Gary Schmidt
Feeling overwhelmed, lost, or ready for change but not sure where to start? I offer a warm, grounded space to untangle what’s been weighing on you and rediscover your sense of peace and purpose. My approach helps you build real insight, emotional balance, and the confidence to move forward on your own terms. Healing happens at your own speed and I’m here to support you through it all as a trained trauma-informed IFS therapist. My role is to guide, listen, and adapt to what you need as we go. Everything we do will be built on mutual trust and consent, and I’ll use research-backed methods to make our work together as effective as possible.
Dr. Evalyne Ekesa
Hello! My name is Evalyne, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor both in the State of Wisconsin and State of Missouri. I went to Alverno College for my BA in Psychology, Social Science, and Professional Communication. Then, I attended Marquette University and obtained my MA in clinical psychology. Finally, I earned a PhD in Education and Leadership for the advancement of Learning and Services from Cardinal Stritch University. Besides my helping profession, I am also a lecturer at college level. I have been providing therapeutic services since 2009. I have worked with varied populations across ages, including geriatrics, people with multicultural backgrounds, those who are incarcerated or in conflict with the law. I also worked with the half-way home, and physically challenged populations in group-home settings. I will be happy to walk with you in pursuit of your goals toward wholeness. I practice from an eclectic approach since each client is unique and responds to different Technics and approaches depending on the issue at hand. I also believe in attending to a client, as a “whole”, person because I believe problems are often caused by a host of things. My part as a therapist is to guide, support and empower that individual through the healing process without judgement. My services encompass benevolence, and empathy to my clients. After all, it is all about the client and what he/she needs. I am caring, yet firm when necessary, since we all need a nudge at times to move on. I love to work with people who are committed to unfolding a baggage in their life-stories as they work towards life's happiness and self-fulfillment. I utilize integrative therapies, such as humanistic/client-centered approach because I believe that clients have strengths to build-on during therapy and after therapy. I also employ Cognitive Behavior Therapy because I find it useful for many emotional cases. Together we can address client’s concerns/issues in the most helpful manner that can bring healing/relief to that individual making life better and peaceful. I purposely say “we” because I firmly believe that a client has capability to explore and work through issues. While working through the sessions, I like to reinforce the elements of positive psychology. If you and I can make a good “team,” I am here for YOU. Let us walk that mile together. My therapeutic approach Include but not limited to: Humanistic/Client - centered approach Cognitive behavior therapy Mindfulness-based therapy Faith integration for (those who need it) Specialties Anxiety Stress Grief and Loss issues Parenting Career decision -making Self-esteem Also, I have experience in: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), coping with life changes Aside from my professional activities; I like reading relevant literature, attending workshops and seminars for CE to keep myself abreast with the current findings in the field. One of the things I do to give back to the community is, teaching, mentoring upcoming Counselors, and enjoying peer advising group discussions. Additionally, I also do research and sometimes just chill out. Years of Experience: 15
Dr. Paula Alvarez
Greetings! I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) in the states of California, Illinois, and Missouri, and I have a doctorate in Organizational Psychology. I have worked in locked and outpatient mental health facilities for the last 30 years. I facilitated group treatment of domestic violence perpetrators in Spanish and English for eight years. I specialize in treating trauma-related symptoms, anxiety and depression, anger management, geriatric well-being, mental health recovery, cultural diversity issues, and self-esteem issues. My doctorate degree (EdD) In Leadership and Learning with a specialization in Organizational Psychology was conferred on May 27, 2021. I use a client-centered approach (Carl Rogers), and I know that the client is the expert. I tailor my therapy sessions to what the client wants. I used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with those who like CBT interventions. I offer homework assignments and bibliotherapy for those clients who want those interventions. I also use Brief-Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques. I invite you to contact me to see if I am a good fit to help and empower you on your journey to better living.
Dhruti Shah
over 5 years of working as qualified mental health professional with wide range of clinical experience i now employ overcoming personal brokenness and culture along with evidence based practice to instill hope and inspiration.Promoting their innate ability to heal, find meaning and beauty to their lives has been rewarding . During my clinical practice I combine holistic philosophy of east such as yoga, Mindfulness etc with evidence based counseling techniques such as cognitive behavior therapy, Dialectical behavior therapy, person centered therapy along with Psycho-education as required by client.
