Darice Dodd
My name is Darice Dodd and I am a fully licensed therapist (LPC) in Georgia and Missouri with almost 20 years of extensive education, training, and experience in the mental health and substance abuse/ addictions field. I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a credential awarded by the National Board for Certified Counselors (Board-Certified) and a Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) . I graduated from Georgia State University, with both a Master of Science Degree in Professional Counseling and Educational Specialist Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy simultaneously. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD, grief and loss, anger management, etc. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma and abuse. My counseling style is eclectic, meaning I incorporate a variety of therapeutic modalities to create the ideal treatment to meet the client's needs. I strive to provide a safe, supportive, nonjudgemental, and empathic therapeutic environment. I believe that everyone is uniquely different and may not respond to a one size fits all therapeutic modality. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, person centered, family systemic, and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific goals and desires. I tend to work with clients from a strength-based, positive, and affirming perspective. My specialties include assessment/evaluation, substance abuse/addictions counseling, individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, play therapy, etc. I have experience working with adults, children/adolescents, couples and families within a multitude of different settings. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Ruth Carter
Hello. My name is Ruth Carter and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 13 years experience in this field. Before becoming a counselor, I was a teacher who found many of her students in need of emotional guidance as well as intellectual development. I began to think that if I was going to help my students, I needed to know more. I left teaching to seek a degree in Counseling. Over the years, I have seen people whose problems ranged from making a tough decision to changing their life; people who suffered from a situational depression to a major mental illness; people who struggled with poor decision making to living with an all consuming addiction. No change is easy, but they are possible. Talking with a therapist is not easy for most people, and I applaud your decision to reach out. I have been trained in different therapeutic approaches, but my primary job is to listen. I must also provide you with a safe environment for your explorations. I will always treat you with respect and compassion. And sometimes I will challenge your thinking. Together we will find meaningful and useful strategies within your strengths that deal with your concerns. Whether or not you come to see me, I am pleased that you are seeking assistance. I wish the very best for you.
Alane Roath
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring nearly two decades of compassionate mental health experience to my practice. My approach centers on understanding and supporting individuals through complex life challenges, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and trauma recovery. I offer a deeply affirming therapeutic space that honors diverse identities and experiences. My work focuses on supporting individuals navigating social anxiety, panic disorders, mood challenges, sexuality exploration, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics. I'm particularly committed to creating a supportive environment for those experiencing isolation, communication difficulties, and complex emotional landscapes. My therapeutic style is collaborative, empathetic, and tailored to each individual's unique journey. I draw from evidence-based practices to help clients develop meaningful coping strategies, build emotional resilience, and cultivate authentic personal growth. Whether you're confronting personal transitions, processing past experiences, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional support.
Michelle Evans
My name is Michelle and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a MA in Counseling and graduated from Webster in 2006. Through my time as a LPC, I have worked with adults, children, couples, as well as with the foster care system, residentials, independent living homes, and substance use, both residential and individual. My style of therapy is geared towards you and what works best for you. Some of the various styles of therapy I pull from includes: cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma focused therapy, person centered therapy, solution focused therapy, and motivational interviewing. I meet you where you're at in your journey. I am looking forward to meeting you and working with you as you begin your journey.
Elva 'Julia' Garafola
As a licensed therapist in TX and MO, 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.
Dr. Tess DeProw
Hello, my name is Dr. Tess DeProw. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I have helped many people struggling with depression, drug addiction, relationship breakups, childhood trauma, parenting issues and anxiety. I will work with you to help you identify what your personal strengths are and together we will develop a plan to improve the quality of your life. I used several different therapeutic approaches: cognitive-behavioral therapy, strength-based therapy, motivational interviewing and narrative therapy. All of the tools I use are designed to empower you and help you see that you do have choices as to how we handle the situations that we are faced with. Sometimes the fear of change is scarier than the change itself. My personal counseling style is warm, empathetic, encouraging and empowering.
Jennifer Stevens
I specialize in working with adults who are navigating ADHD, anxiety and overthinking, depression, relationship challenges and breakups, and major life transitions. I especially enjoy helping people who feel overwhelmed, stuck, or frustrated by patterns they’re having difficulty changing. My approach is warm, conversational, and practical, combining a supportive, nonjudgmental space with thoughtful insight and actionable strategies to help clients better understand themselves, build effective coping skills, and move forward with greater confidence. I have a passion for helping people to examine their history and patterns in order to find the true center of the issues that are hindering them. I explore the various ways in one's life that symptoms present, and to work to understand the function and underlying meanings. Using that understanding, I aim to help my clients develop lifelong skills to take control of their behavior and live fulfilling lives. I’m trained in mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral and psycho-dynamic therapies. I use a holistic approach to therapy and have extensive experience in various settings working with relational issues, blended families, anxiety, depression and life transitions. You’ve taken the first step in looking for help, reach out to see if I can help you get to where you’d like to be. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have about this process.
