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Christy Niles

Offering therapy in MO
License: M.Ed.,LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

Hello and welcome! Thanks for taking a few moments to read about me. Whether you choose to work with me or another therapist, I hope you find your path to healing with BetterHelp. I have over ten years of experience as a licensed therapist in the state of Missouri. Most of this time has been spent working within a college setting as a college/career counselor, academic advisor and faculty member. I’m passionate about working with adults in transition to help them find their calling and purpose. I also have experience working in private practice. The majority of my experience is working with depression, anxiety, self-esteem and identity issues. Building a collaborative relationship is important to me as I learn more about you and your story. When working with me, we will utilize tangible techniques that provide symptom relief while at the same time focusing on achievable goals. I use a cognitive approach to help my clients deepen their insights into unhelpful thinking patterns. I strive to be honest and genuine in my approach since I value the importance of the therapeutic relationship as a mechanism for change. I’m so glad you are taking this next step towards feeling better. I truly feel it is an honor to walk alongside my clients on their journey towards growth.

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Ruth Stoan

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

Hi and Congratulations on taking this huge step forward in your life. Having “reached out” myself for counseling I know what it is like to realize you need extra support to make changes. Getting out of our own way is the first step and you have done that! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and certified coach and have been assisting individuals achieve their goals for many years. I have enjoyed working in private practice with individuals and couples dealing with relationships, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, life changes, LGBTQ+ issues, in community agencies working with addictions, and in facilities helping families deal with changing roles and aging parents. A special focus for me is supporting women as they move through major life changes and focus on questions of who they are and what they want in life. I have a MA in Counseling from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and have studied many therapeutic approaches. My training with a variety of holistic tools allows me to help you reach the goals you have more quickly and easily. These include mindfulness, breath work, relaxation, theta healing, imagery and clearing blocking beliefs. We work together to create a plan and develop your skills to live a more meaningful and successful life. You can learn more about my approaches at my Facebook page: Opening Choices, https://www.facebook.com/Opening-Choices-2216183171967672 We will work on your immediate concerns as well as identify the deeper factors that may be limiting your progress. We will share this healing journey as far as you desire. My goal is to empower you to live the fullest, most successful life you desire. I will be your strongest advocate and support in this process. I believe you have strengths that can be tapped and strengthened to change your life and when we get rid of the old habits and thought patterns that have been sabotaging success, change happens! I find it helpful to participate in video sessions so that we can get to know each other better. But I am also available to you via phone and text if that is more comfortable for you, during weekdays, some evenings and by request on Saturday. I also check my messages frequently during the day. I look forward to sharing with you.

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Donna Gensler

Offering therapy in MO
License: LSCSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I have spent the last 25 years of my profession working in the child welfare system. The experience I have gained has been invaluable. I have had the privilege of working with clients in many different areas, and have learned a great deal about other cultures, socioeconomic status, and the challenges disenfranchised people have faced. I have also worked with countless families who are at an impasse on how to parent effectively in today’s world and be a healthy and communicative family system. This experience has allowed me to learn how to be creative in providing evidence based interventions for depression, anxiety, ADHD, other emotions that come from life stressors and past trauma. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and be as emotionally and mentally healthy as you can be….to be the best version of yourself! Together we will develop a goal of what the version looks like to you. I will be there to support you along your journey and provide honest and supportive feedback.

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Jennifer Starks

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

My name is Jennifer Starks and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I came to the counseling profession after seeing the need in my own life. I was always drawn to helping others but did not formally pursue counseling until becoming a mother to a child with autism spectrum disorder and other mental health-related issues. This inspired me to want to support others in similar circumstances. Since I know what it’s like to need help processing, planning, and finding a new path forward, I want to be that person for you. Overall, I believe therapy should be a safe, inviting space for a person to share, feel seen, explore, heal, and step forward. For 13 years I’ve worked as a mental health professional in numerous settings including in-home, school/university, and non-profit agencies. I’m experienced in counseling both individuals and families with a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and grief. My areas of specialization include working with families of individuals on the autism spectrum, and supporting young adults as they transition to adulthood. To provide the best possible care for my clients, I draw from several effective therapeutic approaches including Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Brief Therapy. I am also trained in exploring values and motivation to help individuals reach their goals. I view therapy as a collaboration; I’m not the expert telling you what to do. Rather using my training and, most importantly, your experience we work together to address your struggles and needs. Whatever reason brings you to this space, it would be my privilege to join you on your life’s path.