Jessica Erickson
I am a mental health counselor licensed in the state of Missouri with five years of experience working as a counselor. I have experience working with concerns such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, personality disorders, and trauma history. I have worked with a range of ages, from as young as 4 to individuals in their 70’s. When working with a client, I am warm and understanding and also enjoy using humor when appropriate. I believe everyone deserves to be seen as the expert in their own story. My approach to therapy is a combination of cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and person-centered therapy. Therapy sessions and treatment plans will be individualized to meet your specific needs. I look forward to meeting you and supporting your journey in an understanding, empathetic way.
Wesley Hirst
As you search for just the ” right” counselor, the task may seem overwhelming. ” Will I like them?” ” Will they like me?” ” Will anyone ever understand?” ” Will they really be able to help me?” The list of concerns may seem exhausting. I have over thirty years of experience but I don’t have all the answers. I have never met YOU. I have never heard YOUR hopes and dreams and life story. What I do know from my training, professional experience, and life experience is that counseling works. There is no magic pill to ” fix ” your issues but with honesty, understanding, empathy, and proven methods, we can work together to make positive changes. Probably the most important element in a client/counselor relationship is trust. I want you to feel secure in the knowledge that you are entering a safe place. You will not be judged. I will treat you with compassion, understanding, and respect. I have been a son, brother, husband, father, employee, employer, and friend. I know how complicated life and relationships can be because I’ve been there. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, backpacking, music, biking, and photography. I have frequent visits from wildlife and I’m a pet lover. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology and have extensive training in trauma. substance abuse disorders, marriage counseling, mindfulness, and adolescent behavior disorders. I look forward to meeting you.
Steven Forsyth
I began my addictions counseling career six years after entering recovery from alcohol/drug use, on 5/13/1982. My original counseling schooling was in Rational Emotive Therapy, which evolved into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and led to my schooling in Narrative Therapy and Transactional Analysis. Most recently, I have become interested in Miller & Rollnick's Motivational Interviewing, Prochaska & Diclemente's Stages of Change model of behavior change, Berg & Miller's Solution-Focused Therapy, Marlatt & Donovan's relapse prevention strategies and techniques, ACT therapy, and Internal Family Systems therapy. My most recent Certification is in Robin Shapiro's Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing-EMDR-, through the EMDRIA International Institute in November of 2021. As a Therapist, I necessarily became conversant in telehealth methodology during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. I approach counseling holistically: I understand individuals as "whole cloth", i.e., as the current product(s) of their total life experiences. I also firmly believe in all-ways maintaining a positively enthusiastic outlook on life and living!
Dorie Scofield
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in Missouri providing counseling regarding emotional, relational, career, and spiritual concerns. While my passion is marriage counseling, I have worked well with individual adults, teens, children, and families. It has been my privilege to work with a variety of ages regarding marriage/family/parenting concerns, peer pressure, anger management, anxiety disorders, learning disabilities, social awkwardness, bullying, self-esteem, depression, motivation, grief, moral character, life calling, and career exploration. I work from a Family Systems Theory perspective that integrates well with various modalities. I have been trained in play therapy and Cognitive/Behavioral techniques that are highly effective with children. It is my goal to have a positive impact on others by challenging them to reach for their highest potential in life.
Andrea Phillips
I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Dr. Amy Cole
I have a Doctorate of Behavioral Health through Arizona State University, Ed.S in School Mental Health from the University of Missouri, and Master's in School Counseling from Missouri State University. I am licensed professional Counselor in Missouri with 7 years of professional work experience which includes helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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. I have been working the past six months with the geriatric population in the hospital setting. I have provided information to help them learn coping skills for loneliness, grief, anxiety, depression, and isolation.
