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.
William Wilson
I am a licensed professional counselor in the State of Missouri, and I have been practicing for six years. I typically work with adolescents and adults, and I have experience treating a broad range of concerns. These include anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, spiritual crises, organizational skills and goals, communication, and relationships. I also have experience with grief and trauma, as well as abuse. Finally, I have also worked with couples and pre-marital counseling. I utilize multiple different approaches, depending upon the context and the client's specific needs. For instance, I often utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, logotherapy, narrative therapy, and existential approaches. I appreciate the complexity of individual's and the variability each person's unique set of circumstances bring to the table. Hence, my approach reflects these observations, as I aim to avoid over-simplistic or reductionist views of people and their concerns. Life can easily become overwhelming, as our daily experiences present us with a staggering amount of complexity and stress. It's not reasonable to assume that we can, or even should, handle these things on our own. We are social creatures, and thriving in the world requires us to take hold of those who have extended themselves to us. That is what it means to make the choice to speak to a counselor. It is the acceptance of an invitation to walk together, with someone, through a season of life. It is one of the most human things we can do. I greatly anticipate walking alongside you, as you take the first steps to address and overcome the obstacles in your path.
Kerry Branum
Kerry Branum is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri, Lincense #2012022789. and Life Coach, and teacher, with expertise in individual and family relationships. With over 10 years of experience as a therapist, educator, and coach, Kerry is a graduate of Missouri Baptist University with a Master's in Counseling and Ole Miss with an Educational Specialist degree in Counselor Education specializing in Play Therapy. In addition to counseling, Kerry provides coaching and teaching services to help clients achieve their goals and create a more fulfilling life. As a coach, Kerry helps clients identify their strengths and develop strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As a teacher, he provides clients with practical tools and techniques to navigate challenges and make positive changes in their lives. Kerry's approach to therapy, coaching, and teaching is grounded in the belief that every individual has the potential to achieve their full potential and create a meaningful life. He works collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies and techniques to help them cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and well-being. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Kerry is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. He holds certifications in various therapeutic approaches, including Registered Play Therapist (R-PT) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), and is equipped to provide effective and evidence-based treatment to clients of all ages. So whether you're seeking counseling, coaching, or teaching services, Kerry is here to support you on your journey towards personal growth and fulfillment.
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.
Karen Kavaloski
Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 17 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . I am also the author and publisher self help books under my Sacred Self Workbook Series Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.
Michael McGaugh
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.
Dr. Michael Cundiff
Hello, my name is Michael Cundiff. I am a therapist with BetterHelp, and look forward to getting to know you. You have taken a bold first step by contacting BetterHelp, reflecting a strength and a good beginning. I enjoy working with people and look forward to speaking with you. My background information is available on my profile along with hours and availability. Forty-five minute sessions seem to work best for most clients, but we can be flexible if you have different expectations. Video, email and chat are the virtual formats, and clients are encouraged to go at their own rate. If you have questions, please ask, but feel free to do so should any come to mind later. I check for messages several times daily and try to respond as quickly as possible. My counseling approach is essentially client-centered, which is to say relationship based, and it is my belief that client and counselor should work together in establishing goals and strategies for solutions. You may have some thoughts on this as well which we can process. Looking forward to speaking with you. Michael Cundiff
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!
Jill Hazell
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with child abuse and trauma victims. I have over 20 years of experience in a variety of settings, currently in a middle school setting. I have worked with people from a variety of backgrounds with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, abuse, bullying and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced sexual trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a pretty good sense of humor. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now, and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. I enjoy helping individuals learn to be their best selves. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, client-centered, solution focused and mindfulness. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 am excited to work with you!
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.
Dr. Robert Rasp
I am a licensed therapist with 35 years of professional work experience. I am experienced in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and depression. I believe that it is my job to serve my clients. I do not believe in telling clients what to do. I want to find out what your vision is for a joyous life. Then we will take a positive solution focused approach to achieve your dreams.
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.
Gil Salgado
I am licensed in Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief. I also have experience working with coping with loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
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 Nelson , 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 Nelson.
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.