This is Steven Buck's avatar and link to their profile

Steven Buck

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LCSW
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in the State of Missouri as an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker). I have been a therapist for approximately 30 years working in various settings including a psychiatric hospital for almost 20 years, private practice and various mental health agencies. My specialties include treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, phobias, anger, ADHD, relationship and self esteem issues. I have worked with individuals, couples and families. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy with a systems approach considering structure, boundaries, communication, and various family dynamics. I am non-judgmental is my approach with an emphasis on "seeing" your issues through your eyes. My goal is to demonstrate that I am listening and thinking about your feelings and concerns with an attempt to assist you with healthy options and solutions. I focus on Strengths not weaknesses, and consider it a strength that you sought counseling with a therapist. I believe mental health is as important as physical health and applaud you for seeking to improve your mental health. My entire career has been about mental health and believe I have learned as much from my clients as I have from books. So, here is to learning more about you.

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Brianne Phillips

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LSCSW,RPT-S
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Brianne Phillips. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas, Missouri, North Dakota, and Louisiana, and hold the credential of a Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. Over the past 17 years, I have spent my time as a social worker in various settings: in schools, in private practice, in a hospital, with youth in foster care, and with survivors of domestic violence. Even though the settings were all different, one thing stayed the same. Our success and challenges are influenced by our lived experiences and our perceptions of these experiences. I have helped people cope with change, parenting challenges, relationship stressors and conflicts, trauma, and managing the everyday stressors that go along with life in general. When I’m working with clients, I genuinely want to get to know you. Starting sessions with a new therapist can seem a bit intimidating. Making sure you feel heard and valued is important to me. I want you to know you’ve got someone in your corner. For me, learning about the different parts of your life is important as we embark on this journey. As a social worker, I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy; looking at the big picture rather than one tiny segment. Once we see where you fit into the big picture and how your perceptions and experiences have shaped your behavior, we can begin to challenge your thought processes to change your thinking and/or past behaviors. We all know the saying, “If you continue to do the same thing, you’ll continue to get the same result.” I am confident that as a team, you and I can take on the challenges you’re facing, so you can try new ideas and begin to see positive results.

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Sarah Jennings

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

My name is Sarah L. Jennings, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, living in Saint Louis, MO. I have 17 years of counseling experience, (this is a second career for me) working first in domestic violence shelters with battered women, then in federally mandated counseling with ex-offenders. I have extensive experience working with grief, especially complicated grief, and with PTSD. I am lesbian, married to a woman, and have counseled many LGBTQ clients. My approach to therapy is eclectic, tailoring the types of psychotherapy to the individual. I have used CBT, Existential, Feminist, Rogerian (client-centered), Solution-focused Brief Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, and sometimes borrow from transactional analysis. I believe it is important to join with my clients on their journey toward self-actualization. I enjoy working with the aging population, and the life stages and challenges of the LGBTQ population. I also am interested in working with people of all walks of life who are on a spiritual quest, and am open and interested in all spiritual journeys. I am always interested in talking with atheists and agnostics.

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Richard Tragasz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,MS,M Div
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

While my first career was in the business world, my subsequent careers were being a Lutheran pastor, working as a social worker in child protective services, and being a mental health therapist. I have 24 years of experience in social work and mental health. As a pastor, I have served 5 theologically conservative Lutheran churches in 3 states. My experience as a therapist has mostly been with community mental health clinics that provided services under the auspices of the state department of mental health. At community mental health clinics I provided therapy to clients of all ages, many having the full range of serious mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma from sexual abuse and post -traumatic stress disorder. My experience in community mental health was invaluable in honing my skills as a therapist. At one clinic I was part of the Dialectical Behavioral Therapy team that provided DBT therapy to clients suffering from borderline personality disorder. I believe that psychotherapy is a marvelous thing. It brings healing to people only through words. It is work, and to be successful in therapy one must work harder than the therapist. My therapeutic approach is cognitive behavioral, which means that I help the client to change beliefs that are false (example: "I believe I am worthless due to my history of sexual abuse as a child."), and change behaviors that are unhealthy and which stand in the way of a life that has joy and peace. That means that the key factor in my approach is CHANGE. My successes have been with clients who are willing to do that. I look forward to working with you!

