This is Steven Buck's avatar and link to their profile

Steven Buck

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA, LCSW
Relationship issuesParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in the State of Missouri as an LCSW ( Licensed Clinical Social Worker). I have been a therapist for approximately 30 years working in various settings including a psychiatric hospital for almost 20 years, private practice and various mental health agencies. My specialties include treating depression, mood disorders, anxiety, phobias, anger, ADHD, relationship and self esteem issues. I have worked with individuals, couples and families. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy with a systems approach considering structure, boundaries, communication, and various family dynamics. I am non-judgmental is my approach with an emphasis on "seeing" your issues through your eyes. My goal is to demonstrate that I am listening and thinking about your feelings and concerns with an attempt to assist you with healthy options and solutions. I focus on Strengths not weaknesses, and consider it a strength that you sought counseling with a therapist. I believe mental health is as important as physical health and applaud you for seeking to improve your mental health. My entire career has been about mental health and believe I have learned as much from my clients as I have from books. So, here is to learning more about you.

This is Sarah Jennings's avatar and link to their profile

Sarah Jennings

Offering therapy in MO
License: MS,LPC
LGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
21 years of experience

My name is Sarah L. Jennings, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, living in Saint Louis, MO. I have 17 years of counseling experience, (this is a second career for me) working first in domestic violence shelters with battered women, then in federally mandated counseling with ex-offenders. I have extensive experience working with grief, especially complicated grief, and with PTSD. I am lesbian, married to a woman, and have counseled many LGBTQ clients. My approach to therapy is eclectic, tailoring the types of psychotherapy to the individual. I have used CBT, Existential, Feminist, Rogerian (client-centered), Solution-focused Brief Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, and sometimes borrow from transactional analysis. I believe it is important to join with my clients on their journey toward self-actualization. I enjoy working with the aging population, and the life stages and challenges of the LGBTQ population. I also am interested in working with people of all walks of life who are on a spiritual quest, and am open and interested in all spiritual journeys. I am always interested in talking with atheists and agnostics.

This is Julia Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Julia Smith

Offering therapy in MO
License: EdD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor for the states of Michigan and New Mexico. With over 25 years of experience, I have a wide scope of experience in community counseling, private practice, residential, partial hospitalization, and military settings. I am well-versed in working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. My specialties include issues associated with anxiety, depression, self-development, relationship issues, grief & loss, AD/HD, military, career, and life changes. My counseling style is respectful, empathic, genuinely caring, and interactive. I incorporate cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness strategies with acceptance and attachment-based therapies. I cultivate a trusting climate and work with you to create a plan that suits your own unique needs. Thank you for taking the time to learn about me; I welcome the opportunity to talk with you.

This is Michael Ziegler's avatar and link to their profile

Michael Ziegler

Offering therapy in MO
License: MS,NCC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementDepression
8 years of experience

Sometimes life is difficult. Life is especially difficult when we find ourselves dealing with situations, feelings, and moods that we don’t understand and don’t know how to handle, leaving us with profound doubt about ourselves and others. While we all have to deal with these challenges for ourselves, since we are human beings, we don’t have to do that by ourselves. In situations like these, the most responsible thing we do is to ask for help. I’m Michael, and I’m really glad you’ve taken this first step to seek help from a professional. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, with post-graduate training in various approaches to clinical therapy, including various trauma-focused therapies, cognitive and behavioral therapies, to fit a variety of preferences and challenges, figuring out how to move forward into living the life we really want to live. I have experience in helping people with challenges connected to moods, behaviors, relationships, parenting, and many other kinds of challenges that were holding them back from living the life they really want. My work experience includes child-focused family therapy, working with law enforcement, first responders, people adjusting to life after prison, people struggling with relationships, and people needing to process and resolve memories of traumatic experiences that continued to cause great pain and difficulty. My basic approach to therapy is called Reality Therapy, which helps to clarify what we really want and what we’re doing, to figure out whether what we’re doing is helping us get what we really want, and then to make adjustments to our thinking and acting that help get us what we really want. I also have been trained in a number of trauma-focused approaches, and primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for resolving trauma and other persistent cognitive problems, as well as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), which helps with developing a balanced way of seeing reality, along with skills to act more effectively in response to the various situations in our lives. I regularly draw from all these approaches to meet the unique needs of each of my clients, and enjoy sharing my clients’ journeys of healing and growth. I welcome the opportunity to work with you, and if this is your first attempt at therapy, I say you’re in for more fun than you could imagine at this point. Let’s get started at building the life you really want!

This is Taylor Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Taylor Smith

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Kari Petersen's avatar and link to their profile

Kari Petersen

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

"Speaking with Kari is like catching up with a friend I have known forever and her wisdom and insight bring a lot of clarity and peace to my current situations. Very thankful to have been matched with her." I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I have been an adoptive and foster parent. I taught 6th grade for 14 years and am a certified Special Education teacher in the state of Missouri. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I utilize solution focused and cognitive behavioral styles of therapy. 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.

This is Danica Harris's avatar and link to their profile

Danica Harris

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Missouri with over 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma and abuse as well as coping with grief, loss and depression. I believe you are the expert of your story and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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 and empower you in that journey.

This is Dr. Brandy Yarbrough's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Brandy Yarbrough

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

This is Alison Gabel's avatar and link to their profile

Alison Gabel

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC (LA),LPC (MO),ATR
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri, as well as a Registered Art Therapist. During my 10 years of clinical experience, I have worked closely with groups and individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and many other mental health concerns with my emphases being trauma and crisis intervention. I use a person-centered approach which means our sessions are led by your needs and goals, not a one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach. Stuck in a rut? Not understanding why you just…can’t? I am here to help you process where you currently are mentally and emotionally, and to help guide you into a space in which you feel more aligned with who you are and your vision for yourself. Welcome to your journey!

This is Kirsten Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Kirsten Davis

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & depression. 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!

How to find counseling in Clarkson Valley

Finding the best therapist close by in Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley. 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 Clarkson Valley, 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley, elsewhere in St. Louis, 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 Clarkson Valley area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley, 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 63005 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley, 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.

Clarkson Valley 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 Clarkson Valley.

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

63005

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist