The City of Raytown was named after the owner of the blacksmith shop, William Ray because it was the center of the town back in 1848 and everyone called it Ray’s Town back then. The town is now centered around Raytowna Beach on Longview Lake, which is a 930-acre water wonderland. Boating, fishing, swimming, skiing, and hanging out on the beach are the things to do here.
If you are feeling like you just do not want to hang out with anyone, forget the beach. You should probably talk to one of the many mental health professionals who live and work in Raytown. They are trained and experienced to help in such matters and can get you feeling back to normal in no time.
Karen Memhardt
Hi, I am Karen Memhardt, MA, Med, LPC, a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychological Examiner. I have master’s degrees in Professional counseling, School counseling, and Psychological Examiner and teaching. I have certification in hypnotherapy, EMDR Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, Psychotherapy, Christian counseling, CCTP Treating Complex Trauma. I have been practicing for fourteen years. My goal is to provide a safe supportive environment where clients can explore issues that prevent them from enjoying life to the fullest. Treatment is approached from a holistic spiritual basis to treat the whole family environment. Psychodynamic psychotherapy and educational counseling principals are integrated with various techniques and therapies to discover the cause of the psychological or behavioral disturbance, incorporating modalities of individual, family, and group counseling therapies to relieve stress and anxiety to a level of comfort desired in your family, work or school environment. Working together, we find the internal and external stressors and eliminate them or find ways to make them manageable for a successful life as measured by you. I use psychodynamic psychotherapy, a form of depth psychology, with the primary focus to reveal the unconscious content of your psyche in an effort to alleviate psychic tension. In this way it is similar to psychoanalysis. It also relies on the interpersonal relationship between client and therapist more than other forms of depth psychology. In terms of approach this form of therapy tends to be more eclectic, taking techniques from a variety of sources, rather than relying on a single system of intervention. It is used in individual psychotherapy, group psychotherapy, family therapy, and to understand and work with institutional and organizational contexts. CBT, Cognitive Behavioral and Neo Cognitive behavioral therapy is used to help you reframe thoughts to more effectively manage feelings and behaviors, and to restructure negative thoughts into a positive thought process to improve self-esteem and self-motivation. Brief therapy is used to address a specific issue in eight to ten sessions. I would ask you to participate in your therapy by asking you to do homework in-between sessions. For example I would ask you the following questions to prepare for our first session: Have you been to a counselor before? A counselor can be a useful tool. I would hope we can build a relationship that you would be able to trust in to discuss your feelings, hopes and goals to help you move forward with a new plan for your life. If you can use me as a sounding board, and use me to help you make some important decisions, this will help you have an easier time with all of your life issues. I am here to help you figure out what is best for you moving forward. What we discuss is confidential. What would you like to discuss with me today? What would you say is the main reason you are wanting to talk today? What are your long term goals for your living arrangement, relationships and your career? Do you have any techniques for helping you to relax? How are you feeling today? For a Brief therapy session I would ask you to imagine you go to sleep tonight, and while you are sleeping, a miracle happens so when you wake up tomorrow morning and everything in your life is exactly how you want your life to be, what would it look like?
Belinda Licea
Using a person-centered trauma-focused approach, I will help you learn to have a more fulfilling life. I believe in being real and providing unconditional positive regard which means that I accept you for how you are and believe that anyone is capable of having a new life. My diverse life experiences have provided me the tools to provide genuine empathy which is important to build that connection and trust. I have had several opportunities to work with diverse populations. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and have worked a lot with anxiety, depression, foster care, self-esteem, and family conflict.
Darla McAdams
I am a licensed Counselor in the State of Missouri with close to 7 years of professional experience. I enjoy working with any age range as well as a broad variety of concerns, including LGBTQ and people of color.. Part of my work has been with young women age 17 to 30 who struggled with substance use, abuse, eating disorders and self esteem issues. I have also worked for over three years with adults and elderly who struggled with substance use, anxiety, depression, homelessness, trauma, emotional abuse, family and relationship issues, co-dependency, loss and grief. I believe that each client be treated with warmth, respect and value. Each session is a safe place without any judgment. My approach varies depending on the specific needs and goals of each individual. I utilize mindfulness, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy the most. I also believe strongly in the approach of Person-Centered Therapy and that each individual has within them the ability to create change and move towards being the best that they can be. I am here to listen and help guide you in that process. I know that with the added challenges we have all faced from COVID, life has been more difficult for many. I commend you for reaching out to seek assistance in navigating your daily challenges and seeking a happier life. I would be honored to work with you in reaching towards whatever changes and goals you desire. I look forward to having the opportunity to work with you.
Stacy Bernard
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the field for over 35 years. I work primarily with adults who present with depression, anxiety, job stress, parenting stress, struggling with grief and loss. I also have experience in working with people who are dealing with the many transitions of life: marriage, divorce, retirement, aging parents and nearing end of life. My counseling style is warm, friendly, with a bit of humor. I am client centered/focused. We will begin with where you are. Seeking help can be a difficult decision to make. You have made that first difficult step in exploring and seeking help. My training/approach is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psycho-dynamic. I tend to focus on teaching you skills to help you manage your symptoms, thinking process, and communication style. Your treatment plan will be individualized to meet your needs. Change is difficult. Nobody likes change. But, if you are ready and willing to do the work, I am willing to be your guide and help you during this process. I look forward to working with you.
