This is Sharla "Charlie" Harrison's avatar and link to their profile

Sharla "Charlie" Harrison

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience

Everyone calls me “Charlie.” It is a nickname I have had since high school. I have a Master of Science Degree; I have a Licensed Professional Counselor Certification and am a National Certified Counselor as well. I feel that counseling is one of the most important things you can do for yourself. When you are in a time of crisis, it is difficult to think rationally. A good counselor will help you navigate those choppy waters so that you can go on to live a richer life. I have studied a great deal about trauma. I have been on a Crisis Response team and worked with victims of natural disasters. I believe that I would be a good fit for you if you have issues in any of these areas. I have found that there is one main issue in life, “I’m Not Good Enough.” A wellspring of difficulties can erupt from this one thing. So, allow me to put my education and my life experiences to work for you. I believe that this is my gift. I want to share that with you. My treatment approach aims to help individuals develop coping skills, provide emotional support, encouragement, and feedback to help individuals address changes, challenges, and issues they are facing. Change and challenges are a part of life; however, sometimes, we need a little help getting through issues we are experiencing. I frequently draw from motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution focused therapy to help clients set goals and overcome their challenges. I use a variety of methods and techniques to provide a personalized approach; using what is most helpful for each individual given the challenges he or she is facing. Through understanding and compassion, I help individuals resolve a wide variety of concerns, crisis, psychological issues, and personal changes. Together, we will work to find techniques and solutions that will be the most beneficial to you. I conduct 45-minute sessions, beginning on the hour and ending at a quarter till. A "No Show" is considered to be fifteen minutes past the hour. So, the next step is to hop onto my calendar and schedule your first appointment. We'll take it from there. Talk soon!

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Patricia Uhan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Missouri and I have worked in a variety of settings with individuals who have experienced a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and PTSD. My experience working in a community mental health center that served survivors of sexual abuse or assault allowed me to gain experience in PTSD, substance abuse, and personality disorders. Furthermore, I have also gained experience working with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness and dual diagnosis in a diverse population. I am dedicated and passionate about providing the most effective care that takes all aspects of the individual into consideration in the context of their cultural identity. My therapeutic style is warm and empathetic. My approach depends on the needs of the client and what brought them to therapy; however, some of the approaches I utilize include cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment-based, and dialectical behavior therapy. Therapy is a journey and I look forward to walking on that journey with you!

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Leilani Faber

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC,CRAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor and advanced alcohol drug counselor who has served clients in Missouri, Texas and Oregon. I have been providing services for 10 years as an addictions counselor, dual-diagnosis therapist, crisis counselor and therapist for those with serious and persistent mental disorders. I have practiced in multiple arenas including community counseling centers, schools, secure and non-secure criminal justice facilities, hospitals and private homes. I spent a few years in administrative roles but always returned to what I love...working directly with clients. My approach is somewhat eclectic in that I assess each client and use the modality best suited for their current challenges. This may include Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Applied Positive Psychology and Person-Centered Therapy. Teaching and supporting clients in learning new skills is also very important to me and are included in many of my treatment plans. I take a holistic approach by looking at the body, spirit and mind. I believe that nutrition, exercise, mindfulness and overall health play a foundational part in the therapy process. I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology from Missouri State University. Since graduating, I have pursued additional education and training in multiple areas including positive psychology, anger management, relationship skills, domestic violence, and suicide prevention. I am a skilled communicator with lived experience. These attributes help me to better help others. I look forward to providing you help to transform your life!

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Donna King

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
16 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist in Missouri with over 10 years of experience. I have specialized training in trauma in general as well as military trauma. Furthermore, I have worked with a wide range of clients whose issues include anxiety, depression, marriage/family and relationship issues, abuse, low self-esteem, and intimacy issues, as examples. Even though I am a Christian, I also regularly see clients who are not, whereas it has never posed a problem. I am accepting and engaging and I strive to treat everyone with dignity and respect! Furthermore, I am eclectic in my approach while using various treatment methods including but not limited to cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychoanalytical, and solution-focused therapies, as examples. I am here to help you overcome even the most difficult aspects of life, to help you navigate through every day aspects of life, or anything that you might need assistance with. Overall, I am here for you, and I look forward to working with you!!!

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Randi Senciboy

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with experience working with client's experiencing suicidal and self-harming desires, depression, anxiety, history of abuse and neglect, foster care and DFS cases, trauma, LGBTQ, chronic physical pain, grief, and more. I have worked in the mental health field for about 9 years providing care to clients on suicide crisis lines, supported living services, case management, in home social service care, and outpatient mental health therapy including facilitating parenting classes. I have worked with clientele as young as 4 years old, families, couples, and individuals. I believe in client centered care and foster an approach to each individual based on their needs at the time of service.

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Sheila Adams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sheila and I have been working in the mental health field for 6+ years. I started my career working with families in the child welfare system and then gained experience in community mental health. I have worked with clients from age 5 and up. I enjoy working with individual and family settings. I describe my approach to counseling as being solution focused. I want to help you on your journey to discover how to help you move forward in life.

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Lacey Davis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.

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Tiffany Hilke

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am so happy you are reaching out! I am a licensed professional counselor in Missouri with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe that each person has the potential and power to make changes in their lives and treat my therapy space as a chance for clients to be heard, affirmed, educated, and supported. I believe the best support comes from consistency and boundaries, as well as creating a village of support that fits who you are and what you need. I look forward to being on your mental health journey with you!

This is Kevin Wilburn's avatar and link to their profile

Kevin Wilburn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger management
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 13 years of Licensed Professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Rodney "Rod" Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Rodney "Rod" Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO, West Alton
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri and Idaho, with several years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with recovering from addictions, relationship, trauma and abuse, anxiety, & depression issues. I have been through my own spiritual/therapeutic journey of change for the past 30 years that has enabled me to overcome my past addictions, feelings of depression, and sexual abuse. I tell you this because it is not only important that we have the clinical and professional experience (25 years experience in the behavioral health field), but that we have personal experience as well. I believe my authentic approach to counseling creates an atmosphere of honesty, trust, and acceptance that helps us to motivate ourselves towards making positive and tremendous changes in our lives. Professional Experience I have recently worked in a prison as a mental health professional for the past 7 years conducting individual and group therapy. I have worked over 25 years in the fields of mental health, addiction, and co-occurring disorders performing evaluations, therapeutic interventions, and individual and group therapy.

How to find a therapist for counseling in West Alton

Finding the best therapist close by in West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton. 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 West Alton, 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton, elsewhere in St. Charles, 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in West Alton, 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 63386 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 West Alton counselor?

Before seeing your West Alton 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. West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton 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 West Alton, 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.

West Alton 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 West Alton, 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 West Alton 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 West Alton.

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

63386

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