in that process and walk with you through it as you take those steps. I look forward to working with you!
Jason Ruoff
I am licensed in Missouri and I have a variety of experience helping others to talk about their situation. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have 10+ years working with children and families regarding trauma and abuse. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
John Backfisch
I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Peter Jones
I am licensed in Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Ohio with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have great experience with bipolar, schizophrenia, and PTSD trauma. My unique experience allows me to understand and best communicate with a person in need. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
How can therapists in Missouri support you?
Therapists in Missouri 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 Missouri, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in Missouri 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 BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of Missouri working 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 in Missouri, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in Missouri support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- 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
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found 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.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
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 in Missouri can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover 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 safe?
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.
Popular cities in Missouri
- Kansas City, MO
- Saint Louis, MO
- Springfield, MO
- Columbia, MO
- Independence, MO
- Lees Summit, MO
- O'Fallon, MO
- Saint Joseph, MO
- Saint Charles, MO
- Saint Peters, MO
- Blue Springs, MO
- Joplin, MO
Find your state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming