Everyone has a stressful day once in a while, but if you cannot seem to let go of that stress or if has started to disrupt your work and home life, you may have an anxiety disorder. Luckily, the town of Kirkwood has many dedicated mental health professionals who are trained to deal with this and other mental health conditions. 

Established in 1853, Kirkwood is known for its down-home charm and community with excellent schools, very little crime, and plenty of career choices. If you live in this quaint little town and have trouble dealing with stress, talk to one of the counselors based in Kirkwood today so you can start feeling better tomorrow. 

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Psychologist Brenda Swift providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Brenda Swift

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2021018751
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I’m Brenda Swift. When I’m not working, I like to take my dog for long walks in various parks and binge watch shows. I also look forward to the reading challenges offered through the library, because it forces me to make time to read at least 20 minutes. I have a passion for working with clients having difficulty navigating life’s situations and wanting to hide from society, I help clients who have stress and anxiety, relationship issues, need to cope with grief and loss, & depression. I understand what it’s like to struggle in life, because life has not been easy for me. I’m skilled in creating a trusting environment that allows clients to share openly and freely, that allows them to express their reasons for seeking professional help. I look forward to meeting you, so we can help you find contentment in your life.

Psychologist Michael McGaugh providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Michael McGaugh

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2012019367
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years offering treatment

I have about twenty years work experience in the field of mental health services, I have worked as an adult case manager in community support services. I have also been an intake specialist; but the one area I have found the most rewarding is working as a mental health counselor. I enjoy working with people in helping them to see issues and problems from different perspectives and helping them to make better choices that will help them with feeling better about themselves and to overcome their personal problems. I hold advanced degrees in psychology and mental health counseling. From my education and work experience, I have found CBT and positive center approaches along with solution based therapy to be effective in helping clients to become more mindful along with helping them to build coping skills that they can utilize to help them to be more empowered in making healthy decisions in their lives.

Psychologist Johnnie Ezell providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Johnnie Ezell

Clinician
License Type(s): AR LPC P8611021, MO LPC 2021010667
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years offering treatment

I'm a licensed therapist practicing in Arkansas and Missouri with extensive experience supporting adults through life's most challenging transitions. My work focuses on helping individuals navigate depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and self-esteem concerns, as well as addiction-related struggles and their underlying causes. I specialize in addressing social anxiety, phobias, guilt, shame, and forgiveness work. I'm particularly skilled in supporting clients with mood disorders, midlife transitions, seasonal affective patterns, and process addictions. I also have deep experience working with military veterans and older adults, as well as those navigating codependency and control issues. My approach is grounded in genuine respect for each person's values and worldview. I believe in meeting clients where they are—without judgment—and creating space for honest exploration of what's holding them back. I draw on evidence-based practices tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Whether you're facing a specific life challenge or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your journey toward greater peace and authenticity. I'm honored to walk alongside you in this process.

Psychologist Starlett Grey providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Starlett Grey

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 003770
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life challenges. My professional approach centers on understanding the unique experiences of each client, with particular expertise in addressing depression, family dynamics, trauma recovery, and women's mental health. I bring compassionate, culturally responsive care to my practice, drawing from extensive training in trauma-informed therapeutic techniques. My work focuses on helping clients develop effective communication strategies, process posttraumatic experiences, and work through significant life transitions like divorce or caregiver stress. My background includes deep experience supporting individuals dealing with family of origin issues, multicultural concerns, and personal growth. I'm committed to creating a supportive, affirming therapeutic environment where clients can explore their experiences, build resilience, and develop meaningful strategies for emotional well-being. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I approach each client's journey with respect, empathy, and a genuine commitment to their healing and personal transformation.

Psychologist Elva 'Julia' Garafola providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Elva 'Julia' Garafola

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LCSW 56813, MO LCSW 2024038145
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in TX and MO, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced experiences of diverse clients, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I offer a compassionate, holistic approach that honors each individual's unique journey. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including self-love, communication challenges, life transitions, trauma recovery, and personal empowerment. I am particularly committed to supporting clients navigating complex emotional landscapes, from workplace stress to interpersonal dynamics. My approach is collaborative and person-centered, designed to help you develop meaningful insights, build resilience, and create positive change. Whether you're experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with personal identity, or seeking guidance through significant life transitions, I'm dedicated to providing supportive, affirming care that respects your individual experience and goals.

