Patricia Lord
I believe everyone has a unique story and it is in sharing these stories that I can offer empathy and hope to my clients. I received my Masters of Arts in Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling and my certification as a Play Therapist, and work extensively with adolescents, teens and young adults. My experience includes working with all ages and stages of divorce, co-parenting and step parenting relationships, grief and loss, anxiety, stress and depression, trauma, domestic violence and self harming behaviors. My work also includes assisting with behavioral, adjustment and attachment issues. With teens I have worked with self harm (non-suicidal), divorce of parents, adjustment disorder, depression, anxiety, handling expectations in a healthy way, understanding boundaries, among other things. I utilize therapy modalities and treatment approaches including client-focused, experiential, mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapies. I am committed to my client and the therapeutic process of helping them achieve their goals and gain satisfaction and joy in all aspects of their lives.
Susan Van Wazer
Hello and Welcome! I am really looking forward to getting started with you. It can take a big step to make that initial contact for some guidance and help. My name is Susan Van Wazer, and I go by "Sue." I've been a therapist for over 30 years and use a family systems theoretical approach when helping others through the issues and how those issues developed. I also use Cognitive behavioral therapy to guide people on making the changes that they want to see in their lives. Often it's the patterns that we aren't aware of that have an underlying pull to keep us where we are or keep us from making changes. I also help people who have survived traumatic childhood experiences that still haunt or effect one's life that can feel debilitating. Throughout my tenure as a therapist I have worked in many capacities, including developing programs, supervising therapists, running the administrative aspects of programs, such as grants, events, etc. I have lived in several places within this country from large metropolis to small town communities. I work with LGBQ, youth and young people, families, couples, career issues, persons seeking major change, persons seeing recovery from psychological trauma, depression, anxiety, and more. I'm looking forward to working with you! Talk to you soon! Sue
Shelly Flachs
Welcome to the therapeutic journey towards self-discovery and healing. I'm Shelly Flachs, a compassionate Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) serving individuals across Illinois, Iowa, Maine, and Missouri. With over a decade of dedicated experience, I've had the privilege of supporting individuals facing various challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, and life-altering situations. My therapeutic approach is rooted in empowerment, focusing on solutions, and honoring your unique strengths. Drawing from cognitive-behavioral theory, emotional freedom technique (EFT), and Safe and Sound Protocol, I tailor each session to suit your individual needs. I believe in fostering a genuine, positive, and safe environment where you can explore your story with respect and authenticity. Embarking on the journey of therapy can be daunting, but it's a courageous step towards personal growth and resilience. I commend you for taking that first step. Together, we'll identify your goals and create personalized plans to achieve them, guiding you towards a more fulfilling life. Specializing in stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, depression, and navigating life changes, I offer a range of clinical approaches, including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, EFT, and Safe and Sound Protocol. With a commitment to your well-being and growth, I'm honored to walk alongside you on this transformative journey. Let's embark on this path together, towards a brighter, more empowered tomorrow.
Amber Kwentus
I am an LPC and have been working full time in this capacity for over 5 years in St. Louis, Missouri. My background is extensive in working with substance abuse and trauma. Prior to working as an LPC, I had 5 years of experience as a social worker. I am an intuitive healer as well and incorporate this into my counseling based on a client's comfort level. I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach. I am passionate about leading clients through their pain to find their purpose and to lead an inspired life! My approach is a blending of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. Together we will create a plan and goals that best fit your life. Technology has the capacity to help us all learn how to integrate healthy self-care into our busy lives. BetterHelp may not be the only support you access, but it can be an important piece of your life. Congratulations on taking a courageous step toward recovery and for being a pioneer in the virtual counseling arena. If you choose to work with me as your BetterHelp counselor, I look forward to joining your support network.
Angela Bryant
I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in Missouri and Kansas. I have been in practice for over 10 years. I have experience working as a psychotherapist and consultant. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns from anxiety, depression, life balance, relationship issues, parenting, career challenges and ADHD. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. I work with those from young adulthood through geriatrics. I also work in education and have the understanding of what impacts educators, first responders and the like. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am her to support and empower you.
Sandra DeAtley
It can be so difficult to acknowledge that a problem exists, let alone reaching out for help! By doing so you have already demonstrated that you are brave and strong! I am a licensed clinical social worker with seven years of experience in direct service to clients. I have worked with clients from all social classes in non-profits and in the private sector and have found that the most important element of a therapeutic relationship is one between client and practitioner that is based on trust, collaboration, and respect. I have worked with the homeless to the privileged and everything in between. After working in an acute psychiatric facility there is not much that surprises me! But I never judge. I use a trauma-informed approach to develop a person-centered, strengths-based therapeutic plan by carefully listening to my clients and reflecting back to them to ensure that I understand them clearly. I have used CBT, Mindfulness therapy, Solution Focused therapy, Systems Theory therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and psychotherapy, usually combining two or more together depending on the client’s needs. I am actually very laid back and willing to meet people “where they are” in their journey. I have worked with autism and developmental disabilities, ADHD, addiction, issues relating to aging, depression, anxiety, and just about all of the diagnoses in the DSM 5. I received my BS in Psychology from UMKC in 2010 and my MSW, also from UMKC, in 2014. Care-giver fatigue is a special interest as well as grief and crisis intervention but I am willing to tackle any challenge a client brings my way! You have started your journey towards a successful therapeutic outcome and I would very much enjoy walking with you on that journey. But no matter who you choose to work with, most of all, I wish you success in your quest and commend you for the courage you have shown in taking this step!
Courtney Kempker
Courtney Kempker is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. She earned her Master of Education degree in Counseling Psychology from University of Missouri-Columbia. Courtney received her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Central Methodist University. Courtney has over three years of experience providing tele-mental health services, including virtual Brainspotting. She is passionate about serving youth and families and has over four years of experience working with clients that have experienced developmental trauma. Courtney also enjoys working with adults experiencing transitions in life such as going off college, starting a new job, moving, and parenthood. Courtney has received training in Brainspotting Phase I and II, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment, and Trauma Center Trauma-Sensitive Yoga. She is passionate about learning innovative interventions and evidence based practices for trauma integration. Courtney strives to provide culturally competent care and continues to expand her skillset.
Heather Naughton
I am an empathetic counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I have experience supporting, and counseling individuals with a variety of concerns ranging from substance abuse, depression, anxiety, grief, abuse, trauma, and situational stressors related to parenting, intimate relationships, and divorce. I use a variety of tools and intervention strategies including Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Short Term Solution Focused Strategies. I know that therapy can be hard! I believe the goal of therapy is to develop the tools that move you toward life and to let go of what no longer serves you. For me therapy isn’t about “fixing “ anyone. We are doing the best we can with the tools we have. We can accept where we are right now AND can work to improve. I honor the strength it takes to hope and am so proud of you for getting started.
Debra Wyatt
I am licensed in Missouri with 22 years of clinical work with individuals, families, and groups. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. You decide on a plan to meet your unique and specific needs at a time that works for you. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
David Robb
I am licensed in Missouri with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Pasadena Hills
Finding the best therapist close by in Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills. 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 Pasadena Hills, 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills, elsewhere in St. Louis, 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Pasadena Hills, 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 63121 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 Pasadena Hills counselor?
Before seeing your Pasadena Hills 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. Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills, 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.
Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills, 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 Pasadena Hills 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 Pasadena Hills:
63121