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Brandon Thoma

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MA ,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Brandon Thoma and my focus is on your overall well being and feelings of life fulfillment. I believe that the you come first in the therapy process and is most successful when met with unwavering support. It is my goal to help you overcome your obstacles and pursue your goals by working towards a growth and "Excellence" mindset. I will challenge the negative thoughts and behaviors that are holding you back as well as empower you by teaching you the tools needed to tackle issues with confidence so you can succeed in your daily life. My approach focuses on Person Centered Therapy with other effective techniques from Positive Psychology, Mindfulness, and CBT. I primarily work with adults and teenagers who struggle with depression, anxiety, and relationships. However, I also have experience with other severe mental illnesses, substance abuse, and trauma. I am a LPC originally from St. Louis, MO. I have been practicing mental health for 5 years, currently live in Manhattan, KS, I am married with 3 children, and am a Military Spouse. I received my Masters degree in Counseling from Missouri Baptist University and my Bachelor's in Psychology from Southeast Missouri State.

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Floyd Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): ATR,LCSW,CCJS
Trauma and abuseGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I chose to be a licensed therapist and clinical social worker because of my life mission to make a difference and care for others. Combining a degree in Art Education with a specialization in Art Therapy, a degree in Counselor Education, certification as a Criminal Justice Specialist, and over forty years of experience in the field, I have developed a unique expertise in creatively helping a diverse clientele. With special emphasis on being trauma-informed, using client centered approaches, and focusing on cognitive behavioral techniques, I have worked with child & adult survivors of sexual abuse, at-risk youth in juvenile detention and residential settings, experiential learning settings, and children & adults in faith-based services. I have experience working with those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, anger management, and many other life challenges. Combining years of experience with current evidence-based interventions, I am able to use my acquired wisdom and youthful spirit to help clients find the “healthier self” that lies within. If you have decided to reach out for help, or if you are curious about how your life could be better, I am ready to be the support you are looking for, so let's talk!

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Kerrie Blair

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderADHD
12 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with a Masters degree in Community Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy. I have over 10 years of experience working as a Licensed Professional Counselor with individuals, couples, families, adolescents and children. I have worked with clients with Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia and other severe mental disorders and personality disorders. I also have experience working with children with ADHD and learning disabilities with a special interest and training in Dyslexia. I'm skilled in working with clients with relationships issues and family conflict, along with depression, anxiety and OCD. I have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive and when providing marital therapy, I don't ever take sides. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach is solution-focused, client centered (humanistic), psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you! I look forward to working with you! Kerrie Blair, MS, LPC

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Marnie Morgan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LCP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello. I'm a licensed counselor in Missouri. I've had years of experience and training in the area of trauma. During my 20+ years as a therapist, I've worked with a wide range of age groups, cultures, social groups, individuals, couples, and families. I’ve also provided supervision for counselors who are seeking professional licensure and have taught counseling classes at the graduate level. I have dual Masters degrees in Professional Counseling and in Marriage and Family Therapy. My therapeutic approach is client-centered and grounded in family systems theory. I was trained with a systemic perspective which helps view life and challenges in the context of your world. The treatment plan and sessions will be tailored to meet your unique and specific needs. My style is warm and interactive and I believe real change occurs in a safe and accepting counseling environment. I approach therapy with a working knowledge of several models, including but not limited to, cognitive-behavioral, developmental, person-centered, and trauma based. Moving toward change and a more fulfilling life requires courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Heather Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): BSHS,MEd,LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Heather Miller BSHS, MEd, LPC has been in the counseling field since 2001. Initially working as a school based counselor and then ventured into private practice in 2013 as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri. Currently holding a Masters in both Professional and School Counseling while being trained prior as a nurse. Empowering others to overcome obstacles and live a happier, more meaningful life is the goal set forth through utilizing clinically tested and evidenced based interventions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy are the primary modes applied.

