Waynesville, Missouri was named after the Revolutionary War hero, General “Mad Anthony” Wayne. Folklore abounds in Waynesville with tales of settlers and fur trappers. Historic Route 66 offers travelers a glimpse into yesteryear as the famous pathway runs right through the center of town. When you’re struggling with mental health issues, it can feel like there’s a mad war building inside you.
Just as Waynesville survived a couple of wars, you can be a survivor of the journey to mental and emotional wellness. All you need to do is match up with a professional counselor in the Waynesville area to get yourself back on the road to living the best life of today.
Sara Nielsen
I am an LPC (licensed practicing counselor) in the State of Alabama and have been practicing for about 20 years. I have experience with couples therapy. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, eating disorders, OCD and many other concerns. This is a safe space! My counseling style is collaborative, interactive and guided by your needs. This is a safe space, where you will not find judgment. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, acceptance commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness based, strengths based and other styles of counseling. I will tailor to your needs and expressed wishes; we will together to determine your therapeutic needs. I recognize the difficulty of seeking help and of creating change; I am here to help you every step of the way! I look forward to working with you!
Kerry Branum
Kerry Branum is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Missouri, Lincense #2012022789. and Life Coach, and teacher, with expertise in individual and family relationships. With over 10 years of experience as a therapist, educator, and coach, Kerry is a graduate of Missouri Baptist University with a Master's in Counseling and Ole Miss with an Educational Specialist degree in Counselor Education specializing in Play Therapy. In addition to counseling, Kerry provides coaching and teaching services to help clients achieve their goals and create a more fulfilling life. As a coach, Kerry helps clients identify their strengths and develop strategies to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. As a teacher, he provides clients with practical tools and techniques to navigate challenges and make positive changes in their lives. Kerry's approach to therapy, coaching, and teaching is grounded in the belief that every individual has the potential to achieve their full potential and create a meaningful life. He works collaboratively with clients to develop personalized strategies and techniques to help them cultivate greater self-awareness, resilience, and well-being. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Kerry is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. He holds certifications in various therapeutic approaches, including Registered Play Therapist (R-PT) and National Certified Counselor (NCC), and is equipped to provide effective and evidence-based treatment to clients of all ages. So whether you're seeking counseling, coaching, or teaching services, Kerry is here to support you on your journey towards personal growth and fulfillment.
Karen Kavaloski
Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 17 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . I am also the author and publisher self help books under my Sacred Self Workbook Series Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.
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.
Anna (Kate) Smart
Hello! If you are reading this then it means you are somewhere along the way to seeking therapy - welcome, it's great you are here! Making the decision to talk through personal challenges and struggles with someone takes courage and while it can be a hard step to take, it opens the door to positive and profound change. If you are looking to heal, let's talk. If you are struggling with life transitions or challenges that seem insurmountable, let's talk. If you are wanting to gain a fresh perspective or make some difficult changes, let's talk. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Missouri and have been providing mental health support there and overseas since 2009. I have worked in a variety of settings including outreach centers for survivors of violence, a university counseling center and private practice, and have had the opportunity to work with people of all ages and various nationalities. I practice using a strengths-based approach, focusing on a person's resilience and building on the strengths they possess (we all have strengths, sometimes we are just so overwhelmed by life we are not able to see them clearly). Over the course of therapy I incorporate elements of cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused, solution focused and person-centered therapy. Therapy is not one size fits all and thus the therapeutic process is tailored to meet individual needs. It is truly a privilege to be present with someone on their path of self-discovery and change and I look forward to working with you.
Shawnean Callihan
As a licensed therapist in Missouri with nearly three decades of clinical experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice focuses on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, family conflicts, and personal growth. I bring a compassionate and understanding approach to therapy, particularly for those experiencing communication difficulties, isolation, trauma recovery, and interpersonal challenges. My expertise spans working with young adults, women, families, and individuals managing neurodevelopmental differences. My therapeutic style emphasizes empowerment, healing, and personal transformation. I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop healthy coping strategies, and work towards meaningful life changes. Whether you're dealing with relationship issues, parenting challenges, or personal transitions, I'm committed to walking alongside you with genuine care and professional guidance.
