Along the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers in the extreme southeastern corner of Missouri, you will find the small town of Charleston, Missouri. The town was settled in 1805 and at the time it was called Matthews Prairie and then the name was changed in 1837 for the nearby Charles Prairie. The Battle of Charleston was held here on August 19, 1861.

History is important and it can be fun as well. Looking at your own family’s history can be good for your health too as it can tell you if there are any hereditary illnesses in your past such as mental illness. Talk to a Charleston area therapist or counselor if you have any concerns or questions about your mental health.

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Psychologist Hillary Haarmann providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Hillary Haarmann

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2006034925
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

Hi! My name is Hillary. I am a licensed therapist with many years of experience in providing talk therapy to clients with a diverse set of backgrounds. I enjoy working with people, helping them to realize their full potential and by providing support and guidance in reaching their goals. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, and my Master’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis. I have experience working with adults and teenagers living with stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and chemical dependency. I help and support people going through major life transitions such as; new job, parenting, relationship stressors, grief/loss, etc. I like to use cognitive behavioral therapy, challenging negative automatic thoughts, working towards a healthier self. I believe having a constructive view of the self is the first step to moving forward to achieve your goals. I like to concentrate on solution-focused therapy using client’s goals as their motivation to better themselves, being mindful, present in the moment, as a place to start. I want to assist my clients to find their own empowerment. I offer my clients new perspectives while focusing on their strengths and support them in their journey towards the life they want and deserve. I look forward to working with you. I believe the client-therapist team is an extremely powerful partnership that can bring about positive change. Thank you and I look forward to working with you, Hillary

Psychologist Raymond Butts providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Raymond Butts

Clinician
License Type(s): AK LPC PCOP36, MO LPC 2007014050
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficulties
30 years offering treatment

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor, ( NCC) with other 30 years experience in both counseling and education. I started my professional career as an elementary special education teacher in the early 80's. I obtained my M.Ed in counselor Education in 1989 from the University of Arkansas and in 1989 I went to Alaska for the first time as along term substitute teacher. I worked in the Bering Strait School District, in Unalakleet, Alaska. I would return a year later, and work a total of 11 years as a teacher, itinerant school counselor, and village school principal in the district. I would go on to work in two other school districts before retiring from Alaska in 2004. After returning to Arkansas, and home, I worked as a kindergarten counselor in a center with 180 kids and 18 teachers. I fully retired in 2007. In 2009, I became a military and family life counselor and have been doing this for 10 years. My treatment approach is based on my training and my personality. I was trained in CCT and it fit my style, even though I do specialize in crisis counseling. I have found helping the client, and not necessarily directing the client is more effective for me. With over 5 years here at BetterHelp, my goal is to be the most effective therapist possible

Psychologist Dr. Evalyne Ekesa providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Dr. Evalyne Ekesa

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2022043441, WI LPC 7527-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficulties
15 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Evalyne, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor both in the State of Wisconsin and State of Missouri. I went to Alverno College for my BA in Psychology, Social Science, and Professional Communication. Then, I attended Marquette University and obtained my MA in clinical psychology. Finally, I earned a PhD in Education and Leadership for the advancement of Learning and Services from Cardinal Stritch University. Besides my helping profession, I am also a lecturer at college level. I have been providing therapeutic services since 2009. I have worked with varied populations across ages, including geriatrics, people with multicultural backgrounds, those who are incarcerated or in conflict with the law. I also worked with the half-way home, and physically challenged populations in group-home settings. I will be happy to walk with you in pursuit of your goals toward wholeness. I practice from an eclectic approach since each client is unique and responds to different Technics and approaches depending on the issue at hand. I also believe in attending to a client, as a “whole”, person because I believe problems are often caused by a host of things. My part as a therapist is to guide, support and empower that individual through the healing process without judgement. My services encompass benevolence, and empathy to my clients. After all, it is all about the client and what he/she needs. I am caring, yet firm when necessary, since we all need a nudge at times to move on. I love to work with people who are committed to unfolding a baggage in their life-stories as they work towards life's happiness and self-fulfillment. I utilize integrative therapies, such as humanistic/client-centered approach because I believe that clients have strengths to build-on during therapy and after therapy. I also employ Cognitive Behavior Therapy because I find it useful for many emotional cases. Together we can address client’s concerns/issues in the most helpful manner that can bring healing/relief to that individual making life better and peaceful. I purposely say “we” because I firmly believe that a client has capability to explore and work through issues. While working through the sessions, I like to reinforce the elements of positive psychology. If you and I can make a good “team,” I am here for YOU. Let us walk that mile together. My therapeutic approach Include but not limited to: Humanistic/Client - centered approach Cognitive behavior therapy Mindfulness-based therapy Faith integration for (those who need it) Specialties Anxiety Stress Grief and Loss issues Parenting Career decision -making Self-esteem Also, I have experience in: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), coping with life changes Aside from my professional activities; I like reading relevant literature, attending workshops and seminars for CE to keep myself abreast with the current findings in the field. One of the things I do to give back to the community is, teaching, mentoring upcoming Counselors, and enjoying peer advising group discussions. Additionally, I also do research and sometimes just chill out. Years of Experience: 15

Psychologist Belinda Licea providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Belinda Licea

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2016019189
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
4 years offering treatment

Using a person-centered trauma-focused approach, I will help you learn to have a more fulfilling life. I believe in being real and providing unconditional positive regard which means that I accept you for how you are and believe that anyone is capable of having a new life. My diverse life experiences have provided me the tools to provide genuine empathy which is important to build that connection and trust. I have had several opportunities to work with diverse populations. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and have worked a lot with anxiety, depression, foster care, self-esteem, and family conflict.

