Life is going on all around you. Yet, if you’re feeling sad and lonely, no activity or event can make you feel any better. If you’re filled with worry and anxiety, occasions that are happy for others may seem too hard to bear. When the wonder of life seems very far away, a Merriam area counselor can help you bring it back.

Whatever you do in Merriam, whether it’s wandering through an artist exhibition, browsing in a farmer’s market, or attending the Mayor’s holiday tree lighting ceremony, you’ll find greater joy there after you rediscover happiness within yourself. Talk to a Merriam area counselor to get back to the life you love.

This is Dr. Ophelia Blackwell's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Ophelia Blackwell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LCPC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a national certified clinical counselor. I completed my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision with an emphasis in marriage and family studies at Kansas State University. I have worked as a counselor for over 10 years in many settings which include, corrections, military, hospital, college, mental health agency and private practice. I have worked with all types of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anger, personality disorders and substance and alcohol abuse. My desire in therapy is to see individuals, couples, and families restored and healthy in every area of their lives. I use an integrative approach to therapy. My primary treatment approach is client-centered therapy. I find this approach beneficial because it helps to establish and maintain a strong therapeutic relationship. Additionally, I am a trained EMDR therapist, a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Specialist (CCBTS), and I utilize attachment approaches in my work with individuals, families, and couples who are experiencing distress in their interpersonal relationships.

Get started View profile
This is Angela Mathew's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Mathew

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): LMFT, MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficulties
29 years of experience

I am a family and marriage counselor licensed in Indiana with over 23 years of experience working as a psychotherapist (I am licensed in Kentucky, Indiana, Kansas, Utah, Nevada and Maine). 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. Together we will face obstacles, journey through the “stuck” places, and heal the issues causing suffering. I will be here with you every step of the way. With open-mindedness, and total acceptance of who uniquely you are, I will help you discover avenues to make your specific goal attainment a graceful process. We will begin where you are right now, addressing what feels most important to you. We will keep open communication about your feelings in regards to the progress we are making. So looking forward to getting to know more about you!

Get started View profile
This is Charolette Adams's avatar and link to their profile

Charolette Adams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): LSCSW, LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

Hello! I am a "seasoned" therapist - meaning I've lived long enough to feel very comfortable combining the lessons I've learned in the school of hard knocks with textbook learning - as well as many years of paid clinical experience. The issues I have gained the most experience addressing are Depression, Anxiety, and overcoming life obstacles. I have less professional experience in parenting, alternative lifestyles, and addiction. What makes me unique is that I've worn many hats in life and I love combining that wisdom with a determination to help you overcome what may be threatening to hold you back in order for you to embrace a bright and fulfilling future. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Cara Payton's avatar and link to their profile

Cara Payton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): LSCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 6 plus years of experience in mental health. I have experience working with those who have experienced abuse/neglect, trauma, and grief/loss. I have helped people who are struggling with PTSD, depression, and anxiety. I have additional training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I like to work with the client to identify goals and work towards those goals together. Sometimes this means a little homework in between sessions. Personally I am a mother and widow. I have experienced some big joys and losses in my life. Through this experience I've gained some great insight into grief/loss and life's twists. I look forward to working with you! Please send me a message if you have any questions.

Get started View profile
This is Karen Murphree's avatar and link to their profile

Karen Murphree

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW #1496
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over thirty-five years of experience assisting adults and couples with challenges such as stress, depression, anxiety, self-worth, abuse/trauma, chronic and acute health concerns, grief, loss, end of life issues, and finding connections to spirituality apart from traditional organized religion. I was also a licensed practical nurse years ago and have completed a year of health coaching training. I am passionate about the food/mood connection and its bridge between physical and mental health. I have also taken some graduate level courses in complementary and alternative medicine because I also have a special interest in holistic health and healing. I have a very eclectic approach that draws from multiple modalities. I have a background in traditional psychotherapy, but prefer to come from a "whole person" strength-based approach rather than the traditional "illness-based" approach. I like to use the other senses in addition to "the mind" and might make use of music, art, movement, or even aromatherapy approaches. My approach seeks to offer genuine acceptance of who you are right now, helping you discover who you would like to be, and finding ways with you to make progress toward your goals. Edison said, "I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that do not work." I would appreciate an opportunity to look with you to finding ways that DO work for you. Thank you for looking at my information. If you think we might work well together, please get in touch. If you don't feel a connection to me, there are many other very qualified persons on this site. Don't give up! Keep looking till you find someone that you think you would work well with! Someone is out there in the other profiles that would be a good match for you! I wish you the best, and applaud your courage in being willing to take a look at other options for your life if you are feeling troubled.

