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Lauren Williams

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA,LPC
GriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

Hello and welcome! Because you're reading this, you're probably thinking about therapy. Let me tell you that you've done a great job so far in seeking help, it's definitely not an easy step to take and I'm a huge believer in celebrating the small things. There's something to be said about a person who wants to better themselves; whatever draws you here, I hope you find what you're looking for. Here's a little about me to help clarify any questions you may have: I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (2016) from Stephen F. Austin State University in Texas. I later moved to Missouri and am now a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. I've worked as a therapist in several different settings such as college counseling centers, rehabilitation centers for drug and alcohol use, and in the private practice setting. In these environments I've helped people manage concerns with depression, suicide and self harm, issues related to relationships with themselves and others, anxiety, sexuality and LGBTQ orientation, and addiction. I've also been able to work with people that have experienced trauma and family conflicts. Each therapist operates from a certain style and orientation in which they approach the counseling process. Usually, it's a multi-faceted approach and I believe that the key is to remain flexible. That being said, my main approach tends to be relatable, personal, and straight forward. I believe in transparency in sessions, meaning I'm not afraid to be real with you while helping to guide, support, and validate your experiences. Therapy is a vulnerable process so it's my job to help you feel safe and empowered. In doing this, we'll talk about your strengths and what makes you who you are, and use those to help achieve your goals. I believe that you're the expert of your life; I'm just here to help you talk through it and I find that through positivity and humor, life seems a bit more manageable.

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Katie Harrison

Offering therapy in MO
License: Lpc
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseADHD
12 years of experience

Welcome, I have been a mental health counselor since 2011. In that time I have worked with diverse groups of people in a wide array of settings. I began practicing therapy during my graduate program in the counseling center through a graduate assistantship. Working at the university provided me a unique opportunity to practice therapy with individuals during a pivotal stage of development when many are expected to function as an adult, yet be treated in many ways as a child. Once I finished with my degree (2013) I stayed on at the university counseling center part time, and was hired on at a children’s acute psychiatric facility (ages 4-17). There, I provided individual, group, and family therapy to my patients. While there I also conducted assessments on patients exhibiting sexually maladaptive behaviors and determined the most appropriate and safe placement upon discharge. Through my work with children and families in an acute setting, I witnessed the impact generational trauma has on individuals and families. I have a deep understanding of family systems and attachment theory, and how to begin and work through a way to heal. I value the process of my clients learning how to navigate their lives with insight into how their past experiences influenced their attachment style so they are better able to identify and meet their needs with more ease and confidence. I opened my private practice in Springfield, Missouri in 2018 when I realized the real need in my community for a secular clinician specializing in sexual and gender identity and religious trauma. Springfield is referred to as “the buckle of the Bible Belt,” and the overlap of LGBTQIA+ folks who suffer from religious trauma (like many other places in the world) is staggering. Many of my clients have emerged from puritanical upbringings, and/or Covid, feeling ready to explore their sexuality and gender identity. I believe everyone deserves a space to be heard with compassion and free from judgement. I approach each client as an individual with unique needs who deserves respect and to be treated with dignity and compassion. With experience and empathy I validate and process struggles with a client so as to clear a path forward with less pain, shame, and fear. When someone can come to session with an open mind and a willingness to explore their thoughts and feelings with me (even in unconventional ways) amazing insights can come into focus. With that comes confidence in the client's own ability to recognize their needs and realize their goals. I enjoy working with those motivated to makes changes and improve their own reality. Sometimes this means big leaps and brave actions and other times it means major shifts in perspective. I am so glad that you are here and look forward to meeting with you!

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Barbara Fotsch

Offering therapy in MO
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

Hello. My name is Barb. I moved to southern California to be near my son, after living in St. Louis Missouri all of my life. I have always enjoyed my work with people and strongly believe we move forward when ready. My approach is mostly cognitive, psycho-educational, and supportive. I am rather casual & like to use humor when appropriate, as a tool, to help make the sessions comfortable. I believe no "one size fits all" in the therapeutic relationship; if something isn't working, we can back it up and try something different. I try to pay attention to a client's energy and offer techniques best suited; for example, some clients want more guidance, others more autonomy. My job is to "listen" and identify helpful movement toward understanding, growth, and healing. I check my emails 2x a day and will respond w/in 24 hours.

