Dr. Ophelia Blackwell
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor and a national certified clinical counselor. I completed my Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision with an emphasis in marriage and family studies at Kansas State University. I have worked as a counselor for over 10 years in many settings which include, corrections, military, hospital, college, mental health agency and private practice. I have worked with all types of clients experiencing depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anger, personality disorders and substance and alcohol abuse. My desire in therapy is to see individuals, couples, and families restored and healthy in every area of their lives. I use an integrative approach to therapy. My primary treatment approach is client-centered therapy. I find this approach beneficial because it helps to establish and maintain a strong therapeutic relationship. Additionally, I am a trained EMDR therapist, a Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Specialist (CCBTS), and I utilize attachment approaches in my work with individuals, families, and couples who are experiencing distress in their interpersonal relationships.
Gary Schmidt
Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or ready for change but not sure where to start? I offer a warm, grounded space to untangle what’s been weighing on you and rediscover your sense of peace and purpose. My approach helps you build real insight, emotional balance, and the confidence to move forward on your own terms. Healing happens at your own speed and I’m here to support you through it all as a trained trauma-informed IFS therapist. My role is to guide, listen, and adapt to what you need as we go. Everything we do will be built on mutual trust and consent, and I’ll use research-backed methods to make our work together as effective as possible.
Derick Farmer
As a licensed therapist in Missouri and Kansas, I provide thoughtful, individualized care for adults navigating complex emotional and life challenges. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and mood-related concerns, offering a supportive and respectful environment where clients feel heard and understood. My approach is grounded in each client’s unique experiences, strengths, and values. I am committed to helping individuals cultivate self-compassion, enhance communication skills, reduce social isolation, and explore meaning and purpose in their lives. I also work with clients facing workplace stress, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions. Through the use of evidence-based therapeutic practices, I collaborate with clients to process difficult emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and foster lasting, meaningful change. My therapeutic style is both compassionate and goal-oriented, balancing emotional support with practical tools that clients can integrate into their daily lives. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds, with particular specialization in mood disorders and grief and loss. I approach each therapeutic relationship with professionalism, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting clients in their healing, growth, and overall well-being.
Christine O'Neill
Hello! I am a therapist with a passion for helping people to make positive changes in their lives. Throughout my 17 year career I have worked with many different populations in a myriad of ways and have found that most people want to have a better life and just need that catalyst to make it possible. My style lends itself to be more on the coaching side and I often times have clients work on different small tasks outside of the therapy session. I would consider my counseling style to be warm, interactive, and goal oriented. Humor is a tool I use regularly to bring reality to difficult situations and to show that while life can be tumultuous, there should always be room to find laughter. I have extensive experience in mood disorders, teen issues, addictions, life changes, divorce, and family issues. I lend more towards messaging and live messaging therapy as I feel it gives the client more time to really think about what they want to say and to be able to better absorb the responses. You have taken the first and often times hardest step towards improving your future! I hope to hear from you soon and I look forward to working towards a more fulfilled life.
Christina Rydeen
I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Louis Koch
I am licensed in Missouri with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & relationship issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Lorinda Wente
I am a therapist licensed in Kansas with over 30 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, military-related stressors of dependents and active duty, career challenges, and specific women's issues. I also helped many people who have experienced trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is personable and interactive. I believe in treating all with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, motivational interviewing, and rational-emotive therapy. You will see I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
Amanda Buckner
Welcome to Better Help Do you need someone to talk to? Are you stressed over the everyday chaos of life? Do you spend a lot of time worrying or feeling anxious? Do you worry about pleasing others or about what others think? These can be signs of anxiety. At times do you feel hopeless, isolated or not your usual self? Do you struggle with unresolved guilt? Do you feel there is no one you can talk to about your intense or personal feelings? These can be signs of depression. Have you tried to resolve these issues on your own without much success? I am a good listener. I am passionate about helping people succeed in reaching their personal goals and maintain a healthy lifestyle. I enjoy helping people gain insight and develop new perspectives. I focus on the treatment of Depression, Anxiety and Perinatal Disorders (Postpartum Depression). I incorporate Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Exposure techniques into my treatment approach. These are effective methods for treating both anxiety and depressive disorders. Patients often find relief in realizing that their struggles do not own them, and that there are many options available for regaining hope in their lives. I can help you sort out the environmental, biological and circumstantial factors in your life while offering support and care. If any of the above issues resonate with you, we can find a solution that works. I am a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker (LSCSW) and have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, children and families. I received a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work from Wichita State University, and graduated from Newman University (Wichita, KS) in 2009 with a Master's Degree in Social Work.
