This is Sherrie Stafford's avatar and link to their profile

Sherrie Stafford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): MS LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a medically retired police officer turn mental health therapist. I am a licensed professional counselor with a certification in sex addiction treatment, I am a police trainer of trainers for domestic violence. I have been on certified DBT teams, I am EMDR l&ll trained, my thesis was on attachment disorders in adults, I have worked the suicide hotline, I investigated rape and sexual assault cases, many hours in trauma education and training. I helped develop Building Resiliency for First Responders 4 hour training. I have worked with Fort Carson, Fort Hood, FE Warren AFB, Air Force Academy and Schriever AFB and provided therapy for those with special clearances, individuals and couples. I have worked closely with mental health court, drug court on both the state and city level, I have also worked with family drug court and juvenile drug court. I have worked with many trauma survivors. I teach some mindfulness and meditation classes and love providing education on neurotransmitters. I provide counseling to couples on relationship issues, attachment issues, and intimacy issues, and infidelity issues. I worked at a care clinic for HIV/ AIDs and HEP C specific patients with emphasis on LGBTQ clients.

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Toni McClure

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW,CEAP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a family therapy concentration, and Life Coach with over 30 years’ experience who will work with you to reach your goals. I am also a trained crisis counselor, and Employee Assistance Professional. I have proudly offered clinical services to our active military, reserved, and veterans. I have also worked intensively with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, with a strong background in trauma recovery. I especially enjoy helping individuals find their internals strengths to solve problems. I specialize in helping individuals gain and maintain a healthy and balanced life: holistic approach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including and not limited to depression, anxiety, life stress, family issues, trauma, and grief and loss. My approach is strengths-based , cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, problem-solving, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to meet your unique and specific needs/goals. We will work closely together as we embark on your journey to implement your roadmap to success. I listen and genuinely care about you and your concerns. I will help you identify and use your strengths and set personal goals. I will also assist you with finding the skills and tools necessary to rise above obstacles, improve your life, and reach your personal goals. Ultimately to empower you to make the positive changes you are seeking.

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Patricia Brooks

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
11 years of experience

Patricia Brooks is a Licensed Professional Counselor who received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and her Master of Science in Youth and Family Services from Bellevue University. Patricia has been practicing as a Professional Counselor for over 9 years. Additionally, she has worked in mental and behavioral health services for over 20 years, providing various supports that strengthen both the individual and the family. Creating a space where people feel safe and respected is a primary goal of Patricia’s and she takes a non-judgmental, open and trustworthy approach when developing the therapy relationship. Patricia’s philosophy is that when people have hope and can learn to challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, people are free to experience change. Patricia provides individual, family and group therapy and her approach to therapy is eclectic; using a blend of Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Reality Based, DBT and psychoeducation to provide mental health and substance abuse treatment to individuals age thirteen and up. Patricia holds evening and weekend hours, serves commercial insurances and employee assistance programs.

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Melissa Teasley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience

My name is Melissa Teasley, MS, LPC. I am a therapist licensed in Missouri with over 10 years of experience working as a counselor and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, substance abuse and addiction, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, etc. In addition to my education, I also have personal experiences that have increased my resilience and understanding of difficult situations in life. I believe in a warm, comfortable, and laid-back counseling environment. I personally don't believe that I have to wear a dress or suit to make a good first impression. I am a regular person, like everyone else, who just happens to have educational and professional experience in the therapy career field. I would like my clients to feel safe and comfortable speaking with me. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, mindful, and person-centered therapies. 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 here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Selma Wesley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in the state of Missouri . I have over 20 years of experience counseling individuals, couples, and families s with a wide range of concerns. Having specialize in home in and community-based counseling, I have also worked with clients in a wide range of environments. My experience with diverse participants has allowed me to acquire the therapeutic skills needed to work effectively with youth, teenagers and young adults from all walks of life to address a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, grief and loss, emotional abuse, as well as important life transitions. My counseling style is empathetic supportive, warm, encouraging, and interactive. I believe in meeting people where they are, with respect, dignity, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive behavioral, humanistic, solution focused, rationale emotive, and psychodynamic therapy. Treatment planning will be designed to meet the unique needs of the individual or family working to make change. I provide the support needed to share, become aware and address life challenges in a way that result in a more fulfilling life.

