Karen Kavaloski
Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 17 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . I am also the author and publisher self help books under my Sacred Self Workbook Series Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.
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.
Ricky Lomax
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring over two decades of experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing men's issues, life transitions, trauma recovery, and family conflicts with a compassionate, culturally sensitive approach. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understanding, improve communication skills, and cultivate meaningful connections. I'm particularly passionate about supporting young adults, addressing social anxiety, and helping clients work through midlife transitions, attachment challenges, and personal healing journeys. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and move toward more fulfilling lives. My approach is grounded in respect, empathy, and a commitment to honoring each person's unique path to wellness.
Shawnean Callihan
As a licensed therapist in Missouri with nearly three decades of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate and understanding approach to therapy, particularly for those experiencing communication difficulties, isolation, trauma recovery, and interpersonal challenges. My expertise spans working with young adults, women, families, and individuals managing neurodevelopmental differences. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, healing, and personal transformation. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and work towards meaningful life changes. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, parenting challenges, or personal transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance.
Johnnie Ezell
I am a licensed Professional Counselor, licensed both in Arkansas and Missouri. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, licensed in Arkansas. I am a Master Addiction Counselor certified on a national level. I have been working with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction issues for over forty years. I work with individuals in a collaborative manner. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and elements of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy to find what works best with each person. My responsibility is to encourage each person to self evaluate their values, beliefs and behaviors in an effort to help them find a path to a more enjoyable life. Each person is different and one size does not fit all. To ask for help takes a great of courage. It is the greatest gift we can give another, is to ask for and receive help. I look forward to working with each person not only for the gift, but for the opportunity to learn a different view of life
Phillis Johnson-Haywood
Hey All!! My name is Phillis Johnson-Haywood. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the States of Missouri and Illinois. I am a National certified counselor (NCC). I hold a Master's Degree in Professional Counseling. I also hold a Master's in Gerontology and has completed lots of work with our senior population. I have worked as a therapist for over ten years. I enjoy working with Clients. I have a background in grief, LGBT, trauma, and personality disorders. I would love to get the chance to walk this journey with you. I have also worked with clients experiencing a wide range of emotional and psychological difficulties to help them bring about effective change and/or enhance their wellbeing. Clients could have issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, loss and relationship difficulties that are affecting their ability to manage life.
Patricia Uhan
I am a licensed professional counselor in Missouri and I have worked in a variety of settings with individuals who have experienced a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and PTSD. My experience working in a community mental health center that served survivors of sexual abuse or assault allowed me to gain experience in PTSD, substance abuse, and personality disorders. Furthermore, I have also gained experience working with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness and dual diagnosis in a diverse population. I am dedicated and passionate about providing the most effective care that takes all aspects of the individual into consideration in the context of their cultural identity. My therapeutic style is warm and empathetic. My approach depends on the needs of the client and what brought them to therapy; however, some of the approaches I utilize include cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, attachment-based, and dialectical behavior therapy. Therapy is a journey and I look forward to walking on that journey with you!
Guerlene Warden
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 10 plus years of experience working in the mental health field and 6 plus years as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges and ADHD. I also enjoy working with children, adolescents, and younger. I have worked in school settings. The majority of my work as a therapist has been dedicated to working with teens struggling with depression, anxiety, and panic disorder. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My style of therapy is humanistic, warm, and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect. Despite our differences or life experiences, we all have a story and it takes courage to take the initial step and seek help. In essence, I strive to create a safe space to help you through your journey to creating your desired life. My approach is nonjudgmental, compassionate, and understanding while incorporating various modalities tailored to meet your specific needs.
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.
Darcel Tyson
Hello my name is Darcel. I am a License Professional Counselor (LPC). I am here to encourage, motivate, and challenge you towards a path to real change. I offer a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment that support the therapeutic process. Therapy is a team effort. Therefore, we will work collaboratively to identify internal conflicts and barriers which hinder personal growth. You will have the opportunity to gain insight, set goals, and apply the necessary skills to improve your quality of life. I have several years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. No one single modality/technique is for everyone, therefore, I will use the appropriate therapeutic approach based on your individual need. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, and adjustment issues related to stress filled life experiences. My expertise is inclusive of various backgrounds, cultures, and ethnic groups. I ensure confidentiality, trust, and respect to each client I serve.
Michael Perkins
Over two decades psychotherapy experience. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Primarily Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Both strongly evidenced based. Addressing anxiety, depression, complex life transitions, and relationship challenges. I have experience with adults of all ages, teens, and Veterans (former Army Medic and Navy Corpsman) professionals, and individuals with transitions.
Tara Davis
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 10 years of professional work experience. I graduated from the University of Missouri at Kansas City in 2008. Since then I worked with individuals and families within various settings including: hospice, adult in-patient psychiatric care, child welfare, juvenile justice authority counseling and school social work. This has afforded me the ability to serve people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life. It has been an absolute privilege to get to know each client. I understand how hard it can be to ask for help and trust someone with your personal information, even more so when life is throwing challenges your way. I truly believe that life gets messy for each one of us, and that the best way forward is with someone helping and cheering you on the whole way! Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, truama, relationship issues, parenting challenges or any other struggle life currently has in store for you, I would love the opportunity to get to know you to support your goals. I hope you are celebrating taking this brave first step! Together I know we can take many more positive steps forward!
Coral Krueger
I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.
Christy Wyman
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My professional experience spans working with diverse populations, including adolescent, adult and geriatric populations. I also have experience working with abuse and neglect, survivors of trauma, and individuals navigating significant life changes. I bring compassionate expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and grief. My approach is holistic and tailored, focusing on helping clients rediscover personal strength and resilience. My therapeutic practice centers on creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards healing. I am committed to understanding each person's unique journey and providing personalized, empathetic guidance that honors their individual needs and experiences. Whether you're facing personal challenges, processing traumatic experiences, or seeking support during difficult life transitions, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with professional care and genuine understanding.
Find a Therapist Near You in Big Lake , 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.
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, 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 Big Lake.
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.