Along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers in the extreme southeastern corner of Missouri, you will find the small town of Charleston, Missouri. The town was settled in 1805 and at the time it was called Matthews Prairie and then the name was changed in 1837 for the nearby Charles Prairie. The Battle of Charleston was held here on August 19, 1861.

History is important and it can be fun as well. Looking at your own family’s history can be good for your health too as it can tell you if there are any hereditary illnesses in your past such as mental illness. Talk to a Charleston area therapist or counselor if you have any concerns or questions about your mental health.

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Ty Thornton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): MS LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
17 years of experience

Hi! I'm Ty! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and have been working in the mental health field for 17 years. I have a wide range of experience, counseling adolescents and adults, as well as conducting marriage and family therapy. I have extensive training and experience in the areas of mood and personality disorders, trauma, and addiction. I have a keen understanding of how these, as well as other life issues impact an individual and his or her family. I am passionate about helping others and my fun personality and sense of humor assure your counseling experience will be helpful and enjoyable. Whatever the issue or situation you may be experiencing, I think you will find that I'm easy to talk to. I tend to use a client-centered approach to ensure that clients feel comfortable, understood, and accepted. I also work from a cognitive-behavioral framework to help clients understand how their negative and unhelpful thinking can impact their behaviors and life choices. In my time away from counseling, I enjoy spending time with my husband and children as well as other family and friends. I am an avid runner and yogi. I like most outdoor activities, and music of all kinds, especially country. I value hard work and keeping commitments. I am also very enthusiastic about cute shoes and big jewelry. I commend your courage for seeking help to reach your life goals, and I look forward to working with you!

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Lucia Walker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

My name is Lucia Walker, and I am a licensed clinical social worker, licensed in Missouri since 2013. I have a bachelors in psychology and a masters in criminal justice and social work. I have over 10 years of experience working with people of many ages, including teenagers that may suffer from different mental health conditions, such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, ADHD, Anxiety disorders, and others. I have worked in both outpatient mental health centers and inpatient psychiatric hospital settings. My therapy style is warm and non judgement, I genuinely listening to my clients and respect their thoughts and ideas. I like to keep sessions to 30 minutes as much as possible, so we can work efficiently on problems and solutions, and also respect client's time, since I know it is sometimes difficult to find the time in the day for therapy sessions. It can be extended to 45 minutes when a longer session is needed. During sessions, I provide feedback to clients, and help clients come up with practical solutions to problems, or present another perspective that help clients work through difficult situations. I take a holistic perspective, taking into consideration how our social, physical, mental, and spiritual environments all effect our mental health. The main approaches that I use in therapy include cognitive behavioral approach and solution focused approach. If you suffer from depression or anxiety, attention issues, trauma issues or other concerns, I am here to help. I believe that you can improve your mental health, and overcome many concerns you have with a little help from others. I would love to be that person to help you, and if you would like to begin therapy sessions, please feel free to reach out to me.

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Sheila Stewart

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health therapist in Missouri with 18 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping adolescent and adults with depression, loneliness, stress and anxiety, family/relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss, career difficulties, and other challenges. I provide an authentic and safe environment to help individuals grow and learn more about themselves and their relationships. I approach therapy in a client centered and holistic way, allowing clients to direct their own path to growth and/or healing but I also incorporate techniques such as CBT, mindfulness, family systems, psychodynamic, and experiential therapies as needed. Taking the first step towards a healthier/ happier life can take courage and I am here to support you along this journey!

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Alfaye Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
17 years of experience

My name is Alfaye, and I am licensed in Missouri with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & bipolar disorder. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My greatest joy is my personal relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus . Christ. My greatest accomplishment is my amazing son, and my greatest passion can be found through my 501c3 Non-profit of the past 14 years...H.O.P.E. Inc, where I am the Founder and CEO. The Mission of H.O.P.E. is to provide housing, education and training for homeless youth, at-risk youth and youth in need, while providing outreach ministry to all in need. As a Professional Counselor I count it an honor to serve you. I realize that you, the client are entrusting your deepest concerns, intimate details, memories, fears and joys with a stranger...allowing yourself to be vulnerable. Thank you for your courage, your trust and the ability to invest in your mental health. Although we will build rapport, develop and nurture a professional relationship, this means we will not be strangers for long. However, you have to take the first step...and you can! My promise to you, is to treat your person, your feelings, and your thoughts as you process in sessions with the utmost respect, without judgement, and with confidentiality as it pertains to the law. It is my practice to respect your time, be prepared, and possess the ethical, clinical and evidence-based knowledge, skills and abilities to meet your therapeutic needs. This practice is applicable by setting goals, developing individualized treatment plans, understanding, investing, and learning how to care for your mental health. My counseling style is caring and warm without enabling. Holding you accountable, while helping you to walk in your truth. My Treatment Modalities include Individual counseling, group counseling, and couples counseling. My Therapeutic Modalities most commonly used are...Cognitive Behavioral Therapy ( CBT ), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Solution Focus Therapy, Mindfulness, Humanistic Therapy and Christian Therapy. Let's take this journey together...1 Step @ a x

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LaJoya McDonald

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas, and Missouri with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Bobby Hines

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

I am licensed in Missouri with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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David Tyler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee and Missouri with over 10 years of professional counseling experience. My focus is centered on helping clients deal more effectively with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, and career challenges. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My approach to helping people focuses on identifying the strengths that you possess, and using them to help overcome the obstacles you are facing. Most people who know me well would describe me as compassionate, optimistic while staying well-grounded in reality, relaxed, open-minded, and very curious. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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John Backfisch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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John Dickerson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I was born and raised in rural northwest Missouri. My experience has given me an understanding of the unique mental health challenges faced by individuals in small rural communities. Driven by a passion for helping others, I pursued a career in social work, earning both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Missouri State University, before earning my clinical license in social work. I strive to bring my wealth of experience to my practice, having worked in inpatient, outpatient, and in-home settings. My holistic approach allows me to connect with clients of all ages and backgrounds, helping them navigate their personal journeys towards healing and growth.

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Elizabeth Craft

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Charleston
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with over 10 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping individuals manage life's challenges through a strengths-based approach. I believe that every person has inherent resilience and unique strengths that can be leveraged to overcome challenges and foster emotional well-being. In our work together, I will help you identify and build on your personal strengths, while providing evidence-based strategies to manage difficult emotions, shift negative thought patterns, and enhance self-compassion. My goal is to create a supportive and collaborative space where you can gain clarity, develop coping skills, and achieve meaningful growth. If you're looking to develop a more balanced, empowered approach to life, I am here to help you navigate this journey toward healing and resilience.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Charleston

Finding the best therapist close by in Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston. 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 Charleston, 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston, elsewhere in Mississippi, 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Charleston, 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 63834 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 Charleston counselor?

Before seeing your Charleston 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. Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston 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 Charleston, 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.

Charleston 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 Charleston, Missouri

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

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

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

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

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

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

63834

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