This is Laurie Sansom's avatar and link to their profile

Laurie Sansom

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,LCPC,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
13 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor for the state of Missouri, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor for the State of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Minnesota, and a Professional Counselor of Mental Health for the State of Delaware. I am a National Certified Counselor with the National Board for Certified Counselors, Inc. I have been working with clients in outpatient settings since 2011. Typical concerns that I have experience with are anxiety and/or mild depression, relationship issues, supporting people through separation and divorce, grief and loss, parenting, stress management, PTSD, and support for faith/spiritual life. I find Cognitive Behavioral Therapy quite useful and effective, so I tend to use that whenever it seems fitting. I do my best to make sure that I ascertain what approach works best with each client. I want to be flexible and sensitive to your needs and personality. I believe that if you feel safe with me and that you can trust me, that's the most important aspect of working together. I look forward to working with you!

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Michelle Watson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LCSW
GriefAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
10 years of experience as a mental health therapist

"The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." And today you've taken that one most important step. Hello! My name is Michelle Watson and I'm excited about the opportunity to go along on this journey with you. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of Missouri with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with a diverse group of clients with a wide range of concerns including self-esteem, anger management, stress management, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, ADHD and simply learning to cope with life changes. I find that relationship plays a large role in a client’s willingness to go down this path. It’s essential that clients work with someone they feel they can trust and someone who aligns with their particular needs. Therefore I believe it would benefit you to know a little about me and understand my philosophy of counseling. This is a nonjudgmental and safe place to express yourself. I take a collaborative and supportive stance in my approach to therapy. I strive to empower clients using a strengths-based approach; meaning I believe we all have positives attributes we can draw on to help us cope with difficult times. Therapy is a process. And yes change can seem hard and scary; but through partnering together, we will work on your identified goals and you will feel empowered to move forward. The ultimate goal will always be for you to get to a place in which you feel like you don’t need me anymore; that you have gained a better sense of self and coping. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal psychotherapy, solution focused counseling, and mindfulness based interventions. Please know there is no "one sizes fits all in counseling" so rest assured I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Change can be hard. And it takes courage to take actions towards a more fulfilling and happier life. Happiness is always possible! This is your first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to partnering with you along this journey!

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Brandon Thoma

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

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

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Robert Schneider

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with 15 years of experience in mental health, serving people with a wide variety of needs and backgrounds. I believe you have a right to be heard and be yourself. To me, that means being able to talk without fearing stigma, judgment, or a secondary agenda. Therefore, you can rest assured I give you a space where you’ll be welcome as you. Everyone has different needs, and my style is to work together to find the best approach for you. We’ll look at what you want, what works for you, and the best way to reach your goals. I’m always open, and if you wonder what we’re doing, I’m happy to let you know. I never have a hidden agenda. I enjoy working with members of alternative beliefs and non-believers. I happily work with individuals from any faith or spiritual perspective; however, if you specifically need Christian Counseling, I recommend reaching out to one of BetterHelp’s Christian Counseling specialists. My approach is to use a combination of Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma-Informed Care. I have a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, an LPC license in Missouri, I’m a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and I hold a certificate in Disaster Mental Health. In considering help, you’ve made a big step towards a better life, and it took strength and courage to make it here. It would be an honor to take the next steps together. Special Treatment Areas • Life transition • College, professional, and personal adjustment issues • Anxiety • Depression • Personal identity issues • Overcoming stigma • Personal improvement & skills building • Self-esteem & self-worth • Guilt & shame • Work issues • Burn-out & stress • Compassion fatigue • Secondary trauma • Moral injury • Second victim syndrome • Grief & loss for survivors of suicide • Disaster counseling

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Stacy Yeager

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

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed in Missouri with over 10 years of experience working stateside and abroad. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including: PTSD Depression Anxiety Relationship issues Parenting problems Career challenges ADHD Physical and emotional abuse My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe everyone deserves respect and compassion. My approach utilizes a variety of therapeutic techniques and I will tailor our sessions and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to begin your journey to change. I am proud of you! I look forward to meeting.

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Jessica Erickson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Counselor License Type(s): MS
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

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.

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Dr. Robert Rasp

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
35 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed therapist with 35 years of professional work experience. I am experienced in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, and depression. I believe that it is my job to serve my clients. I do not believe in telling clients what to do. I want to find out what your vision is for a joyous life. Then we will take a positive solution focused approach to achieve your dreams.

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Lori Rowe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Trauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, anger management, & coping with life changes. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Marla Bryant

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, intimacy related issues, career difficulties, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. My areas of focus and expertise include: • Brief Solution Focused Therapy • Geriatric Mental Health • Dual Diagnosis • Sexual Health and Wellness • Polyamory/ENM informed therapist

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Cheryl Spratt

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Missouri with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Ridgely

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

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Ridgely 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 Ridgely, elsewhere in Platte, 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ridgely, 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ridgely 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.

Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 64444 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 Ridgely counselor?

Before seeing your Ridgely 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 Ridgely.

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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely 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 Ridgely, 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.

Ridgely 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 Ridgely, 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 Ridgely.

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

64444

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