Psychologist James Hunter providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

James Hunter

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 000443
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoachingCompassion fatigue
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. 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 Steven Forsyth providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Steven Forsyth

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2019046401
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
25 years offering treatment

I began my addictions counseling career six years after entering recovery from alcohol/drug use, on 5/13/1982. My original counseling schooling was in Rational Emotive Therapy, which evolved into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and led to my schooling in Narrative Therapy and Transactional Analysis. Most recently, I have become interested in Miller & Rollnick's Motivational Interviewing, Prochaska & Diclemente's Stages of Change model of behavior change, Berg & Miller's Solution-Focused Therapy, Marlatt & Donovan's relapse prevention strategies and techniques, ACT therapy, and Internal Family Systems therapy. My most recent Certification is in Robin Shapiro's Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing-EMDR-, through the EMDRIA International Institute in November of 2021. As a Therapist, I necessarily became conversant in telehealth methodology during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. I approach counseling holistically: I understand individuals as "whole cloth", i.e., as the current product(s) of their total life experiences. I also firmly believe in all-ways maintaining a positively enthusiastic outlook on life and living!

Psychologist Stacey Walsh providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Stacey Walsh

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2015006346
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, ADHD & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Emily Adler providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Emily Adler

Clinician
License Type(s): NC LCSW C019889, WV LICSW DP00947486
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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 Durre Mumtaz providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Durre Mumtaz

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2025027013
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesADHD
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages starting from 9 years of age to seniors with relationship issues, Marriage counseling, family conflicts with estrangement, ADHD, Mood Regulation, Anxiety, Depression, and Self Esteem . 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Billi Patzius providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Billi Patzius

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2022020328
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 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 work through depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions with compassion and evidence-based strategies. I'm deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences, particularly around self-love, communication, workplace dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering women through transformative healing, addressing experiences of guilt, shame, and personal transitions like divorce. Drawing from extensive clinical training, I offer a warm, collaborative approach that honors each person's unique journey. My goal is to help clients develop resilient coping skills, rebuild emotional strength, and cultivate meaningful personal insights. Together, we'll work to transform challenges into opportunities for profound personal growth and healing.

Psychologist Tarrah Oshia providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Tarrah Oshia

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2013009749
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on compassionate, evidence-based care for adults experiencing challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I have extensive experience helping clients address communication difficulties, social anxiety, grief, and relationship dynamics. My therapeutic practice focuses on creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. I work collaboratively with clients across diverse backgrounds, particularly supporting older adults, young professionals, and those managing chronic health conditions. Drawing from comprehensive clinical training, I utilize trauma-informed techniques to help clients build emotional strength, improve interpersonal skills, and develop effective coping strategies. My commitment is to provide empathetic, personalized guidance that honors each individual's unique journey and potential for healing.

Psychologist Tiffany Jackson providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Tiffany Jackson

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2025044034
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri with 19 years of professional experience helping individuals navigate life's challenges and transitions. Whether you are dealing with stress, relationship concerns, family dynamics, workplace issues, or significant life changes, I provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. Life can present unexpected challenges, and seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Taking the first step toward therapy often requires courage, and I commend you for considering.

Psychologist Jamie Blake providing different types of therapy in Kirkwood

Jamie Blake

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2026006782
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over five years of experience supporting children, teens, and families. I strive to create a space where you can be honest without fear of judgment. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply trying to navigate life's challenges, we'll work together to better understand what's going on and develop practical tools that fit your life. I especially enjoy working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, relationship challenges, and emotional regulation. My goal is to help you feel understood, gain confidence, and leave each session with strategies you can use long after therapy ends.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Kirkwood, Missouri

Finding a therapist near you in Kirkwood, Missouri starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Missouri is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you. 

The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Missouri, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Missouri, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.

Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Missouri

Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Missouri, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.

Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Missouri

BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. 

You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri

BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.

Therapists near you in Missouri

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Kirkwood.

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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.

Is online therapy effective?

Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.

How quickly can I start therapy?

You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.

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 discreet?

Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.

Find a Therapist in Kirkwood, Missouri

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Kirkwood and the surrounding MO area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

Find the right therapist for your needs
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