In life, you have to cooperate with people. This can be a challenge in of itself, but this cooperation also extends to yourself. It can be hard to cooperate with yourself when you're dealing with depression, anxiety, and all the other problems life throws at you. A counselor can help you learn how to cooperate with all the demons in your life.
Blue Springs has a motto, which is “City of Cooperation.” We all cooperate with each other here, and if you want to succeed, learning the value of cooperation is always a plus. Speak to a counselor to get started.
Charna Smith
Welcome! Hey there. First, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step towards a pathway to happiness. I find that the most difficult step in the counseling process is reaching out for help. So, mark that off your list! I want to introduce myself. My name is Charna and I currently live in Missouri (Go Chiefs!). In my free time, I enjoy traveling, watching movies, reading terrible books, and spending time with family. I have a degree in Psychology and am a Licensed Clinical Social Work. I have over 10 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, attachment issues, parenting challenges, trauma, and dealing with everyday challenges including life transitions. I believe that the client is the driver of the therapy process. I allow the client to decide goals and can either be a listening ear or offer advice/concrete strategies to deal with life’s challenges. I feel that no one should be judged and I will be impressed if you can say something that will shock me. I tend to use a person-centered, solutions focused approach for most counseling sessions. Although, I also have knowledge in Cognitive-behavior therapy, DBT, and several other approaches as well. No two people are the same and neither is my approach. I returned to being a Counselor because I truly believe that everyone has a path to happiness that sometimes needs to be found. Counseling can be a remarkable thing for people and I think the most important aspect in finding a counselor you can connect with. So, if you are ready to take this journey with me, then let’s begin in this process and learn from each other. Thank you!
Shakea Roper
Confidential talk without judgement. Hi, I’m Shakea “Kea” Roper. I’m a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). Do you need someone to talk to that will be understanding, compassionate, and encouraging? If so, you have reached the right therapist. I’m a single mother from the inner city. I’ve been through many struggles. From parenting, to family, to work, and just life. I’ve learned you can always work on yourself to help break cycles/patterns that once held you back. I value honesty and keeping it real. When there is free time, I like to sleep, spend time with family, board games, and of course diamond painting/other crafts. I often work with clients to address anxiety, depression, racing undesirable thoughts, and handling day to day life. My counseling style is active, honest, and straight-forward. Many of my clients have said "Kea is a great listener who isn't afraid to challenge my thoughts." I take the time to care. For me, it's an honor to work together to make progress! One of my favorite quotes is “everything seems impossible until it's done” by Nelson Mandela because I know everyone can push past the uncomfortableness of change to accomplish their goals. I have worked in various fields of social work such as: working with survivors of abuse, half-way houses, reunification of children with their families, youth homes, and psychiatric hospitals. Expect a sense of relief, release, and progress after each session. Each session is geared towards you and your needs. It’s based off what you feel you need to talk about, not a set curriculum. You bring the topic, and we will discuss, and problem solve as needed. If you just want a listener, you can have that also. Know that I will be honest and straight forward with you. Know that your thoughts may be challenged to help your personal growth. You may even have action or thinking tasks to complete. I have over 14 years of experience focusing on mood disorders and any symptoms that affect daily life. I can work with clients from the following states: Kansas, Missouri, Utah, North Dakota, and Pennsylvania. I spent my last college years at the University of Missouri – Columbia (MIZZOU) earning a master’s degree in social work (c/o/2009). In my sessions, I focus on using evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (thinking processes), Strengths Based, Brief Therapy, Problem Solving, DBT (mindfulness), Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT), and Solution Focused to help clients improve all areas of their life. I am a facilitator of Making Sense of Your Worth (MSoYW).
