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.
Michael McGaugh
I have about twenty years work experience in the field of mental health services, I have worked as an adult case manager in community support services. I have also been an intake specialist; but the one area I have found the most rewarding is working as a mental health counselor. I enjoy working with people in helping them to see issues and problems from different perspectives and helping them to make better choices that will help them with feeling better about themselves and to overcome their personal problems. I hold advanced degrees in psychology and mental health counseling. From my education and work experience, I have found CBT and positive center approaches along with solution based therapy to be effective in helping clients to become more mindful along with helping them to build coping skills that they can utilize to help them to be more empowered in making healthy decisions in their lives.
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.
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.
Vesta Towels
Unfortunately, life is not always sunshine, rainbows and lollipops. Sometimes, life can leave a sour taste upon our palates and it can be difficult to continue to eat from its table. With major life changes, transitions, difficulties, and stresses, it can be hard to swallow at times. I can help guide you through your mental health journey, by empowering you on how to use those things life has thrown at you for the recipe of recapturing & restoring peace & joy to your life. In 2013, I graduated from Lindenwood University with a Masters of Art (M.A.) in School and Professional Counseling. I graduated top of my class and was peer-nominated & winner of Student of the Year 2013. I have over 15 years’ experience as a Department of Mental Health-Division of Developmental Disabilities Case Manager I/II/III & Habilitation Specialist II. This has afforded me the opportunity to work closely in the community with adults, children, and their families who have been diagnosed with Autism, Downs Syndrome, among other intellectual challenges as well as with individuals diagnosed with intellectual AND mental illness disorders. I also have experience working with individuals (children & adults) who struggle with substance abuse, suicidal ideation, anxiety, depression, and trauma. My previous professional experiences afford me the unique position to function like a social worker, considering each aspect of a person’s life and how those parts interconnect and impact the person as a whole, but also providing an in-depth approach from a therapeutic approach as a counselor. I primarily work from the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Informed, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Solution-Focused Brief Therapy approach, but I am extremely flexible in my approach as each person is unique in their personality as well as their needs. In using cognitive behavioral therapy, I help people see life issues & stresses they face daily from a different perspective. My philosophy is “if you can change the way you think, you can change the way you feel, and if you change the way you feel, you can change your life by changing the way you respond to life challenges.” However I am also a realist, that life is sometimes tough and sour, and another philosophy I have and live by is "it is okay to not be okay, just don't get stuck there". I also use the Solution-Focused brief therapy, to quickly identify unhealthy cycles and/or systems, and assist with identifying reasonable solutions, unless otherwise indicated for a more in-depth approach such as trauma informed approaches. I am here to help guide you through learning skills, strategies, and gaining insight to assist you out of your "stuck" place of your journey in your story of life, and empower you with the tools needed to navigate through any of life’s tumultuous journey's successfully.
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
Starlett Grey
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional approach centers on understanding the unique experiences of each client, with particular expertise in addressing depression, family dynamics, trauma recovery, and women's mental health. I bring compassionate, culturally responsive care to my practice, drawing from extensive training in trauma-informed therapeutic techniques. My work focuses on helping clients develop effective communication strategies, process posttraumatic experiences, and work through significant life transitions like divorce or caregiver stress. My background includes deep experience supporting individuals dealing with family of origin issues, multicultural concerns, and personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I approach each client's journey with respect, empathy, and a genuine commitment to their healing and personal transformation.
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!
Dennis Hounshell
I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Tanesha Walker
As a licensed therapist serving Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding the unique experiences of diverse communities, with a particular focus on multicultural concerns. I offer compassionate guidance for those struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and challenges related to self-esteem. My therapeutic practice is rooted in creating a supportive, culturally responsive environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower individuals to build resilience, enhance emotional well-being, and cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves. I am committed to providing affirming, culturally sensitive care that honors each person's individual journey and lived experiences. My goal is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and genuine support as you work towards healing and personal transformation.
Diana Gregory
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and family conflicts with compassionate, personalized care. I'm particularly passionate about working with young adults, women, and individuals experiencing social anxiety, isolation, or relationship transitions like divorce. My approach focuses on building self-love, resilience, and healthy coping strategies tailored to each person's unique journey. Drawing from years of clinical experience, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, develop stronger interpersonal skills, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I believe in empowering individuals to understand themselves more deeply and build the confidence needed to overcome life's challenges. My therapeutic style is collaborative, affirming, and centered on meeting you exactly where you are in your healing process. Together, we'll work to transform obstacles into opportunities for personal transformation and emotional well-being.
Julie Diaz
I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri with 23 years of professional counseling experience. I have assisted individuals with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss and so much more. I facilitate an open and safe environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. It takes courage and determination 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.
Beverly Gardner
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring over three decades of compassionate clinical experience to supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, life transitions, and interpersonal dynamics with empathy and professional expertise. I specialize in addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including social anxiety, trauma recovery, mood disorders, and women's psychological wellness. My approach is deeply person-centered, focusing on building self-love, improving communication skills, and helping individuals overcome isolation and emotional barriers. My therapeutic work honors the unique experiences of each person, with particular sensitivity to multicultural perspectives and individual identity. I am committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their emotional challenges, develop healthier coping strategies, and cultivate personal growth and resilience. Through collaborative and compassionate counseling, I aim to empower individuals to understand themselves more deeply, heal from past experiences, and move toward more fulfilling, authentic lives.
Jennifer Nelson
As a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients develop deeper self-understanding and resilience, particularly for those experiencing depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I'm passionate about creating an affirming space for all individuals no matter religion, culture, race, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. My work centers on addressing challenges like communication difficulties, self-esteem struggles, and feelings of isolation. I believe in empowering clients to cultivate self-love and develop effective coping strategies. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and compassionate, designed to help you build meaningful connections with yourself and others. Together, we'll explore your unique strengths and work towards transformative personal growth. I'm committed to walking alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and discover your inner resilience.
Find a Therapist Near You in Buffalo , 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 Buffalo.
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.