In life, finding your independence can be a challenge. Even if you feel free externally, internally you may feel shackled by doubts, anxiety, and depression. A counselor based in Independence can help you feel less doubtful and ready to take on the world. 

The town of Independence was named after the Declaration of Independence. It may feel like you aren’t going to be able to free yourselves from your shackles of life, but it’s not impossible. Reach out to see what a counselor can do for you. 

This is Bonnie Define's avatar and link to their profile

Bonnie Define

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA,LPC,LMHC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri, and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. I earned my Bachelor's Degree from the University of South Florida, and my Master's Degree in Counseling from Florida Gulf Coast University and have been working in the field since 2001. I have worked inpatient and outpatient hospital settings, non-profit agencies, and in private practice. My experience is extensive, having done much work with couples working to strengthen and preserve their relationship, supported clients who are healing from divorce or other traumatic life events, and worked with individuals who are struggling with depression, anxiety or chronic stress. I have worked with clients who have a significant mental health diagnosis, as well as individuals who are in crisis. You will find me to be compassionate and thoughtful as we work together to sort through your issues and experiences in order to gain a healthy perspective and healing. Please message me if you're interested in talking before setting up a session.

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Mary Lakey

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, relationship issues, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Jessica Sawyer Horne

Offering therapy in MO
License: MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Jessica Sawyer Horne, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, CCS, DCSW, ACSW, is a licensed independent clinician with nearly 16-years of experience in the behavioral health field and overall 18-years in the social work/human services field. Mrs. Sawyer Horne has a Master’s Degree of Social Work, with a specialization in Health/Mental Health, from Clark-Atlanta University, of Atlanta, GA. She also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology/Social Welfare from Winston-Salem State University, Winston-Salem, NC. Mrs. Sawyer Horne has worked in different treatment setting to include but not be limited to: outpatient behavioral health, emergency services, inpatient psychiatric services, residential substance use program, integrated care, community based services, etc. The populations she has worked with range from children to geriatrics. Mrs. Sawyer Horne’s theoretical orientation is diverse (eclectic) and individualized, to include but not be limited to: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Family Systems Therapy, Psycho-dynamic Approaches, Behavioral Based Therapies, Seeking Safety, Psycho-Education, Mindfulness, Solution-Focused, Supportive Psychotherapy, etc. I am honored that you have chosen to work with me. Please know that I value the counseling relationship. I consider this relationship to be one of mutual, sacred trust.

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Melvin Baum

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepression
23 years of experience

I started my career working in addiction treatment programs. Then as a director of a psychiatric hospital day treatment program I helped individuals who were in a fragile condition with many different disorders and situations to regain their footing in the world. Now for 13 years I have worked in private practice. I have 21 years of experience with patients with numerous mental health disorders, problems, and situations. I believe strongly in individualized treatment depending on the person and their needs. I enjoy meeting each person and hearing about their difficulties and struggles then working together to plan an approach that will help them to find relief from their discomfort so they can move on to achieve their goals.

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Donette Cornett

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC,CRAADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTGriefDepression
20 years of experience

I came to work in the field of substance abuse treatment as many of us do, by way of my own recovery. In 1991, I completed treatment in Columbia, MO and began attending 12 step meetings. When my addiction was put into remission by the Grace of my Higher Power one day at a time, I was able to begin my college education with the help of Vocational Rehabilitation. I graduated with a degree in social work because I have a strong desire to help people. During my career, I have worked at domestic violence shelters and several different treatment centers. I started working as a counselor for in 2001. While pursuing my Master’s Degree, I worked as a Program Director of an opiate treatment center. Since 2011, I have worked as a counselor, admissions counselor, UR clinician, and Clinical Program Director. I have a wealth of experience with addiction counseling, and frequently work with men, women, couples, LGBTQ, diagnosis of Bipolar and Personality Disorders. I also have extensive training and experience with Grief and Suicide Prevention. When I reflect on the changes in my life over the past 25 years, I am immensely grateful. I recently have decided to work in private practice and I hope to have many more years of opportunity to help others find a more stable, satisfying life.

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Rachel Rippel

Offering therapy in MO
License: MS,LPC (MO #2021020473)
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
13 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Rachel and I am happy that you are here seeking guidance on your journey in life! Counseling is a great resource with a variety of tools that can help with a wide array of concerns. I congratulate you and your show of courage in taking this first step! I urge you to take some time to find the Counselor that is the right fit for you as we do not come 'one size fits all.' I will tell you a little bit about myself to help you decide: With a Master's Degree in Community Counseling, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Missouri (License #2021020473) and have also held School Counseling Credentials. I have worked in public school systems and private practice allowing me to view situations from a multitude of perspectives. I have worked with children, teens, young adults, and adults on concerns such as behavior issues, stress, anxiety, relationships, and motivation. I tend to focus on the here-and-now and use techniques that are centered around you. I am here to help guide. I do offer all modes of communication - Live Video, Live Phone, Live Messaging (you schedule a Live Session and we message back and forth within that time frame ), and Messaging (responses are not in real time and may take anywhere from a few minutes to hours/days depending on day of week). I do require that all new members start with 1 Initial Live Video Session so I can match the name to the face, verify information, and go over some basics, After that, all other sessions may be any combination of the above listed modes. I pray you find the positive reassurances you are looking for on this journey! If you believe I may be the right fit, I look forward to hearing from you! FYI: In terms of scheduling, I offer Live Sessions at times that accommodate the busy lives of my clients and of myself and my family. The earliest Live Session Appointments I have available begin at 9:00 PM. I know the late times are not a fit for everyone so I want to make sure this is known right from the start so there are no surprises.

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Kevin Payne

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Tennessee with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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.

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Dr. Aneita Cooper

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am faith-based Professional Counselor licensed in the states of Arkansas and Missouri with 15 years of professional work experience. I have had the honor in supporting individuals through issues in life such as stress and anxiety, intimacy related issues, identity growth, parenting issues and more. I have experience working with clients to maneuver through the changes life brings and the impacts to day to day functioning. 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 while moving toward the purpose you were created to experience. While I am a Christian-based therapist I am open to clients of every faith or non-faith background. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and topics of faith can be shared without fear of judgment. No matter what your struggle is, you will find help through effective, individualized, psychological care. I believe in a bio-psycho-social model of counseling that includes the body, mind, and spirit achieving balance for wellness and healing.

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Shannon Atherton

Offering therapy in MO
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

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Catherine Nkonge

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Independence

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence, 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 64052 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 Independence 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 Independence 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 Independence, 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.

Independence 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 Independence.

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

64015, 64016, 64050, 64051, 64052, 64053, 64054, 64055, 64056, 64057

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