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Christine "Chris" Coleman-Sandwell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,NCC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hi, my name is Chris Sandwell, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Clinical Certified Trauma Profession. Exposure to diverse individuals is instrumental in shaping my worldview and values. My awareness and appreciation of individual's journeys continues to grow. I feel strongly about helping people who don’t have a voice or haven't found their voice. I am an advocate, and this role allows me to help as many people as I can. As a LPC in Missouri. I have been providing clinical services throughout my career for youth to the more seasoned individual. I have also provided clinical supervision for other counselors to obtain professional licensure. For over 20 years, I have worked with individuals who come with concerns like fitting in, anxiety, stress management, life challenges, aging issues, parenting and/or relationship issues and thoughts of suicide. Working through challenges provides a great opportunity for professional growth. The therapy I provide can be client centered, with elements of solution focused. The work is individualized and highly participatory. Together we will discuss your concerns, set priorities and work towards accomplishing your goals. I believe that individuals need to be in an environment where they feel safe, accepted, and not judged and this is what I provide. Whether you choose to work with me or someone else, congratulations on taking the first step.

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Michael Williams

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a dual licensed as a Professional Counselor with (35+) years of service, and I am (LMT 16+) as a Massage Therapist. I utilize a holistic, therapeutic approach to treatment that involves healing of the MIND, BODY, and SPIRIT. I have an earned a BA degree in Psychology from Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. And I earned a MA degree in Psychology from Washington University, in St. Louis MO. I have completed a massage therapy certification program at The Healing Arts Center in St. Louis, in 2005.

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Rachel Jones

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
19 years of experience as a mental health therapist

You are courageous for taking this step to better your mental health. I have been serving our community as a Licensed Professional Counselor for 18 years. I enjoy helping people overcome depression, anxiety, grief, and life changes through my eclectic approach including Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Rational Emotive, Person Centered and Brief Focused Therapist. Through developing skills to process grief, increase mood, or navigate life changes, I find happiness as you reach your mental health goals. Outside of the office, my passions include nature walks, hiking, snorkeling, exploring new cultures, playing the piano and flute, singing, dancing, and game nights. I am best friends with my twin sister and her family. My cats, Bob and Precious, are so loved, they have their own room with a view. My undergraduate studies at Missouri Western State University included playing in the marching band as a first year music major. As part of my courses, I developed a love for other cultures and how they celebrate life through music. My second year, I took time to explore other studies and fell in love with psychology. I graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. I went on to the University of Central Missouri were I completed my Master's of Science in Psychology. My first position as a Counselor was working with urban youth in the area of Substance Abuse. With this role, I gained a wealth of knowledge in Substance Abuse, which I applied to helping adults overcome their addictions. I went on to work in this field for 13 years. In Hawaii, I developed skills in Behavior Modification working with troubled youth , their families, and school staff. At Metropolitan Community College, I helped displaced workers develop workplace skills to re-enter the work force in a new career. I have had a private practice for 6 years helping individuals like you with grief, anxiety, and life changes. When you are ready, I am here to assist you in your journey for better mental health. Please note, the one area I am not trained in is trauma. As I am not trained in this area, my licenses prevent me from working with anyone who has had a traumatic experience, even if it is not the reason you are currently seeking therapy. Thank you for your understanding in this.

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Rebecca Weimer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefAnger managementCoping with life changes
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 22 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 dialogue 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!

This is Kendra Davis-Leighty's avatar and link to their profile

Kendra Davis-Leighty

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Kansas and Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Mount Vernon

Finding the best therapist close by in Mount Vernon 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 in Mount Vernon that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Mount Vernon. 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 Mount Vernon, 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 in the Mount Vernon region and in the state of Missouri. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Mount Vernon or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Mount Vernon area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon, elsewhere in Lawrence, or in the greater state of Missouri.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Mount Vernon area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon 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 a BetterHelp therapist 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). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Mount Vernon online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Mount Vernon, 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 Mount Vernon psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional 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, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health therapist, including the therapists in Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Mount Vernon 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:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Mount Vernon 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 in Mount Vernon?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Mount Vernon 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.

Mount Vernon therapists 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 Mount Vernon 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 Mount Vernon 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MO, therapists 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 65712 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Mount Vernon counselor?

Before seeing your Mount Vernon 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 while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy in Mount Vernon.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy 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 from a therapist. A Mount Vernon 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 with a Mount Vernon counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Mount Vernon, 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.

Mount Vernon 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Mount Vernon, Missouri

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 to customer service 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 Mount Vernon.

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

65712

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