Seniors, middle-aged people, and young adults may face different challenges, but working with a therapist can help anyone learn to cope. If you are looking for individual therapy in Missouri, consider online treatment. It can be challenging to find in-person care if there’s a lack of providers in your area or you cannot easily reach Kansas City or Saint Louis therapists. An online treatment platform like BetterHelp can make access to therapy more convenient and flexible.
With BetterHelp, you can access mental health care from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. Your provider will use a holistic approach to treatment and work with you to determine what treatment approach may help you meet your goals, whether dialectical behavioral therapy, art therapy, or another treatment option.
While BetterHelp does not currently offer group therapy or services like play therapy or adolescent intensive outpatient programming to children or adolescents, the providers are skilled in various modalities, including commitment therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and eye movement desensitization.
Therapy can help you learn healthy coping skills and improve low self-esteem so you can work toward your individual goals. If you’re looking for an online therapist, MO has many options available. The providers below are licensed to provide virtual therapy across the state.

Dr. Rebecca Lester
Hello! Thanks for stopping by. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I also hold a PhD in Cultural Anthropology (you can read more about how these two things go together on my website at www.rebeccalester.com). I have been in private clinical practice for over 10 years. I am passionate about helping people and I would love the opportunity to work with you. In my work, I engage the whole person--not just a "disorder." My therapeutic approach is characterized by compassion, warmth, and respect. My work is eclectic and personalized--I prioritize working collaboratively with clients to discover what best works for you and your needs. In addition to having proficiency in psychodynamic humanistic, existential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies, I have pursued additional trainings in DBT, IFS, and Sensorimotor Therapy. But I follow psychiatrist Irvin Yalom's philosophy: "for each new client, a new psychotherapy," meaning that every person is unique, and you deserve an approach specifically tailored to you. I specialize in the following areas: • eating disorders • mood disorders (depression, bipolar) • anxiety • self-harm • stress and coping • trauma/PTSD • personality disorders • LGBTQIA+ issues • sexual/relationship concerns Choosing a therapist is an important and courageous decision. I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have about the process or my approach. I look forward to working with you!

Jon Collings
Would you like to change how you feel? Do you know that your thoughts about yourself and your life determine what you're feeling and the choices you make. Let's use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy to change your thoughts and change your life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Missouri with over 22 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients of every age and diagnosis, but most of my experience is in the areas of relational issues, depression, anxiety, parenting difficulties, and life changes. I received my Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Baylor University and my Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Tennessee. I've been married for 30 years, and I have four children ranging in ages from 13-22. As mentioned above, my main therapeutic approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). However, I also employ Insight-Oriented Therapy as well. This just means that we will work on discovering what your thoughts are about yourself and your life, and then work on changing them so that your emotions and behavior change as well. We will develop your treatment goals suited to your specific needs and desires. My belief is that counseling will empower you to accomplish your therapeutic goals and that you will acquire a new set of skills that you'll be able to use the rest of your life.

Dr. Paula Alvarez
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.

Ethan Potter
Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri with over 7 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with dignity, respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach is eclectic in nature; meaning I combine several different treatment theories and modalities based on each client's individual needs. My approach may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, client center approach, solution-focused, narrative therapy, and more. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to reach out for help and take the first steps toward positive change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Michelle Zeilman
My name is Michelle Zeilman and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and a certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist with 20 years of clinical experience and 28 years of experience in the Human Service Field. Flexible, highly individualized, client directed treatment is of utmost importance to me, fostered through an empathic, genuine, collaborative relationship. Treatment is about the client and I believe my role is to understand the client's world through their eyes and help them navigate their human experience. I conceptualize client concerns through a systemic relational perspective and select treatment techniques based on evidence based practice and the individual needs of the client. In general practice, I provide services for: depression, anxiety and other mood disorders; adjustment disorder issues; ADHD/executive functioning issues; difficulties with both individual and family life transitions and development; stress; and trauma. My areas of specific specialty are: family/couples and relationship therapy; difficulties with socialization/navigating social relationships or social structures; relationship issues across a variety of contexts; difficulties in larger system interactions; special populations/disabilities; child/adolescent therapy; parenting support; and Autism. My experience includes treating individuals and families with widely varied needs throughout the lifespan. I have worked with children ages 4 and up, families, and adults, many of those with high/severe needs, in a variety of settings including residential treatment, post psychiatric hospitalization, specialized schools, intensive in-home services, agency based outpatient work (foster care/adoption, abuse/neglect issues for adults and children, juvenile justice), and private practice. I have served clients from a range of ages, backgrounds, socio-economic statuses, experiences and diagnoses. My experience also includes working as an adjunct instructor in a university counseling program for 11 years training therapists in coursework including ethics, clinical practicums, family therapy, and special populations. I hold an M.Ed. in Counseling from the University of Missouri Saint Louis have obtained Ph.D. level education up to dissertation (ABD). I obtained my BS in Psychology from George Mason University. I hold a certification as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I was a National Certified Counselor as credentialed by the National Board of Certified Counselors from 2005-2017 and remain eligible for certification.

Lisa Travis-Johnson
I am a licensed therapist in Missouri with over 6 years of professional work experience. I also have an extensive background in the field of corrections. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns, including addictions, trauma and abuse, lack of motivation self-esteem and confidence issues, anxiety and depression. I also focus on gender specific/sensitive issues. I take a warm, empathetic, and compassionate, respectful and interactive approach to therapy. My therapy approach incorporates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and trauma focused approaches. I tailor sessions to meet the individual needs of the client. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I encourage and invite those with whom I work to enter therapy with an open mind and curiosity to learn about oneself. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

Isaac Crawford
(I only work with couples on this particular platform.) I love working with couples of all kinds! My approach is experiential, where you’ll learn it AND do it, not just talk about it. I draw from attachment theory, neurobiology, and arousal science to help you learn about yourselves and the dynamics between you, and how to be secure functioning and build a shared purpose and vision. My hope is that you show up to sessions as you are. Sure, there can be anxiety and challenging emotions, but it can be fun and feel good, too. I hope our work will leave you with greater insight into your ability to be secure functioning partners, thriving in the world and helping everyone around you thrive.

Rosann Emerson-Fox
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Illinois) with 28 years of professional work experience serving children, adolescents, and adults. My approach includes developing practical and effective strategies to respond and manage the symptoms of mental health. Areas of expertise include psychoeducation, special education advocacy, stress/anxiety, depression, trauma and abuse recovery, grief and loss, and confidence building. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared, validated, and receive no judgment. I recognize the courage it has taken to visit this resource and look forward to helping you take the steps towards your goals in reaching your personal wellness. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

Milton Maricle
I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. 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.

Jean Sokora
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Missouri, with over 40 years of experience working in the field of addiction medicine. I am also credentialed as a co-occurring disorder specialist through the Missouri Credentialing Board. I work with clients who are experiencing mental health and substance use challenges, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and concern about substances. I use a strengths-based client centered approach, as I believe therapy is a collaborative relationship and the goal is to help you achieve health and wellness. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, and strengths-based therapies. We will work together to determine the outcomes you hope to achieve and the best way to get there. Asking for help is one of the most difficult things to do and if you are reading this – I hope you reach out to me or someone to find the help you need. I look forward to the opportunity to work together!
How can a counselor support you?
Therapists can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.
Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 4,029,515 people live in MO, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.
The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.
Please note that a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why do people choose to work with a licensed counselor?
People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
The mental health therapists in Missouri support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:
- Challenging situations or life stressors
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression or depressive conditions
- Adjustment issues
- Emotional support for a terminal illness
- Chronic pain emotional support
- Grief
- Personality disorders
- Trauma
- Relationship conflicts and concerns
Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.
If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.
Emergency services to contact in a crisis
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section below.
How much does a therapist cost?
Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location.
BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.
Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.
When should I get a therapist in Missouri?
Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover the cost of therapy?
Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.
Is online therapy the safe option?
Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.
Popular cities in Missouri
- Kansas City, MO
- Saint Louis, MO
- Springfield, MO
- Columbia, MO
- Independence, MO
- Lees Summit, MO
- O'Fallon, MO
- Saint Joseph, MO
- Saint Charles, MO
- Saint Peters, MO
- Blue Springs, MO
- Joplin, MO
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