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Molly Traffas

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

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 wilderness. As I have wandered in wilderness areas, I have deepened my understanding and passion for how all life moves toward balance and wholeness, toward life itself. My focus continues to shift from pathology toward what gives life, what calls life forward, what opens and sustains each of us. I carry in my satchel of skills a connection to the earth along with my own wisdom and experience, which encompasses an understanding of the impact of trauma and neglect and the ability to aid individuals in calming and soothing those places in themselves enough to move forward into connecting with inner resources and outer landscapes. I am a lover of poetry, with deep value and aliveness found in speaking poetry. My own immersion into poetry has been one of my own personal tools for self discovery and awareness. For those who have an interest or an affinity with poetry, it is one of a variety of ways in which I am able to join with another and aid them in going deeper into their own story and life. Poetry, as well as work with dreams, can be a vehicle and a portal, for some, to gain personal understanding and insight. Poetry and/or dreamwork can be particularly helpful in working with stuck places in an individual’s life. Prior to my degree in social work, I was a Montessori guide working with young children ages 3 to 6 in a classroom setting. After 10 years, it was time for a career change. I returned to school for a social work degree, as well as, studying addiction counseling. I worked as a drug and alcohol counselor, as well as with individuals and families living in homeless shelters. This work led me to recognizing the depth of needs of these populations. I returned to school for my. post graduate clinical training at Washburn University. Following graduate school, I worked with inmates who had high recidivist rates, histories of addictions, and most often histories of childhood abuse. Following that experience of working with the inmate population, I worked at a local community mental health center until in 2004, when I began a private practice. Because of the persistent exposure I had working with individuals who had histories of significant trauma, I developed a strong desire for deeper understanding of: the impact of trauma on the daily functioning of individuals and of the physiological impact of trauma on the body and on the brain. I pursued substantial exploration and training in effective treatment modalities for trauma. Congruent and interwoven into the understanding of the impact of the trauma itself is the understanding of the impact of early childhood experiences on an adult’s view of self, other, and world, not to mention, the impact on the individual’s manner of functioning in the world. In addition to studying the impact of trauma and abuse, I also sought insight into the impact of early neglect on an individual’s view of self and world and on their daily functioning. Therefore, much of my work with individuals has been to assist in heightening awareness and acceptance of each individual’s own strengths, gifts, and values. In addition, my work with an individual has also focused on strengthening their ability to consistently make life choices that honor their own value system and their ability to pursue their own gifts and talents. Those skills, values, and insights still underlay and support my work in guiding others toward their deeper callings. Since one frequently experienced consequence of trauma or neglect is difficulty with relationships, I became fascinated by the dynamics of relationships (such as, the relationship to self, the relationship to others, the relationship to the external world), as well as difficulties in how to verbalize and communicate effectively without aggression or threat to self or other. This hunger for deeper insight, for healing, for tools or skills to offer, ultimately, led me to the study of Compassionate Communication, the Right Use of Power and the Power Spiral (the work of Cedar Barstow), and ultimately to the Animas Valley Institute and Soulcraft. My involvement with my community has been varied. When initially entering into my private practice, I offered free public presentations on the impact of abuse and neglect in early childhood on attachment styles, and upon that individual’s current functioning as an adult. I volunteered for 5 years with a local company on a committee to review requests submitted to the employee benefit program for financial assistance to employees in unexpected financial hardships. I offered a free series of groups on power, boundaries, shame, and personal power for women survivors of domestic violence. I was a member of the Sedgwick County Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalition for 10 years. I served for two years on the Board of Directors of the Wichita Area Sexual Assault Center. For 3 years, I facilitated and co-facilitated multiple free will offering study groups on Compassionate Communication. I offered free book study groups. I hosted, for approximately 2 years, a local practice group for Compassionate Communication. I offered local poetry concerts and other ceremonial practices at events calling for ceremony and deep honoring. I have offered daylong or 2 day retreat gatherings for deepening connections with oneself and the earth. Since I have retired, I have offered 5 poetry concerts as fund raisers for refugees.

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Donna Gensler

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I have spent the last 25 years of my profession working in the child welfare system. The experience I have gained has been invaluable. I have had the privilege of working with clients in many different areas, and have learned a great deal about other cultures, socioeconomic status, and the challenges disenfranchised people have faced. I have also worked with countless families who are at an impasse on how to parent effectively in today’s world and be a healthy and communicative family system. This experience has allowed me to learn how to be creative in providing evidence based interventions for depression, anxiety, ADHD, other emotions that come from life stressors and past trauma. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and be as emotionally and mentally healthy as you can be….to be the best version of yourself! Together we will develop a goal of what the version looks like to you. I will be there to support you along your journey and provide honest and supportive feedback.

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Kimberly Marcos

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I have been a licensed therapist for 10 +years. I have helped adults as individuals that are seeking someone they can trust, to help them attain their goals. Having a therapist that you are comfortable with is key. Therapy can be short-term and sometimes the issues you are facing require a journey that takes more time. What do you need help with, and what can I help you with, to find solutions that work for best for you? Partnering with a therapist can really make a difference. I am non-judgmental and accepting. Many people are struggling now with isolation or no support system. It is not uncommon to need more support at any point of your life. Therapy is here to help you feel better when stuck. It is not uncommon to feel ashamed, sharing with family and friends while needing extra support. Therapy is a great tool to help work through issues when you don't know where to turn. Every client will be treated with respect and dignity. It's not about "fixing you", but to help you, be empowered and work together to make a plan that makes your life better. Therapy is most beneficial when matched with the right professional. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I've worked as a therapist in the following settings: College Counselor In-Home Therapist Hospice House Domestic Violence Shelter My undergrad and Master's program were both for me to attain my status as LSCSW in Kansas, and LCSW in Missouri. I look forward to working with you! Kimberly Marcos, LSCSW, LCSW

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Carie Brown

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW,LCAC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I have provided behavioral health services to patients and families of all ages. I have worked in the social work field since 2000 and have worked in the mental health hospital setting as well as community mental health. I received my Bachelor of Social Work degree in 2000 from Fort Hays State University and then obtained my Master of Social Work degree in 2003 from Newman University in Wichita. I pride myself on providing quality care to my patients and has collaborated successfully with other community organizations throughout her career. I am licensed to provide Drug and Alcohol services and specializes in working with adolescents and families.

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Merial Berry

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 11 years of professional work experience. I provide encouragement, support, and an opportunity to challenge you to become the person you desire to be. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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.

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Chad Johnson

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed as a clinical marriage and family therapist in Kansas with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & at risk youth and children. Every person has a story that is unique and worth telling. When that story takes an unwanted turn, it is normal to want to erase certain parts or just stop writing it altogether. Taking the first step to change the story for the better takes courage and a great act of sure will. I am here to support you in creating a more positive and fulfilling story that is felt and experienced in the now.

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Patricia Pardy

Offering therapy in KS
License: LMHC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

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 my client can feel comfortable exploring their individual issues. The clients I have worked with would say I am a caring and empathetic therapist who strives to develop a relationship with her clients that will allow for honesty and maximize client growth. I look forward to working with you! Patricia Pardy, LMHC, BC-TMH

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Kristin Coblentz Swan

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse (EMDR trained), 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!

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Maegan Carlsten

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Sharon

Finding the best therapist close by in Sharon 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 Sharon. 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 Sharon, 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon, elsewhere in Barber, 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 Sharon area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon, 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 67138 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 Sharon 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 Sharon 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 Sharon, 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.

Sharon 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Sharon.

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

67138

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