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Dr. Ernest Middleton

Offering therapy in MO
License: PhD, DCC, EdS, MS, MEd, LPC,
Self esteemCareer difficulties
4 years of experience

Hello- My Ernest Middleton and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri and have been in the helping professions for more than twenty-five years. I have taken a nontraditional career path over the year in the fields of Education, Administration, Consulting, and Counseling. Working in the counseling profession has been tremendous and extremely rewarding. I have worked together with my clients in resolving concerns such as anxiety, stress, self-concept, self-esteem, and parent issues. It is hoped my interactive, compassionate and respectful style will serve as an effective catalyst that will help you to find some answers, as well as assist you in developing a healthy emotional skill set that you can use when faced with problems. In my work with clients, I utilize some psychological modalities such as Reality Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy. However, I will adjust the treatment plan to meet your individual and specific needs. I received my Ph.D. in Student Personnel Services from Ohio University, a Doctorate in Christian Counseling from Faith Bible College, a Master of Science in Student Personnel Services and Counseling from Miami University, a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling from Miami University, and an Educational Specialist from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. I know that your concerns are legitimate and representative of your needs. Also, you’re not alone in your situation. Together we can discuss how you can channel your feelings to benefit you in realizing goals. I look forward to working with you! Ernest Middleton, PhD, LPC

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Dr. Julie Downs

Offering therapy in MO
License: MSW, LCSW, EDD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
16 years of experience

My name is Julie Downs and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri. I earned my Masters Degree from the University of Missouri/Columbia in 2000. I earned my Certification from the University of Indiana in career counseling in 2012. I have worked in various settings over the past 26 years that include outpatient mental health and private practice settings serving children, families, and adults. I have also worked in educational settings from higher education to elementary and secondary education. My areas of expertise include trauma, depression, anxiety, family conflict, relationships, and parenting. I enjoy working with children, but have also worked with adults, specifically when addressing family needs. I definitely take a holistic and systemic approach when looking at family dynamics, relationships, interactions, and functioning. I look at my relationships with clients as a partnership. I am very resourceful and creative in my approaches so if I do not have the knowledge or information, I will locate it for my clients. I take a non-judgmental stance because I believe diversity is what enriches my life and those around me. I also adhere to my professional code of ethics where taking an unbiased approach is a necessity. I am extremely energetic and creative in my approach with therapy. I strive to keep my clients engaged providing various options and encouraging them to overcome challenges, fears, or reservations about trying new things. I do regular check-ins to make sure my approach is having a positive impact on my clients' lives and that there is a continuation of progress towards goals. My clients are treated with dignity and respect, but I will be assertive in a respective manner when addressing patterns of behaviors that are impeding progress. Cognitive behavioral approaches are the foundation of my therapy, but I also use eclectic interventions through trauma, solution focused, and client centered modalities, making adjustments that fit my clients' communication and personality styles and needs. I am also a trained Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist. I believe continuity of care and ongoing support is crucial in therapy services and check my messages minimally three times a day. I look forward to working with you and forging a partnership in helping you reach your goals!

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This is Jessica Erickson's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Erickson

Offering therapy in MO
License: MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in the state of Missouri with five years of experience working as a counselor. I have experience working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, and trauma history. I have worked with a range of ages, from as young as 4 to individuals in their 70’s. When working with a client, I am warm and understanding and also enjoy using humor when appropriate. I believe everyone deserves to be seen as the expert in their own story. My approach to therapy is a combination of cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and person-centered therapy. Therapy sessions and treatment plans will be individualized to meet your specific needs. I look forward to meeting you and supporting your journey in an understanding, empathetic way.

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Stacey Remley

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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!

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This is Christopher Meek's avatar and link to their profile

Christopher Meek

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!

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This is Dominique Wilson's avatar and link to their profile

Dominique Wilson

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA,LCPC
LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois (180.011802). I specialize in helping people who are LGBTQ+, people have experienced trauma in their lives, and working with individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. I hold certifications in providing couples counseling and trauma counseling. I have two degrees (BS/MA) from Christian colleges, and I can specifically work with Christian couples and clergy. I am a mother of 2 children who keep me busy. I have prior life experiences with being a military spouse while my husband was deployed in to Iraq. That gives me a real-life perspective on how to manage long-distance relationships, and difficulties with managing the demands of military life. I am a relaxed person in session, and I use a lot of humor to make therapy more engaging. I try my best to find real solutions to life's problems that will fit your individual lifestyle and what meets your needs. I feel that as a therapist I have expertise in various topics, but YOU are the expert of your own life. Feel free to contact me if you need more information, and I look forward to getting to know you better.

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This is Jane Gotshalk's avatar and link to their profile

Jane Gotshalk

Offering therapy in MO
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and seniors. My three areas of passion are working with trauma survivors, working with combat veterans, and feminist practice. When I was 39, I commissioned in the US Army as a behavioral health officer and deployed to Iraq through Operation New Dawn. I love helping women create their best lives despite conventional pressures of marriage and child rearing. I also love working with male or female veterans from all branches of service and have limited experience working with veterans who were Rangers and Special Ops.

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How to find counseling in Clarence

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Clarence 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 Clarence 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 Clarence 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 Clarence, 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 Clarence 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 Clarence 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 Clarence 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 Clarence 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 Clarence 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 63437 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 Clarence 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 Clarence 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 Clarence, 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.

Clarence 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Clarence.

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

63437

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