Faith-based, political, social, and educational service-driven organizations all work together within the Alton area to support its community members. Alton-area mental health services do the same. This town’s support from community centers, churches, social groups, and other kinds of organizations are crucial to the health of the community as a whole. Alton places great importance on a tight-knit relationships among its citizens.
If you’re an Alton-area resident looking for a little extra support for your mental health, whether it be in the form of counseling or more intensive intervention, qualified mental health professionals are here to help. Don't hesitate to reach out to one today.
Jennifer Garland
I have been an individual and family therapist in Missouri for fifteen years. In my practice, I have served those coping with anxiety, stress, depression, substance abuse, parenting challenges, and a plethora of other issues. I have extensive experience working with victims of childhood abuse and trauma. I bring a strength based perspective to all situations. I believe that everyone has strengths they can draw upon to work through life's challenges and hardships. My therapeutic approach is a mixture of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and integrative therapies. Everyone is unique and therapy sessions must be individualized as well. Reaching out for help is admirable and no easy task. I'm glad you have taken that first step and I look forward to talking with you.
Cynthia (Cindi) Stewart
Hello, Life is about moving forward and growing. As individuals we should continue to grow and never stop learning. I work with individuals of all ages including families and couples in need. I work successfully with a wide range of concerns including, Motivation, Lifestyle changes, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression as well as the many other life struggles that need professional and confidential attention (assistance). I am very familiar with drug and alcohol addictions, and feel that I can be of help in this area. As well I work with the LGBT population and am an active proponent while understanding the struggles that might be encountered. I am a member of the Kentucky Counseling Association and American Psychological Association. I joined a private practice with a Psychiatrist in Northern Kentucky that I had been with for the last 17 years until moving back home to Missouri 2 years ago. I was also employed for 10 years with a State agency. I have a Masters degree in Professional Counseling and I am presently earning a PhD in General Psychology. A bit more about myself; My counseling style is based on The Carl Roger's idea of unconditional positive regard. In simple terms; for a person to grow they need an environment of genuine openness and self-disclosure with total and unconditional acceptance. Therefore with full empathy I will inquire and interact respectfully to fully understand your specific situation. When appropriate I also use ideas based on Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) which include: Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Interpersonal Effectiveness and Emotional Regulation. I am very eclectic and interactive with my clients. My counseling is based in The Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) model. To make life changes or improve our situational well being we must likewise change our mental thought process. I can help you understand this process. I am here to help you; with your goals challenges or struggles. Thank you for looking at my profile and good Karma to You.
Dr. Antonio Robinson
I specialize in MEN'S issues, with several years of experience providing mental health services, primarily to Men. I believe everyone has the potential for change when provided optimal psychoeducation, a space to be vulnerable, and individualized therapies that are driven by genuine warmth and support. Men historically do not seek mental health services because of stigma, fear of not being understood, and limited numbers of male therapists who "get" them. MEN’s issues can include mental health and wellness, self-care practices, relationship problems, healthy relationship skills, depression, stress, anxiety, crisis management, anger management, career exploration, and academic concerns. What makes an issue a “MEN’s issue” depends on how it was developed. MEN’s issues are developed within a context (such as family raised in, time period, culture, or geographical area). Such contexts have the potential to define behavior as something a man would or would not do. These definitions can be limiting and unhelpful. They can restrict the problem-solving ability of Men in situations that require more flexible and adaptive responses. Anger and irritability: Often, Men are taught to hide more vulnerable emotions such as hurt or sadness and instead express anger and lash out. This may be the only way they have learned to communicate they are hurting. However, anger can have disastrous effects on relationships. Learning how to communicate hurt and sadness effectively can facilitate an opportunity for repair and even strengthen relationships. Psychotherapy can help Men let go of problematic anger and express the vulnerability needed to have fulfilling relationships. Numbing or pushing away emotions: Some MEN may have been raised in environments where the very experience of emotion was unacceptable. This can result in attempts to avoid or control emotions. For example, ending relationships, devaluing the importance of loved ones, or keeping people at a distance can be ways to avoid uncomfortable feelings. Unfortunately, these attempts to control emotions can result in even more problems and even more difficult emotions. Therapy can help men identify, learn to deal with, and effectively express emotions in more adaptive ways and help preserve and strengthen relationships. Dr. Robinson earned his master's degree in counseling and practices as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Board-Certified National Counselor, and Board Certified TeleMental Health (BC-TMH) provider with various experiences from counseling adults, couples, and college students. He later went on to earn his Doctor of Education degree. I look forward to working with you!
