If you’re seeking therapy, you’re likely at the start of a significant and meaningful journey toward self-improvement and personal growth. A therapist can help you address mental health concerns, including challenging cases such as addressing past trauma to reduce the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder. However, therapists can also help with more than mental health conditions. 

They can also help you bolster your self-care routine, navigate adversarial life circumstances, and help you make meaningful progress toward your goals. If you’re unsure what direction you want therapy to take, many therapists are prepared to help their clients identify goals within the first few sessions. 

Many therapists also work with couples and families. They might offer relationship counseling to help romantic partners improve communication skills and problem-solving abilities, or they may provide family counseling to help them improve the cohesion between family members and operate as a more effective family unit. 

If you’re ready to start with a therapist, Cape Girardeau, MO, has plenty of practitioners to choose from. At this stage in your counseling journey, it is likely that you are interested in outpatient counseling rather than more intensive inpatient services. There are several organizations near Cape Girardeau, MO, that provide outpatient counseling, such as Great Oak Counseling in Cape Girardeau or Sounds of Mind Counseling in Jackson. 

You might also want to consider online therapy, which allows you to attend sessions from home or another comfortable location. Many people find online therapy a convenient way to start working with a therapist, and evidence suggests that, in most cases, online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy. The online therapists listed below all offer services in the Cape Girardeau area and may be worth consideration as you search for a practitioner whose counseling style matches your needs. You can click the links below to see their profile to review their experience and credentials.

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Psychologist Deedra Ivie providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Deedra Ivie

Clinician
License Type(s): CO LPC 0005775, MO LPC 2022006994
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hi, I’m Deedra Ivie. My goal is to help you find the strength that is already inside of you and bring that to light. Each client is different and has needs unique to their upbringing and life circumstances. I enjoy learning about your past circumstances, ways of thinking and current situation to find the best way to move forward to achieve progress and find peace. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with most clients suffering from depression and anxiety. I work with you to identify the exact feelings you are experiencing. Then we work on identifying the thought behind the feeling. After we find the exact issue prompting your emotions, we work to change the thoughts. We discuss coping skills to help you find relief in the midst of your intense emotions. If you are experiencing more extreme emotions I use Dialectical Behavior Therapy. For DBT, I walk you through the different stages of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Distress tolerance and mindfulness are both a good place to start to help you find some relief from your symptoms. Then you can move forward to work on recognizing and regulating your emotions. Interpersonal effectiveness can also be very helpful. This helps you learn how to relate to others in your life in a healthier way. I graduated from Colorado Christian University with a Masters in Counseling. I have worked in Community Mental Health Centers, Treatment Facilities and I have a private practice. I am married with 4 children, whom I homeschool. Most of my time is spent with my family outdoors. We also have pigs, goats, dogs, chickens, bees and I garden. I look forward to finding out more about you and how I can help.

Psychologist Laurie Black providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Laurie Black

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2010030680
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
14 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Laurie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the State of Missouri. I am able to work with members from Missouri. I have been working as a counselor for 12 years. I have worked for better help since 2019. I have worked with individuals facing major life events, job stress, anxiety, depression, workplace stress and grief. I believe in starting where the individual is at that moment and working from there. I believe treatment should be highly individualized. I am nonjudgmental and empathetic. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices to assist individuals in bringing out their strengths and reducing their stress level. I believe in taking control of negative thinking. I believe we can work together to achieve a balanced, positive life. I believe that we all have the potential within to achieve satisfaction in life. I want to assist in identifying these strengths. I want to help find those obstacles and assist in resolving them. I am an active and empathetic listener. I offer practical tools to help keep you moving in a goal-oriented direction. I draw upon a range of therapeutic strategies including cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic approaches, strength-based approaches, solution focused techniques, and mindfulness. I treat everyone with empathy, respect and dignity. I look forward to working together.

Psychologist Jean Beatie  providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Jean Beatie

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 002634, KS LCPC 163
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
35 years offering treatment

Hi, my name is Jean. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas. I have 30 years of counseling experience? I have worked with clients from the age of two to ninety nine. I have a wide variety of experience in counseling. I started my career in counseling on an inpatient psychiatric unit. I worked at a shelter for women who had experienced physical abuse or were working on addiction issues as a children’s therapist. Currently I am an elementary school Counselor. I have also done individual outpatient mental health counseling in a variety of settings. I have experience in grief work, anxiety and depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, complex trauma/abuse, physical/sexual abuse, codependency and adult children of alcoholics. I use person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach to therapy. I believe in starting where you are and helping to establish a treatment plan that is tailored to you. I work to be sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence-based techniques including, but not limited to, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. My style is warm and supportive. I will help you address your struggles head-on. I believe one of the most important aspects of successful counseling is collaboration. I will work with you to establish concrete goals and plan for you to overcome your problems. I am not a quick fix Counselor. My experience has taught me that it takes time to work through problems. I look forward to walking this journey with you.

Psychologist rodney messenger providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

rodney messenger

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2002022591
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefBipolar disorder
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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. 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.

Psychologist Michael McGaugh providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Michael McGaugh

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2012019367
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Amber Kwentus providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Amber Kwentus

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2019015463
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
6 years offering treatment

I am an LPC and have been working full time in this capacity for over 5 years in St. Louis, Missouri. My background is extensive in working with substance abuse and trauma. Prior to working as an LPC, I had 5 years of experience as a social worker. I am an intuitive healer as well and incorporate this into my counseling based on a client's comfort level. I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach. I am passionate about leading clients through their pain to find their purpose and to lead an inspired life! My approach is a blending of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. Together we will create a plan and goals that best fit your life. Technology has the capacity to help us all learn how to integrate healthy self-care into our busy lives. BetterHelp may not be the only support you access, but it can be an important piece of your life. Congratulations on taking a courageous step toward recovery and for being a pioneer in the virtual counseling arena. If you choose to work with me as your BetterHelp counselor, I look forward to joining your support network.

