This is Melissa Hale's avatar and link to their profile

Melissa Hale

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I am Melissa Hale, a licensed therapist (LCSW) in Missouri with over 10 years of experience, working with individuals who suffer with grief, loss, depression, trauma, abuse, bariatric difficulties, career challenges, relationship issues and psychiatric disorders. When working with me, you will be in a supportive, friendly, welcoming, interactive and safe environment. I can only imagine how difficult it must be to reach out to someone for assistance, but I am glad you did! I would love the opportunity to assist you in making your life better and happier. I believe it is so important to treat everyone with respect, compassion, integrity and dignity which everyone deserves. Meaning, that I am here to listen without labeling or judgment. I received a Bachelor of Science from Southeast Missouri State University and a Master of Social Work from Saint Louis University. I am currently pursuing Doctor of Social Work with anticipation of graduating in 2027. I have been married for 14 years and we have a son, so I totally understand the struggles of juggling work, marriage and family, but also having a child who is adopted. In our free time we enjoy camping, hiking, cruises, playing with our dog and watching the St. Louis Cardinals. I have spent the last 6 years on a personal journey of losing approximately 145 lbs. Since that time I have been providing support to other bariatric patients. I find it easier to talk to someone who completely understands the challenges involved with losing weight and also considering a bariatric surgery. While you are working on the outside, you need to work on the inside in order for the transformation to be successful. My schedule is open in the evening hours only for those individuals who have a challenging work schedule, but still would like the opportunity to speak to someone. The stress of missing work for an appointment can be removed by our evening hours. Let’s make your life a brighter one! I look so forward to meeting and getting to know you. Melissa

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Curtis Denham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Missouri. I have been working with clients for 17+ years. I have a varied background including working with those that suffer from substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, life adjustment issues such as disability and retirement. I've also worked with many clients over the years that have suffered trauma related to abuse. As a counselor, I believe in treating everyone with respect and dignity. I always find it an honor to walk the path with clients on their journey. Your treatment will always go in the direction that you believe that it should. That doesn't mean I won't make the occasional suggestion but those suggestions will always be based on what you, as the client, say or want to pursue. It definitely takes courage to enter into therapy and address whatever issues are holding you back. If you are ready to take this step, I'm definitely ready to walk with you on your journey.

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Sarah Jennings

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
21 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Sarah L. Jennings, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, living in Saint Louis, MO. I have 17 years of counseling experience, (this is a second career for me) working first in domestic violence shelters with battered women, then in federally mandated counseling with ex-offenders. I have extensive experience working with grief, especially complicated grief, and with PTSD. I am lesbian, married to a woman, and have counseled many LGBTQ clients. My approach to therapy is eclectic, tailoring the types of psychotherapy to the individual. I have used CBT, Existential, Feminist, Rogerian (client-centered), Solution-focused Brief Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, and sometimes borrow from transactional analysis. I believe it is important to join with my clients on their journey toward self-actualization. I enjoy working with the aging population, and the life stages and challenges of the LGBTQ population. I also am interested in working with people of all walks of life who are on a spiritual quest, and am open and interested in all spiritual journeys. I am always interested in talking with atheists and agnostics.

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Rebecca Walsh

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Welcome!   Better Help is an awesome community where you can find warm empathic therapists to help you achieve your goals.   Finding the right person to share your journey with is the number one ingredient to success in therapy. I have been a social worker in the mental health field for 6 years, where I have worked with a variety of individuals in a community mental health setting.   I have the most experience in working with those struggling with mood disorders, schizophrenia, and addiction comorbidities.   But, I have also provided therapy in a university setting.   I have an eclectic approach to treatment.  Therapy is not a one size fits all; so, I draw on a lot of different modalities depending on what you need.  However, I am always empathic and have an unconditional positive regard for any people I cross paths with.   My availability is mostly in the afternoons/early evenings, but I will check messages a minimum of once a day Monday through Friday. You have taken the first step to discovering you, and the person you want  to be.  I would be honored to share  in your journey.

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Taylor Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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!

This is Lea'Ona Lewis's avatar and link to their profile

Lea'Ona Lewis

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience and I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jennifer Wotka

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients of all ages and a wide range of concerns including stress, anxiety, depression, addiction, ADHD, OCD, food and body image related challenges, motivation, self confidence, trauma, and family system disruptions. Additionally, I have supported and worked with many clients through difficult life transitions such as divorce, loss of a beloved family member or friend, and pet loss. 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. Too often, our mental health challenges hold us back from living the life we deserve. Difficult thoughts, feelings, and emotions can push us around, run the show, and interfere with our ability to live a life that aligns with our values and goals. In addition to providing a supportive, caring space to process these challenges, I want to help you develop news skills and tools to navigate the many stressors and challenges that life can throw our way. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes a tremendous amount of courage. I look forward to supporting you on your journey towards a more fulfilling life!

This is Leland Baker's avatar and link to their profile

Leland Baker

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
GriefAnger managementCareer difficultiesDepressionCoaching
20 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, anger management, career difficulties, & depression. 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.

This is Sydney Pruett's avatar and link to their profile

Sydney Pruett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma, Missouri, & New Jersey, & Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Utah. I have 5+ years of experience in this field. I have experience in helping clients with depression and anxiety, trauma and abuse, and many other concerns. I most enjoy working with clients between the ages 18-35. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, regardless of background. Working with those who are from more marginalized populations and concerns related to these areas (2SLGBTQIA+ populations, women's issues, religious trauma, racism, physical health concerns or disabilities, etc.) is a passion of mine, but I am happy to work with those who are not part of these populations as well, if your needs meet my scope of practice. Please note that if you are outside of the age range or areas of knowledge that I work within, I may request that you switch to a different therapist. I will tailor our treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and vulnerability, and I am proud of you for getting started! *Please do not schedule a session with me until you have received your first message from me! Thank you!*

This is Dr. Grace Monterubio's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Grace Monterubio

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Psychologist licensed in Missouri with years of experience working with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, OCD, and other life stressors. 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 behavior therapy orientation, but also include value-based and emotion-focused practices when I work with clients.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Zalma

Finding the best therapist close by in Zalma 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 in Zalma 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 Zalma. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Zalma, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Zalma 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 Zalma 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Zalma area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Zalma therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Zalma, elsewhere in Bollinger, or in the greater state of Missouri.

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 Zalma 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 Zalma therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Zalma due to a higher cost of living. 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 Zalma 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 sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Zalma online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Zalma, 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. They 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, they 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 Zalma 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Zalma 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 lead by a therapist in Zalma 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Zalma 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Zalma therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Zalma?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Zalma 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Zalma 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 Zalma 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 Zalma 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 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 63787 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Zalma counselor?

Before seeing your Zalma therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They 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 in Zalma.

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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Zalma 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 through therapy with a Zalma 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 Zalma, 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.

Zalma has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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 Zalma, 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 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 Zalma.

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

63787

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