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Charna Smith

Offering therapy in MO
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
3 years of experience

Welcome! Hey there. First, I want to congratulate you on taking the first step towards a pathway to happiness. I find that the most difficult step in the counseling process is reaching out for help. So, mark that off your list! I want to introduce myself. My name is Charna and I currently live in Missouri (Go Chiefs!). In my free time, I enjoy traveling, watching movies, reading terrible books, and spending time with family. I have a degree in Psychology and am a Licensed Clinical Social Work. I have over 10 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with concerns such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, attachment issues, parenting challenges, trauma, and dealing with everyday challenges including life transitions. I believe that the client is the driver of the therapy process. I allow the client to decide goals and can either be a listening ear or offer advice/concrete strategies to deal with life’s challenges. I feel that no one should be judged and I will be impressed if you can say something that will shock me. I tend to use a person-centered, solutions focused approach for most counseling sessions. Although, I also have knowledge in Cognitive-behavior therapy, DBT, and several other approaches as well. No two people are the same and neither is my approach. I returned to being a Counselor because I truly believe that everyone has a path to happiness that sometimes needs to be found. Counseling can be a remarkable thing for people and I think the most important aspect in finding a counselor you can connect with. So, if you are ready to take this journey with me, then let’s begin in this process and learn from each other. Thank you!

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Katherine MacLeod

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that specializes in working with adults that are struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, depression, or other issues that are causing stress in their lives. I have a Bachelor's in Sociology from the University of Tulsa and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. I use a holistic approach with my therapy, incorporating Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Whether it's stress, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, I can provide the support that you need. I look forward to hearing from you!

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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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Sierra Pace

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Sometimes you just need to talk about something-not to get sympathy or help, but just to kill its power by allowing the truth of things to hit the air.” — Karen Salmansohn The above quote speaks truth. The first step is finding someone to talk to and “air” the truth. Which is why I’m here. I believe that growth and change starts with the relationship I build with each of my clients, allowing the healing process to feel safe and comfortable. I have 12 years of experience working with children ranging from three to twenty-one in acute hospitalization and long term residential centers. I work hard to educate parents in order to increase support and understanding of emotional instability within families. Because of the experience of working with kids/families, I believe I have a real ability to truly understand the different backgrounds we all come from and how this affects us now. I utilize a variety of modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, EMDR, as well as trauma-sensitive yoga and mindfulness. Though I have a great track record working with kids/families, I also really enjoy working with adult individuals as well. I believe most of us still have a lot of “inner kid” in us and my experience can help generate new understanding and solutions within people of all ages.

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Theresa Lumos

Offering therapy in MO
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in New Mexico , Illinois, and Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, 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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Pamela Barrigar

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with individuals of all ages. I am licensed in Illinois, Missouri, Florida and Georgia with over ten years of experience in helping individuals of all ages with depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, anger management, PTSD, self-esteem, relationship issues, parent/child issues and couple's counseling. I use a variety of modalities, for example, client centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I practice as a Christian Counselor, however, I work with individuals from all faith backgrounds with a non-judgmental approach. I know that taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I am proud of you for taking this step and look forward to walking along side of you on your journey.

This is Ashley Perryman's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Perryman

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, life changes, and coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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!

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Julie Diaz

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri with 23 years of professional counseling experience. I have assisted individuals with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss and so much more. I facilitate an open and safe environment where you can share your thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. It takes courage and determination 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.

How to find counseling in Fairfax

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax, 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 64446 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax, 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.

Fairfax 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 Fairfax.

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

64446

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