Finley River Park, the Ozark Mill, and Smallin Civil War Cave are just a few of the fun places to explore in Ozark. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Southern Missouri, this small town has a lot of exciting things to do. Just a short trip to Branson where you can visit one of the many shows or museums along the 76 strip or ride the ziplines, roller coaster, or go carts. There’s a ton of stuff to do in Ozark

The city also boasts some of the top mental health care in the state with therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists trained in diagnosing and treating all types of mental illnesses. If you or someone you know is having emotional or mental issues, contact one of the experts in Ozark today.

This is Kathleen (Kathy)  Abeln's avatar and link to their profile

Kathleen (Kathy) Abeln

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
6 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with 6 years of experience in providing counseling and direct mental health to my clients. I have worked with clients from ages 6 to adults with a multitude of presenting issues such as developmental trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues, PTSD, self-esteem and self-identity issues and neurodevelopmental disorders. I started off at St. Louis University where I got my bachelor's of Arts in Psychology. I worked in the work force for about 15 years, before going back and pursing my graduate degree in Counseling. I graduated from Missouri Baptist University where I got my Masters in Counseling. I have worked extensively with adolescents and adults that have experienced trauma, PTSD, anxiety and depression. My experience is varied and across many different settings, as I have provided group therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy in residential treatment programs, community mental-health agencies, school settings and private practice settings. I believe that relationships are the true agent for change and I am currently working in a program that is relationship based. I also have experience working with family systems dealing with attachment and relationship issues. My main focus in therapy is to meet my client where they are at with acceptance and non-judgement and to use an approach that will work best for us as we work toward meeting your therapy goals. With my experience, I truly believe I can help families and adults heal their relationships and work through the struggles they face. I am here to support you through your journey.

This is Lisa Spore's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Spore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

My name is Lisa Spore and I have worked in the mental health field in Missouri for 14 years. Ten of those years have been as a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I believe in seeking out trainings in the latest techniques and polishing my skills to provide the best therapeutic experience my clients could ask for. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting (BSP), Somatic Experiencing, and use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused Brief, and Client-Centered approaches in my practice. Everyone is unique, and I embrace that uniqueness by tailoring therapy to each client. I provide therapy within a safe and judgement-free environment. I believe accepting the limits of the human condition increases client’s positive responses to support and encouragement in the therapeutic setting. While utilizing strong clinical skills, I recognize that integration of natural healing can promote a strong foundation for optimum personal growth. The mind-body balance is paramount to returning to a healthy and positive emotional state. The Therapeutic relationship is recognized as the most important factor in a positive experience. In our sessions, we will work together to identify the best approach to address your specific needs. We will also explore any underlying emotional reactivity that could be increasing painful experiences. Evaluating current and past issues can assist us in recognizing how past events can negatively impact daily functioning. Solution focused techniques, Brainspotting, CBT, or Somatic Experiencing, in varying combinations, can all be used to alleviate distress.

This is Sheila Funk-Jansen's avatar and link to their profile

Sheila Funk-Jansen

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Counselor License Type(s): LISW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello, my name is Sheila Funk-Jansen. I am a licensed clinical therapist in Iowa and Illinois. I graduated with my MSW in social work in 2003 from University of Missouri-Columbia. I have worked with a variety of courageous people in my journey to help them be more vulnerable, brave, and resilient. For the last 25+ years, I I have worked with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, addiction, family conflicts, and many other areas of life. I believe people have the resiliency to move the barriers that life presents to us. Life is all about learning. Learning about ourselves and giving up our comforts in life are scary even if they are unhealthy. Each person is unique and I am here to start where you are at in your journey. I utilize therapy approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focus Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing along with utilizing other modalities. The client and therapist's alliance is crucial in providing a safe, non judgmental space to be open and vulnerable to see their potential and resiliency to grow when experiencing hurt and pain. I see people through the week along with some weekends. I work with schedules as much as I can to help get people in sooner when needed. I look forward in working with you. Sheila

This is Cherri McCord's avatar and link to their profile

Cherri McCord

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC-MHSP,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Missouri and Tennessee with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, & addictions. 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!

This is Dr. Jill Hackley's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Jill Hackley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Counselor License Type(s): Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

Dr. Jill Hackley is a Licensed Psychologist. She is licensed in Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Minnesota and Nebraska. She is an Iowa Health Services Provider with diverse clinical experiences. She obtained her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology from Forest Institute of Professional Psychology. She obtained a Master’s Degree from Drake University in Community Counseling. She uses a variety of treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. Dr. Hackley’s areas of focus include anxiety, depression, adoption/attachment, foster care and family issues. A majority of her experiences have been working with children and adolescents within an inpatient and residential setting. She has been working in the mental health field as a psychologist for 15 years doing individual, group, family therapy and psychological testing.

This is Isaac Crawford's avatar and link to their profile

Isaac Crawford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I help all kinds of people understand themselves more fully and make fundamental changes to their way of being and relating to others. As an artist myself, I have an affinity for working with artists, creatives, and even other therapists. If you're looking for a therapist who can be with you all the way, then I might be the one for you. I'm trauma informed and incorporate the biology of human arousal, attachment theory, and neuroscience. I'm experienced with ADD/ADHD, ASD, BPD, PTSD, OCD, various world-views/religions, LGBTQIA+, and poly and open relationships, to name a few. I also love working with couples. My approach is experiential, where you’ll learn it AND do it, not just talk about it. You’ll learn about yourselves and the dynamics between you, and how to be secure functioning. My hope is that you show up to sessions as you are. Sure, there can be anxiety and challenging emotions, but it can be fun and feel good, too. I hope our work will leave you with greater insight into your journey of life-long development, and in the case of couples, in your ability to be secure functioning partners. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

This is Michelle Pendzimas's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Pendzimas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am Michelle Pendzimas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri with over 20 years of professional work experience. I can help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I know that change is hard and it takes courage to admit that what you are doing now is not working. My philosophy is that healing happens through relationships and resilience, because we can’t always change our environment. Sometimes we can only change from within. Thank you for taking this first step and I am here to support you through this process.

This is Amanda Anderson's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Anderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

This is Laura Coleman's avatar and link to their profile

Laura Coleman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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!

This is Sarah Thakur's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Thakur

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Ozark
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, 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. 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 Ozark

Finding the best therapist close by in Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark. 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 Ozark, 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark, elsewhere in Christian, 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ozark, 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 65721 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 Ozark counselor?

Before seeing your Ozark 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. Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark, 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.

Ozark 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 Ozark, 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 Ozark 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 Ozark.

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

65721

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist