This is Michael McGaugh's avatar and link to their profile

Michael McGaugh

Offering therapy in MO
License: Ed.S,LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
22 years of experience

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.

Get started View profile
This is Erica R. Brooks's avatar and link to their profile

Erica R. Brooks

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
29 years of experience

My life has been dedicated to serving in the child welfare system of the St. Louis, MO metropolitan area since 1994. Previous settings include residential treatment, outpatient mental health services, and foster care & adoption agencies. This has afforded extensive experience working with children and adolescents whose circumstances have caused deep harm to their mental and emotional well-being. My mission...to decrease the impact those circumstances would have on them in adulthood, to increase their chances of a healthy adulthood. It’s a mission I’ve executed with heart. Later in my career, I began working with adults who were seeking support and improvement in significant areas of their lives (e.g., relationships, parenting, etc.), and in some cases, in their overall satisfaction with their existence in the world. Most oftentimes, the root of their challenges stemmed from harmful circumstances or experiences that occurred in childhood. It affirmed the importance of this mission to support youth in their healing as well as highlighted the need to support adults in the same manner. It also shifted my professional approach to more holistic forms of treatment that consider the totality of the individual. I use concepts from various traditional counseling theories as the foundation of my work, so I subscribe to an eclectic theoretical approach to treatment and support. I consider the personal history, personality, values, and therapeutic needs of my client. This individualized approach is necessary to establishing a trusting connection and for creating a safe environment for such important work. I commend you taking this step and look forward to joining you on your healing journey!

Get started View profile
This is Janet Webb's avatar and link to their profile

Janet Webb

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience

My name is Janet Webb, and I have been teaching and counseling people my entire adult life. My original focus was education; and I worked as a teacher in public, private, and higher education for almost 20 years. Throughout it all, I have been the “listening ear” when others talked about their concerns, so becoming a counselor was just the right path to follow. My 30+ years of counseling experience in Missouri includes work in a community agency, corrections, private practice, public speaking, and insurance. You are the expert on you, so our work together starts with you helping me understand your concerns and what you want to achieve. Using a variety of techniques including Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Reduction, and others we will work together to help you toward your goals. Everyone is different, so we will figure out together what helps you best. We may laugh some and cry some. We will question and explore. But you will always be respected and heard. You may even tell me I have missed the point! Then we back up and try another way to the path that works for you. My specialties are stress, burn-out, life transitions, anxiety, depression, LGBT concerns including those of family members, chronic illness and pain, trauma recovery, and additions. In over 30 years of experience, I helped adolescents and adults from a variety of backgrounds and cultures along life’s journey. They have learned. I have probably learned more from them. Let’s work together to continue learning how you can reach for the amazing life you deserve.

Get started View profile
This is Dawn Tegeler 's avatar and link to their profile

Dawn Tegeler

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

As a counselor, I believe it is my role to provide a safe and compassionate space for each person that chooses to share their experience with me. My job is to help each person I see to explore past hurts, to put voice to feelings, and to help each person make meaning out of their life. It is my belief that many of us walk this world not fully allowing ourselves to come into our own, due to a fear of not being accepted and due to limiting beliefs given to us by others and society. As a counselor, I will provide a space of unconditional acceptance and compassion, in order to allow others to begin to see their authentic self. I will use different methods that suit each person and will encourage each person to make this process their own. When participating in couple's counseling, we will explore each person and what they bring to the relationship and how to build and enhance the relationship. Unity, learning love, and understanding are key to a long lasting relationship.

Get started View profile
This is Stephanie Wideman's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Wideman

Offering therapy in MO
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Hi there! I am so glad you are here. Take a moment. Yes, right now, take a deep breath. I’ll be here. Exhale. Be proud of yourself. Today, you showed up. You are here and you are willing to consider taking the next step. Well done! I believe, life is full of emotion. It makes us laugh and cry… sometimes both in the same moment. It can be hard as we journey through it to see the forest for the trees… to see beauty instead of pain. Wherever you are along your journey you do not have to travel alone. My name is Stephanie Wideman. I am a licensed clinical social worker based in Missouri. I have 20 years of experience coming alongside others, from children to older adults, on their journey as a guide. You will always lead, because we are going where you want to go. Together we can forge a path of perspective and self awareness; replacing lies with truth and be able to take in all of the beauty of the journey along the way. Each person's destination and goals are unique. My guidebook (clinical approach techniques) is diverse. Be prepared to roll up your sleeves, because I believe you get out of therapy what you put into it. I am a Christian and draw my clinical approaches heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (known as CBT) aligned with the Biblical principles of grace, love, and mercy. At all times, as your guide it is important to me that you feel safe, respected, heard, encouraged, empowered, and challenged. Yes, we can do hard things. Now, you did not come this far to only come this far. Grab your favorite mug and find a place of solace. Let’s journey through together.

Get started View profile
This is Marion Lybarger's avatar and link to their profile

Marion Lybarger

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
9 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, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Walter Marshall's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Walter Marshall

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Marilyn Lewis's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Marilyn Lewis

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Kimberly Backfisch's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Backfisch

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Cheryl Spratt's avatar and link to their profile

Cheryl Spratt

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile

How to find counseling in Merriam Woods

Finding the best therapist close by in Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods. 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 Merriam Woods, 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods, elsewhere in Taney, 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 Merriam Woods area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods, 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 65740 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods 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 Merriam Woods, 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.

Merriam Woods 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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 Merriam Woods.

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

65740

Popular cities near Merriam Woods, MO

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist