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.

Psychologist Celeste Souza providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Celeste Souza

Clinician
License Type(s): MSW, LCSW,LICSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I work with people who are facing challenging times in their lives. Sometimes the most valuable think I can do for you is to listen and care. Other times, you might need help identifying the underlying cause of a feeling or conflict in your life. I am trained as a Relational-Cultural Therapist and believe the work of healing happens in relationship (between the client and the therapist as well as in relationships in day-to-day life). I utilize therapeutic skills from a variety of models including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). No matter how big or small the issue you want to discuss, I believe that my therapeutic techniques will be helpful to you. Contact me when you're ready to get started.

Psychologist Dr. Cherie Swingler providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Dr. Cherie Swingler

Clinician
License Type(s): PhD,LPC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
10 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Dr. Chérie Swingler, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri. I have over 12 years of experience working in the arena of counseling and therapeutic services. Much of my education and work experience has been focused on issues related to careers/education, anxiety, anger management, depression, trauma, ADHD and relationship/family conflicts. My approach belief is that everyone is unique and therefore, I utilize a combination of motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma focused therapy and person centered techniques to assist my clients in obtaining a personalized counseling experience. I believe in building a rapport with clients that includes respect, non-judgment, empathy and trust. I do not tell clients what to do with their lives because I believe that the client is the expert in that area; it is my job to guide/assist in obtaining insight and strategies while I walk the journey with them. It takes courage to seek a more satisfying and fulfilling life and to take the initiative to make the change. I am eager to assist you with your goals by using techniques that empower, support and challenge in order to bring out the best you! I would be honored to work with you, Chérie Swingler, PhD, LPC

Psychologist Marnie Morgan providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Marnie Morgan

Clinician
License Type(s): LCP
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

Hello. I'm a licensed counselor in Missouri. I've had years of experience and training in the area of trauma. During my 20+ years as a therapist, I've worked with a wide range of age groups, cultures, social groups, individuals, couples, and families. I’ve also provided supervision for counselors who are seeking professional licensure and have taught counseling classes at the graduate level. I have dual Masters degrees in Professional Counseling and in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and grounded in family systems theory. I was trained with a systemic perspective which helps view life and challenges in the context of your world. The treatment plan and sessions will be tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. My style is warm and interactive and I believe real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. I approach therapy with a working knowledge of several models, including but not limited to, cognitive-behavioral, developmental, person-centered, and trauma based. Moving toward change and a more fulfilling life requires courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Mallory Langkrahr providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Mallory Langkrahr

Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years offering treatment

Hello! My name is Mallory. I live in rural Missouri and work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Historically I have worked with individuals, groups, and families experiencing symptoms of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. I have also worked with hospice and home health agencies, providing case management and short-term therapy services. Currently, I work with veterans in a residential setting. I believe I have a wide variety of skills and expertise due to my work place and personal experiences. I enjoy utilizing Strengths Perspective, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing. I believe each person is the expert of their own life and has the ability to grow. I look forward to engaging, challenging, and supporting people throughout their journey.

Psychologist Sheila Stewart providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Sheila Stewart

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years offering treatment

I am a licensed mental health therapist in Missouri with 18 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping adolescent and adults with depression, loneliness, stress and anxiety, family/relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss, career difficulties, and other challenges. I provide an authentic and safe environment to help individuals grow and learn more about themselves and their relationships. I approach therapy in a client centered and holistic way, allowing clients to direct their own path to growth and/or healing but I also incorporate techniques such as CBT, mindfulness, family systems, psychodynamic, and experiential therapies as needed. Taking the first step towards a healthier/ happier life can take courage and I am here to support you along this journey!

Psychologist Jessalyn Wininger providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Jessalyn Wininger

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbt-related issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. 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 Samantha Graham-Douglas providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Samantha Graham-Douglas

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
16 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with 16 years of professional work experience. I am trained in trauma theories and provide competent trauma therapy. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience with co occurring and addiction issues. 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. 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 Dr. Brenda S Melton providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Dr. Brenda S Melton

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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 Jason Ruoff providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Jason Ruoff

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
9 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri and I have a variety of experience helping others to talk about their situation. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & anger management. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I have 10+ years working with children and families regarding trauma and abuse. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Michelle Pendzimas providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Michelle Pendzimas

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years offering treatment

I am Michelle Pendzimas and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri with over 20 years of professional work experience. I can help clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & coping with life changes. I know that change is hard and it takes courage to admit that what you are doing now is not working. My philosophy is that healing happens through relationships and resilience, because we can’t always change our environment. Sometimes we can only change from within. Thank you for taking this first step and I am here to support you through this process.

Find a therapist serving clients in Missouri

What types of therapists are available to clients in Columbia?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Columbia that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Columbia available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Columbia therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Columbia therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Columbia region and in the state of Missouri.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Columbia can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Columbia may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Columbia offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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