Kelli Murphy-Small
Greetings: My name is Kelli Murphy-Small, I am certificated as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) from Missouri. I have provided mental health services for the past 30 years. I started in the public school system as a School Counselor. Later, I became a Supervisor of School Counselors and concurrently taught at the university level to assist college students to become counselors. While I was a School Counselor, I completed the requirements for LPC. This knowledge was extremely helpful for the years I worked in schools and private practice. I was able to transition those skills from school easily to exclusively private practice. I have worked as a private practice or agency counselor for the past 15 years. I find both environments equally enjoyable. Providing guidance to help you become a better you makes me happy too. My approach to counseling stems from a theoretical background of Client Centered Therapy. My belief, in human kind, tells me that at times we all have obstacles in our path that are stopping us from being our “best self”. “Client Centered Therapy” method utilizes the term "self-actualized". This term is actually fancy talk for, "I am happy with who I am and where I am in my world”. Many times that is easier said than done, so I am here to help you to that place. I enjoy working with people of all ages but find that I have the greatest experiences in working with families and young adults. I am able to assist with frustrated parents that need parenting assistance or are struggling with their role as a parent/spouse/significant other. I work with teens that need help finding their path, whether that is in the LGBQT+ Community, the academic community or the difficulties that accompany a young person as they grow and develop into happy productive adults. For the adult population, I will provide a sounding board for men and women as you navigate this world. I offer unbiased reflection to your emotions and what I see as roadblocks for your growth. The teamwork between the two of us helps you get that “best self” back on track. You have come this far in reading my general profile. Just do the next step and sign up. If not with me, find someone that fits you. YOU are looking for help. Now, trust that you are in a safe place to find the RIGHT person for you.
Christina Gower
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over 12 years of experience in the mental health field. I am a certified trauma professional and also trained in Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT). I have worked with clients in both inpatient psychiatric settings; as well as outpatient settings. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including; depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, PTSD, and trauma. I have worked with clients experiencing acute stress as well as clients with chronic and persistent mental illness. My therapy style is very warm, interactive, and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I work with an eclectic approach, meeting the needs of each individual. Therapy is not a "one size fits all" treatment so your treatment plan will be tailored to meet your specific needs. I understand the courage it takes to make the steps towards change and look forward to being a part of your journey!
Gina Sokolich
Hi i'm Gina, I'm so glad you've decided to seek help or at least obtain information for your mental health. I recently retired from the EMS field so I'm very familiar with trauma in multiple situations. I work with a lot of people in narcissistic relationships, First Responders with PTSD or other work related struggles. Not everything has to be heavy and traumatic, maybe you just have questions about your life direction. What ever the situation, I can help you with perspective. I am client lead, so I meet you where you are. I give you the space to think and figure things out but will also challenge a perspective. I use EMDR, CBT and Brainspotting most often for situations and discuss things you can do in between sessions. I may also offer information on mindful meditation, stress relief. I'm here to help, let me know what you have going on!
Alejandra Quintana
I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri with over 8 years experience working with teens, families and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including anger, depression, anxiety, work/life balance, school issues, PTSD, and trauma. I am great at listening and supporting clients to express themselves, problem solve, develop effective coping skills, and brainstorm for better solutions. My therapy style is client-centered, recognizing that you know yourself better than I do and you are the expert. I am here to facilitate your personal growth and self-reflection. I believe everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and respect unconditionally. I learn from my clients about their unique culture and upbringings. I don't judge you, but will assertively challenge you to work on yourself to reach your goals. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, narrative and other evidence-based interventions. I will tailor our plan to meet your own and specific needs. Even if we don't get to work together I am glad you are seeking support and I hope you find the right fit for you to achieve your goals. -Alex
Dr. Taryne Mingo
I am licensed in Missouri with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Amanda Tompkins
I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Amy Louder
I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Rosann Emerson-Fox
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Illinois) with 28 years of professional work experience serving children, adolescents, and adults. My approach includes developing practical and effective strategies to respond and manage the symptoms of mental health. Areas of expertise include psychoeducation, special education advocacy, stress/anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse recovery, grief and loss, and confidence building. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared, validated, and receive no judgment. I recognize the courage it has taken to visit this resource and look forward to helping you take the steps towards your goals in reaching your personal wellness. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
How to find counseling in Blue Springs
Finding the best therapist close by in Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs. 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 Blue Springs, 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs, 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 Blue Springs area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs, 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 64013 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs, 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.
Blue Springs 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 Blue Springs:
64013, 64014, 64015