For those who are looking to find relief from overwhelming stress, or are simply on the search for a more meaningful life, therapy can offer the tools necessary to achieve your goals. When it comes to finding a therapist, Columbia, MO can offer a wider variety of choice than many surrounding rural and suburban areas, but finding the right therapist isn’t always easy, even in populous metro areas. 

One major challenge can be that there are a number of evidence-based approaches in psychotherapy, and how effective they are can depend on the mental health challenge that you’re experiencing. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective at treating anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, but may not be as effective at treating complex personality disorders (which may need another form of therapy like dialectical behavioral therapy). What you need may not be readily available or accessible in your area. 

That’s where online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can come in. BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 mental health professionals who specialize in many different areas of therapy like ADHD coaching, solution focused therapy, and a holistic approach, and have experience working with diverse populations. By filling out an online questionnaire, BetterHelp will connect you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because it can be important to feel confident in your client/therapist relationship for the most effective therapy, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy can also be a convenient solution for busy professionals, parents, or students. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, or text messaging options, you can talk to your therapist from the safe haven of your own home or office. 

Therapy can be beneficial for any number of reasons. Whether you feel stuck in your life, are experiencing low self-esteem, or simply want to explore personal truths, move forward in your personal growth with the help of therapy. Reach out to BetterHelp for a simple way to get started on the wellness journey you deserve.

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Psychologist Casey French providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Casey French

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2015011483
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Casey French and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Through guidance, encouragement and support, I have helped clients of all ages and backgrounds discover a better quality of life. My main area of focus is first responders; police, fire, EMS, and military personnel that work in crisis everyday and that live in a constant state of alertness. Transitioning back into "normal" life with family and friends can be difficult. Not only can asking for help be stressful, but finding the time can be all but impossible. Being able to reach out to someone at times that work best for you is critical and is why I began working with Betterhelp. Are you seeking relief from depression, anxiety, frustrations in relationships, low self esteem? My goal is to provide a safe and supportive setting where you can explore your deepest questions and to help you find ways to become more confident and comfortable in the world. My approach is collaborative and eclectic although I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will seek to understand you as a unique individual and tailor my approach to what works for you. I am experienced and dedicated to working with you in overcoming the obstacles that cause you distress and to create a more balanced and satisfying life. Let me help you take the first step in accepting your past, living in your present, and changing your future.

Psychologist Hillary Haarmann providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Hillary Haarmann

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2006034925
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

Hi! My name is Hillary. I am a licensed therapist with many years of experience in providing talk therapy to clients with a diverse set of backgrounds. I enjoy working with people, helping them to realize their full potential and by providing support and guidance in reaching their goals. I received my Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University, and my Master’s degree from Washington University in St. Louis. I have experience working with adults and teenagers living with stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder and chemical dependency. I help and support people going through major life transitions such as; new job, parenting, relationship stressors, grief/loss, etc. I like to use cognitive behavioral therapy, challenging negative automatic thoughts, working towards a healthier self. I believe having a constructive view of the self is the first step to moving forward to achieve your goals. I like to concentrate on solution-focused therapy using client’s goals as their motivation to better themselves, being mindful, present in the moment, as a place to start. I want to assist my clients to find their own empowerment. I offer my clients new perspectives while focusing on their strengths and support them in their journey towards the life they want and deserve. I look forward to working with you. I believe the client-therapist team is an extremely powerful partnership that can bring about positive change. Thank you and I look forward to working with you, Hillary

Psychologist Karen Memhardt providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Karen Memhardt

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2010041725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCompassion fatigue
14 years offering treatment

