This is Martin Ward's avatar and link to their profile

Martin Ward

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGrief
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am really glad you contacted Betterhelp. I am optimistic, over the course of our times together you will come to trust me and see me more as a partner, helping you find peace and reaching your goals. When I have clients face to face in my office, I tell them during the first session, “This is the safest room in Texas.” You can say anything you want to say, anyway you want to say it. I will never judge you. I would like to come along side you and provide support and encouragement. Hopefully, during our times together you will find the insight you need to accomplish your life goals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed in Texas and in Missouri. I earned a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Human Services and a Master's of Arts degree in Counseling from Evangel University. I have worked with adolescents, adults, couples and families over the course of my career. I am well experienced in trauma and PTSD. During the first week after the Joplin, MO F5 tornado in 2011, I was the lead counselor for the American Red Cross Shelter. Serving as a a counselor in the aftermath of many natural disasters has been very fulfilling. In 2018 I was onsite and provided counseling services in the aftermath of the school shooting in Santa Fe, Texas resulting in the deaths of 10 students and teachers. It has been a privilege to conduct workshops and set on conference panels for trauma and counseling. I am also an adjunct professor for my alma mater teaching courses on psychology, human services, personal relationships, sociology, etc. I believe strongly that you are your own expert. No one knows you like you know yourself. I believe you have everything you need inside of you to work out the issues you are bringing into these sessions. My role will be to listen closely to what you say. As I listen, I will from time to time encourage you to further explain or go deeper into the matter you are discussing. Sometimes I might ask questions to help you think deeper about something you said, or to explore alternatives to your thoughts and feelings. Processing your own thoughts can be an emotional and strange activity. It will be really imperative for you to be honest during our times together. This is not so I can know the truth, but rather for you to explore the truth yourself and not hide things from yourself. It is important to be honest with ourselves in order to find the answers and ultimately the peace we are looking for in ourselves.

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Lisa Spore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

My name is Lisa Spore and I have worked in the mental health field in Missouri for 14 years. Ten of those years have been as a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice. I believe in seeking out trainings in the latest techniques and polishing my skills to provide the best therapeutic experience my clients could ask for. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting (BSP), Somatic Experiencing, and use Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused Brief, and Client-Centered approaches in my practice. Everyone is unique, and I embrace that uniqueness by tailoring therapy to each client. I provide therapy within a safe and judgement-free environment. I believe accepting the limits of the human condition increases client’s positive responses to support and encouragement in the therapeutic setting. While utilizing strong clinical skills, I recognize that integration of natural healing can promote a strong foundation for optimum personal growth. The mind-body balance is paramount to returning to a healthy and positive emotional state. The Therapeutic relationship is recognized as the most important factor in a positive experience. In our sessions, we will work together to identify the best approach to address your specific needs. We will also explore any underlying emotional reactivity that could be increasing painful experiences. Evaluating current and past issues can assist us in recognizing how past events can negatively impact daily functioning. Solution focused techniques, Brainspotting, CBT, or Somatic Experiencing, in varying combinations, can all be used to alleviate distress.

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Dr. Jon Mandracchia

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a firm believer that everybody can benefit from counseling, whether you find yourself in the depths of despair or are just wanting some mental health maintenance. And I'd be happy to support you along your mental health journey. I'm a licensed psychologist in two states (Missouri and Mississippi) and have experiences providing mental health services to adults in a range of settings, including outpatient clinics, medical and psychiatric hospitals, college counseling centers, and even state and federal prisons. I most strongly identify with the cognitive-behavioral orientation of therapy, which is to say that I think problematic beliefs, attitudes, and thinking patterns are a major reason why people experience mental health problems. So, a major focus in my work with clients is identifying and changing those problematic cognitions. I also believe we, as humans, are "hard-wired" to be part of a social group, and so interpersonal relationships and interactions are often a major focus in my work with clients as well. However, I believe one of the most important factors for a person to make positive change in counseling is the relationship between the counselor and the client. I strive to create the best working relationship as possible with each client by being as genuine and empathic as possible. I've been described as a particularly warm and friendly person, and even though counseling can be serious business, I use humor to bond with clients and help them feel more comfortable in the counseling setting. In the end, change can only come from you - the client. I see my role as a counselor to help you clarify your goals, stay motivated, build insight, and develop skills you can use to be happier throughout the rest of your life!