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Steve Scarborough

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Counselor License Type(s): Masters Counseling,LPC
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi! My name is Steve and here is my LinkedIn bio for your review: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-scarborough-lpc-71a56031/ I have extensive experience in transforming lives for the better. Integrational Dual-Diagnosis Therapist proficient in Psychoanalytic, Cognitive Behavioral, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Positive Psychology modalities. Certified for Groups in Illness Management and Recovery (IMR), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), Seeking Safety (PTSD, Trauma), Matrix Relapse Prevention and other Trauma-Informed Care Protocols. Expert knowledge in 12 Steps, along with Faith-Based Apologetic Interventions and all therapy conforms with Evidence-Based Practices/Research and best practices for business operations. I look forward to working with you!

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Jessie Mclaughlin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,LAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Life can be really hard. It’s no surprise that so many of us struggle with issues related to anxiety, depression, and addiction. Feelings of inadequacy, uncertainty, and hopelessness are far too common. Fortunately, those those feelings don't have to be permanent. I would be happy to support you in developing emotional resilience and self-empowerment to enable you to thrive in this chaotic world. It is my belief that everyone deserves to live the an enjoyable life with intention as their genuine self. I have experience in diverse settings including inpatient and outpatient programs for adults and children experiencing mild to severe mental health and substance use disorders. I graduated in 2017 with my Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Colorado and Missouri as well as a Licensed Addictions Counselor (LAC) in Colorado. I specialize in helping individuals cope with anxiety, depression, substance use, and various life stressors. My therapeutic approach comes from an understanding that we are shaped by life experiences, relationships, and culture. I integrate each individual's uniqueness into therapy from a person-centered and solution-focused approach. I utilize different modalities to fit your specific needs including cognitive behavioral, existential, and motivational interviewing techniques. It is my passion to help others embrace and understand themselves to promote personal growth, resilience, and provide a sense of contentment. It feels so good to be confident and content, and you deserve to feel that way. I know that starting therapy can feel daunting, but I am here to provide non-judgmental support in a safe space.

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Susan Taylor-Amos

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri with 30 years of professional work experience in the child welfare system as well as mental health facilities. I have worked with clients with many different backgrounds and diagnosis. I have a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. My therapy style is interactive and laid back. I feel everyone deserves respect and that their feelings should not be discounted. I like to use a combination of different therapies to see which approach works best for the client. Most recently, I have had training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My goal is to find the best therapy that works for you. I want to be a support and advocate for you. I look forward to working with you.

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Bobby Hines

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

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Shannon Thomas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
LGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
17 years of experience

Hello and welcome. Thank you for reaching out! My name is Shannon Thomas and I am a compassionate and empathetic Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. In addition to being an LPC, I have been a school counselor for 17 years and a classroom teacher prior to that. I am very excited to join you on your journey of healing and growth. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety and depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. My approach to counseling is integrative and holistic, drawing from various therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, solution-focused and especially person-centered therapy. 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. I am committed to providing a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I value authenticity, empathy, and collaboration in the therapeutic process. Together, we will work towards enhancing your self-awareness, building resilience, and fostering a greater sense of well-being. 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. Thank you for considering me as your counselor. I look forward to working with you!

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Marisa Richardson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Alma
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
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, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 to find a therapist for counseling in Alma

Finding the best therapist close by in Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma. 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 Alma, 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 Alma region and in the state of Missouri. 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma, elsewhere in Lafayette, or in the greater state of Missouri. 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma may not take health insurance, some in the state of Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Alma online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Alma, Missouri 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 MO, 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 64001 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 Alma counselor?

Before seeing your Alma 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. Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma 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 Alma, Missouri 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.

Alma 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 Alma, Missouri

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Alma 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 Alma.

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

64001

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