Sometimes, it feels like you're stuck between two choices in life. Your depression vs. your happiness. Your ambitions vs. your comfort. Your family vs. your goals. Making a choice can be hard, and it can be tough to find the balance. A counselor based in Kansas City can help you with any ambitions or choices you have. 

Being stuck in the middle of life is what Kansas City is. It occupies Kansas and Missouri, and it manages to balance the two states quite well. In life, you need to sometimes find that balance, and the person who may be able to help you is a counselor. 

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Stacy Braiuca

Offering therapy in KS
License: MSW, MPH,LCSW,LSCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

My name is Stacy Braiuca. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) for over 20 years, public health educator of 10+ years, and technology-focused early adopter of 40+ years. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and my Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Combined they help me help people bridging the gaps between holistic health and wellness and mental health concerns. As a therapist, I have had the honor to help many different people: starting with children, teens, and their families, to working with elders in nursing homes, and those facing crises in the emergency room. Clients I have worked with struggled with anxiety, depression, life changes and stress, marital issues, trauma, and parenting issues. I love bringing knowledge of current cutting edge technology tools and wellness perspectives together as a powerhouse toolbox which can help you on your journey to your better self. Through this process you can learn how to: identify and analyze issues in your own life, to step back and interrupt negative patterns in your life, use new tools and skills to find relief from the burdens that you are constantly carrying around, and get unstuck individually or in your relationships. My main goal as a therapist is to start where you are in your journey, help you define and those goals and dreams for your life, and finally be your navigator in putting tools, skills, and resources in place for you to deal with past concerns. Therapy is still so stigmatized, so it is a truly wonderful thing that you have reached out to take care of your overall health! I would love to walk beside you as you embark on that journey. I look forward to working with you! Stacy

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Dr. William Dobson

Offering therapy in KS
License: PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

I have been working in numerous areas of psychotherapy and mental health for 20+ years including depression, anxiety, inpatient, outpatient and private practice. Over the last 20 years, I have developed my therapeutic approach to effectively assist people from all backgrounds in dealing with and overcoming challenges. As your therapist, I will strive to provide you with the best quality services possible in helping to resolve personal struggles and increase your satisfaction in life. Together we can work on making these improvements to your daily life, your interpersonal relationships, as well as helping you in reaching your personal goals. I provide you with helpful assistance to foster personal change.

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Denise Price

Offering therapy in KS
License: LPC, RPT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience

Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage, commitment, and the willingness to look at change. The focus of our sessions will include how you function in your family, your work, and your life. It is my goal to provide a warm, caring, non-judgmental environment for you to find the right path as you travel through life. I believe in a holistic approach to therapy, meaning that I do my best to see the whole you, including everything and everyone who influences you each day. Along with my teaching degree, I earned a Master of Arts degree in Counseling/School Counseling from Mid-America Nazarene University, graduating in 2015. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor [LPC, LCPC] a Certified Play Therapist, and a Certified Trauma and Resilience Specialist. I am a member of the American Counseling Association and am a Nationally Certified Counselor.

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Arthur Garvin

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCPC,LPC,MA
GriefParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoachingCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am a clinical professional counselor licensed in Kentucky, Missouri Kansas, Iowa, and Colorado with more than 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I've treated clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance abuse issues, process addictions, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I've also helped many people heal, who have experienced physical trauma, neglect, emotional abuse, and sexual abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with sensitivity, mutual - respect, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and gestalt, with mindfulness and awareness. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to confront dysfunctional habits and patterns, and to seek a more fulfilling and meaningful life. You are ready to take that step to change, and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Jacqueline Ross

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
24 years of experience

At times life can be challenging. I am glad you have chosen to seek assistance. A little bit about me: I completed my bachelor’s degree at Ithaca College in Ithaca, NY, and my Master’s degree in Social Work at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, KS. I have over fifteen years of direct counseling experience in the public and private sectors, with over twenty years in the Social Services. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings, having provided counseling for adults, adolescents, and families of diverse cultural backgrounds. In my practice I address a multitude of issues that arise in life, including: Anxiety, Depression, Loneliness/Isolation, Work-related stress, Addictions, Couples/ Child-related issues, not to mention many, many other issues that may arise in our lives. I have an eclectic approach to therapy using a combination of: Client Centered, Brief and Solution Focused, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, as well as, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to name a few. I believe you have the strengths and tools that are key to enhancing your well-being. I will help you access your best self. I look forward to working with you.

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Melissa Briggs

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas, Missouri and Texas with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Tiffany Strickland

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Charles "Patrick" Garrick

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Addictions Counselor in Kansas with 20 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with broad range of mental health issues, including but not limited to relationship issues, intimacy related issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, Depression, Anxiety & Bipolar Disorder, and Borderline Personality Disorder in both acute and outpatient settings. Having spent the last 7 years in professional leadership roles, I have firsthand experience in managing the unique challenges that come with managing and supervising others and a particular interest in helping clients develop their abilities while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I am also a Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist. 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.

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Adam Hewitt

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Adam Hewitt, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Missouri. I have been with BetterHelp since 2021 after spending several years in private practice as a mental health therapist and substance abuse counselor. I've always been passionate about helping people overcome their challenges. When it comes to therapy, I like to keep things friendly and honest. I will never talk down to you or make you feel like a burden. I find it incredibly rewarding to see the joy on people's faces when they realize just how strong they can be, whether it's facing their fears, overcoming addictions, or taking control of their lives. As for my therapeutic approach, I focus on your strengths. I believe that everyone has innate abilities that can help them achieve their life goals, and it is my job to help you find yours. I take a mindfulness based approach, and am very sensitive to how technology and culture intersect to make our lives more complicated. I've worked significantly with people dealing with trauma, substance and gaming addiction, and systemic oppression. My aim is to help individuals become empowered to go out into the world feeling in charge of their lives. I don't consider myself to work for an agency; I'm here because of you. My promise is to let you take the lead to make the changes in your life that are meaningful to you. My hope is that my openness and positive attitude will make you feel trusted and inspired to live the life you deserve.

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Cari Mekaeil

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

Whether you are brand new to therapy or in between providers, I am honored to be a part of your mental health journey! I am a licensed therapist in Kansas with over 13 years of experience providing therapy in a variety of clinical settings. My areas of expertise include the treatment of survivors of childhood abuse, traumatic grief and loss, chronic stress, anxiety, life purpose, self esteem, and confidence. You are safe here, you are valuable, and I look forward to hearing your story!

How to find counseling in Kansas City

Finding the best therapist close by in Kansas City 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Kansas City. 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 Kansas City, 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. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Kansas City or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. 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 Kansas City area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find 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 Kansas City, elsewhere in Wyandotte, or in the greater state of Kansas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Kansas City area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Kansas City 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 Kansas City 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 Kansas City may not take health insurance, some in the state of Kansas may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Kansas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

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

Therapists in Kansas City, Kansas 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a 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, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Kansas City 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 Kansas City helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Kansas City 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:

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 Kansas City 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?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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.

A psychologist 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 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 Kansas City 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 lot of people in KS, providers 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 66117 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Kansas City counselor?

Before seeing your 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. 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 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. A Kansas City 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 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.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy 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 professional 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 Kansas City, Kansas 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.

Kansas City 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?

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

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 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 Kansas City.

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

66101, 66102, 66103, 66104, 66105, 66106, 66109, 66110, 66111, 66112, 66115, 66117, 66118, 66119, 66160

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