Finley River Park, the Ozark Mill, and Smallin Civil War Cave are just a few of the fun places to explore in Ozark. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains of Southern Missouri, this small town has a lot of exciting things to do. Just a short trip to Branson where you can visit one of the many shows or museums along the 76 strip or ride the ziplines, roller coaster, or go carts. There’s a ton of stuff to do in Ozark

The city also boasts some of the top mental health care in the state with therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists trained in diagnosing and treating all types of mental illnesses. If you or someone you know is having emotional or mental issues, contact one of the experts in Ozark today.

This is Katy Hamilton's avatar and link to their profile

Katy Hamilton

Offering therapy in MO
License: M.Ed.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over ten years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with adults and adolescents with severe and persistent mental illness, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, ODD, ADD/ADHD, and marriage and family therapy. I believe every person should have access to quality mental health services regardless of race, religion, socio-economic status, lifestyle, or other demographic. While I have training in many therapeutic styles, my approach closely resembles person-centered therapy and psychodynamic therapy techniques. I feel that if we understand our past and come to terms with it through self-actualization, we can live a more fulfilling life.

This is Kimberly Ream's avatar and link to their profile

Kimberly Ream

Offering therapy in MO
License: MEd, LPC,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

My name is Kim Ream and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marital and Family Therapist in the state of Missouri. I have approximately 10 years’ experience counseling individuals (children and adults), couples and families. I have done crisis in-home family counseling, I have done private counseling at a counseling office, and I have worked in higher education counseling college students. I have worked with a variety of clinical issues and problems like family conflict, blended family problems, adjustment to life stages problems, addictions, grief/loss, depression, anxiety, ADHD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder and many others. I am specifically trained in Gottman Method for couples-level 1, EMDR, Grief and Loss, and currently working on certification in integrative medicine: fitness and nutrition as it relates to mental health. I utilize person-centered, solution focused, motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral approaches. Also, as a marital and family therapist, I do use a systemic approach. I do not feel there is a one-size-fits-all approach to counseling. Each person I see is unique, their problems are unique, therefore, my approach to assisting anyone is tailored to the uniqueness and complexity of the problems they are experiencing.

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

Michael Cotter

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC,CCTP,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

Hello, my name is Michael Cotter. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 7 years of professional counseling experience as well as another 8 years of paraprofessional experience in helping people achieve the change they desire. I currently work in the field of addictions and have for the past 7 years. I work not only with those who are struggling with addiction but also the other related problems it creates. This includes depression, anxiety, bi-polar, self-esteem, loneliness, abuse, stress, and family related problems. I am also a certified trauma specialist who is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy for trauma (CPT), and hold a Medication Assisted Recovery Specialist certificate as well. I have a long story of overcoming my own struggles in life and personally understand just how hard it can be to reach out for help. I meet people where they are, walk through the struggle of change with them no matter how long it takes, and above all never judge anyone for where they are in life or how they got there. I offer client centered solution focused counseling that incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy, existentialism, and motivational interviewing.

This is Patrick Shanahan's avatar and link to their profile

Patrick Shanahan

Offering therapy in MO
License: MSW,LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
44 years of experience

Currently my greatest strength is in working with couples. I ran an outpatient clinic as part of a runaway and homeless youth shelter for 18 years. I trained and supervised paid staff and graduate students providing individual, group, couples and family therapies. We worked in conjunction with local universities to conduct research which enabled us to improve our working therapy model and process. During this time I completed 29 hours toward a PH.D in marriage and family therapy. I was also offered a fellowship at one of the universities in their graduate school. I then worked 18 years for managed care as a part of a call center which included phone counseling. My other experiences were in outpatient office settings.