Hi, I am Karen Memhardt, MA, Med, LPC, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychological Examiner. I have master’s degrees in Professional counseling, School counseling, and Psychological Examiner and teaching. I have certification in hypnotherapy, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Psychotherapy, Christian counseling, CCTP Treating Complex Trauma. I have been practicing for fourteen years. My goal is to provide a safe supportive environment where clients can explore issues that prevent them from enjoying life to the fullest. Treatment is approached from a holistic spiritual basis to treat the whole family environment. Psychodynamic psychotherapy and educational counseling principals are integrated with various techniques and therapies to discover the cause of the psychological or behavioral disturbance, incorporating modalities of individual, family, and group counseling therapies to relieve stress and anxiety to a level of comfort desired in your family, work or school environment. Working together, we find the internal and external stressors and eliminate them or find ways to make them manageable for a successful life as measured by you. I use psychodynamic psychotherapy, a form of depth psychology, with the primary focus to reveal the unconscious content of your psyche in an effort to alleviate psychic tension. In this way it is similar to psychoanalysis. It also relies on the interpersonal relationship between client and therapist more than other forms of depth psychology. In terms of approach this form of therapy tends to be more eclectic, taking techniques from a variety of sources, rather than relying on a single system of intervention. It is used in individual psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, family therapy, and to understand and work with institutional and organizational contexts. CBT, Cognitive Behavioral and Neo Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help you reframe thoughts to more effectively manage feelings and behaviors, and to restructure negative thoughts into a positive thought process to improve self-esteem and self-motivation. Brief therapy is used to address a specific issue in eight to ten sessions. I would ask you to participate in your therapy by asking you to do homework in-between sessions. For example I would ask you the following questions to prepare for our first session: Have you been to a counselor before? A counselor can be a useful tool. I would hope we can build a relationship that you would be able to trust in to discuss your feelings, hopes and goals to help you move forward with a new plan for your life. If you can use me as a sounding board, and use me to help you make some important decisions, this will help you have an easier time with all of your life issues. I am here to help you figure out what is best for you moving forward. What we discuss is confidential. What would you like to discuss with me today? What would you say is the main reason you are wanting to talk today? What are your long term goals for your living arrangement, relationships and your career? Do you have any techniques for helping you to relax? How are you feeling today? For a Brief therapy session I would ask you to imagine you go to sleep tonight, and while you are sleeping, a miracle happens so when you wake up tomorrow morning and everything in your life is exactly how you want your life to be, what would it look like?

Psychologist Walter Barron providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Walter Barron

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 001850
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years offering treatment

My name is Walter Barron LCSW, and I have worked with many different client issues, stress management, ptsd, depression, anxiety, grief, major SMI diagnosis and marital/family relationship problems. I have been in the mental health field for 35 years, and my counseling experiences have included inpatient/outpatient, military employment for 11 years, veterans administration outpatient community services, and as a private contractor. My therapeutic approach is best described as client centered therapy with a warm non directive systems approach, having an emphasis on family individual dynamics. In addition I used the cognitive behavioral approach with the underpinning being the models of Dr. Beck, and Dr. Ellis. however; I do not impose any treatment modality on a client until there is a thorough assessment and a client therapist relationship with the client indicating what change they desire. I respect client self determination, and realize that entering into therapy is a big step. I hope you will find therapy rewarding, and I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Jennifer Fuller providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Jennifer Fuller

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2018009719, GA LPC LPC012445
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Louisiana, Missouri, and Georgia. I have worked in various areas including substance abuse, co-occurring, and general practice counseling centers for over 10 years now. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist David Markowitz providing different types of therapy in Columbia

David Markowitz

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 000788
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementADHD
35 years offering treatment

As a Missouri Licensed Counselor with over 25years experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic 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 and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Stephanie Dixon providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Stephanie Dixon

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2015040577
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years offering treatment

I am a counselor with over 13 years of experience working with clients. I started my career working with adults as a career counselor and transitioned to working with adults, teens, and families. I specialize in trauma and adoption issues, depression, anxiety, and career issues. I also specialize in working with families impacted by the criminal justice system. I use a relational approach that is warm and interactive. I will be direct with clients as needed, but I prefer to let them drive sessions and decide which direction to take. I am always open to feedback from clients and encourage you to be honest about what is working or not working for you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Danielle Nielson providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Danielle Nielson

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2020031613
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

Thank you for checking out my profile, and congratulations on taking the next step improving your quality of life! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri. I completed by BSW at Missouri Western State University in 2013, my MSW from Park University in 2015, and my clinical supervision in 2020. In my time as a social worker I have worked in foster care, domestic violence, and outpatient mental health. I previously worked as an outpatient therapist 8-5 Monday through Friday, but I noticed something- so do a lot of other people. By providing services through BetterHelp, I can help those who have been left out of traditional therapy due to the struggle of scheduling therapy during work hours. This also applies to those of you who are parents- I am a single mom to two amazing kids... so I know about the work/ parent/ self-care balance. I also spend a lot of time reading, and have probably cried/ laughed/ loved some of your favorite characters and authors, so lets chat about it. Sometimes the way art imitates life can be a great path towards healing. My passion is teaming with individuals to help them identify triggers that are negatively impacting their quality of life, and then identifying and developing skills for managing those triggers. Whether it is trauma, behavioral, or mental health, I believe therapy is a great tool to help bridge the gap between where life is now and where you would like to see life go. I have experience with CBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing, all which showcase themselves in my warm, strengths based approach. I believe therapy is a partnership, and that success is best found when both of us are committed to the goals you identify for yourself! Thank you for considering me as your partner in this journey.

Psychologist Kristine Gustafson providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Kristine Gustafson

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2018002420
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years offering treatment

As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board-approved supervisor in Missouri, I bring over 12 years of expertise to our sessions. My integrated approach draws from cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, humanistic, psychotherapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Together, we'll customize a treatment plan to address your individual needs, utilizing a range of counseling tools to tackle issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and life transitions, including trauma. In addition to my counseling expertise, I specialize in compassion fatigue, chronic disease management, and empowering individuals to achieve their life goals. Whether you're grappling with the demands of caregiving, navigating chronic health conditions, or seeking to regain control of your life, I'm here to support and guide you toward positive change and fulfillment. I strive to cultivate a welcoming and non-judgmental space where you can freely express your thoughts and emotions. Embarking on a journey toward a more fulfilling life can evoke a mix of emotions—fear, excitement, and stress. I'm here to provide unwavering support and empowerment as you navigate this path. Together, we'll identify and address any obstacles hindering your progress, enhancing your coping mechanisms and response strategies to help you realize your true potential and live the life you deserve.

Psychologist Erin Arthur providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Erin Arthur

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 002698
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
31 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 28 years of professional counseling and case management experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse histories, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, bipolar and mood disorders, as well as serious mental illness 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 I have experience with adolescents, and adults.. I am trained in many different schools of therapy, and will choose that which I feel will be most helpful to you,, as well as allowing for maximum growth. I believe in treating the core issues, that are causing current issues. I know that it can be difficult to reach out and ask for help. Let’s see if this is a good fit. Thank you for letting me serve you!

Psychologist Lisa Winn providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Lisa Winn

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2003031754
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
22 years offering treatment

I am a licensed professional counselor with 22 years of professional work experience. I enjoy helping clients with a wide variety of life challenges including but not limited to: stress and anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship and parenting issues, motivation and self esteem. Life can certainly be difficult for all of us to navigate sometimes no matter what age we are and how far we have come, there is always room for further growth as we strive towards Self actualization. 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 change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Martha Green providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Martha Green

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2021046308
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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. 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 Heather Nash providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Heather Nash

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2007016305
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
7 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients develop resilience, self-understanding, and healthy relationship dynamics. I have extensive experience addressing challenges related to stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on creating compassionate, collaborative spaces where individuals can explore their experiences with trauma, self-esteem concerns, and interpersonal dynamics. I'm particularly passionate about supporting clients through adoption, foster care experiences, communication difficulties, and healing from relational wounds. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to cultivate self-love, overcome commitment barriers, and develop stronger emotional skills. My practice is rooted in understanding each person's unique journey, offering personalized support that honors individual strengths and experiences. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, believing that every client has the innate capacity for healing and transformation. Together, we'll work to understand your challenges, build meaningful strategies, and support your path toward personal growth and emotional well-being.

Psychologist Ava Johnson Oleski providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Ava Johnson Oleski

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2020014178
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, motivation, & self esteem. I also have experience working with confidence. I work with teens, adults, seniors, veterans, individuals with disabilities and couples. I am the proud wife of a decorated Marine. 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!

Find a Therapist Near You in Columbia , 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.

With a population of Missouri_POPULATION, 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_COUNTIES, 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 Missouri_COUNTIES.

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 Columbia 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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