Life is going on all around you. Yet, if you’re feeling sad and lonely, no activity or event can make you feel any better. If you’re filled with worry and anxiety, occasions that are happy for others may seem too hard to bear. When the wonder of life seems very far away, a Merriam area counselor can help you bring it back.

Whatever you do in Merriam, whether it’s wandering through an artist exhibition, browsing in a farmer’s market, or attending the Mayor’s holiday tree lighting ceremony, you’ll find greater joy there after you rediscover happiness within yourself. Talk to a Merriam area counselor to get back to the life you love.

This is Jamika Hobbs's avatar and link to their profile

Jamika Hobbs

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist with over 9 years of experience working with individuals facing some very difficult life challenges. I enjoy helping people get the results that they are looking for. I work with individuals who are motived to change and I help them create a plan that will work with their lifestyle. My style is warm and solution focused. I will meet you where you are and help you to get where you want to go. 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!

This is Callie Grantham's avatar and link to their profile

Callie Grantham

Offering therapy in KS
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Lana Jamison's avatar and link to their profile

Lana Jamison

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri and have over 20 years of experience working with adult and pediatric populations in hospitals, outpatient medical and mental health clinics and schools. I have worked with individuals, couples, families, and those with Veteran status. I have extensive experience using teleservices. I understand that life can be challenging. We are pulled in many directions and often give so much of ourselves to other people and other activities in our lives. Sometimes we need to allow ourselves time to stop, even for just a short time, to re-center and evaluate why we might be feeling the way we are feeling. Giving ourselves the grace, attention, and opportunity to get our day-to-day lives back to a more comfortable, happy, positive place can be an essential part of the journey. Engaging in a strengths-based approach to therapy can help us uncover and utilize the abilities we have, to keep ourselves in that more positive place, most of the time. I look forward to learning about you and working together to create a plan for the improvements you desire and deserve.

This is Dr. Dara Gill-Fletcher's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Dara Gill-Fletcher

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
18 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 18 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 Nicole Blomberg's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Blomberg

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
5 years of experience

I'm a Marriage and Family therapist based in Kansas. This means I am trained to work with individuals as well as couples and families. I am passionate about living a life with meaning for myself in my work, and my client's in their own lives. I have worked in mental health for several years before becoming a therapist. I received my graduate degree from Friends University in 2018 and have worked as a therapist in private practice and community mental health since then. Additionally, I am trained in several specialized forms of therapy to treat stress, emotional issues, neurodivergency, and marital concerns. At this time I have regular session times available on Tuesdays for Video, chat, and phone sessions.

This is Michael James's avatar and link to their profile

Michael James

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCP,LPC,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
23 years of experience

Taking the step to participate in therapy/counseling takes tremendous courage and desire for something in one's life to be different. As a therapist, my job is to create an atmosphere that encourages alliance between therapist and client, a key component for successful therapy. I consider myself primarily a generalist in types of clients I work with as I have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. The therapy relationship makes the theory and techniques used most effective. Building this is the first task in a therapeutic relationship. Through this alliance clients and I venture on a journey often anxiety-provoking (as any/all change is) and develop skills and strategies to managed problems and resolve difficulties. My theoretical approach draws from many areas. The primary influence is cognitive-behavioral theory. What is best and most effective is very individual to each client and situation.

This is Michelle Harshfield's avatar and link to their profile

Michelle Harshfield

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & bipolar disorder. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Amy (Cherie) Blanchat's avatar and link to their profile

Amy (Cherie) Blanchat

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCoachingCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in both Kansas and Missouri with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with 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.

This is Cynthia Cochran's avatar and link to their profile

Cynthia Cochran

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Colorado, Florida, Missouri and Tennessee with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Dr. Dwight Eisenman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Dwight Eisenman

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteem
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Kansas, and Missouri with over 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & relationship 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 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.

How to find counseling in Merriam

Finding the best therapist close by in Merriam 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 Merriam. 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 Merriam, 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam, 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 Merriam area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam, 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 66204 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 Merriam 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 Merriam 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 Merriam, 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.

Merriam 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 Merriam.

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

66202, 66203, 66204

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist