Richard Wheat
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and am licensed in both the state of Missouri and Texas. I have been practicing counseling since 2011 starting with my internship experience in Grad school. I have experience working with people struggling with substance use disorders. I also have experience in addressing emotional disturbances such as anxiety and depression. I have also been working with couples helping with difficulties that they have in their marriages. My approach to counseling uses many techniques from cognitive behavior therapy to address the thoughts and behaviors that we have that are causing and or contributing to the problems that we face. I also as the need arises use techniques from other theoretical orientations of counseling as they are appropriate and helpful to you the client. I am here to help you meet your goals and needs. I understand at times making the needed changes in your life can be difficult; I aim to help you make those changes a little easier.
Catherine Heil
Hello! Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Cathy and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have over thirteen years of experience providing therapeutic services in an inpatient and outpatient setting, and over twenty years experience as a Social Worker in the mental health field. I have worked in a wide range of therapeutic settings which include inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations, outpatient mental health care, and correctional institutions. I work with people who are affected by depression, anxiety, trauma, and assist individuals who are experiencing relationship challenges. I received my undergraduate degree in Social Work from Southeast Missouri State University in 1997. I attended the University of Missouri, Columbia and graduated with a Master of Social Work degree in 2009, and subsequently obtained my Clinical License in 2011. My approach to therapy is warm, empathetic, goal oriented and client centered. I use the modalities of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. These approaches are hands-on and practical approaches to assist with a variety of problems. CBT identifies patterns in thinking that contribute to unwanted feelings and behaviors with the goal to change these thought patterns, which subsequently change negative emotions. These approaches will assist with learning better ways of coping with life's stressors. Reaching out for support can be difficult, and I applaud you for taking this step toward a path of emotional well being. I look forward to working with you!
David Yoder
I am in my 6th year as a Licensed Professional Counselor, this is who I am, not what I do. Doing what I love is effortless and natural to me so our time together may also feel natural and easy. Most of my professional experience has centered around fear-based struggles: stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, transitions, relationships, past experiences... I use these terms that are common however they feel like boxes; my finding is that everyone comes into these spaces differently, experiences them differently and moves out of them differently. Counseling is an art form; I am here to assist you with identifying and then creating the picture you want for your life. The canvas for this is a Person-Centered approach. The originator of this philosophy, Carl Rogers, said this is often all that is needed to facilitate change. I have a variety of other tools for us that may prove useful; DBT, CBT, Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Breathwork, Yoga, Transactional Analysis, Hypnotherapy, Existential Therapy, Trauma Therapy and REBT are the most common. They are all amazing in their own way.
Heather Luhmann
Welcome! I know it is not easy to reach out for help but I am so glad that you did! I am sure you may have some questions about me, so let me tell you a little about myself. I am a license clinical therapist, certified trauma specialist, and meditation and mindfulness coach. I have over 10 years experience and I am from Missouri. I coach others to explore their full potential through traditional therapy techniques as well as meditation and mindfulness practices. I use these skills to help clients shed anything that is covering up the highest version of themselves, or what I call their essence. My main goal is to assist others in self discovery of their gifts, talents, and infinite worth so that they can become their best self and create a life they love. I have worked with clients with a broad range of concerns including: anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, addictions, trauma, and abuse. Sometimes clients are not able to name their concern other than feeling that their awe, happiness and zest for life has been replaced with a low grade numbness and they would like to reclaim their life. I welcome all clients exactly where they find themselves and work with them to get where they want to go. My counseling style is warm, accepting and easy-going. We will work together to achieve your goals. In my view, we are all doing the best we can in this moment and we have infinite potential and possibility for growth. My approach uses techniques from acceptance therapy, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and trauma informed therapy. I want you to know that you are not alone and if you chose to move forward with me, I will be here to support and help you create the life you want, It would be my honor and privilege to assist you. Namaste, Heather
Adam Hewitt
Hello! My name is Adam Hewitt, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Missouri. I have been with BetterHelp since 2021 after spending several years in private practice as a mental health therapist and substance abuse counselor. I've always been passionate about helping people overcome their challenges. When it comes to therapy, I like to keep things friendly and honest. I will never talk down to you or make you feel like a burden. I find it incredibly rewarding to see the joy on people's faces when they realize just how strong they can be, whether it's facing their fears, overcoming addictions, or taking control of their lives. As for my therapeutic approach, I focus on your strengths. I believe that everyone has innate abilities that can help them achieve their life goals, and it is my job to help you find yours. I take a mindfulness based approach, and am very sensitive to how technology and culture intersect to make our lives more complicated. I've worked significantly with people dealing with trauma, substance and gaming addiction, and systemic oppression. My aim is to help individuals become empowered to go out into the world feeling in charge of their lives. I don't consider myself to work for an agency; I'm here because of you. My promise is to let you take the lead to make the changes in your life that are meaningful to you. My hope is that my openness and positive attitude will make you feel trusted and inspired to live the life you deserve.
