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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Depression
Years of Experience: 17

Feeling better IS possible, let's start today! I am here to help YOU do just that. We will focus on your TODAY and work towards a future that includes a happier you. I have been a clinical therapist, and working with people just like you, for 13 years. I received both my bachelors and masters degrees in Social work and since obtaining my clinical license in social work, it has been my goal to lessen the stigma “mental illness” carries by providing compassionate care to everyone in need. I've worked with children, adults, families, and couples. I look forw...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 11

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a direct approach using eclectic interventions, with a strong focus in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness. For over 10 years I have had the privilege of working with a multitude of diverse individuals with many backgrounds. Reaching out for therapy is a big step, and I'm here to guide you through this process at the pace you're most comfortable with. I will meet you where you are in life, regardless of what situation has brought you here. Together we can tackle any situations you're facing, whether it be ge...

Specialties: Trauma and abuse, Grief, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 17

Welcome. My name is Molly Traffas. I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker who is committed to tracking the nuggets of an individual’s core strengths of self and deepest values that have shown themselves over one’s lifetime. I am committed to being a companion in restoring balance to disturbed landscapes of hearts and minds. My work has included extensive experience working with trauma, attachment, and recovering internal resources. That training also has included working with individuals in claiming their deeper strengths and dreams through work in the wild...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 16

John earned a Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from Friend’s University in 2005. He enjoys working with all couples, families and individuals including those in the military. John has worked with military families across the country and in Europe to provide counseling as they navigate the unique challenges that come with serving in the armed forces. This experience has informed John’s approach to therapy that includes providing a warm, empathetic approach to help clients clarify and find solutions to problems that are difficult to overcome. John h...

Specialties: Relationship issues, Grief, Self esteem, Coping with life changes, ADHD
Years of Experience: 9

Hi! My name is Jessica and I have been in the mental health field in Kansas for the last 17 years. Seven of those years have been providing therapy services and behavioral health consultations in a mental health and clinic setting. I have a strong desire and interest in helping individuals become the best versions of themselves that they can be. I am a real, down-to-earth, tell you what you need to hear-maybe not what you want to hear-therapist. At the same time, be as genuine and empathetic as I can be. I will dedicate my time with you and provide you the tool...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 10

Hey there, My name is John T. "Tom" Page and I would be honored to help you find a way forward. Working with me is sort of like having a coach in your corner. I can't fight your battles for you, but I do know what it's like to fight my own battles, I have good training that will benefit you, and I have much compassion for how awful it feels to be stuck. Together we'll build a treatment plan based on your specific goals, and then we'll get to work!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Parenting issues, Self esteem
Years of Experience: 12

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Kansas with 12+ years of professional work experience. A large portion of my experience has been working with children and adults on the Autism Spectrum. With this experience I have worked directly with clients, as well as their families. I am also a Registered Play Therapist, and love to incorporate play into my sessions. Play is not just for kids anymore. Working on an online platform I can incorporate directive play therapy techniques to help clients of any age process anxiety, fears and other stru...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, LGBT, Depression, Coaching, ADHD
Years of Experience: 20

I am licensed in Kansas with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, parenting issues, & 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!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 7

I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have a background in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & family conflicts. Additionally, I have experience working with adolescents who suffer from chronic pain. I will provide a safe, healing space for you. Therapy is not a one size fits all approach. I hope to work together and determine what could be helpful for you. I believe in the mind-body connection and learning how to listen to our bodies. A regulated nervous system can lead to feeling more cal...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Career difficulties, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 15

I am licensed in Kansas with more than 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

I am licensed in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Years of Experience: 8

I am a Licensed Specialist Clinical Social Worker with a master’s degree in social work from Wichita State University, Wichita, Kansas. I have over 13 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-harm, career challenges, and SPMI’s. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational-...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Eating disorders, Depression, ADHD
Years of Experience: 12

Hello! I am so glad you're here. Life can be so hard, especially when we carry traumatic memories, cultural and generational burdens, or chronic stress. I believe, from the depth of my being, that we are all doing our very best with our current resources. I'm here to support your healing and help you reclaim the power over your suffering. My services are entirely through telehealth, and I provide a warm but real environment over my telehealth platform. I am an attachment focused, insight oriented therapist. I practice through an Internal Family Systems informed ap...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 11

I am licensed in Kansas with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Self esteem, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 19

I am a Mental Health Counselor, licensed in New York State, with over 16 years experience in the counseling field. I have had experience assisting clients with a wide range of concerns, such as, parenting issues, family/personal relationships, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, and anger management. It is my belief therapy should be tailored to the individual client's needs, therefore I often use a combination of therapeutic techniques and approaches when providing treatment. My main goal as a therapist is to ensure a safe and supportive environment in which...

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in Merriam can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the Merriam area, you're closer to finding providers accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search for a counselor in Merriam, scroll through the options. Next, consider what type of therapy you'd like your counselor to be most experienced with. Finally, choose a provider located near you in the city of Merriam or elsewhere in Johnson or the state of Kansas.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified Merriam counselors can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

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 Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A Merriam Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor 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 in Merriam: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in Merriam: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in Merriam: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in Merriam: $80

Some counselors 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 counselors serving the city of Merriam and elsewhere throughout the state of Kansas you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these counselors treat clients online. Online providers, including the US-based providers above, can work with people like you in or around Merriam virtually. You do not have to commute to a counselor's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. Professionals on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

Merriam has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In Merriam, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance. Counselors are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 counselor 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in Merriam, KS, finding a counselor can be costly, and they may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 66203 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 in Merriam can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A Merriam Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 counselors often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. 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.

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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, counselors are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

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. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 FacebookFor mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the Merriam area, including:

  • CBT in Merriam
  • DBT in Merriam
  • Substance use therapy in Merriam
  • Couples therapy in Merriam

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