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Dr. Emily Christensen

Offering therapy in KS
License: PhD,LPC,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
22 years of experience

*NOT CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS ON BETTERHELP.* I am a doctoral level licensed clinical professional counselor, with twenty years of experience as a counselor. The most transformative aspect of counseling is feeling safe and supported by a knowledgeable therapist who will listen empathetically and without judgment, and I will help nurture and draw out your best self. I believe that your answers lie within you; my job is to help you discover your inner wisdom and identify and overcome the obstacles to self-actualization - whether they are internal (for example: low self-esteem, critical inner voice, shame, childhood traumas) or external (for example: illness, loss of a loved one, partner betrayal, family issues, financial troubles). My counseling approach is therefore client-centered, strengths based, and solution-focused. My education background includes a Bachelor of Science in Human Development, a Master of Science in Professional Counseling, and a Doctorate of Psychology in Marriage and Family Therapy. I have provided counseling online for seven years, helping people navigate life, its hardships, and its challenges. I've worked in private practice, specialty clinics, community mental health centers, and hospitals. My clients come from varying ethnic, racial, socioeconomic, and religious backgrounds. Some of my specialties include chilldhood issues, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. I have also a great deal of experience working with those who have endured trauma and abuse, including dissociative disorders. I also have extensive experience with VIP clients and high profile cases. My counseling style is warm and interactive, but with positive accountability to encourage healthy changes. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion - no matter what emotional processing is being worked through or expressed. Having been originally trained in Jungian and narrative therapies in classic psychoanalysis, your story matters to me and matters in its telling. Your treatment plan will be tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. I am also able to do EMDR if needed. 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!

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Stacy Braiuca

Offering therapy in KS
License: MSW, MPH,LCSW,LSCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

My name is Stacy Braiuca. As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) for over 20 years, public health educator of 10+ years, and technology-focused early adopter of 40+ years. I received my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Missouri-Columbia, and my Master’s Degree in Public Health from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Combined they help me help people bridging the gaps between holistic health and wellness and mental health concerns. As a therapist, I have had the honor to help many different people: starting with children, teens, and their families, to working with elders in nursing homes, and those facing crises in the emergency room. Clients I have worked with struggled with anxiety, depression, life changes and stress, marital issues, trauma, and parenting issues. I love bringing knowledge of current cutting edge technology tools and wellness perspectives together as a powerhouse toolbox which can help you on your journey to your better self. Through this process you can learn how to: identify and analyze issues in your own life, to step back and interrupt negative patterns in your life, use new tools and skills to find relief from the burdens that you are constantly carrying around, and get unstuck individually or in your relationships. My main goal as a therapist is to start where you are in your journey, help you define and those goals and dreams for your life, and finally be your navigator in putting tools, skills, and resources in place for you to deal with past concerns. Therapy is still so stigmatized, so it is a truly wonderful thing that you have reached out to take care of your overall health! I would love to walk beside you as you embark on that journey. I look forward to working with you! Stacy

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Angee Luinstra

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
22 years of experience

I have a passion for helping others while meeting them where they are in their life challenges. I have over 15 years experience working with anxiety, depression, relational struggles, employment difficulties, grief and loss, life transitions, parenting challenges, family and couple conflict. I desire to instill hope in everyone I work with through warmth and compassion. Using a strengths-based approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help others facilitate growth and reach clients desired goals. When working with couples, I assist them to pursue their desired relationship through the use of Gottman Resources, including Level 1 training and assessments.

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Keyonna Taylor

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
9 years of experience

It is my belief that seeking help is the first indication that are motivated and ready to make changes in your life. My purpose here is to partner with you, while empowering you, as you move through the process of change. I will help you learn to think about and address your problems in a healthier manner. Sometimes it takes the help of a mental health professional to help you take an objective look at your circumstances and empower you so that you can take the first step necessary to make those changes. I offer a safe and inclusive environment for all clients to include minority, LGBTQA, and women clients. I identify as a Black woman, heterosexual, Cisgender, married, and I am a parent. My style of engagement is down-to earth, nonjudgmental, and I make it a point to view you as the expert. My working experience has primarily been with clients struggling with varying degrees of anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, personality Disorders, and Substance Use Disorders. I use an eclectic approach that utilizes different theoretical approaches to include Strengths Perspective, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Approach, Solution focused approach, Rational Behavior Therapy, and general case management/supportive therapy. I look forward to partnering with you while forming a therapeutic alliance to help you meet your needs and goals!

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Carolyn Westgate

Offering therapy in KS
License: MSEd,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepressionADHD
21 years of experience

In my 21 years of private practice and 10 years as a Program Director of the Professionals’ Health Program I have gained extensive experience with a diverse population and diverse issues. I believe providing a nonjudgemental, empathetic, safe and accepting environment is an essential aspect of therapy.Utilizing a varied approach of therapies (I.e. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy Emotionally Focused Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy) help with individualizing the treatment plan. Although a seasoned therapist, I believe therapists can always learn more and have a willingness to research avenues to find the best resources for my clients. If you do not think the therapist/client relationship is a fit, it is my job to assist you in locating a therapist that is more suitable for you. Entering therapy takes courage as you share your life issues with a stranger. I assure you, I will listen with respect and compassion as we navigate through the journey of therapy in order for you to achieve your goals.

This is Nicole Shaddix-Olsen's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Shaddix-Olsen

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Dawn Mesa's avatar and link to their profile

Dawn Mesa

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with a wide variety of issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Tamara Robinette's avatar and link to their profile

Tamara Robinette

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 30 years of professional experience . I have enjoyed helping clients address life struggles with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, and more. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our time 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.

This is James "JT" Smith's avatar and link to their profile

James "JT" Smith

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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!

This is Melaney Courtice 's avatar and link to their profile

Melaney Courtice

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesDepressionADHD
15 years of experience

Hi, I’m Melaney, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Kansas City, MO. I have over 15 years of experience working with adults, children and families on a kaleidoscope of issues and challenges. I am a mother of two in a neurodivergent family and the challenges related to this have always been an interest of mine. I am also passionate about working with clients healing from trauma, managing anxiety and depression, navigating a rigid world from a neurodivergent perspective, mending relationships, making big life changes, experiencing stuck-ness and confusion during challenging stages of development, and people struggling to move forward as we navigate through our collective pandemic experience. My work with clients is rooted in finding self-compassion, motivation, and healing both through clinical methods and through everyday life experiences. I value collaboration and trust, and believe it is my responsibility to be transparent, versatile, and attuned. I utilize techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Behavioral Activation techniques. My understanding of the human experience is greatly informed by Family Systems Theory, Trauma-informed Care, theories of human development, and intersectional theories of liberation. Humor, realism, and starting from where you are are at are things I have learned over the years to be indispensable to the therapeutic process. Thanks for taking the time to learn a bit about me, and I hope to have the chance to learn about you, too!

How to find counseling in Lake Quivira

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake Quivira can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Lake Quivira. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Lake Quivira, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Lake Quivira or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Lake Quivira area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Lake Quivira, elsewhere in Johnson, or in the greater state of Kansas.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Lake Quivira area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake Quivira therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Lake Quivira due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Lake Quivira may not take health insurance, some in the state of Kansas may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Kansas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Lake Quivira, Kansas working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Lake Quivira above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Lake Quivira helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Lake Quivira therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Lake Quivira therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Lake Quivira therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in KS, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 66217 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lake Quivira counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, 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 feedback and advice. A Lake Quivira licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Lake Quivira, Kansas can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Lake Quivira has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Lake Quivira.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lake Quivira:

66217

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