Psychologist Michael McGaugh providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Michael McGaugh

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2012019367
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years offering treatment

I have about twenty years work experience in the field of mental health services, I have worked as an adult case manager in community support services. I have also been an intake specialist; but the one area I have found the most rewarding is working as a mental health counselor. I enjoy working with people in helping them to see issues and problems from different perspectives and helping them to make better choices that will help them with feeling better about themselves and to overcome their personal problems. I hold advanced degrees in psychology and mental health counseling. From my education and work experience, I have found CBT and positive center approaches along with solution based therapy to be effective in helping clients to become more mindful along with helping them to build coping skills that they can utilize to help them to be more empowered in making healthy decisions in their lives.

Psychologist Anna (Kate) Smart providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Anna (Kate) Smart

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2012004769
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
16 years offering treatment

Hello! If you are reading this then it means you are somewhere along the way to seeking therapy - welcome, it's great you are here! Making the decision to talk through personal challenges and struggles with someone takes courage and while it can be a hard step to take, it opens the door to positive and profound change. If you are looking to heal, let's talk. If you are struggling with life transitions or challenges that seem insurmountable, let's talk. If you are wanting to gain a fresh perspective or make some difficult changes, let's talk. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and have been providing mental health support there and overseas since 2009. I have worked in a variety of settings including outreach centers for survivors of violence, a university counseling center and private practice, and have had the opportunity to work with people of all ages and various nationalities. I practice using a strengths-based approach, focusing on a person's resilience and building on the strengths they possess (we all have strengths, sometimes we are just so overwhelmed by life we are not able to see them clearly). Over the course of therapy I incorporate elements of cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused, solution focused and person-centered therapy. Therapy is not one size fits all and thus the therapeutic process is tailored to meet individual needs. It is truly a privilege to be present with someone on their path of self-discovery and change and I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Elva 'Julia' Garafola providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Elva 'Julia' Garafola

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2024038145, TX LCSW 56813
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Florida, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced experiences of diverse clients, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I offer a compassionate, holistic approach that honors each individual's unique journey. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including self-love, communication challenges, life transitions, trauma recovery, and personal empowerment. I am particularly committed to supporting clients navigating complex emotional landscapes, from workplace stress to interpersonal dynamics. My approach is collaborative and person-centered, designed to help you develop meaningful insights, build resilience, and create positive change. Whether you're experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with personal identity, or seeking guidance through significant life transitions, I'm dedicated to providing supportive, affirming care that respects your individual experience and goals.

Psychologist Alicia Cunningham providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Alicia Cunningham

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2017041097
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
10 years offering treatment

First things first..... You are not "broken". Everyone is worthy of having a joyful, satisfying life but sometimes we need help. It's ok. I would be honored to work with you and help you reconnect with yourself and gain control over your life. I aim to empower individuals and couples to rebuild relationships, improve self esteem, develop positive coping skills, and overcome any challenge life has thrown your way. I believe in counseling. I believe in having a safe place to be yourself and discuss hardships, and thoughts free of judgement. During counseling we will address your specific needs. This is your opportunity to get the help you need and deserve. As a team, we will work together.

Psychologist Cynthia Anders providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Cynthia Anders

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2014008411
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 12 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Stacy Freeland providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Stacy Freeland

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2003031564
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with many years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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.

Psychologist Robert Good providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Robert Good

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 19134, MO LPC 2023050846
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in both Missouri and Texas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Julie Diaz providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Julie Diaz

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2009035486, IL LCPC 180008098
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri with 23 years of professional counseling experience. I have assisted individuals with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss and so much more. I facilitate an open and safe environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. It takes courage and determination 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.

Psychologist Ashley Farrens providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Ashley Farrens

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2015006042
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have helped people with faith issues, concerns and struggles. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue 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.

Psychologist Candace Graves providing different types of therapy in Charleston

Candace Graves

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 100592, MO LPC 2017023507
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist serving clients across Texas and Missouri, I bring over a decade of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping people navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and family conflicts with compassion and cultural sensitivity. I specialize in guiding clients toward deeper self-understanding, focusing on areas such as self-love, communication skills, overcoming isolation, and exploring personal purpose. My approach honors each individual's unique journey, with particular care for addressing feelings of guilt, shame, and the transformative power of forgiveness. Drawing from my background as a therapist of color, I create a welcoming space where clients can authentically explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for emotional growth. My therapeutic style integrates evidence-based practices with a holistic, empathetic approach that respects each person's individual identity and spiritual perspectives.

Find a Therapist Near You in Charleston , Missouri

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Missouri 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.

Missouri 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 Missouri, 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 Missouri (MO). 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 Missouri, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Missouri with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

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 Missouri

When searching for a therapist near me in Missouri, 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 Missouri, 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 Missouri.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Missouri 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 Missouri

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Missouri without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Missouri (MO)
  3. 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 Missouri

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Charleston.

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 Missouri 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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Charleston can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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