Harry Satariano
Thoughtfulness and respect toward you are key elements that begin a successful therapeutic relationship. My job is to provide you a safe space for you to discuss, even think out loud whatever is bothering you. There are a lot of taboos that we get the message not to talk about; rather here is your private no judgment zone. Let's discuss it all so that together we can develop solutions that lead to you feeling better, thinking clearer, and doing more of what adds contentment to your daily life. My approach is to assist you to come to terms with a setback, figure out a challenge, or calm your emotional distress. My twenty-five years of extensive clinical expertise and experience have proven beneficial to thousands of individuals, couples, and families. I maintain full Independent Clinical Licenses in Ks. & MO; and Board Certified. In addition, I have completed two years. Post-Graduate Internships in Couples & Family Therapies by earning a Clinical Specialty from Menningers' Psychiatric Foundation. And then I dedicated two additional clinical training years earning a Specialty in Group Dynamics. I use a wide range of techniques, tools, and clinical approaches to address a variety of personal concerns because no two issues and no two people are the same. Let's find what will best work to help you help yourself with life's challenges. It takes courage to seek assistance to gain a more fulfilling and happier life than you are experiencing presently. Take that first step towards making a healthy change. I will back you up, be your private sounding board, and support to empower you.
Angela Sheffler
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri. I have ten years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings, including residential, acute inpatient, in home, and in schools. I have the most experience working with children, teens, adults, and families experiencing anxiety, major life changes, and trauma/abuse history. I also have experience working with intellectual disabilities, depression, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. LGBTQ+ individuals have been a large part of my experience over the past 3 years. My passion for the field comes from working with others to help them become the best version of themselves. I always tell my clients that I am walking alongside them in their journey-not leading the way. I firmly believe that we are all the experts on ourselves and I work hard to meet clients where they are on their own journey. My style could be described as caring and validating, with a holistic approach. I am warm, supportive, and down to earth. I enjoy sharing mindfulness skills and other calming strategies as well as communication skills. I believe in practicing skills and promoting confidence in individuals. I believe that gaining positive views of self, practicing skills, and working through any sort of trauma takes time to heal and I want to be able to help you in any way that I can. I check and respond to messages regularly during the week and will respond as quickly as possible! On the weekends, I do take the time for my family and will not respond to messages from Friday at 4 pm until Monday morning.
Steve Scarborough
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!
Hannah White
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and School Psychological Examiner in Missouri with over 10 years of professional experience in the school and community settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with clients struggling to cope with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and kindness. My therapeutic approach is humanistic with some solution-focused and motivational interviewing techniques sprinkled in. 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. 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.
Donna Thomas
I am licensed in Missouri with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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.
Susan Taylor-Amos
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.
Michelle Pendzimas
I am Michelle Pendzimas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri with over 20 years of professional work experience. I can help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I know that change is hard and it takes courage to admit that what you are doing now is not working. My philosophy is that healing happens through relationships and resilience, because we can’t always change our environment. Sometimes we can only change from within. Thank you for taking this first step and I am here to support you through this process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Alton
Finding the best therapist close by in Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton. 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 Alton, 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton, elsewhere in Oregon, 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Alton, 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 65606 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 Alton counselor?
Before seeing your Alton 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. Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton 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 Alton, 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.
Alton 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 Alton, Missouri
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 Alton 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:
- 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 feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Alton:
65606