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Rick Miller

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA, LPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesAnger management
30 years of experience

I completed seminary and then added courses to become a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. I am a therapist with 30 years experience in working with clients with many issues., including stress, depression, grief, anger management, self esteem, relationship issues, I had a difficult childhood and worked with youth at a behavioral hospital. I also have worked in an outpatient setting with adults and teens. Clients relate well to me and begin healing in the process of being understood and better grasping their issues. My style is insight oriented, helping clients identify and develop ways to improve. I believe relationships need respect, good communication and a peaceful interaction to thrive. Relationships are a key to fulfillment, including a person's attitude toward themselves. When clients are able to better understand themselves and their goals, they find the counseling experience meaningful.

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Susan Anderson

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA LPC NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
3 years of experience

Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. I graduated with a masters in counseling in 2002 and have more than 15 years experience working as a therapist. My approach to therapy is flexible and I use different approaches and modalities based on what the client needs. I believe therapy is not telling the client what to do but guiding you in your own healing process to find your own "a ha" moments. I specialize in working with Military, depression, anxiety, relationship and family issues to name a few. I believe in hope, healing, and restoration. I look forward to helping my clients and love to see them grow strong again. Please feel free to reach out for a session.

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Susan Ridenour

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
20 years of experience

I am a clinically licensed therapist in Kansas and Missouri with over 40 years of professional healthcare experience. As a clinician, I bring a rich and diverse background to my practice, having worked across the life span in a range of settings, including home and community based. At the present time, I see primarily adults ages 21 - 65; individuals and couples who are seeking assistance and support with: relationships, family systems dynamics, grief and loss, life transitions, aging and chronic illness, spiritual/personal growth, and career or workplace challenges. I have also completed intensive leadership trainings, with individualized coaching, and spent a decade working in leadership roles with large healthcare organizations, which can be helpful for clients utilizing their EAP benefit. Better Help provides various tools and resources to support our work together. Throughout your therapy process, we will utilize different tools and techniques to make sure we are addressing your specific needs/goals. I am also able to send worksheets that may assist with session prep and follow up practice outside of session. Many clients find the journal option helpful, as well. I invite you to use this option, and the message section, as much as you like. I consider sharing in people's stories an honor and a privilege, and strive to create an open and safe environment, without judgment. This is your time! It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling, happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey, and look forward to meeting you.

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Danny Maggard

Offering therapy in MO
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Danny Maggard MA, LPC Danny received his Associate of Science Degree on May of 2006 in Criminal Justice, Bachelor of Science Degree on December 2009 in Biology, Criminology, Sociology, and Psychology at Drury University, and his Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in 2018. He has 20 plus years of experience in emergency services as a firefighter, emergency management, and law enforcement. Danny has worked at Gateway Foundation in Ozark Correctional Center for 3 plus years providing case management, individual therapy, group therapy, behavioral intervention, crisis intervention, therapeutic classes, and treatment plan development. He views the counseling process as an alliance between client and therapist and considers the clients as the experts of their lives. Within the structure of the therapeutic relationship clients can access their inner strengths and promote change. Danny uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Psycho-Educational Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. His theoretic approach is based on the belief that clients are in charge of their counseling experience. They will learn the bounds of aspects of their life that they can control and what they cannot. Clients will understand that the therapeutic relationship is a partnership in which they will be expected to put in the effort for homework, be accountable, and present within counseling alliance. Danny’s goal as a counselor is to provide a safe environment where clients can explore their primary interests, learn about their strengths, and develop goals. Areas of treatment that he specializes in are: • ADHD • Trauma • Criminality • Substance use /addictions • Grief & Loss • PTSD / first responder • Bipolar • Anxiety Disorders • Depression • Anger and Stress Management

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Benjamin Hensley

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issues
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions and substance abuse, & relationship issues. I also have experience working with family conflicts. 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. I believe Unconditional Positive Regard; I do not pass judgment and we will work together to find resolve from whatever you would like to overcome or explore unto solution/ 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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Rhoda Stuart

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Branson

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Branson 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 Branson 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 Branson 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 Branson, 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 Branson 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 Branson 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 Branson 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 Branson 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 Branson 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 65616 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 Branson 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 Branson 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 Branson, 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.

Branson 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Branson.

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

65615, 65616

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