This is Tonia Green's avatar and link to their profile

Tonia Green

Offering therapy in MO
License: MSW,ACSW, LCSW
Parenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
25 years of experience

Tonia T. Green, is a MSW, LCSW who has been practicing in the field of Social Services since 1995. Tonia has been a Licensed Clinician since 1999 and at that time added Behavioral Health services to her co-founded private practice ITAV Enterprises, LLC. Her 25 years of experience has graced her with knowledge gleaned from: community/leadership work like her time at St. Louis Crisis Nursery; skill grooming opportunities through teaching future professionals at Saint Louis University and GWB Washington University Schools of Social Work. Her time in community and chronic health at People's Health Center and Davita Dialysis, has enhanced her understanding and ability to deliver, to some of our most vulnerable populations, synchronized care for the mind and body, in pursuit of Total Wellness. Tonia's latest expansion project is one of specialized care. In 2019, she helped develop and launch - The Kidney Wellcare Group. This is just another example of her dedication to effecting positive change. She is excited to continue her journey as a Heart Speak Facilitator and Wellness Coach with Full Circle Strategies. Populations of interest include, but are not limited to Chronic health care issues, Kidney disease, Parenting education/challenges ( Triple P Certification) , Trans-racial Fostering and Adoption, Race-Based Trauma and Care Giver Support. Tonia uses eclectic therapeutic interventions with a primary client centered based approach. Clients feel safe, helped and better overall after working with her. Tonia believes that we all are working to be our best selves; and it's okay to have help. So, let get started.

This is Dr. Tim Gould's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Tim Gould

Offering therapy in MO
License: MA, MS, Ed.D, LPC
Relationship issues
35 years of experience

I believe that it takes courage to reach out and accept the fact that you are struggling. it does not necessarily mean that anything is wrong or wrong with you, only that you have not yet found answers with which you can live or accept. We can work together to help find solutions and coping mechanisms that can help you in your struggles.

This is Jenny Wright's avatar and link to their profile

Jenny Wright

Offering therapy in MO
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
3 years of experience

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Jenny Wright and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working out of Missouri. I am recently licensed as a therapist, but I have been working in mental health for the last 15 years. I completed my Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas in 2019. I have substantial experience as a case manager and have most recently worked as a therapist for clients in an acute setting. Prior to that I worked at a children’s residential care facility and at an intensive outpatient substance abuse facility. Mental health is a passion of mine, and I take my role in your wellness very seriously. I believe that every person deserves to find the right approach to living the best life that they can live. I always put my clients first and use the strengths and tools that they possess to let them be the main driver behind their success. I am just here to guide you and be a helping hand in achieving your goals. With me, you will always feel like you are number one! As a social worker and former case manager, I believe that a person’s environment and social supports are integral to forming a healthy and nourishing way of life. I take a very holistic and eclectic treatment approach, incorporating many styles and techniques. I am particularly adept in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solutions Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I enjoy spending time getting to know the person that I am working with so that I can help them fully utilize the world around them on their quest for happiness. I believe that somewhere deep within each of us is an opportunity to improve and change in ways that accommodate even the most distressing of circumstances. I believe that everyone deserves that chance. I love working with people from a broad variety of backgrounds and experiences. I have ample experience working within the LGBTQ+ community and with a variety of cultures and worldviews. I believe that it is our differences that make us special and will never judge anybody for being different than myself. I am also a strong supporter of those with disabilities, both visible and invisible, and have a personal connection with those that struggle to find their place in the world based on their perceived limitations. You deserve to be you and to live a life that you are truly passionate about. I am truly glad that you are here and I look forward to working with you!

This is Sheila Stewart's avatar and link to their profile

Sheila Stewart

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health therapist in Missouri with 18 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping adolescent and adults with depression, loneliness, stress and anxiety, family/relationship issues, life changes, grief and loss, career difficulties, and other challenges. I provide an authentic and safe environment to help individuals grow and learn more about themselves and their relationships. I approach therapy in a client centered and holistic way, allowing clients to direct their own path to growth and/or healing but I also incorporate techniques such as CBT, mindfulness, family systems, psychodynamic, and experiential therapies as needed. Taking the first step towards a healthier/ happier life can take courage and I am here to support you along this journey!

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

Jacinda Rea

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

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 Shannon Atherton's avatar and link to their profile

Shannon Atherton

Offering therapy in MO
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. 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.

How to find counseling in Ozark

Finding the best therapist close by in Ozark 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 Ozark. 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 Ozark, 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark, elsewhere in Christian, 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 Ozark area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark, 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 65721 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 Ozark 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 Ozark 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 Ozark, 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.

Ozark 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 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 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 Ozark.

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

65721

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