Diane Kohm
Hello and Welcome! Marriage & Family Therapists work with individuals, couples, and families. While change happens from within, we all exist in relationship – to our family of origin, our work associates, our friends, our romantic partners, and our children. We also exist in relationship to our thoughts, feelings, desires, intentions, belief systems, and higher Self. I believe we all have the capacity to lead abundant lives and have healthy relationships. As licensed therapist, I can help you build upon your own strengths and resources, releasing beliefs that no longer serve you, and then translate those inner shifts to changes in your external relationships. There is a saying I like which is attributed to a corporate leadership trainer, Dan Bobinski, “Nothing changes if nothing changes.” It’s more succinct and proactive than Einstein's definition of insanity: Doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results. Are you ready to make positive changes in your life? I am a Masters level therapist with over 20 years’ experience with diverse populations. I graduated with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University-Los Angeles and am a Licensed Marital & Family Therapist in the State of Louisiana. I have extensive experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, stress management, self-esteem, domestic violence, and relationship issues. My approach is eclectic, incorporating theories, such as cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, narrative, and mindfulness, to ensure your specific concerns are addressed in a way most effective for you. We will work collaboratively to identify areas of distress and personalize your therapeutic goals to accomplish the most meaningful results. I look forward to working with you to discover your best Self!
Linda "Kathleen" Brown
I would like to start with congratulating and acknowledging you for taking this first step in achieving a more rewarding and fulfilling life. First steps can be hard to take, especially when it comes to our emotional health. We tend to be embarrassed, uncomfortable, or avoid these concerns. I am a true advocate in self-care as it is crucial for maintaining both our physical and emotional health. I believe you will be glad that you have taken this time to invest in yourself. My name is Kathleen Brown and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Missouri and Arizona. I am a proud graduate of the George Warren Brown School of Social Work at Washington University. I have over 20 years of clinical experience in the mental health field. My experiences have included working in private practice, inpatient hospitalization, residential treatment, and telephone crisis care. Within these settings, I have provided individual, group, and family therapy. My specializations have included areas of Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Abuse/Trauma, and Grief. I have also provided supervision to aspiring mental health professionals who are seeking graduation from both undergraduate and graduate programs along with those meeting requirements for state licensure. I am an advocate of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy coupled with Strengths Based and Solution Based modalities. Although I have had success with these modalities, I am educated in other modalities and will tailor treatment to be individualized. It would be my honor to help you establish and achieve both realistic and obtainable personal goals. I look forward to working together!
Dr. Paula Alvarez
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.
Erica Harmon
Hi there! First, I want to say that the fact you're here, scrolling through potential therapists, is a really big deal. It's not easy to reach out to others for support, and it means a lot that you're here. I'm Erica and my pronouns are she/her or they/them. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with a masters degree in, you guessed it, social work. I believe that therapy should be accessible and readily available for all people who want it. I'm glad to be working from a platform that offers so many flexible communication options for you, and I'm excited to meet you wherever you'd like to start. There are any number of things that might have brought you here. Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from family or loved ones, hopeless about the future, or like they're struggling to make decisions or meaningful change. They may be uncertain of how to start working or even paying attention to these thoughts and the accompanying emotions and behaviors, but they're ready to cultivate growth and self-compassion. If that sounds like you, you're in the right place, and I'm happy to walk with you on your journey of self-discovery. I respect and believe in every person's right to make their own decisions, and recognize how society itself has barriers that impede balance, and self-care. My goal is to provide an open, non-judgmental, and safe space for you to learn more about yourself—with help. I'm glad you're here, and hope you find the support you're looking for!
Jade Depue
I began my journey to becoming a therapist when I entered Mizzou as a freshman in August of 2004. I continued to further my education and pursue my passion of helping others in a myriad of ways throughout the years. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies in 2009 with a minor in Psychology. After taking a break to work in the People Management field, I then completed a Master of Education in Professional Counseling with a dual emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling through Stephens College in 2012. Attending to multiple demographics and having the opportunity to work in diverse settings throughout my educational and professional experience has allowed me to provide individualized care to those I work with. I have had the privilege of serving individuals throughout their lifespan, including those with developmental disabilities, severe and persistent mental illness, and in various transitional phases of their life. I believe that fostering and developing relationships are important components of leading a well balanced and healthy lifestyle. My role as a therapist is to guide and support those who seek out my services. I do this in a way that allows them to explore, process, learn techniques, gain perspective and follow through on ways to achieve those goals. I have a passion for helping others and enabling them to grow and develop by providing resources and assistance that aids in meeting those goals. My specialties and experience include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused, PSB-CBT, Illness Management and Recovery, and IDDT. I am skilled in Career Development, Individual and Family Therapy, Couples/Marriage Therapy, Coaching, Conflict Resolution, and Training
Ayanna Mills
I am a licensed Mental Health therapist in Missouri with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I got my BS in Psychology from University of Central Missouri. I later received my MS is Mental Health counseling from Walden University. I've worked with clients with a range of concerns such as depression , anxiety, relationships, self esteem, abuse , and career concerns. I have worked with many other diagnoses and concerns , however those were just to name a few. Along with working with a range of diagnosis I also work with those from many different backgrounds. My therapy style is empathic, genuine, and honest. My fellow therapist gave me the nickname of the rapport building therapist because I have a way of connecting with my clients that draws them into trusting the process. My approach is a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, humanistic, and psychodynamic. I like to meet clients where they are in the stages of change . I understand that everyone handles things differently and somethings are sensitive and hard to address. Therapy is not an easy thing to do and that is why I am on the journey with you. Whenever you are ready, so am I. I look forward to meeting you .
Helene Platke
Hi! I am Helene F. Platke, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri. My approach to therapy is very personalized to each individual and I use elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, DBT and EMDR therapeutic interventions to help clients find relief from their symptoms. I help clients look into their reasons for seeking therapy and what they hope to achieve through treatment to develop a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. In addition, I work with children and teens to help them work through the tough issues they may be facing in their lives. After receiving my Masters in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri in 1992, I provided individual, family and group therapy in a variety of different settings. My main focus in my early years was working with the victims of childhood trauma and violence. As my practice has developed, I have broadened my practice to focus on individuals struggling with eating disorders, anxiety, depression and grief. The relationship between the therapist and the client is one of the most important aspects of successful therapy. I hope to help you find the answers you are looking for by finding and eliminating the roadblocks put in your path to success. Together we can help you overcome your problems by focusing on your goals, dreams and aspirations.
Louis Koch
I am licensed in Missouri with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & relationship issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
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.
Lisa Winn
I am a licensed professional counselor with 22 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with a wide variety of life challenges including but not limited to: stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and parenting issues, motivation and self esteem. Life can certainly be difficult for all of us to navigate sometimes no matter what age we are and how far we have come, there is always room for further growth as we strive towards Self actualization. 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 change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Big Lake
Finding the best therapist close by in Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake. 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 Big Lake, 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake, elsewhere in Holt, 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Big Lake, 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 64437 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 Big Lake counselor?
Before seeing your Big Lake 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. Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake, 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.
Big Lake 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 Big Lake, 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake:
64437