Wesley Hirst
As you search for just the ” right” counselor, the task may seem overwhelming. ” Will I like them?” ” Will they like me?” ” Will anyone ever understand?” ” Will they really be able to help me?” The list of concerns may seem exhausting. I have over thirty years of experience but I don’t have all the answers. I have never met YOU. I have never heard YOUR hopes and dreams and life story. What I do know from my training, professional experience, and life experience is that counseling works. There is no magic pill to ” fix ” your issues but with honesty, understanding, empathy, and proven methods, we can work together to make positive changes. Probably the most important element in a client/counselor relationship is trust. I want you to feel secure in the knowledge that you are entering a safe place. You will not be judged. I will treat you with compassion, understanding, and respect. I have been a son, brother, husband, father, employee, employer, and friend. I know how complicated life and relationships can be because I’ve been there. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, backpacking, music, biking, and photography. I have frequent visits from wildlife and I’m a pet lover. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology and have extensive training in trauma. substance abuse disorders, marriage counseling, mindfulness, and adolescent behavior disorders. I look forward to meeting you.
Steven Forsyth
I began my addictions counseling career six years after entering recovery from alcohol/drug use, on 5/13/1982. My original counseling schooling was in Rational Emotive Therapy, which evolved into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and led to my schooling in Narrative Therapy and Transactional Analysis. Most recently, I have become interested in Miller & Rollnick's Motivational Interviewing, Prochaska & Diclemente's Stages of Change model of behavior change, Berg & Miller's Solution-Focused Therapy, Marlatt & Donovan's relapse prevention strategies and techniques, ACT therapy, and Internal Family Systems therapy. My most recent Certification is in Robin Shapiro's Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing-EMDR-, through the EMDRIA International Institute in November of 2021. As a Therapist, I necessarily became conversant in telehealth methodology during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. I approach counseling holistically: I understand individuals as "whole cloth", i.e., as the current product(s) of their total life experiences. I also firmly believe in all-ways maintaining a positively enthusiastic outlook on life and living!
Donna King
I am a licensed therapist in Missouri with over 10 years of experience. I have specialized training in trauma in general as well as military trauma. Furthermore, I have worked with a wide range of clients whose issues include anxiety, depression, marriage/family and relationship issues, abuse, low self-esteem, and intimacy issues, as examples. Even though I am a Christian, I also regularly see clients who are not, whereas it has never posed a problem. I am accepting and engaging and I strive to treat everyone with dignity and respect! Furthermore, I am eclectic in my approach while using various treatment methods including but not limited to cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, psychoanalytical, and solution-focused therapies, as examples. I am here to help you overcome even the most difficult aspects of life, to help you navigate through every day aspects of life, or anything that you might need assistance with. Overall, I am here for you, and I look forward to working with you!!!
Robert Good
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.
Chad Winch
I am licensed in Missouri with several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. At this time I am only offering live chat sessions in order to my schedule availability as open as possible to my clients. If that is an issue for you and you have a different preference - I understand completely.
Michael Perkins
Over two decades psychotherapy experience. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Primarily Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Both strongly evidenced based. Addressing anxiety, depression, complex life transitions, and relationship challenges. I have experience with adults of all ages, teens, and Veterans (former Army Medic and Navy Corpsman) professionals, and individuals with transitions.
Christopher "Chris" Noll
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like self-esteem, grief, career transitions, and life changes. I offer compassionate guidance for those experiencing social anxiety, isolation, guilt, and shame, with a deep commitment to supporting personal growth and self-discovery. My therapeutic approach is grounded in understanding each person's unique journey. I work collaboratively to help clients develop resilience, explore life purpose, and cultivate meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. Whether you're struggling with midlife transitions, caregiver stress, or seasonal emotional shifts, I'm dedicated to creating a supportive, non-judgmental space for healing and transformation.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Independence, Missouri
Finding a therapist near you in Independence, Missouri starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Missouri is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Missouri, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Missouri
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Missouri, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Missouri
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15, some pay $0.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Missouri
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Independence.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' copay is as low as $15 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Independence, Missouri
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Independence and the surrounding MO area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.