Karen Memhardt
Hi, I am Karen Memhardt, MA, Med, LPC, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychological Examiner. I have master’s degrees in Professional counseling, School counseling, and Psychological Examiner and teaching. I have certification in hypnotherapy, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Psychotherapy, Christian counseling, CCTP Treating Complex Trauma. I have been practicing for fourteen years. My goal is to provide a safe supportive environment where clients can explore issues that prevent them from enjoying life to the fullest. Treatment is approached from a holistic spiritual basis to treat the whole family environment. Psychodynamic psychotherapy and educational counseling principals are integrated with various techniques and therapies to discover the cause of the psychological or behavioral disturbance, incorporating modalities of individual, family, and group counseling therapies to relieve stress and anxiety to a level of comfort desired in your family, work or school environment. Working together, we find the internal and external stressors and eliminate them or find ways to make them manageable for a successful life as measured by you. I use psychodynamic psychotherapy, a form of depth psychology, with the primary focus to reveal the unconscious content of your psyche in an effort to alleviate psychic tension. In this way it is similar to psychoanalysis. It also relies on the interpersonal relationship between client and therapist more than other forms of depth psychology. In terms of approach this form of therapy tends to be more eclectic, taking techniques from a variety of sources, rather than relying on a single system of intervention. It is used in individual psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, family therapy, and to understand and work with institutional and organizational contexts. CBT, Cognitive Behavioral and Neo Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help you reframe thoughts to more effectively manage feelings and behaviors, and to restructure negative thoughts into a positive thought process to improve self-esteem and self-motivation. Brief therapy is used to address a specific issue in eight to ten sessions. I would ask you to participate in your therapy by asking you to do homework in-between sessions. For example I would ask you the following questions to prepare for our first session: Have you been to a counselor before? A counselor can be a useful tool. I would hope we can build a relationship that you would be able to trust in to discuss your feelings, hopes and goals to help you move forward with a new plan for your life. If you can use me as a sounding board, and use me to help you make some important decisions, this will help you have an easier time with all of your life issues. I am here to help you figure out what is best for you moving forward. What we discuss is confidential. What would you like to discuss with me today? What would you say is the main reason you are wanting to talk today? What are your long term goals for your living arrangement, relationships and your career? Do you have any techniques for helping you to relax? How are you feeling today? For a Brief therapy session I would ask you to imagine you go to sleep tonight, and while you are sleeping, a miracle happens so when you wake up tomorrow morning and everything in your life is exactly how you want your life to be, what would it look like?
Justin Mann
As a licensed clinical therapist, my focus on developing and nurturing relationships with my clients, to help them reach their goals. My approach is to treat the whole person, which includes a holistic approach with the understanding that oftentimes mental health difficulties co-occur simultaneously and impact one another. I specialize in helping people overcome their struggles with depression, anxiety, couples counseling, family therapy, substance use and trauma. My training and approach include Evidence-Based Practices designed to help people change the way they think, which can effectively change the world around them. These techniques combined with a strong sense of empathy and a strengths-based approach have allowed me to help my clients realize their full potential. I have a Master’s degree in Social work from Saint Louis University, where I graduated as part of the Phi Alpha Honor Society. I am fully licensed as a Clinical Social Worker, and possess Co-Occurring Disorders and Medication Assisted Recovery certifications. I enjoy playing music and spending my time with my wife and two sons.
Toni McClure
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a family therapy concentration, and Life Coach with over 30 years’ experience who will work with you to reach your goals. I am also a trained crisis counselor, and Employee Assistance Professional. I have proudly offered clinical services to our active military, reserved, and veterans. I have also worked intensively with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, with a strong background in trauma recovery. I especially enjoy helping individuals find their internals strengths to solve problems. I specialize in helping individuals gain and maintain a healthy and balanced life: holistic approach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including and not limited to depression, anxiety, life stress, family issues, trauma, and grief and loss. My approach is strengths-based , cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, problem-solving, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to meet your unique and specific needs/goals. We will work closely together as we embark on your journey to implement your roadmap to success. I listen and genuinely care about you and your concerns. I will help you identify and use your strengths and set personal goals. I will also assist you with finding the skills and tools necessary to rise above obstacles, improve your life, and reach your personal goals. Ultimately to empower you to make the positive changes you are seeking.
Cynthia Anders
I am licensed in Missouri with 12 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, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Stephen Garman
Hello, name is Steve. I am a professional licensed counselor. I have worked with all ages. I have worked in crisis and with substance abuse. I have also worked with pastoral counseling. . My expertise includes dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, motivational counseling, and specific teen issues. I also help many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating you with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines many counseling approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality therapy, ACT therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique, specific needs and personality. I am also a certified diet and nutrition coach, I help with sleep problems, and work with clients interested in improving their physical condition through exercise of the mind and body. I believe you have the innate ability to rise above your problems. I am here as a coach to take you from where you are in life to where you want to be. I believe that in order to be truly healed and healthy we all need an approach that heals us emotionally, physically, and spiritually. My compassionate, positive, and personal approach will make you feel comfortable and in control. 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 look forward to working with you!
Wesley Hirst
As you search for just the ” right” counselor, the task may seem overwhelming. ” Will I like them?” ” Will they like me?” ” Will anyone ever understand?” ” Will they really be able to help me?” The list of concerns may seem exhausting. I have over thirty years of experience but I don’t have all the answers. I have never met YOU. I have never heard YOUR hopes and dreams and life story. What I do know from my training, professional experience, and life experience is that counseling works. There is no magic pill to ” fix ” your issues but with honesty, understanding, empathy, and proven methods, we can work together to make positive changes. Probably the most important element in a client/counselor relationship is trust. I want you to feel secure in the knowledge that you are entering a safe place. You will not be judged. I will treat you with compassion, understanding, and respect. I have been a son, brother, husband, father, employee, employer, and friend. I know how complicated life and relationships can be because I’ve been there. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, backpacking, music, biking, and photography. I have frequent visits from wildlife and I’m a pet lover. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology and have extensive training in trauma. substance abuse disorders, marriage counseling, mindfulness, and adolescent behavior disorders. I look forward to meeting you.
David Coalter
I take a no-nonsense approach to human issues, using the best science available. I find that my patients tend to want real solutions, not gimmicks. I work with adults exclusively, focusing on recovery from all forms of trauma, with an emphasis on restoring neurological damage, reversing emotional dysregulation, improving damaged relational dynamics, and creating an authored life.
Lindsey Stewart-Montague
I am licensed in Missouri with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Richard Roe
Retired Navy Veteran and a licensed LPC in Missouri with 28 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Gloria Meller
Hello! My name is Gloria. I am a licensed professional counselor in Missouri with 10 + years of experience. I have worked with clients who experience a wide range of symptoms & stressors including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, loss of a loved one, grief, motivation, self esteem, body image, and many more. As someone who focuses on client-centered therapy, I believe that you are the expert of your story and that YOU have many strengths that will assist you in working through and overcoming the things that challenge you. I hope to help you discover those strengths. You really are stronger than you think. I know that it can feel scary to begin therapy, but remember that you are taking steps to make changes for the better. I will be here to support & empower you. I look forward to meeting you!
Todd Helm
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with a strong focus on men’s mental health. I understand that many men face unique pressures related to identity, expectations, emotional expression, relationships, and the stigma of asking for help. My work is especially centered on helping men navigate life’s unexpected journeys while building healthier ways to cope, connect, and grow. I help clients explore life purpose, address feelings of guilt and shame, and work through attachment, control, and emotional barriers that may be keeping them stuck. I’m particularly passionate about supporting men experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, anger, relationship difficulties, and the challenge of feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I also work with men who may turn to avoidance, overworking, substance use, or reckless behaviors as a way of managing deeper pain. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can speak openly without fear of criticism or having to “have it all figured out.” I believe therapy should be practical, meaningful, and grounded in real life. Together, we work to strengthen emotional awareness, improve communication, build resilience, and develop healthier coping strategies that translate beyond the therapy room. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate closely with clients to create personalized approaches that honor their unique experiences and goals. Whether you’re struggling with life transitions, self-esteem challenges, relationship stress, or seeking greater emotional balance, I’m committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy, professional support, and a clear focus on lasting growth.
Christina Cook
As a mental health professional, I will apply evidence-based approaches to assist with recognizing symptoms, thought patterns, and emotional triggers that contribute to persistent anxiety, stress and depression, while providing psycho education to help you understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact. My commitment to you is simple: I will listen carefully, communicate openly, and act with integrity in every interaction. I’ll take the time to understand your unique goals, challenges, and values, and I’ll tailor my approach to meet your needs rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. You can expect transparency from me at every step. I’ll explain not only what I recommend, but why I recommend it, so you always feel informed and empowered to make decisions.
Jeremi Howell
As a compassionate therapist, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex challenges. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and work through issues of isolation, shame, and personal growth. I have expertise in addressing stress, anxiety, addiction, grief, and self-esteem challenges. My therapeutic work focuses on supporting individuals through significant life transitions, including relationship changes, workplace dynamics, and personal identity exploration. I'm particularly committed to helping young adults, women, and individuals experiencing midlife transitions find meaningful connection and purpose. Those navigating blended families and recovery have a special place, and deep understanding, in my heart. Drawing from a trauma-informed and empathetic perspective, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past challenges, and develop stronger coping strategies. I understand that each person's journey is unique, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside my clients with respect, understanding, and genuine care. My practice welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds, with a special sensitivity to BOTH Christian perspectives and progressive values. Together, we can work towards healing, personal growth, and discovering your authentic path forward.
Sara Gooding
Reaching out for therapy is a courageous first step, and I'm glad you're here. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, navigating a difficult life transition, struggling with depression, or simply feeling stuck, you don't have to face it alone. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 10 years of experience, I've had the privilege of helping children, adolescents, adults, and families through some of life's most challenging moments. My background includes crisis intervention, school-based mental health, and case management, giving me experience supporting people with a wide range of emotional and behavioral concerns. I believe therapy is most effective when you feel comfortable, respected, and truly heard. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and nonjudgmental. I strive to create a safe space where you can openly share your experiences, gain insight into patterns that may be holding you back, and develop practical tools to help you move forward. I work with clients experiencing: Anxiety and excessive worry Depression and low mood Stress and burnout Life transitions and adjustment challenges Self-esteem and confidence concerns Relationship and family issues Emotional regulation Grief and loss Trauma and difficult life experiences Every person has a unique story, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. Together, we'll develop a treatment plan that fits your goals, builds on your strengths, and helps you create lasting, meaningful change. My goal is for you to leave each session feeling supported, understood, and equipped with tools you can use in everyday life. If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing and growth, I would be honored to work with you.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Avondale, Missouri
Finding a therapist near you in Avondale, Missouri starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Missouri is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Missouri, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Missouri, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Missouri
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Missouri, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Missouri
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Missouri
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Avondale.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Missouri do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Avondale, Missouri
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Avondale and the surrounding MO area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.