Ian Guthrie
I am a professional counselor licensed in the state of Missouri, with about seven years of experience, and over a decade and a half of experience working with addiction and mental health. I have worked with a range of clients, from children to elderly, who have come to me for a variety of issues, including anxiety and stress, depression, relationship issues, addiction, and lack of motivation. There are times in our lives when we need a new vision and someone to help us create strategies to overcome old challenges and take life to the next level. Seeking this change can be a daunting task, but I am here to help support you in your success. My counseling style is rather eclectic, based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with strong influences from Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused techniques, and existential psychotherapy. I look forward to working with you!
David Robbins
Life gets to us sometimes. Sometimes we need help. I'll be your coach, support, and cheerleader through this tough time in your life, and can provide you with the good constructive feedback that you need. If you're motivated to make positive change in your life, I might be able to help you. I find that seeking to answer the common question of "why am I doing this?" is very helpful and freeing for people, and reminds them that they can in fact make changes to get their lives back on track. My approach is based on being direct and honest. Your time and money are valuable. I don't want to waste either of those, and wish to get you pointed in a positive direction. I'll work to help you get out of your own way, so that you can give life both barrels. My academic background is Motivational Psychology and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Though those are my theoretical approaches, I will draw on any treatment necessary to help you achieve your goals. There is no "one size fits all approach" as people are all very different from one another. I do my best to tailor your treatment to you, whether we're dealing with depression, stress, anxiety, or coaching. I have Bachelor's and Master's Degrees in Psychology, having graduated from MidAmerica Nazarene University in 2009 with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology. I have been in practice for over 10 years, and have worked in mental health since 2006. I've had a wide variety of work experiences, such as working in an Inpatient mental health unit(Psych Hospital), drug rehab clinics, eating disorder clinics, and clinical work at a Private Psychiatric Practice. I also draw on my various life experiences and previous work experience prior to mental health to assist my patients. If you choose to work with me, we just might be able to move forward and get the change you've been looking for. I look forward to working with you!
Kimberly Donihue
Welcome and let's get started! I'm glad you are here. Life can be stressful, uncertain, even painful. Maybe you are hopeful things will change, have little support, or out of options. Over time, stress can negatively affect one's health, well-being, and outlook. It takes courage to try again. Whatever you are going through, I welcome you. You are worth it. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC); Licensed Marital and Family Therapist (LMFT); a Certified Reciprocal Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CRAADC); and a Medication Assisted Recovery Specialist; (MARS). I also hold two national post-masters' credentials: Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor, and AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I stay current on the latest evidenced-based treatments and protocols. I have a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University Santa Barbara and a BA in English Literature from UCSB. Individuals, couples, families, children and Supervisees. I have extensive experience in the areas of anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, relational trauma, ADHD, family dynamics, and addiction (chemical and process). Previous positions include director of a local counseling center; women's program director at a faith-based residential treatment center; primary therapist at a hospital; 28-day residential treatment center counselor, and case manager with Substance Abuse Treatment Court (SATC). My approach is to cultivate safety for the foundation of our work. My style is warm, attentive, & non-judgmental. Through assessments, discussions, and mutually agreed-upon goals, I tailor an individualized treatment plan. Together, we discuss the plan and if agreed upon, move forward, staying attuned to levels of motivation, and mindful of your pace. You can have a life worth living. Your individualized plan reflects an integration of treatment models, which allows for drawing from a menu of treatment options to best serve the client and specific needs. I use CBT; DBT; EMDR; Motivational Interviewing, faith-based counseling; MARS; TF-CBT; Exposure Therapy; play therapy; Sandplay; family systems; and Clinical Supervision. You've taking a valuable step towards bettering your life today. Feel free to contact me for more information. I typically check messages every 1 -2 hours during the day. I return messages within the hour, with the exception of Tuesday afternoons. I am looking forward to meeting you!
Laura Hazard
Let’s just say life is overwhelming. Overwhelming due to moving, career and relationship changes, education, physical/mental health goals… Life Is A LOT. With 15 years of experience as a behaviorist and 5 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor we can work together to break your life into bite sized, manageable pieces. Being an open minded and approachable person, my goal is to create a comfortable, receptive space for you to explore yourself and the life you have. Using cognitive behavior theories to increase awareness of self, we can work together to identify your strengths and talents and use them more effectively. My background in working with those during major life transitions, such as mental health crisis, compassion fatigue, unhealthy relationships, anxiety, depression and personality disorder, means that I can roll with you through life’s punches. Together we can break the overwhelmed feelings into understandable pieces, putting them back together into the picture you are looking for.
Timothy Klopfenstein
I am a licensed counselor who has worked with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings, including a professional counseling office as well as pastoral counseling. For those who request it, I offer faith-based counseling. My counseling approach is relational, drawing from a variety of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral, to provide sensitive, compassionate, and caring approach. Additionally, I am certified in SYMBIS pre-marital/young married assessment and counseling.
Amy Eilers
I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Missouri, with 24 years of professional psychotherapy experience with adults, adolescents and children, in individual and group settings. I obtained my Masters in Social Work from Indiana University. I have expertise in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, cancer/life threatening illness, and other major life changes in relationships and work. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal, and solution focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Shannon Crandall
As a clinical social worker, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals navigate through challenging times and overcome their mental health struggles. With over 20 years of experience in the field, I have worked in various settings such as hospitals, community mental health centers, and private practice. I have a special interest in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression and anxiety issues. My approach is rooted in empathy, compassion, and evidence-based practices to help my clients achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives. Outside of my work, I am a proud 50-year-old mom to three young adults . Balancing my personal and professional life can be challenging at times, but I find great joy in watching my children grow and thrive. As a mother, I bring a unique perspective to my work, understanding the complexities of family dynamics and the importance of supporting individuals in their journey towards healing. I am committed to continuous learning and professional development to provide the best possible care for my clients. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those I work with and am dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being in my community.
Steven Taylor
I am licensed in Missouri with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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. 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.
Dr. Susan Wise
I am a licensed LPC in Missouri with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, LGBT-related issues, & relationship issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Karley Reece
I am licensed in Missouri and Texas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Birmingham
Finding the best therapist close by in Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham. 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 Birmingham, 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham, elsewhere in Clay, 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Birmingham, 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 64161 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 Birmingham counselor?
Before seeing your Birmingham 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. Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham, 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.
Birmingham 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 Birmingham, 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 Birmingham 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 Birmingham:
64161