Deedra Ivie
Hi, I’m Deedra Ivie. My goal is to help you find the strength that is already inside of you and bring that to light. Each client is different and has needs unique to their upbringing and life circumstances. I enjoy learning about your past circumstances, ways of thinking and current situation to find the best way to move forward to achieve progress and find peace. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with most clients suffering from depression and anxiety. I work with you to identify the exact feelings you are experiencing. Then we work on identifying the thought behind the feeling. After we find the exact issue prompting your emotions, we work to change the thoughts. We discuss coping skills to help you find relief in the midst of your intense emotions. If you are experiencing more extreme emotions I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy. For DBT, I walk you through the different stages of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Distress tolerance and mindfulness are both a good place to start to help you find some relief from your symptoms. Then you can move forward to work on recognizing and regulating your emotions. Interpersonal effectiveness can also be very helpful. This helps you learn how to relate to others in your life in a healthier way. I graduated from Colorado Christian University with a Masters in Counseling. I have worked in Community Mental Health Centers, Treatment Facilities and I have a private practice. I am married with 4 children, whom I homeschool. Most of my time is spent with my family outdoors. We also have pigs, goats, dogs, chickens, bees and I garden. I look forward to finding out more about you and how I can help.
Andrea Rako
I am licensed in both Illinois and Missouri as an LCSW. I have over 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, end of life care, coping with grief and loss, anger management, chronic mental illness, and aging concerns. My work has allowed me the privilege of working with people across the lifespan, from infants to the aged. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I like to use an eclectic mix of therapy types, but do use a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT). You are the expert on you and I will always respect that. 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.
Cathy Looper
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in the St. Louis, Missouri area. My experience is varied across clients and settings. I have worked with children as young as three years old and clients who are well into their golden years. Presenting issues have also varied and include substance use, trauma, sex-trafficking, gender identity, self-harm, relationships, depression, anxiety, guilt/shame, and grief. Some of my experience has been in private practice and some in residential settings. I am very aware and respectful of cross-cultural factors and the unique types of trauma that people experience. The approach I take with clients will vary, depending on the need of the client. I am trained in EMDR, certified in DBT and TF-CBT, and use other modalities, such as SFBT and CBT. It is important to me that each individual be provided with the approach that best suits his/her/their needs. Together, we will determine a plan that is just right for you. It takes a lot of strength and courage to take the first step toward empowerment, fulfillment, happiness, or whatever it is you’re looking for that will create a life worth living. Congratulations on taking that step by being here! I am ready and willing to walk that path with you, support you, and empower you on that journey, and I can’t wait to cheer you on and watch you thrive.
Dennis Hounshell
I am licensed in Missouri with 20 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 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!
Karen Thornton
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Mercer
Finding the best therapist close by in Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer. 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 Mercer, 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer, elsewhere in Mercer, 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Mercer, 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 64661 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 Mercer counselor?
Before seeing your Mercer 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. Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer 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 Mercer, 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.
Mercer 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 Mercer, 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 Mercer 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 Mercer:
64661