Dr. Evalyne Ekesa
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
Debra Younger
Greetings, I am pleased and excited that you have decided to consider me as a possible partner in your journey of discovery, growth, and healing and I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you. My name is Debra Younger. I have the claim to fame of being a 4th generation Californian, though I currently live in the mountains of New Mexico. I have been a professional therapist and Life Coach for 11 years. As a result, I am able to bring a wide breadth of learning and experience to my work. I am also a veteran and have a heart for working with our returning servicemen and women as they struggle to re-integrate back into civilian life from a combat or military environment. On a personal note, my many life experiences, such as being a single parent for 23 years, allow me to truly understand and emphasize with many of the adverse life events my clients have experienced. I have also been in my own personal therapy for 10 years, so I understand what it takes to admit that you’re human, that you can’t always handle what life throws at you, and be courageous enough to seek help. My areas of expertise lie in working with individuals who are struggling to deal with the adverse events they have experienced in their lives; including trauma, all forms of abuse, loss, grief, and attachment issues. My approach to therapy is founded on my belief that my clients are more than the problems that they are experiencing and bring to therapy. It is a holistic approach that sees them as a whole person consisting of mind, body, and spirit intimately intertwined and inseparable. A problem in any one area always affects the others. My preferred modality for counseling is Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy. This is a therapeutic approach that does not pathologize people, but rather takes a positive attitude toward the client’s issues and sees them as normal reactions to adverse life events, which events can create negative beliefs. These negative beliefs can then interfere with an individual’s ability to form healthy, adult relationships. Learning how to shift these negative beliefs to positive adaptive beliefs can enhance the ability to build healthy relationships. I am very excited about what IFS can offer you and would welcome the opportunity to introduce you to this powerful therapy and how it can help transform your lives.
Carla Frankoviglia-Gilfry
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth with empathy and expertise. I specialize in supporting women through transformative life stages, focusing on self-esteem, communication, workplace challenges, and midlife transitions. My approach is deeply attuned to the unique experiences of individuals seeking to understand themselves more deeply and cultivate meaningful personal change. My therapeutic work emphasizes self-love, body image healing, and helping clients discover their sense of purpose. I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their inner landscape, develop resilient coping strategies, and build more authentic, fulfilling lives. Through collaborative and personalized counseling, I'm committed to walking alongside you as you navigate your personal growth journey, honoring your individual strengths and potential for transformation.
Angela Kieler
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor/Art Therapist and I have a wide range of experience working with clients of all ages. I have worked with children in special education, elderly adults in hospice, and provided art therapy as well as individual counseling to patients who suffer from addictions and/or severe and persistent mental illness. In addition to working with psychiatric patients, I have provided education to family members through the National Alliance of Mental Illness. As an Qualified Mental Health Professional at Truman Medical Center in KC, MO I have worked with some of the most difficult cases in the community and also have personal experience with family members who suffer from mental illness. Having both professional and personal experience has made me very aware of how difficult it is to navigate mental health services for yourself or for a loved one when trying to access help for mental illness. As for my therapeutic approaches, I consider myself to be open minded, flexible, and willing to provide whatever would be best suited for each client I work with. I have a humanistic approach and can provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Existential Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Art Therapy.
Floyd Smith
As a licensed therapist with over four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional circumstances. My practice centers on helping clients heal from trauma, manage grief, build self-esteem, and develop healthier communication patterns through trauma-informed care and client-focused treatment. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, with deep expertise in addressing challenges like isolation, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress. My work is particularly focused on supporting young adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds through nuanced, personalized therapeutic interventions. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, work through shame and guilt, and develop strategies for personal growth. My approach honors each person's unique journey, emphasizing understanding, healing, and empowerment. I am committed to providing affirming, thoughtful care that respects individual experiences and supports meaningful personal transformation.
Christopher Massey
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with four years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, stress, relationship issues, parenting problems, addictions, and other mental health diagnoses. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma, abuse, and neglect in their life. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity, empathy, and compassion, and I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused modalities. I will meet you where you are at in your life and assist you in determining what changes you would like to see in your life. Based off of this, we will create an individualized treatment plan with goals that are important to you. I can teach you coping skills and strategies to manage your mental health, and encourage you along the way to recovery. It takes a lot of courage to ask for help and to take the first steps towards making changes in your life. It is a sign of strength and not a weakness. I can assist you in your journey towards a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Stephen Garman
Hello, name is Steve. I am a professional licensed counselor. I have worked with all ages. I have worked in crisis and with substance abuse. I have also worked with pastoral counseling. . My expertise includes dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, motivational counseling, and specific teen issues. I also help many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines many counseling approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality therapy, ACT therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique, specific needs and personality. I am also a certified diet and nutrition coach, I help with sleep problems, and work with clients interested in improving their physical condition through exercise of the mind and body. I believe you have the innate ability to rise above your problems. I am here as a coach to take you from where you are in life to where you want to be. I believe that in order to be truly healed and healthy we all need an approach that heals us emotionally, physically, and spiritually. My compassionate, positive, and personal approach will make you feel comfortable and in control. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Darcel Tyson
Hello my name is Darcel. I am a License Professional Counselor (LPC). I am here to encourage, motivate, and challenge you towards a path to real change. I offer a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment that support the therapeutic process. Therapy is a team effort. Therefore, we will work collaboratively to identify internal conflicts and barriers which hinder personal growth. You will have the opportunity to gain insight, set goals, and apply the necessary skills to improve your quality of life. I have several years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. No one single modality/technique is for everyone, therefore, I will use the appropriate therapeutic approach based on your individual need. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and adjustment issues related to stress filled life experiences. My expertise is inclusive of various backgrounds, cultures, and ethnic groups. I ensure confidentiality, trust, and respect to each client I serve.
Stacy Freeland
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.
Stephanie Cook
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & depression. 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!
Randi Brewer
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Heidi Brown Stratton
I am licensed in Missouri with multiple years of experience working in different fields of social work: from women’s health, to alternative sentencing to hospice. I also have connections to the special needs and lgbtq+ community. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & intimacy related issues. 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. It takes courage, time, and support to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I look forward to helping you find your path.
Martha Green
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.
April Vandiver
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Oregon, and Louisiana in professional counseling. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, career difficulties, confidence-building, life changes, coping with stress, time management, grief, goal-setting, and more. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I have a warm client-centered approach. It takes courage to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support you in that journey. You can message me 24/7. I will respond at least twice a day.
Find a Therapist Near You in Irena , 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:
- 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 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:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Missouri (MO)
- 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 Irena.
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.