Therapy can be an effective way to make a positive change in your life. A therapist's compassionate care can help people who deal with unique challenges, from college students who need help managing anxiety disorders to first responders who are feeling overwhelmed with the stress of their jobs.

If you’re looking for a therapist in Lee’s Summit, MO, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. Barriers to in-person treatment, like transportation challenges, financial concerns, and scheduling conflicts, can make it difficult to find suitable in-person treatment. Online sessions can make therapy more flexible, as you attend sessions from anywhere you have an internet connection at a time that suits your schedule.

While therapists on the platform may have a wide range of clinical experience, BetterHelp does not treat children or use techniques aimed at young clients, like play therapy. BetterHelp therapists provide individual treatment to adult patients of any age using a variety of therapeutic approaches, including art therapy, sex therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Working with an online therapist can help you focus on your well-being and growth to feel more positive about your future. Connect with one of the mental health professionals serving the Lee’s Summit area below to discover how online therapy can help you.

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Psychologist Karen Kavaloski providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Karen Kavaloski

Clinician
License Type(s): MI LPC 6401224938, NM LPCC CCMH0197151
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
17 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 17 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . I am also the author and publisher self help books under my Sacred Self Workbook Series Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.

Psychologist Michael McGaugh providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

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 Christina Rydeen providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Christina Rydeen

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2011004897, KS LCPC LCPC 03769
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
14 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri and Kansas with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, anger management, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Wesley Hirst providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Wesley Hirst

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 000440
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years offering treatment

As you search for just the ” right” counselor, the task may seem overwhelming. ” Will I like them?” ” Will they like me?” ” Will anyone ever understand?” ” Will they really be able to help me?” The list of concerns may seem exhausting. I have over thirty years of experience but I don’t have all the answers. I have never met YOU. I have never heard YOUR hopes and dreams and life story. What I do know from my training, professional experience, and life experience is that counseling works. There is no magic pill to ” fix ” your issues but with honesty, understanding, empathy, and proven methods, we can work together to make positive changes. Probably the most important element in a client/counselor relationship is trust. I want you to feel secure in the knowledge that you are entering a safe place. You will not be judged. I will treat you with compassion, understanding, and respect. I have been a son, brother, husband, father, employee, employer, and friend. I know how complicated life and relationships can be because I’ve been there. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, backpacking, music, biking, and photography. I have frequent visits from wildlife and I’m a pet lover. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology and have extensive training in trauma. substance abuse disorders, marriage counseling, mindfulness, and adolescent behavior disorders. I look forward to meeting you.

Psychologist Jodi Fortner providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Jodi Fortner

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2010013715
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years offering treatment

Welcome to my practice! As a Licensed Professional Therapist, I help people develop an understanding of the link between their thoughts, feelings and actions. I utilize a Trauma Informed, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused therapeutic approach to counseling. I support clients in processing their experiences and developing coping strategies for their emotions so they can face any challenge in life calmly and confidently.

Psychologist Stacey Walsh providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

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 Tracy Wofford providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Tracy Wofford

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2011000675
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Rodney "Rod" Smith providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Rodney "Rod" Smith

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2023015136, ID LPC LPC-7982
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri and Idaho, with several years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with recovering from addictions, relationship, trauma and abuse, anxiety, & depression issues. I have been through my own spiritual/therapeutic journey of change for the past 30 years that has enabled me to overcome my past addictions, feelings of depression, and sexual abuse. I tell you this because it is not only important that we have the clinical and professional experience (25 years experience in the behavioral health field), but that we have personal experience as well. I believe my authentic approach to counseling creates an atmosphere of honesty, trust, and acceptance that helps us to motivate ourselves towards making positive and tremendous changes in our lives. Professional Experience I have recently worked in a prison as a mental health professional for the past 7 years conducting individual and group therapy. I have worked over 25 years in the fields of mental health, addiction, and co-occurring disorders performing evaluations, therapeutic interventions, and individual and group therapy. In addition, I have education in Biblical guided counseling and have offered it to many of my clients at there request.

Psychologist Richard Roe providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Richard Roe

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2002027405
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementDepression
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist La'Shundra Connor providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

La'Shundra Connor

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2024036768
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, abuse, social/communication skills, conflict resolution skills, coping/regulation skills, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. I am also a U.S Army combat veteran/retiree with therapeutic experience working with military Service Members, dependents, and families. Along with experience with IEP and BIP planning for social-emotional-behavioral- therapeutic interventions. 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 Patricia Hewkin providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Patricia Hewkin

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2021032961
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 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, intimacy related issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 Billi Patzius providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

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 Alyssa Ingle providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Alyssa Ingle

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2009030421
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
18 years offering treatment

I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist who believes in meeting people where they are with unconditional positive regard. My approach is rooted in Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), along with other evidence-based modalities to support meaningful, forward progress. I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths, build practical tools, and navigate challenges such as stress, trauma, and life transitions. My goal is to create a space where you feel both supported and empowered to move forward. I believe that if you woke up today, your purpose continues—and I’m here to help you rediscover it. Outside of therapy, I enjoy country music, pickleball, museums, Monet’s artwork, and a good shoe shopping day.

Psychologist Carolyn Lafavre providing different types of therapy in Lees Summit

Carolyn Lafavre

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2005031493
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflicts
30 years offering treatment

With over three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex life transitions, family dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach centers on helping clients improve communication, overcome social anxiety, and discover deeper meaning in their personal journeys. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can explore their challenges and strengths. Drawing from extensive clinical experience, I work collaboratively with individuals to develop practical strategies for addressing interpersonal conflicts, building self-confidence, and aligning with their core values. My practice focuses on empowering clients to communicate more effectively, manage social anxieties, and uncover their unique life purpose. I approach each therapeutic relationship with empathy, respect, and a genuine belief in each person's capacity for positive change and personal transformation.

Find a Therapist Near You in Lees Summit , 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.

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, 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 Lees Summit.

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 Lees Summit 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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