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Lauren Williams

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA,LPC
GriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

Hello and welcome! Because you're reading this, you're probably thinking about therapy. Let me tell you that you've done a great job so far in seeking help, it's definitely not an easy step to take and I'm a huge believer in celebrating the small things. There's something to be said about a person who wants to better themselves; whatever draws you here, I hope you find what you're looking for. Here's a little about me to help clarify any questions you may have: I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2016) from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. I later moved to Missouri and am now a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I've worked as a therapist in several different settings such as college counseling centers, rehabilitation centers for drug and alcohol use, and in the private practice setting. In these environments I've helped people manage concerns with depression, suicide and self harm, issues related to relationships with themselves and others, anxiety, sexuality and LGBTQ orientation, and addiction. I've also been able to work with people that have experienced trauma and family conflicts. Each therapist operates from a certain style and orientation in which they approach the counseling process. Usually, it's a multi-faceted approach and I believe that the key is to remain flexible. That being said, my main approach tends to be relatable, personal, and straight forward. I believe in transparency in sessions, meaning I'm not afraid to be real with you while helping to guide, support, and validate your experiences. Therapy is a vulnerable process so it's my job to help you feel safe and empowered. In doing this, we'll talk about your strengths and what makes you who you are, and use those to help achieve your goals. I believe that you're the expert of your life; I'm just here to help you talk through it and I find that through positivity and humor, life seems a bit more manageable.

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Dr. Alwyn (AL) Whitehead

Offering therapy in MO
License: Psy.D.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

My 20 years as a clinical psychologist working with adult men and women have taught me a lot. First, that we all carry a burden. Second, our burdens are lighter when we share them with others. And finally, we can be set free from our burdens, or, regardless of them, live happily. I enjoy working with clients wanting to overcome depression, anxiety, alcohol and/or drug addictions, posttraumatic stress disorder, stress, panic disorders, or relationship challenges. My clients say that I am easy to talk to and give them a sense that “there is a way out.” Most clients leave the first session feeling greatly relieved that they have been understood. And, have the beginnings of a mutually agreeable plan of action that will give them relief. I have great respect for my clients. They have courageously come forward in spite of their burdens and made the first step toward getting the help and relief they desire. My therapeutic techniques are based on the American Psychological Association’s “Professional Practice Guidelines”. These criteria are designed to assist in the use of the best methods for addressing mental health issues. Let’s walk this road together.

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Darla McAdams

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA, LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am a licensed Counselor in the State of Missouri with close to 7 years of professional experience. I enjoy working with any age range as well as a broad variety of concerns, including LGBTQ and people of color.. Part of my work has been with young women age 17 to 30 who struggled with substance use, abuse, eating disorders and self esteem issues. I have also worked for over three years with adults and elderly who struggled with substance use, anxiety, depression, homelessness, trauma, emotional abuse, family and relationship issues, co-dependency, loss and grief. I believe that each client be treated with warmth, respect and value. Each session is a safe place without any judgment. My approach varies depending on the specific needs and goals of each individual. I utilize mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy the most. I also believe strongly in the approach of Person-Centered Therapy and that each individual has within them the ability to create change and move towards being the best that they can be. I am here to listen and help guide you in that process. I know that with the added challenges we have all faced from COVID, life has been more difficult for many. I commend you for reaching out to seek assistance in navigating your daily challenges and seeking a happier life. I would be honored to work with you in reaching towards whatever changes and goals you desire. I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you.

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Danielle Nielson

Offering therapy in MO
License: LCSW
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Thank you for checking out my profile, and congratulations on taking the next step improving your quality of life! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri. I completed by BSW at Missouri Western State University in 2013, my MSW from Park University in 2015, and my clinical supervision in 2020. In my time as a social worker I have worked in foster care, domestic violence, and outpatient mental health. I previously worked as an outpatient therapist 8-5 Monday through Friday, but I noticed something- so do a lot of other people. By providing services through BetterHelp, I can help those who have been left out of traditional therapy due to the struggle of scheduling therapy during work hours. This also applies to those of you who are parents- I am a single mom to two amazing kids... so I know about the work/ parent/ self-care balance. My passion is teaming with individuals to help them identify triggers that are negatively impacting their quality of life, and then identifying and developing skills for managing those triggers. Whether it is trauma, behavioral, or mental health, I believe therapy is a great tool to help bridge the gap between where life is now and where you would like to see life go. I have experience with CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, all which showcase themselves in my warm, strengths based approach. I believe therapy is a partnership, and that success is best found when both of us are committed to the goals you identify for yourself! Thank you for considering me as your partner in this journey.

