Dr. Paula Alvarez
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.
Brenda Swift
I’m Brenda Swift. When I’m not working, I like to take my dog for long walks in various parks and binge watch shows. I also look forward to the reading challenges offered through the library, because it forces me to make time to read at least 20 minutes. I have a passion for working with clients having difficulty navigating life’s situations and wanting to hide from society, I help clients who have stress and anxiety, relationship issues, need to cope with grief and loss, & depression. I understand what it’s like to struggle in life, because life has not been easy for me. I’m skilled in creating a trusting environment that allows clients to share openly and freely, that allows them to express their reasons for seeking professional help. I look forward to meeting you, so we can help you find contentment in your life.
Floyd Smith
As a licensed therapist with over four decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional circumstances. My practice centers on helping clients heal from trauma, manage grief, build self-esteem, and develop healthier communication patterns through trauma-informed care and client-focused treatment. I bring a compassionate, culturally responsive approach to therapy, with deep expertise in addressing challenges like isolation, mood disorders, and post-traumatic stress. My work is particularly focused on supporting young adults and individuals from diverse backgrounds through nuanced, personalized therapeutic interventions. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, work through shame and guilt, and develop strategies for personal growth. My approach honors each person's unique journey, emphasizing understanding, healing, and empowerment. I am committed to providing affirming, thoughtful care that respects individual experiences and supports meaningful personal transformation.
Walter Barron
My name is Walter Barron LCSW, and I have worked with many different client issues, stress management, ptsd, depression, anxiety, grief, major SMI diagnosis and marital/family relationship problems. I have been in the mental health field for 35 years, and my counseling experiences have included inpatient/outpatient, military employment for 11 years, veterans administration outpatient community services, and as a private contractor. My therapeutic approach is best described as client centered therapy with a warm non directive systems approach, having an emphasis on family individual dynamics. In addition I used the cognitive behavioral approach with the underpinning being the models of Dr. Beck, and Dr. Ellis. however; I do not impose any treatment modality on a client until there is a thorough assessment and a client therapist relationship with the client indicating what change they desire. I respect client self determination, and realize that entering into therapy is a big step. I hope you will find therapy rewarding, and I look forward to working with you.
Lisa Spore
My name is Lisa Spore and I have worked in the mental health field in Missouri for 14 years. Ten of those years have been as a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I believe in seeking out trainings in the latest techniques and polishing my skills to provide the best therapeutic experience my clients could ask for. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting (BSP), Somatic Experiencing, and use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused Brief, and Client-Centered approaches in my practice. Everyone is unique, and I embrace that uniqueness by tailoring therapy to each client. I provide therapy within a safe and judgement-free environment. I believe accepting the limits of the human condition increases client’s positive responses to support and encouragement in the therapeutic setting. While utilizing strong clinical skills, I recognize that integration of natural healing can promote a strong foundation for optimum personal growth. The mind-body balance is paramount to returning to a healthy and positive emotional state. The Therapeutic relationship is recognized as the most important factor in a positive experience. In our sessions, we will work together to identify the best approach to address your specific needs. We will also explore any underlying emotional reactivity that could be increasing painful experiences. Evaluating current and past issues can assist us in recognizing how past events can negatively impact daily functioning. Solution focused techniques, Brainspotting, CBT, or Somatic Experiencing, in varying combinations, can all be used to alleviate distress.
Mary Shands
About Me: Mary is a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in the State of Missouri and Texas with over 12 years experience in working with clients from pre-K through late adulthood. Mary has worked in the school districts as a Counselor in Special Education and General Education, an insurance company, Veterans, substance abuse treatment center and a sexual offender treatment center. Mary has helped client’s with a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues and parenting problems. Assistance has also included working with clients experiencing emotional abuse, as well as separation issues related to adoption. Mary uses several types of therapy including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client- Centered Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy. Mary brings exceptional listening skills, caring and most of all energetic personality. Mary is licensed in two states and is current on all required trainings. Mary also does presentations at various venues and provides training. Also experienced in assisting those with mental health issues related to COVID-19 and diagnosis, Codependency, Women’s and Teen Issues and Self Esteem. Mary has a very warm and caring demeanor and enjoys talking and listening to others. SPECIALTIES • Veterans • Stress, Anxiety • Trauma and Abuse • Parenting issues • Addictions • Family Conflict Clinical Approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy and Mindfulness-Based Therapy
Julie Burr
My name is Julie and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for Missouri and I’d love to partner with you to feel well and be well! Let's nourish your soul and find healing with the practices I’ve implemented from the wealth of wisdom I’ve gleaned from decades of challenges related to health, relationships, and loss. From the unexpected loss of numerous loved ones, the end of intimate relationships, unmet expectations and chronic illness we can go from misery to mastery, bitter to better, and find some nuggets of joy in the journey. It's not easy but YOU are worth investing in! It takes time but let’s find peace, balance and contentment *in the midst of* crazy times. Life can really be tough and there's not a lot of easy answers to many challenges. While I find DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), mindfulness and faith in general to be very useful for many people I'm honored to help find the best approach for YOU in coping with life's curveballs, managing long seasons of hardship, and finding hope in the most difficult issues we may face. Particular interests of mine include travel, nutrition, movement, parenting struggling children, caregiving, social and environmental justice, race relations and finding the aspects of faith that are helpful while discerning what doesn't serve you well.
Gina Sokolich
Hi i'm Gina, I'm so glad you've decided to seek help or at least obtain information for your mental health. I recently retired from the EMS field so I'm very familiar with trauma in multiple situations. I work with a lot of people in narcissistic relationships, First Responders with PTSD or other work related struggles. Not everything has to be heavy and traumatic, maybe you just have questions about your life direction. What ever the situation, I can help you with perspective. I am client lead, so I meet you where you are. I give you the space to think and figure things out but will also challenge a perspective. I use EMDR, CBT and Brainspotting most often for situations and discuss things you can do in between sessions. I may also offer information on mindful meditation, stress relief. I'm here to help, let me know what you have going on!
Kristin McKee
Hello & Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor and a certified school counselor. I have 15 years of experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, & coping with life changes. 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. I am also a certified HeartMath practitioner for stress, anxiety, and self-regulation. I primarily use evidence-based techniques including, but not limited to solution focused counseling, HeartMath coherence building, and mindfulness. HeartMath allows a structured approach that begins with an awareness along with simple techniques to connect with the heart to manage stress and learn to regulate emotions. I can help you make the changes needed for a more peaceful life.
Stacey Walsh
I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, ADHD & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Chad Winch
I am licensed in Missouri with several years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. At this time I am only offering live chat sessions in order to my schedule availability as open as possible to my clients. If that is an issue for you and you have a different preference - I understand completely.
Stephanie Valenzuela
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical focus centers on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and grief. I am deeply committed to helping clients work through challenging experiences like isolation, shame, guilt, and panic attacks. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and personalized, emphasizing self-love, healing from past wounds, and developing healthy coping strategies. I understand the unique challenges faced by individuals struggling with substance use, and I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and build resilience. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to help them reclaim their sense of control, process difficult emotions, and move toward meaningful personal growth. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming space where individuals can heal, discover their inner strength, and transform their lives.
Lisa Winn
I am a licensed professional counselor with 22 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with a wide variety of life challenges including but not limited to: stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and parenting issues, motivation and self esteem. Life can certainly be difficult for all of us to navigate sometimes no matter what age we are and how far we have come, there is always room for further growth as we strive towards Self actualization. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Dr. Brenda S Melton
I am licensed in Missouri with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Find a Therapist Near You in Bel-Ridge , Missouri
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Missouri can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
With a population of Missouri_POPULATION, Missouri is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Missouri, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Missouri (MO). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Missouri_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Missouri with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Missouri
When searching for a therapist near me in Missouri, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Missouri, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Missouri.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Missouri want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Missouri without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Missouri (MO)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Missouri
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Missouri_COUNTIES.
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 vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
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 private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.