Twynesha "Nicole" Reed
Hello! My name is Nicole Reed, and I have over 20 years' experience in the mental health world. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in two States. I have successfully assisted children, adolescents and adults who have suffered a traumatic event in their life. For 12 years of my career, I specialized in helping survivors of sexual abuse and assault. Many people are able to express they feel depressed, anxious, low self-worth, parenting issues, sexual identify, sleep difficulty and grief. For many it is harder to understand how trauma affects and amply those symptoms. Sometimes even harder to admit a life experience was traumatic. I utilized Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focus Therapy, Trauma-Focus: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Procovery and Mindfulness to help you through this journey. I believe in healing the mind, body and soul. No matter what you have experienced if you are suffering there is a better way. I look forward to helping you find it.
Cynthia Anders
I am licensed in Missouri with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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!
Isabel "Diana" Luna Camden
Welcome. If you new to therapy or have done therapy before, connecting with the right therapist can be a very essential piece in your personal journey. At BetterHelp, I am one of the many therapists who are here to help. Are you having trouble adjusting to current challenges in your life? Has the stress of the global pandemic in the recent past made coping a lot harder? Sometimes unexpected events or circumstances make life very difficult. As a therapist, I provide a confidential and non-judgmental place to assist you in finding balance back into your life. I help you achieve personalized goals in counseling utilizing a variety of evidenced based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I listen and assist you in exploring new and effective ways to face those challenges and learn/apply the skills to manage your emotional concerns. My work at non-profit organizations, Catholic Charities, and college counseling centers in Kansas and Missouri have provided me with the foundation to help in a variety of areas such as stress, anxiety, depression and relationship concerns . I believe that everyone has the potential to achieve the most out of life once they discover how. I have a bicultural background (South American family of origin & born in the US) and am a bilingual (Spanish & English) therapist. My background and 15 years of experience in personal counseling give me the ability to understand and help many. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Missouri as well as a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider(BC-TMH) . I'm glad you are here seeking therapy for yourself. I look forward to working together.
Bruce Miller
As a licensed therapist with extensive experience serving individuals across Missouri, I specialize in supporting clients through complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on addressing challenges like depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and grief. I offer a compassionate, nuanced approach that helps individuals navigate difficult personal experiences, including issues related to guilt, shame, trauma, and interpersonal dynamics. My therapeutic style is adaptable and respectful, recognizing that each person's journey is unique. Whether working with clients seeking faith-based perspectives or those preferring a more secular approach, I strive to create a supportive environment that honors individual beliefs and experiences. I have deep expertise in helping people work through mood disorders, relationship challenges, and personal growth obstacles. I am committed to providing thoughtful, evidence-based guidance that empowers clients to understand themselves more deeply and develop meaningful strategies for emotional wellness and personal transformation.
Carolyn Babbitt Stuckey
I am licensed in Missouri with 9 years of professional direct counseling experience & an additional 5 years providing support for individuals with cognitive or physical barriers to employment. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, depression & ADHD. 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.
Robert Good
I am licensed in both Missouri and Texas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Gil Salgado
I am licensed in Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief. I also have experience working with coping with loss. 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.
Ya'Lita Thompson
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical focus centers on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and self-esteem challenges. I am deeply committed to helping clients develop stronger communication skills, manage social anxiety, and cultivate meaningful self-compassion. My therapeutic approach is holistic, person-centered, and trauma-informed- recognizing that each individual's journey is unique. I work collaboratively with clients experiencing diverse challenges, including depression, post-traumatic stress, and impulsivity. My goal is to create a compassionate, supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and build sustainable strategies for emotional wellness. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I aim to empower clients to reconnect with their inner strengths, transform challenging patterns, and move toward more fulfilling lives. I believe in the inherent capacity for growth and healing within each person, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with genuine empathy and professional expertise.
Find a Therapist Near You in Waynesville , 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 Waynesville.
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.