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Alane Roath

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

Receive the Personalized Care You Deserve Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need some help from a certified professional to help cope with many of life’s challenges. I’m a licensed Mental Health Service Provider and I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Life can be overwhelming and sometimes even exhausting, but I’m here to guide you through any obstacles you may face. My goal is to help you understand yourself more deeply and better cope with change. Get to Know Me I began my career path with a Business degree. I utilized this degree with great success that provided me with wonderful life experiences. Life observations led me to a strong desire to explore human behavior and gain understanding of how to improve our ability to overcome obstacles in order to thrive. I believe in treating the whole person with short-term therapy in order for the Client to reach relief as soon as possible. I have experience working with many populations as diverse as children in residential to working in a prison providing therapy to incarcerated men. Every step of my journey has led me to learn more about myself and how to better help others. My joy is that I learn as much from my clients as they learn from me. Care and Guidance I implement effective psychotherapy methods to instill self-understanding among patients and encourage them to adopt new attitudes and feelings towards life situations. I offer a wide range of mental health services. From small scale circumstances, to traumatic experiences, transitional life changes, anxiety, depression, and LBGTQ- my services are personalized to suit everyone’s needs.

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Amy Willard

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri . I currently practice at an equine-assisted therapy facility where I provide both in office talk therapy and experiential based therapies utilizing horses. I have worked with a wide range of clients from young children to adults with varying concerns such as; anxiety, depression, PTSD, relational concerns, trauma, ADHD,OCD, and issues related to cognitive, developmental, and physical disabilities. I take a client-centered approach to counseling, assisting clients to utilize their skills to find the best path forward to meet their needs. I am a Trauma-informed therapist who has utilized modalities such as; CBT, Mindfulness-based therapies, Person-centered therapy, Breath and Body work, and Narrative therapy, among others. I provide a safe, accepting environment where clients can explore their concerns without judgment. Feeling connected and comfortable with a therapist is a very important aspect of successful therapy. I look forward to working with you!

This is Kathleen Kallman's avatar and link to their profile

Kathleen Kallman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
21 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Mary Simpson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
6 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, 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. I am proud of you for taking this step in your journey and look forward to supporting you as you navigate life’s challenges.

This is Alison Gabel's avatar and link to their profile

Alison Gabel

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC (LA),LPC (MO),ATR
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri, as well as a Registered Art Therapist. During my 10 years of clinical experience, I have worked closely with groups and individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and many other mental health concerns with my emphases being trauma and crisis intervention. I use a person-centered approach which means our sessions are led by your needs and goals, not a one-size-fits-all therapeutic approach. Stuck in a rut? Not understanding why you just…can’t? I am here to help you process where you currently are mentally and emotionally, and to help guide you into a space in which you feel more aligned with who you are and your vision for yourself. Welcome to your journey!

This is Jacinda Rea's avatar and link to their profile

Jacinda Rea

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri and Oklahoma with 10 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!

This is Morgan Light's avatar and link to their profile

Morgan Light

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, anger management, & depression. I specialize in DBT therapy, but my approach to therapy is individualized to each client. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Oakwood Park

Finding the best therapist close by in Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park. 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 Oakwood Park, 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park, elsewhere in Clay, 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Oakwood Park, 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Oakwood Park 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.

Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 64118 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 Oakwood Park counselor?

Before seeing your Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park.

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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park, 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.

Oakwood Park 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 Oakwood Park, 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 Oakwood Park.

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

64118

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