Kansas City, MO, is famous for its barbecue. What makes it so special? It’s the sauce! Kansas City barbecue sauce is thicker and sweeter than other styles. It just goes to show that with the right ingredients, you can create something truly unique. If you need help figuring out how to create something unique in your life, talking to a therapist Kansas City MO can help.
A therapist can help you learn to cope with and overcome a wide array of life issues, like family conflict, domestic violence, the effects of drugs, and more. After an initial assessment of your needs and goals, a therapist will develop a treatment plan to help you explore the potential in your world and what you can achieve. Get help creating the life you deserve. Focus on the next part of your story and connect with a counselor based in Kansas City below.
Dr. Lekesha Davis
Hi, my name is Dr. Lekesha Davis. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I have worked in the social services field for more than 20 years, starting as a residential technician helping youth in a group home setting. I believe that providing trauma informed, genuine, and compassionate care are at the core of who I am. There may come a time where we all need additional support and I strive daily to breakdown the wall of stigma that prevents individuals from seeking needed services. I also teach graduate counseling students. I believe it is my responsibility as a gatekeeper to ensure that future counselors have the tools and skills needed to become dynamic clinicians. My specialties include working with survivors of intimate partner violence, couples and families, working with both youth and adults who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, psychotic disorders as well as issues common in youth such as Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders, and Adjustment Disorders. My theoretical orientation is Person Centered Theory, I genuinely engage with clients displaying empathy as well as unconditional positive regard. My goal is to help clients achieve self-actualization. The goal is not just to help clients realize their potential but to achieve wellness. Each client is unique and I cater my therapeutic approaches to the unique needs of my clients. I love writing poetry! I believe that poetry can give a brief glimpse into one's soul. I look forward to supporting you through your journey!
Donna Moshier
Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Donna Moshier and I am a professional counselor licensed in both Arkansas and Missouri. I have over 20 years’ experience in the mental health field, having worked with clients with a broad range of concerns such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and substance abuse. I strive to be genuine and authentic in counseling interactions and treat others with respect and dignity. My focus as a counselor is to provide a safe, supportive space in which a person can explore life issues and move towards a quality of life that is both satisfying and healthy to that individual. The therapeutic approaches I most often employ include cognitive behavior therapy, EMDR, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy depending on the individual's unique needs and preferences. I believe that no matter what a person is facing, there is always hope for growth and renewal. I would love to be able to provide support and guidance during your journey towards a happier life.
Dr. Michael Cundiff
Hello, my name is Michael Cundiff. I am a therapist with BetterHelp, and look forward to getting to know you. You have taken a bold first step by contacting BetterHelp, reflecting a strength and a good beginning. I enjoy working with people and look forward to speaking with you. My background information is available on my profile along with hours and availability. Forty-five minute sessions seem to work best for most clients, but we can be flexible if you have different expectations. Video, email and chat are the virtual formats, and clients are encouraged to go at their own rate. If you have questions, please ask, but feel free to do so should any come to mind later. I check for messages several times daily and try to respond as quickly as possible. My counseling approach is essentially client-centered, which is to say relationship based, and it is my belief that client and counselor should work together in establishing goals and strategies for solutions. You may have some thoughts on this as well which we can process. Looking forward to speaking with you. Michael Cundiff
Jennifer Gadberry
I have practiced as a counselor in Southeast Missouri for 18 years, working initially as an crisis counselor and then in an outpatient setting and I am also an Instructor of Psychology. I also previously worked as a therapist in a residential treatment center for children and teens. Over the years I have had the pleasure of working with children, teens, and adults. Most recently I have provided individual, couple and family counseling in the home. Together we have addressed concerns regarding relationship issues, eating disorders, depression, anxiety, loss, as well as parenting problems and family conflict. As a college instructor I also interact frequently with young adults and have served to counsel individuals through various transitions. My counseling style is client-centered as I believe in the power of each individual to grow with the right help and support. I draw from a Christian faith foundation and aim to facilitate insight and hope, highlighting one's strengths and positive steps toward change...change in thoughts and change in behaviors. The relationship developed with a person is a gift and can serve as a spring board for a solution-focused plan for change and improvement in emotional state and motivation. The various ways that we can achieve this together include cognitive-behavioral exercises, mindfulness and relaxation exercises, and narrative activities. Drawing from the Humanistic perspective, I believe that every person deserves a safe space where they can be heard without judgment and aim to work collaboratively with each client to develop treatment goals that will move them to reaching their full potential. I believe in your unique strengths and I will work alongside you to establish a plan and facilitate growth. If you have read this, you have already taken an important, courageous step toward improving your mental and emotional state. I would be happy to help you take those next steps. I look forward to getting to know you on this journey.
Laura Hazard
Let’s just say life is overwhelming. Overwhelming due to moving, career and relationship changes, education, physical/mental health goals… Life Is A LOT. With 15 years of experience as a behaviorist and 4 years as a Licensed Professional Counselor we can work together to break your life into bite sized, manageable pieces. Being an open minded and approachable person, my goal is to create a comfortable, receptive space for you to explore yourself and the life you have. Using cognitive behavior theories to increase awareness of self, we can work together to identify your strengths and talents and use them more effectively. My background in working with those during major life transitions, such as mental health crisis, homelessness, unhealthy relationships, anxiety, depression and personality disorder, mean that I can roll with you through life’s punches. Together we can break the overwhelmed feelings into understandable pieces, putting them back together into the picture you are looking for.
Dr. Heather Clark
Dr. Heather Clark has 16 years of experience as a licensed therapist and over 20 years experience in the field of Psychology. Her focus is on teaching clients how to calm their minds, bodies and feelings and develop self-awareness. Through cognitive behavioral intervention, imagery tools and mindfulness techniques clients learn how to calmly navigate life challenges. Dr. Clark has a BA in Psychology, an MA in Professional Counseling and a Ph.D. in Psychology.
Andrea Herman
Hello, I'm Andrea Herman. I am a licensed clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience working with adults to help them better cope with life challenges. I have extensive experience supporting people struggling with grief and loss, whether through death, divorce, or other major life transitions. My expertise is in the grief-and-loss model called 'companioning,' which emphasizes bearing witness non-judgmentally to a person's unique grief journey and helping them mourn skillfully to reconcile their loss and move forward toward healing. Additionally, I have experience counseling people struggling with depression, anxiety, stress management, and relationship and work difficulties. I have also worked with people in crisis and those making major life decisions, helping with referrals to specialized therapists or treatment when needed. Ten years of my counseling experience was at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. I am guided by a holistic, biopsychosocial theory that emphasizes the importance of addressing challenges in the context of our environments, relationships, and physical, mental, and even spiritual health. I draw from DBT, systems theory, and client-centered approaches. I believe in the absolute importance of a therapist's caring, non-judgmental and accepting approach. I am committed to using evidence-based interventions that have proven effective and forming a genuine alliance that builds on people's strengths so they can lead healthier and more satisfying lives. I've regularly worked with people by phone and video conferencing, so I am comfortable using Better Help's mode of interacting and can be flexible to meet the needs and preferences of my clients. It is very courageous of someone to consider therapy, especially since most who are considering this are struggling in some way yet choose to reach out for support. Whether this is your first time or you have done therapy in the past, I applaud your desire to better your situation and would be honored to work with you if you think we'd be a good fit.
Shanna Brende
I am licensed in Missouri with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, 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. 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.
Sarah Bailey
I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience as a therapist. I have many years of experience as a social worker. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.
Lawrence McDaniel
I have worked with foster children and families in crisis for over 33 years. My counseling focus is on working with male teens and men of all ages address anger management, stress, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, grief, religious trauma, and other behavioral and relationship issues with specialized therapeutic approaches that can significantly impact individuals' lives, helping them to heal and grow. In a world that often demands us to mask our struggles, having a space where your feelings are validated, and your experiences are understood can be transformative. My approach is centered on building a trusting relationship where you can feel safe to explore your deepest concerns and aspirations. Together, we can work towards understanding the root of your emotions and behaviors, developing strategies to manage them, and paving the way for a future where you feel more in control, connected, and fulfilled. Your story matters, and I am here to listen, understand, and help you write the next chapter—one where you feel empowered and at peace. Together, we can explore the possibilities that lie ahead and take steps towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. We can't undo the past, but we can work together to get to a place where you can finish well.
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 Jackson, or in the greater state of Missouri.
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 Missouri 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 Missouri 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, 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 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:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- 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 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 MO, 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 64124 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, 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.
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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Kansas City:
64053, 64101, 64102, 64105, 64106, 64108, 64109, 64110, 64111, 64112, 64113, 64114, 64116, 64117, 64118, 64119, 64120, 64121, 64123, 64124, 64125, 64126, 64127, 64128, 64129, 64130, 64131, 64132, 64133, 64134, 64136, 64137, 64138, 64139, 64141, 64144, 64145, 64146, 64147, 64148, 64149, 64151, 64153, 64154, 64155, 64156, 64157, 64158, 64161, 64162, 64163, 64164, 64165, 64166, 64167, 64168, 64170, 64171, 64179, 64180, 64184, 64187, 64188, 64190, 64191, 64192, 64195, 64196, 64197, 64198, 64199, 64999