Psychologist Patrick Shanahan providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Patrick Shanahan

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 000602
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
44 years offering treatment

My belief and approach to therapy begins with the idea that humans are generally self- correcting. This follows the teaching of both Carl Jung and Milton Erickson. We can get stuck for a variety of reasons and if able to get past that point, it can lead to us moving in a healthier direction. I believe that our value systems are extremely important to finding direction and solutions. I have studied comparative religions and cultures to be able to understand and work with a wide variety of people. I have worked in many different settings with a wide range of cultures and values. Currently my greatest strength is in working with individuals and couples. I started my career by creating and running an outpatient clinic as part of a runaway and homeless youth shelter. I did this for my first 18 years. We provided case management, individual and family therapy to youth and their families. We did this both in the shelter and in the community. My personal approach includes brief family therapy, problem solving therapy, structural and strategic systems theory, hypnotherapy, cognitive behavioral, communication theory and addiction therapies. I trained and supervised paid staff and graduate students. I worked in conjunction with a local university to conduct research which enabled us to improve our working therapy model and process. During this time, I completed 29 hours towards a PH. D in family therapy. I was offered a fellowship with Washington University's Ph. D program. I worked part time for New Life Christian Counseling, an outpatient therapy group, providing professional Christian therapy. I then worked 18 years for managed care helping members utilize their mental health benefits, providing phone therapy and crisis intervention. My other experiences were in outpatient office settings.

Psychologist Novella Keyler providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Novella Keyler

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 001315
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
32 years offering treatment

I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri for over 25 years. I have recently moved to New Mexico but retain my Missouri license. . I have a Masters degree in Psychology (from a Systems perspective) from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Kansas. I am quite holistic, aware that we are all multi-faceted. I have accumulated a lot of "tools in my toolkit" along the way and work to find the best approaches and strategies for each client. Talking about the problem is only one approach to make changes. I have worked a lot with people who have depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I also have experience working with people in the LGBTQ+ community. I am compassionate and believe every person has dignity, strengths and value. I love to help people find ways to help them thrive, instead of just survive. I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Natalie Alepin providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Natalie Alepin

Clinician
License Type(s): AZ LPC LPC-20731, CA LPCC 14523
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
27 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio and California and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and Arizona with 28 years of experience working in crisis, outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with clients from 3 to the 90's with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, anger management, career challenges, existential crisis, and ADHD. I also helped many people with debilitating medical illnesses and chronic pain. I am flexible and available for reality therapy if requested. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with unconditional positive regard. I am respectful, sensitive, and compassionate. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, mindfulness and rational-emotive therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life. You are taking steps towards change and I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Randi Brewer providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Randi Brewer

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2022031248
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Timothy Stowe providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Timothy Stowe

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2009008105
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Lesley Poblete-Creech providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Lesley Poblete-Creech

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2021015968
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

As a licensed clinical social worker in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My approach is deeply compassionate and culturally responsive, drawing from extensive experience working with diverse populations. I focus on helping clients address stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, and career transitions. My therapeutic practice centers on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I have expertise in addressing a wide range of concerns, including social anxiety, life purpose exploration, communication challenges, and multicultural experiences. I am committed to walking alongside my clients with empathy, respect, and genuine understanding. Whether you're struggling with workplace issues, relationship dynamics, or personal transformation, I offer a collaborative and affirming space to support your unique journey of healing and self-discovery. Additional info about me: I completed the training to become a 200 hour Certified Yoga Teacher in 2016 and feel privileged to offer yoga as another tool to my clients during their therapy appointments. I learned during my yoga journey this practice is truly for EVERYBODY. Your breath is what you need for every yoga practice & allows us to focus being present in the moment with ourselves. Other interesting fact about me - I am a dog mom to Teddy, a rescue Shihtzu from our local animal rescue organization since July 2020. Teddy influences our household reminding us to live an intentional life and appreciate the here and now. When making a decision to work with a therapist, it is also important to know if your availability aligns with the therapist’s availability in order to benefit the most from therapy. Please know I have a full time job outside of BetterHelp and here is an idea of what my availability may look like most weeks: I currently offer appointments after 7 pm CT zone Mondays and Tuesdays & after 6:30 pm CT zone Sundays. I offer select Saturday and Sunday morning appts, and please inquire if interested in this time option when sending an introduction message. 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.

Psychologist Stephanie Valenzuela providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Stephanie Valenzuela

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2022014721
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Kevin Herbert providing different types of therapy in Cape Girardeau

Kevin Herbert

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2011024362
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
18 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring 18 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I specialize in addressing a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences, including social anxiety, workplace challenges, relationship difficulties, and personal growth. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding individual needs, whether you're dealing with midlife transitions, young adult concerns, or seeking to improve self-esteem and communication. My background includes extensive work with diverse populations, including veterans, first responders, and individuals managing chronic health conditions. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with respect, empathy, and professional guidance as you navigate your unique journey of healing and self-discovery.

Find a Therapist Near You in Cape Girardeau , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Missouri (MO)
  3. 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 Cape Girardeau.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Cape Girardeau can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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