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Doris Irvin

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

Hi! My name is Doris Irvin and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I have worked in the mental health field for over 13 years, with experience ranging from severe and persistent mental illness, addiction, domestic violence, depression, and anxiety. I have been working in a community mental health setting for the last 9 years and am excited to get back into one on one counseling services. I am especially interested in helping people find their purpose and get the most out of their lives. I want to help you figure out how to make lasting changes to improve your physical health, mental health, and overall well-being. I take a very client-centered approach and I firmly believe that you are the expert in your own life and you should lead the way. I value the client-therapist relationship as a priority during therapy and I will work hard to build a healing relationship with you. The theories of counseling that I find the most value in when working with clients are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Therapy. The basic premise of CBT is that our thoughts (cognitions) affect our behaviors. So by identifying the negative and irrational thoughts we are having, we can change and improve our behaviors. Solution-Focused Therapy helps us find realistic solutions to the problems you are experiencing by empowering you to use your own existing abilities, set goals, and take actionable steps. Both of these modes of therapy require the client to be very involved, engaged, and willing to make some changes in their lives. I hope you're ready to put in some work! :) If this sounds like it would be a good fit for your needs, please reach out. I would be grateful for the opportunity to get to know you and learn how I can help you start your journey of healing.

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This is Angela Kieler's avatar and link to their profile

Angela Kieler

Offering therapy in MO
License: MS,ATR,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
16 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have an MS in art therapy/psychology. I have been a registered art therapist since 1980 with the American Art Therapy Association and I have a wide range of experience and feel comfortable working with clients of all ages. I have worked with children in special education, elderly adults, and presently I provide art therapy groups as well as individual counseling to patients who suffer from addictions and/or severe and persistent mental illness. In addition to working with psychiatric patients as an art therapist and licensed professional counselor, I have provided education and support to family members as a Family to Family teacher for the National Alliance of Mental Illness. As an employee of University Health/Truman Medical Center in KC, MO I have had a great deal of experience working with some of the most difficult cases and also have personal experience with family members who suffer from mental illness. Having both professional and personal experience has made me very aware of how difficult it is to navigate mental health services for yourself or for a loved one when trying to access help for mental illness. As for my therapeutic approaches, I consider myself to be open minded, flexible, and willing to provide whatever would be best suited for each client I work with. I have a humanistic approach and can provide Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Existential Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am also willing to utilize and incorporate art therapy techniques if the client would benefit from them. The bottom line is that I will meet the client where they are and will provide therapeutic approaches which best suits each client’s needs.

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Natalie McQuinn

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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! We will work together to develop the treatment that works for you.

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This is Robyn Towler's avatar and link to their profile

Robyn Towler

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

You’ll experience an empathetic ear, human connection, understanding, and acceptance without condition when you’re in session with Robyn. You’ll be heard and met where you are. Robyn works with clients on a wide range of issues, including overcoming anxiety, depression, and managing life’s stressors. She helps clients with self-image issues, teaching them to love themselves. She helps clients who struggle with relational issues, teaching them new behavior patterns. Robyn uses many types of tools to help clients improve their current life situations, like active listening, thought stopping and reframing, and mindfulness and relaxation techniques. She’s a big fan of person-centered modalities and also utilizes CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused, and Play Therapy. With a Bachelor’s degree in Cross-Cultural Studies and a Master’s degree in Counseling, Robyn has worked with individuals in other countries and stateside in community mental health and private practice. She’s also an animal lover who doesn’t underestimate the importance of fur babies in someone’s life, even if they’re not designated as emotional support animals.

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This is Charles Robinson's avatar and link to their profile

Charles Robinson

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Donald "Joe" Hupp's avatar and link to their profile

Donald "Joe" Hupp

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in over 10 States with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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. 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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How to find counseling in Avilla

Finding the best therapist close by in Avilla 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 Avilla. 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 Avilla, 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 Avilla 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 Avilla 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 Avilla, elsewhere in Jasper, or in the greater state of Missouri.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Avilla 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 Avilla 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 Avilla may not take health insurance, some in the state of Missouri 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 Missouri 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 Avilla, Missouri 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 Avilla 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 Avilla 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 Avilla 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 Avilla 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 Avilla 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 MO, 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 64833 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 Avilla 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 Avilla 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 Avilla, Missouri 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.

Avilla 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 Avilla.

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

64833

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