Johnnie Ezell
I am a licensed Professional Counselor, licensed both in Arkansas and Missouri. I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, licensed in Arkansas. I am a Master Addiction Counselor certified on a national level. I have been working with Depression, Anxiety, Addiction issues for over forty years. I work with individuals in a collaborative manner. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and elements of Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy, Reality Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy to find what works best with each person. My responsibility is to encourage each person to self evaluate their values, beliefs and behaviors in an effort to help them find a path to a more enjoyable life. Each person is different and one size does not fit all. To ask for help takes a great of courage. It is the greatest gift we can give another, is to ask for and receive help. I look forward to working with each person not only for the gift, but for the opportunity to learn a different view of life
Elva 'Julia' Garafola
As a licensed therapist in TX and MO, I bring over a decade of experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice is deeply rooted in understanding the nuanced experiences of diverse clients, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth. I offer a compassionate, holistic approach that honors each individual's unique journey. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including self-love, communication challenges, life transitions, trauma recovery, and personal empowerment. I am particularly committed to supporting clients navigating complex emotional landscapes, from workplace stress to interpersonal dynamics. My approach is collaborative and person-centered, designed to help you develop meaningful insights, build resilience, and create positive change. Whether you're experiencing relationship difficulties, struggling with personal identity, or seeking guidance through significant life transitions, I'm dedicated to providing supportive, affirming care that respects your individual experience and goals.
Novella Keyler
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri for over 25 years. I have recently moved to New Mexico but retain my Missouri license. . I have a Masters degree in Psychology (from a Systems perspective) from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Kansas. I am quite holistic, aware that we are all multi-faceted. I have accumulated a lot of "tools in my toolkit" along the way and work to find the best approaches and strategies for each client. Talking about the problem is only one approach to make changes. I have worked a lot with people who have depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I also have experience working with people in the LGBTQ+ community. I am compassionate and believe every person has dignity, strengths and value. I love to help people find ways to help them thrive, instead of just survive. I look forward to working with you.
Amy Creason
Hi! I'm Amy and I'm a licensed professional counselor in the state of Missouri. Along with my Master's of Science degree in Counseling Psychology, I have a post-master’s veteran behavioral health certificate. Over the past 8 years, I have worked across a wide spectrum of clients. I have experience with anxiety, depression, bipolar, substance use disorders, anger management, family conflict, crisis intervention, goal setting, and with clients just wanting to optimize their mental health. My personal approach to therapy is to create a partnership with a client working towards the goals the client wants to achieve. From the first conversation until the end, I maintain unconditional positive regard towards my clients. I believe therapy can be both about coping skills and achieving goals, but also about the process of discovering yourself through talk therapy. I utilize cognitive-behavioral approaches, dialectical behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness techniques depending on individual needs of clients.
Scott Smith
I am fully licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with 9 years of clinical experience . I am passionate about equipping fathers in raising sons. As well as having experience working with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog, treatment plan and goals to 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.
Joyce Poole
I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety and depression. I also have experience with aging issues, family issues and general life changing issues. 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.
Mary Meehan
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring nearly three decades of compassionate counseling experience to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique emotional landscapes of each person's journey, with specialized expertise in addressing stress, anxiety, family dynamics, grief, and self-esteem concerns. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where clients can explore personal growth, heal from past experiences, and develop meaningful strategies for navigating difficult emotions. My therapeutic work spans a wide range of focus areas, including communication challenges, social anxiety, life transitions, trauma recovery, and women's issues. My commitment is to walk alongside you with empathy, respect, and professional guidance. Whether you're struggling with relationship dynamics, personal identity, workplace stress, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to helping you cultivate resilience, self-compassion, and authentic connection.
Richard Roe
I am licensed in Missouri with 26 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 dialog 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!
Rachel Dowell
I have 5 years of experience providing therapy services. I am very person-centered and place significant value on people being the experts of their own lives. I walk alongside and empower the conquering of life's Giants. I am committed to listening without judgement, while providing helpful and honest feedback. I use Cognitive-Behavioral (CBT) Motivational Interviewing, Harm-Reduction, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) interventions, along with Gottman-Informed methods for couples. I have experience working with the following concerns: Substance use & Co-occurring conditions, Suicide Prevention/Intervention/Post-Vention, Relationship Conflict (including intimate partner violence), Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Grief & Loss and Trauma.
Billi Patzius
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on helping clients work through depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions with compassion and evidence-based strategies. I'm deeply committed to creating a supportive environment where individuals can explore their inner experiences, particularly around self-love, communication, workplace dynamics, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering women through transformative healing, addressing experiences of guilt, shame, and personal transitions like divorce. Drawing from extensive clinical training, I offer a warm, collaborative approach that honors each person's unique journey. My goal is to help clients develop resilient coping skills, rebuild emotional strength, and cultivate meaningful personal insights. Together, we'll work to transform challenges into opportunities for profound personal growth and healing.
Find a Therapist Near You in Raytown , 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.
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, 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 Raytown.
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.