Michael Perkins
I am licensed in Missouri with over 20 years of clinical and counseling experience. Please note that I cannot take clients who reside in another state. I also have over 25 years teaching teaching social work and human services. I have experience in helping people cope with life changes as well as with relationship issues, family conflicts, and parenting issues as well as anxiety, depression, and stress. My clinical approach is the use of Cognitive Behavior Therapy with positive psychology approaches as well as mindfulness, and aspects of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. Depending on your needs. You can read a description of Cognitive Behavior Therapy from the America Psychological Society from their web site here: https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral Neuroscientist Rick Hanson discovered that our brain has a natural negativity bias to internalize negative experiences more deeply than positive ones. According to Dr. Hanson, the brain is like velcro for negative experiences and teflon for positive ones. However we can learn skills to help us work with that bias in a more positive way. I find it useful to explore not only what you want to accomplish in therapy, but also what is going right since they are the foundation you will be building on. I often provide clients with the opportunity to do "homework," which can include both activities, and reading. You are the expert of your story, and we all have strengths that can assist us in dealing with challenges. Our individual strengths that are the foundation we all build on. Michael Perkins, MSW, LCSW ******* Are you in crisis? If you’re having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, you can access free support right away with these resources: 988 Suicide & Cris Lifeline – call 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Call the Lifeline at 800-273-8255, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The Crisis Text Line. Text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741. The Trevor Project. LGBTQIA+ and under 25 years old? Call 866-488-7386, text “START” to 678678, or chat online 24-7. Befrienders Worldwide. This international crisis helpline network can help you find a local helpline.
April Vandiver
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Oregon, and Louisiana in professional counseling. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, career difficulties, confidence-building, life changes, coping with stress, time management, grief, goal-setting, and more. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I have a warm client-centered approach. It takes courage to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support you in that journey. You can message me 24/7. I will respond at least twice a day.
Marcia Peetz
As a licensed therapist serving clients in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach is deeply compassionate and rooted in understanding the unique challenges of depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics. I offer a faith-centered perspective for those seeking spiritual guidance alongside mental health support. My therapeutic work focuses on helping clients address profound personal struggles—including social anxiety, grief, self-esteem challenges, and interpersonal difficulties. I am particularly committed to supporting women through transformative healing journeys, creating a safe space to explore vulnerability, build resilience, and rediscover personal strength. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients in developing healthier communication patterns, processing past wounds, and cultivating meaningful connections. Whether you're experiencing workplace stress, relationship transitions, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.
Kelly Roberts
As a licensed therapist in Texas, I bring 15 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping FEMALE clients navigate relationship challenges, family dynamics, grief, and significant life transitions. I specialize in addressing issues like self-love, communication barriers, isolation, and personal growth. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and rooted in understanding individual experiences. I offer a supportive environment where clients can explore sensitive topics such as body image, women's issues, divorce, and personal identity. Drawing from a faith-informed perspective, I help individuals work through guilt, shame, and forgiveness while developing stronger interpersonal skills. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, providing guidance that respects their unique journey and helps them rediscover personal strength and purpose. Whether you're struggling with life changes, relationship conflicts, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm here to support your healing and growth.
Find a Therapist Near You in Pascola , Missouri
Finding a licensed therapist near you in Missouri can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.
With a population of Missouri_POPULATION, Missouri is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Missouri, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Missouri (MO). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.
People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.
Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Missouri_COUNTIES, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.
What concerns can therapists help with?
Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Missouri with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:
- Anxiety and stress
- Depression and mood-related concerns
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Grief and loss
- Relationship and family challenges
- Life transitions and adjustment concerns
- Self-esteem and confidence
- Job stress and burnout
- ADHD-related challenges
- Sleep concerns
- Parenting stress
- Eating disorder support
Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Missouri
When searching for a therapist near me in Missouri, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:
- Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
- Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as 24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
- Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
- Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Missouri, not just nearby offices
Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Missouri.
Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance
Many people looking for a therapist near me in Missouri want to know whether insurance is an option.
Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.
When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.
If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri
BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Missouri without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.
Here’s how it works:
- Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
- Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Missouri (MO)
- Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat
BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.
You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.
Therapists near you in Missouri
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Missouri_COUNTIES.
Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.
Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Missouri do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me
How much does therapy cost near me?
Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.
Is online therapy effective?
Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.
How quickly can I start therapy?
Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.
Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?
Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.
Is online therapy private and secure?
Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.