Angelique (Gigi) Tsontos
As a licensed therapist in Kansas, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex life transitions and personal challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate relationship dynamics, career shifts, family conflicts, and personal growth. I specialize in working with women's issues, addressing communication challenges, exploring life purpose, and supporting individuals through significant life changes. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on attachment dynamics, workplace challenges, and healing from past traumatic experiences. I offer a supportive environment where clients can explore sensitive topics like sexuality, midlife transitions, and personal identity with understanding and respect. Drawing from extensive clinical expertise, I am committed to empowering individuals to develop stronger interpersonal skills, overcome obstacles, and create meaningful pathways toward personal transformation. My goal is to provide thoughtful, client-centered guidance that honors each person's unique journey and potential for growth.
Alisha Hall
Welcome to Better Help! I am Alisha, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Oklahoma with 35+ years of professional work experience with individuals, couples, families, and groups struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, self-esteem and confidence, college and career prep, grief and loss, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety, separation and divorce, and life transitions for women. My goal is to provide a calm, peaceful accepting environment for you to be able to safely work through those issues in life that are causing conflict within your soul. It takes courage to take a deeply honest look at ourselves and face some pretty scary emotions, memories, and realities, acknowledging that we need to make some shifts in order to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I utilize many treatment modalities that will meet the needs of each client which can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapies, Mindfulness, Somatic Psychotherapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Come sit with me for a while and we will explore together. I look forward to taking this journey with you!
Brenda Hanson
As a licensed therapist in Kansas with over four decades of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients navigate issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and relationship dynamics. I have extensive expertise in addressing women's issues, life purpose exploration, communication challenges, and emotional healing. My therapeutic style emphasizes self-love, personal growth, and empowering individuals to develop healthier coping strategies. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, or midlife transitions, I provide a supportive and understanding environment. My practice welcomes diverse clients across different ages and backgrounds. I'm committed to walking alongside you as you work through difficult emotions, build resilience, and create meaningful personal transformation.
James "JT" Smith
I am licensed in Kansas with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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!
Allison Keith
As a licensed therapist in Kansas, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients develop deeper self-understanding, resilience, and meaningful connections. I have extensive experience supporting individuals through challenges like depression, anxiety, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and collaborative, focusing on empowering clients to cultivate self-love, improve communication, and address feelings of isolation. I'm particularly passionate about working with individuals exploring personal identity, women's experiences, and attachment-related concerns. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and move toward greater emotional wellness. I'm committed to providing affirming, inclusive care that honors each person's unique journey and inherent strengths.
Victoria Bell
My therapeutic approach is well-suited for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma (PTSD/CPTSD), and those affected by challenging or toxic relationships, including narcissistic abuse. I also support individuals seeking personal growth and self-discovery, as well as those facing academic or professional stressors. Together, we’ll explore both long-standing patterns and present-moment challenges, empowering you to make meaningful changes that align with your goals and values. I am a proponent of offering hands-on techniques and actionable steps to make those changes realistic and effective in the long-term. My therapeutic approach is well-suited for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, the impact of trauma (PTSD/CPTSD), and those affected by challenging or toxic relationships, including narcissistic abuse. I also support individuals seeking personal growth and self-discovery, as well as those facing academic or professional stressors. Together, we’ll explore both long-standing patterns and present-moment challenges, empowering you to make meaningful changes that align with your goals and values. I am a proponent of offering hands-on techniques and actionable steps to make those changes realistic and effective in the long-term. Therapy with me is collaborative, trauma-informed, and tailored to where you are now. I am Level 1 and Level 2 EMDR trained and use other evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and strengths-based practices. I help you honor your past while guiding you toward growth and future goals. My hope is to empower you to move forward with clarity and purpose. Taking this step toward therapy is a powerful and courageous act. I would be honored to be part of your journey toward healing, self-assurance, and fulfillment. Together, we can work to build a life that feels grounded and aligned with your true self, so you may find the inner peace you are seeking.
Find a Therapist Near You in Pleasanton , Kansas
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Kansas can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
Kansas is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Kansas, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Kansas (KS). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Kansas, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Kansas with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Kansas
When searching for a therapist near me in Kansas, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Kansas, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Kansas.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Kansas want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Kansas
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Kansas without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Kansas (KS)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Kansas
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Kansas, including residents in Pleasanton.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Kansas do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.