Get started View profile
This is Keyonna Taylor's avatar and link to their profile

Keyonna Taylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): LSCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

It is my belief that seeking help is the first indication that are motivated and ready to make changes in your life. My purpose here is to partner with you, while empowering you, as you move through the process of change. I will help you learn to think about and address your problems in a healthier manner. Sometimes it takes the help of a mental health professional to help you take an objective look at your circumstances and empower you so that you can take the first step necessary to make those changes. I offer a safe and inclusive environment for all clients to include minority, LGBTQA, and women clients. I identify as a Black woman, heterosexual, Cisgender, married, and I am a parent. My style of engagement is down-to earth, nonjudgmental, and I make it a point to view you as the expert. My working experience has primarily been with clients struggling with varying degrees of anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality Disorders, and Substance Use Disorders. I use an eclectic approach that utilizes different theoretical approaches to include Strengths Perspective, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Approach, Solution focused approach, Rational Behavior Therapy, and general case management/supportive therapy. I look forward to partnering with you while forming a therapeutic alliance to help you meet your needs and goals!

Get started View profile
This is Tamara York's avatar and link to their profile

Tamara York

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesADHD
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & concentration, memory and focus (ADHD) . I also have a lot of experience working with the school system and can help parents with school related concerns. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Abigail Kelsey Judge's avatar and link to their profile

Abigail Kelsey Judge

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I am a certified child and adolescent therapist and this has provided 13 years of working with all ages of families in varying transitions. I have worked in a variety of settings utilizing individual, family, and group therapy to help clients move forward through their crisis to successful life patterns. The crisis may be death of a loved one, job loss, a missing toothpaste cap, running out of gas on the freeway, or any number of things that steamroll emotions into unpredictable happenings. I enjoy people and helping them problem solve. I believe help is best when desired as it increases engagement in the therapeutic process. I work to gain rapport and trust quickly by being up front, purposeful, and present with clients. A person’s time is valuable and we will use it as you direct to build an empowering experience. I look forward to working with you. Please let me know if there is a timeframe that works better for you. I’m flexible with earlier mornings, later evenings and weekends.

Get started View profile
This is Karl Nitz's avatar and link to their profile

Karl Nitz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I have been a therapist for 23 years and hold clinical licenses in Kansas and Texas. I use a dynamic approach to positive psychology for living your best life. In therapy, for a client to improve, it’s important that the therapist and client connect. Communication is at the core of this partnership and is integral in positively producing results and successful treatment outcomes. My practice prioritizes healthy connections with clients and I pride myself on breaking communication barriers with a diverse range of clientele. My experience and background support identifying and relating to a myriad of challenges and obstacles that many people - including myself - have faced. Throughout my career, I’ve devoted my time to learning to identify clients’ unique struggles and the strategies that work to get them back on track to achieving their goals and finding joy in their daily life. I take the time to present the techniques I use in a way that’s easily understandable and applicable in order to create change in your life. Taking the first step towards therapy is difficult and can make anyone feel vulnerable. I’m ready to take this first step in partnership with you, at a pace that feels comfortable. I’m currently seeing clients both in-office and online. Choose the setting that works best for you, and let’s start down the path of removing the roadblocks and regaining control.

Get started View profile
This is Elizabeth Allen's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Allen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in KS, Merriam
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in Merriam

Finding the best therapist close by in Merriam can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Merriam that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Merriam. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Merriam, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Merriam region and in the state of Kansas. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Merriam or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Merriam therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Merriam area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Merriam, elsewhere in Johnson, or in the greater state of Kansas. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Merriam area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Merriam therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Merriam due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Merriam may not take health insurance, some in the state of Kansas may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Kansas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Merriam online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Merriam, Kansas working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Merriam psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Merriam above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Merriam provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Merriam?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Merriam therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Merriam therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Merriam therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in KS, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 66202 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Merriam counselor?

Before seeing your Merriam therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Merriam therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Merriam licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Merriam counselor can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Merriam, Kansas can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Merriam has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Merriam, Kansas

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Merriam therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Merriam.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Merriam:

66202, 66203, 66204

Popular cities near Merriam, KS

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist