In life, you need to have doctors to help you out. General doctors can help make sure your overall health is well. Eye doctors help with your vision, and so on. However, we tend to forget that our mental health needs TLC as well, and a counselor based in Lee’s Summit can remind you of that.
Lee’s Summit is named after a doctor. Doctors are important in all of our lives, and don’t get enough appreciation. Counselors are not doctors in the traditional sense, but they can help treat all your ailments. Speak to a therapist and see how they can help.
Abby Pease
Hello and welcome to Better Help. You have taken a huge step towards healing, and I am so glad that you are here! My name is Abby Pease and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri. I earned both my Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degree from the University of Missouri (GO TIGERS!). I have worked in a variety of settings including community organizations, schools, in home, and hospital settings. Over the past five years, I have had the pleasure to work with individuals and families with dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, addictions, relationship struggles, family issues, increasing stress, and more. My style of therapy is supportive, direct, and honest. I truly believe that to get the most out of our work together, it is imperative to be real and transparent with one another. I understand that trust can be difficult to develop at times (myself included), but I strongly believe that it is incredibly important to connect and feel comfortable with the person you choose to share your personal struggles. I have worked with a multitude of clients from various backgrounds and experiences, so no judgments here! Together, we will explore your hopes and goals for growth, and skillfully address the barriers that are keeping you from reaching your full potential! I look forward to working with you!
Miranda Myers
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri with over 4 years of experience. I have worked with individuals with a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, social concerns, life transitions and changes, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and self-harm behaviors, to name a few. I tend to use a person centered and strengths based approach with clients, and rely on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques and principles. I want to work as a partner with you in addressing concerns and allow you a place to process concerns without judgement. We have all developed unique strengths throughout our life, and I hope to help you learn to harness these strengths in order to work through current and future problems/concerns. I am also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, which means I have experience assisting individuals with career exploration, job searching, and knowledge of disability rules and regulations. I would be glad to assist you in discussing your next steps in life, and processing career changes. Reaching out is the first step in a happier, healthier life. I look forward to working with you.
Sinora Shaw
Hi my name is Sinora Shaw, BA, MSW, LCSW. I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing for over 20 years with experience working with children, adults couples and families. My areas of expertise include: Stress management, trauma, anxiety and depression, grief and loss, family/relationship issues, trauma informed care, and personal growth. I utilizes a multidimensional approach to therapy using a cognitive behavioral therapy while, exploring each individual's biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs. She desires to come along side others to assist them in healing from trauma, building self-worth, improving communication in their relationships, and reaching their goals. She also provides Christian counseling based on Biblical values. I suffer from bi-polar so I am empathetic with those who are suffering from a vast of illnesses that come under that umbrella. I have been diagnosed with Bi-polar for over 25 years. I believe that all the trauma that I have experience in life makes me a therapist who can come along side of those suffering from mental health illnesses as well as the problems that come along with everyday struggles you may have. I look forward to working with you.
Kimberly Marcos
I have been a licensed therapist for 10 +years. I have helped adults as individuals that are seeking someone they can trust, to help them attain their goals. Having a therapist that you are comfortable with is key. Therapy can be short-term and sometimes the issues you are facing require a journey that takes more time. What do you need help with, and what can I help you with, to find solutions that work for best for you? Partnering with a therapist can really make a difference. I am non-judgmental and accepting. Many people are struggling now with isolation or no support system. It is not uncommon to need more support at any point of your life. Therapy is here to help you feel better when stuck. It is not uncommon to feel ashamed, sharing with family and friends while needing extra support. Therapy is a great tool to help work through issues when you don't know where to turn. Every client will be treated with respect and dignity. It's not about "fixing you", but to help you, be empowered and work together to make a plan that makes your life better. Therapy is most beneficial when matched with the right professional. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I've worked as a therapist in the following settings: College Counselor In-Home Therapist Hospice House Domestic Violence Shelter My undergrad and Master's program were both for me to attain my status as LSCSW in Kansas, and LCSW in Missouri. I look forward to working with you! Kimberly Marcos, LSCSW, LCSW
Marquetta Johnson
I am licensed in Kentucky with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!
Danny Maggard
Danny Maggard MA, LPC Danny received his Associate of Science Degree on May of 2006 in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science Degree on December 2009 in Biology, Criminology, Sociology, and Psychology at Drury University, and his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2018. He has 20 plus years of experience in emergency services as a firefighter, emergency management, and law enforcement. Danny has worked at Gateway Foundation in Ozark Correctional Center for 3 plus years providing case management, individual therapy, group therapy, behavioral intervention, crisis intervention, therapeutic classes, and treatment plan development. He views the counseling process as an alliance between client and therapist and considers the clients as the experts of their lives. Within the structure of the therapeutic relationship clients can access their inner strengths and promote change. Danny uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. His theoretic approach is based on the belief that clients are in charge of their counseling experience. They will learn the bounds of aspects of their life that they can control and what they cannot. Clients will understand that the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which they will be expected to put in the effort for homework, be accountable, and present within counseling alliance. Danny’s goal as a counselor is to provide a safe environment where clients can explore their primary interests, learn about their strengths, and develop goals. Areas of treatment that he specializes in are: • ADHD • Trauma • Criminality • Substance use /addictions • Grief & Loss • PTSD / first responder • Bipolar • Anxiety Disorders • Depression • Anger and Stress Management
Lindsay Pennell
I am a professional counselor licensed in Missouri with 9 years of work in the counseling field. My main clinic experience has focused on adults with mental health diagnoses as well as substance use problems. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, boundary setting, & trauma and abuse. My style of therapy is warm and open. I work with my clients and strive to meet them where they are at so they can continue to progress, feel understood, and make the changes they desire. My approach combines motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and a strength based focus. My goal is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment, to focus on a person’s strengths and abilities, and to work with each person as an individual with their own needs and learning style. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and strength. I am here to support you in that process and walk with you through it as you take those steps. I look forward to working with you!
Candiss Williams
I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas and have been in the social service field for over 15 years. My general practice includes a focus on depression and anxiety disorders or everyday life stressors. I specialize in: •Multiculturalism/Diversity •Grief/Loss •Interpersonal/Relationship issues (Couples) •Family/Child Development •Mind, Body, Soul •Traumatic situations (PTSD)/Disasters •Women Issues •LGBT or Questioning •Assessment/Diagnosis and Referral to Psychiatry I am a mulit-specialty provider seeing clients of all ages, with all types of concerns and problems. As a leading provider of counseling services, I take pride in offering the best therapeutic techniques and a comforting environment that allows you to express yourself. I am dedicated to serving the needs of my clients each and every day. I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve the growth they long for. I have extensive experience working as a school counselor, domestic abuse, substance abuse, and juvenile/adult criminal justice system with crisis intervention. I combine Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused , and Family Systems theory into an eclectic approach while introducing healthy coping skills to facilitate positive change.
Amtoni Norris
I am licensed in Missouri with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you on your journey.
Keith Haar
My name is Keith, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I have experience working with parenting concerns, divorce/separation, co-parenting, parent alienation, anxiety, depression, and meaning-making. While some therapist may prefer to lead sessions and tell you which topics to discuss, I believe that my clients are the experts on themselves. I think, while we all feel lost and alone sometimes, there's a part of us that knows what we need. I'd like to help you unearth that part. I am currently available for weekend morning sessions only.
How to find counseling in Lees Summit
Finding the best therapist close by in Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit. 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 Lees Summit, 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit, 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 Lees Summit area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit, 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 64063 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit, 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.
Lees Summit 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 Lees Summit:
64002, 64063, 64064, 64081, 64082, 64086