Finding a way to treat your mental state can feel like you're digging for food. No matter how hard you dig, the source of nourishment just doesn’t seem to come. You need something to satisfy your mind as it punishes you with depression, anxiety, self-doubts, and other problems as well. A counselor based in Topeka can help. 

Topeka is the place you dig for potatoes. While you're not actually going to be digging for potatoes, it’s a good symbol for how we are always trying to find our next source of nourishment. A counselor can help you dig for, and find, the best potatoes.

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Carole LaFreniere

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

My name is Carole LaFreniere, and I work with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, and those who have experienced trauma and sexual assault. I have my Masters in Social Work from the University of Texas at Arlington, and hold certifications as a Trauma Professional, Grief Therapist and as a Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider. I have training in EMDR as well as Cognitive Processing Therapy. I have worked in the mental health field for the last 6 years, both with inpatient psychiatric patients and individual patients in the community. I consider the client/therapist relationship to be the most important piece in therapy. I believe in a collaborative approach to setting goals and working on problems with an eye to finding solutions. My approach in therapy combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I take a strengths approach and consider the whole person in the environment they are in. Since everyone is an individual, I will work with you to design a personalized treatment plan to meet your goals. I am non-judgmental, empathetic and incorporate a sense of humor into our session. If your ready to take the first steps toward making changes, i would love to help you achieve those changes. I take appointments in the evenings and weekends to accommodate working adults.

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Angela Howard

Offering therapy in KS
License: Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy,LCMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical marriage and family therapist in the state of Kansas with over 13 years of experience. I have worked with couples and individuals suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and childhood trauma, to name a few. I have provided EMDR therapy and trauma therapy exclusively in the past 2.5 years specializing in military populations. My counseling style is experiential in that I work with the client toward healing and management of mental health concerns to improve one's overall health and well-being while maintaining a relationship with the client. My approach is informed by attachment theory and family systems and I use approaches that include Gottman theory, CBT, EMDR, trauma focused counseling and ACT. We get in the boat together and we paddle at your pace. It takes a safe and caring relationship to foster change. I will share that relationship with you and together we will face the journey of self evolvement and overall health and wellness. If you are ready to start this journey, I am ready to get in the boat with you. Let's begin!

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Jessica Ramsey

Offering therapy in KS
License: LSCSW
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
9 years of experience

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 tools that you need to succeed. My passion is Grief and Loss, but my approach also focuses on Person-Centered Therapy, Empowerment, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Solution-focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I genuinely love making people feel better and giving them hope about their future. I love to get individuals through their day/night with sessions that leave them feeling as though they can conquer whatever life throws at them for the day! It is important for you to know that YOU DO MATTER, and whatever you are struggling with right now - at this moment, - is only temporary. I am here to give you the strength and confidence you need to make it through. I look forward to meeting you and talking with you about life!

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Kristin Gayden

Offering therapy in KS
License: LCPC,LPC,RPT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Samantha offers you a safe space where you can feel accepted for who you are without judgement. You’ll feel a strong sense of empathy and caring from her as you work as a collaborative, trusting team to set goals and overcome the challenges you’re facing. Samantha can help clients address many issues, including those related to change and adjustment, emotions regulation, self-care, PTSD, family and other relationships, child/teen behavior, anxiety, depression, marriage, divorce, trauma, abuse, codependency, and faith. She uses techniques like active listening, empowerment, homework, practice activities, and mindfulness. Modalities she draws from include CBT, Person-Centered, Bruce Perry's NMT Model, and DBT. With a Master’s degree in Counseling from Wichita State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Emporia State University, Samantha has worked as a therapist in several types of settings, including residential mental health. Additionally, she has experience working with LGBTQ and in Christian counseling (but works with people of all faiths).

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Melissa Tucci

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Nebraska and Kansas with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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Shelley Duncan

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

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.

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Lori Hertel

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
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, parenting 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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Jessica Moscicki

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & depression. 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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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.

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Karl Nitz

Offering therapy in KS
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I have been a therapist for 23 years and hold clinical licenses in Kansas and Texas. I use a dynamic approach to positive psychology for living your best life. In therapy, for a client to improve, it’s important that the therapist and client connect. Communication is at the core of this partnership and is integral in positively producing results and successful treatment outcomes. My practice prioritizes healthy connections with clients and I pride myself on breaking communication barriers with a diverse range of clientele. My experience and background support identifying and relating to a myriad of challenges and obstacles that many people - including myself - have faced. Throughout my career, I’ve devoted my time to learning to identify clients’ unique struggles and the strategies that work to get them back on track to achieving their goals and finding joy in their daily life. I take the time to present the techniques I use in a way that’s easily understandable and applicable in order to create change in your life. Taking the first step towards therapy is difficult and can make anyone feel vulnerable. I’m ready to take this first step in partnership with you, at a pace that feels comfortable. I’m currently seeing clients both in-office and online. Choose the setting that works best for you, and let’s start down the path of removing the roadblocks and regaining control.

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How to find counseling in Topeka

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Topeka 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 Topeka 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 Topeka 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 Topeka, 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 Topeka 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 Topeka 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 Topeka 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 Topeka 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 Topeka 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 66603 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 Topeka 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 Topeka 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 Topeka, 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.

Topeka 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 Topeka.

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

66601, 66603, 66604, 66605, 66606, 66607, 66608, 66609, 66611, 66612, 66614, 66616, 66620, 66621, 66622, 66624, 66625, 66626, 66629, 66636, 66647, 66667, 66675, 66683, 66699

Popular cities near Topeka, KS

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