
Lauren Ripley
Hello and welcome! Because you're reading this, you're probably thinking about therapy. Let me tell you that you've done a great job so far in seeking help, it's definitely not an easy step to take and I'm a huge believer in celebrating the small things. There's something to be said about a person who wants to better themselves; whatever draws you here, I hope you find what you're looking for. Here's a little about me to help clarify any questions you may have: I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2016) from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. I later moved to Missouri and am now a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I've worked as a therapist in several different settings such as college counseling centers, rehabilitation centers for drug and alcohol use, and in the private practice setting. In these environments I've helped people manage concerns with depression, suicide and self harm, issues related to relationships with themselves and others, anxiety, sexuality and the LGBTQ population, and addiction. I've also been able to work with people that have experienced trauma and family conflicts. Each therapist operates from a certain style and orientation in which they approach the counseling process. Usually, it's a multi-faceted approach and I believe that the key is to remain flexible. That being said, my main approach tends to be relatable, personal, and straight forward. I believe in transparency in sessions, meaning I'm not afraid to be real with you while helping to guide, support, and validate your experiences. Therapy is a vulnerable process so it's my job to help you feel safe and empowered. In doing this, we'll talk about your strengths and what makes you who you are, and use those to help achieve your goals. I believe that you're the expert of your life; I'm just here to help you talk through it and I find that through positivity and humor, life seems a bit more manageable.

Nicole VandeLinde
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional counselor in the state of Missouri with over 10 years of experience. I I feel honored to be able to walk with people through some of their most difficult times and help them find hope and healing in their lives, which may have felt impossible at the start. My approach to counseling is to create an atmosphere where people feel comfortable enough to be genuinely known, safe enough for honest exploration, and supported enough to take new steps. I am a person dedicated to Christian faith and committed to helping each person find the wholeness and healing they desire. I glean from several counseling theories to tailor an approach that works best for you. I have worked with individuals and families facing a variety of challenges such as depression and anxiety, relational and communication difficulties, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, marital and parenting struggles, and many other life situations causing people to feel stuck or empty. Taking the step to try counseling requires a lot of courage, and I appreciate your consideration in allowing me to walk alongside you toward the change you desire.

Paula Moore
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Missouri. I graduated from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville in 2016, and have been working with a variety of clients and issues. I live and work in Alton, Illinois, about 30 miles north of St. Louis on the Mississippi River. My treatment approach is client-centered, goal-oriented, collaborative, and strengths-based. I believe that most mental health issues can be traced back to trauma; it’s not what is wrong with you, but what has happened to you. I use CBT and EMDR as my main therapy modalities, but also incorporate somatic processing, motivational interviewing, exposure therapy, and positive psychology. Once the negative beliefs are identified, the work is to create more adaptive beliefs, and process the actual traumas. Self-care, and coping skills for symptoms are extremely important, too, especially in the beginning of therapy. I am affirming, and believe that people get to decide who they are. I also believe that growth and evolution are inherent in our human nature. Reaching out for help with life’s challenges is one of the most important things one can do for their long-term health and well-being. I walk with you, never judging, and always supporting you with your goals. I look forward to helping you find relief from symptoms, needed solutions, and ultimately, true healing.

Janet Webb
My name is Janet Webb, and I have been teaching and counseling people my entire adult life. My original focus was education; and I worked as a teacher in public, private, and higher education for almost 20 years. Throughout it all, I have been the “listening ear” when others talked about their concerns, so becoming a counselor was just the right path to follow. My 30+ years of counseling experience in Missouri includes work in a community agency, corrections, private practice, public speaking, and insurance. You are the expert on you, so our work together starts with you helping me understand your concerns and what you want to achieve. Using a variety of techniques including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Reduction, and others we will work together to help you toward your goals. Everyone is different, so we will figure out together what helps you best. We may laugh some and cry some. We will question and explore. But you will always be respected and heard. You may even tell me I have missed the point! Then we back up and try another way to the path that works for you. My specialties are stress, burn-out, life transitions, anxiety, depression, LGBT concerns including those of family members, chronic illness and pain, trauma recovery, and additions. In over 30 years of experience, I helped adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds and cultures along life’s journey. They have learned. I have probably learned more from them. Let’s work together to continue learning how you can reach for the amazing life you deserve.

Remargo Yancie
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Missouri and Washington DC with over 13 years of experience working as a mental health and relationship counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including sexual addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, anger and parenting challenges. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and emotional focused counseling. I will tailor our dialogue 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!

Mary Shands
About Me: Mary is a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in the State of Missouri and Texas with over 12 years experience in working with clients from pre-K through late adulthood. Mary has worked in the school districts as a Counselor in Special Education and General Education, an insurance company, Veterans, substance abuse treatment center and a sexual offender treatment center. Mary has helped client’s with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and parenting problems. Assistance has also included working with clients experiencing emotional abuse, as well as separation issues related to adoption. Mary uses several types of therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client- Centered Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy. Mary brings exceptional listening skills, caring and most of all energetic personality. Mary is licensed in two states and is current on all required trainings. Mary also does presentations at various venues and provides training. Also experienced in assisting those with mental health issues related to COVID-19 and diagnosis, Codependency, Women’s and Teen Issues and Self Esteem. Mary has a very warm and caring demeanor and enjoys talking and listening to others. SPECIALTIES • Veterans • Stress, Anxiety • Trauma and Abuse • Parenting issues • Addictions • Family Conflict Clinical Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Emily Adler
I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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.

Ashley Farrens
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have helped people with faith issues, concerns and struggles. 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.

John Backfisch
I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Dennis Hounshell
I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Find a therapist serving clients in Missouri
What types of therapists are available to clients in Stark City?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Stark City that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Stark City available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Stark City therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Stark City therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Stark City region and in the state of Missouri.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Stark City can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Stark City may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Stark City offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.