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Crystal Ellis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): LSCSW,CCTP,200 RYT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionADHD
12 years of experience

Hi there! Thanks for stopping by to check out my page as you search to find the very best fit for yourself on this journey! Let's get to it. I am a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). I am licensed in the state of Kansas and Missouri and work part-time as a Yoga Therapist, RYT 200. I have 12 years of clinical experience and have worked with individuals of all ages facing a multitude of challenges including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, parenting concerns, gender identity needs, relationship issues, self esteem and overcoming everyday stressors. I enjoy providing education regarding the impacts of childhood trauma and how to use that information to better understand ourselves and how to heal moving forward. I believe the more in-tune we are with ourselves the better equipped we are to make positive and lasting changes in life. My therapeutic approach is holistic in nature. I believe the most important aspect is meeting clients where they are. You know yourself better than anyone and it is your intention, purpose and goal that matters most in this work. I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space allowing people to be themselves while feeling supported and encouraged to create and maintain the life they want. I utilize various therapeutic approaches based on goals of my clients and their individual needs. If you feel we would work well together I look forward to getting to know you more. If you go a different direction I wish you all the best in your journey!

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Stephanie Cooper

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Stress, AnxietyBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington and Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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!

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Cory Neal

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri as a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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. I mainly use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Motivational Interviewing in my therapy sessions. CBT is a technique that can help you change unhealthy or unhelpful ways of thinking, which in turn, could help with other parts of your life. Solution Focused Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses mainly on setting up quick goals that can help with the issues or struggles you are currently going through. Motivational Interviewing is technique that frames certain questions to help clients come to their own understanding of how to solve their issues or struggles. 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 Dr. Grace Monterubio's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Grace Monterubio

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am a Psychologist licensed in Missouri with experience working with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other life stressors. I also have experience in virtual therapy where I provided support to clients working through guided self-help apps. I try to meet clients where they are to help them reach their goals in a way that works for them. I have been trained with a cognitive-behavioral therapy orientation, but also include value-based and emotion-focused practices when I work with clients. I offer about 5 live sessions a week, usually in the early evenings. I aim to frequently engage with my clients via the messaging platform to keep our therapeutic work going outside the live sessions.

This is Elva 'Julia' Garafola's avatar and link to their profile

Elva 'Julia' Garafola

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, Sparta
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Ms. Garafola received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas Woman's University and earned her Master's degree in Mental Health and Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington, as well as her Associate's degree in Nutrition from Tarrant County College. Over the past ten years, she has had the opportunity to work with seniors and their families in a myriad of settings to include end of life issues, chronic illness, grief and loss, life transitions, caregiver issues and aging parents. Ms. Garafola practices client-centered philosophy, utilizing cognitive behavior therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy. She believes in developing a non-judgmental and trusting therapeutic relationship with each client in order to provide guidance in discovering qualities and strengths, tools, and skills they can use in maneuvering life's challenges. Ms. Garafola's happy place is the beach has relocated from Texas to Florida where she lives with her husband and 15 year old pup Lola. Spending time outside in the sunshine biking and gardening are activities of choice, as well as dining out, shopping, traveling, and family vacations with her adult children. She is active in her church as well as her husband's vacation property business.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Sparta

Finding the best therapist close by in Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta. 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 Sparta, 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta, 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Sparta, 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 65753 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 Sparta counselor?

Before seeing your Sparta 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. Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta 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 Sparta, 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.

Sparta 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 Sparta, 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 Sparta 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 Sparta.

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

65753

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