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.

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Dr. Rebecca Lester

Offering therapy in MO
License: PhD,MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesEating disordersDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! Thanks for stopping by. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I also hold a PhD in Cultural Anthropology (you can read more about how these two things go together on my website at www.rebeccalester.com). I have been in private clinical practice for over 10 years. I am passionate about helping people and I would love the opportunity to work with you. In my work, I engage the whole person--not just a "disorder." My therapeutic approach is characterized by compassion, warmth, and respect. My work is eclectic and personalized--I prioritize working collaboratively with clients to discover what best works for you and your needs. In addition to having proficiency in psychodynamic humanistic, existential, and cognitive-behavioral therapies, I have pursued additional trainings in DBT, IFS, and Sensorimotor Therapy. But I follow psychiatrist Irvin Yalom's philosophy: "for each new client, a new psychotherapy," meaning that every person is unique, and you deserve an approach specifically tailored to you. I specialize in the following areas: • eating disorders • mood disorders (depression, bipolar) • anxiety • self-harm • stress and coping • trauma/PTSD • personality disorders • LGBTQIA+ issues • sexual/relationship concerns Choosing a therapist is an important and courageous decision. I’d be happy to answer any questions you might have about the process or my approach. I look forward to working with you!

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Michael Cotter

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

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

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Rochelle Nakoa

Offering therapy in MO
License: LCSW
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
11 years of experience

​Aloha my name is Rochelle Nakoa. I am an LCSW and have been licensed for 11 years. I have worked with hospice patients and families for end-of-life care. As a readjustment counselor I assisted veterans and families to transition back to civilian life. While working as a therapist with active military I assisted in the areas of substance abuse, relationships with family and command. As Chief of Mental Health working in the Department of Corrections I provided individual and group therapy to Men, Women and Transgender populations incarcerated. All of these experiences afforded me to specialize in  Sexual Trauma and Intimate Partner Violence.   ​I use Person-Centered Therapy. Person-Centered Therapy focuses on an individual with recognizing who they are and assisting them to become who they desire to be. This process consists of putting thoughts to paper and organizing them in a way to more clearly understand your circumstances and what you need to transition into living your best life.  By providing a safe and judgment free environment this allows the individual to rid themselves of burden and shame to make the transition into your true self.

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Stacy Yeager

Offering therapy in MO
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
10 years of experience

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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Janell Moore

Offering therapy in MO
License: Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC,Licensed Mental Health Professionals LMHP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

Hello, My name is Janell Moore and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has been providing quality counseling services for over 10 years. I have served children from age four to teenagers up to the elderly with a variety of mental health challenges. I specialize in a variety of counseling techniques that include cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, client-centered therapy, solution-focused, psychoeducational, trauma-focused therapy, and more. I have served clients who have been able to find success in their lives and learn more about how to enjoy who they are as a person. I provide a holistic approach to counseling by addressing your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. As an integrative counselor, I can ensure the highest quality of care, and progressively move you towards the goals you have for your life. I provide open-mindedness, and a non-judgmental space where you can feel safe, validated, confidential, and empowered to live life to its fullest potential for you.

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Stephanie Cook

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & depression. 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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Jane Perkins

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hi! My name is Jane Perkins. I am a state-licensed counselor who always counsels with her Bible open. The goal of counseling with me will be to discover the "secrets" of scripture that are written plainly for our instruction. When answers for our situations can be lifted off the pages of God's love letter, it is energizingly freeing! The Bible is enough. I provide Online / Virtual Christian Counseling for Illinois and Missouri Residences. I’m passionate about helping people find purpose-filled lives. Many have no idea where to start looking and instead get caught up in what Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok says about creating dreams, then even begin to pursue those dreams. Pursuing and unlocking who you are is attainable! How I Approach Counseling: I am a solution-focused therapist utilizing short-term goals to help clients create a plan to succeed rather than dwell on the problem. I vow not to misuse your time in reaching these set goals. The implementation of Cognitive Behavioral techniques and Mindfulness approaches in conjunction with Biblical resources provides insight into human nature and emotions to improve relationships and personal struggles, all while encouraging a deeper relationship with God. In the Bible, God gives specific instructions on how to positively restructure patterns of cognitive distortions and encourage behavior change so that we can experience peace of mind and joy. You will play a big part in the healing process, as homework derived from scripture is given after almost every session. I work with clients who have fear and anxiety, struggle with addiction, are sad, have low self-esteem, desire to seek a new direction in their career, and are searching to find their specific purpose in life. If you choose to proceed in therapy with me, I vow not to misuse your time in reaching set goals. Treatment of mental health and other psychological concerns includes Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual health. Physical Health: Physical health plays a significant role in mental well-being. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, adequate sleep, and good physical health can positively affect mood, stress, and cognitive functioning. Emotional Health: Understanding and addressing emotions are crucial in mental health treatment. This involves developing emotional intelligence, coping skills, and communication abilities. Therapy will focus on helping you navigate and manage your emotions effectively. Spiritual Health: Spirituality is knowing there is something out there greater than ourselves. Spirituality is why connecting with God the Creator is essential to mental health and coping with life's challenges. This can include engaging in religious practices, meditative prayer, meditation on scripture, and exploring beliefs and values. Integrating these three components can complement traditional therapeutic approaches and lead to a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan for mental health concerns. It's important to note that individuals may prioritize these aspects differently based on their unique needs, cultural backgrounds, and belief systems. Hence, as a mental health professional, I often adopt a personalized approach to treatment.

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Dolly Lewis

Offering therapy in MO
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteem
15 years of experience

Hello! My name is Dolly Lewis and I am licensed in Missouri with 15 years of professional work experience. When I am not meeting with clients, I work as an Elementary School Counselor. I am divorced and have 2 grown children, and grandma to 3 lovely pups! When I'm not working, I love to travel with my boyfriend and spend time with family and friends! I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Susan Taylor-Amos

Offering therapy in MO
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri with 30 years of professional work experience in the child welfare system as well as mental health facilities. I have worked with clients with many different backgrounds and diagnosis. I have a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Masters in Social Work. My therapy style is interactive and laid back. I feel everyone deserves respect and that their feelings should not be discounted. I like to use a combination of different therapies to see which approach works best for the client. Most recently, I have had training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My goal is to find the best therapy that works for you. I want to be a support and advocate for you. I look forward to working with you.

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Timothy Rudder

Offering therapy in MO
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionADHD
5 years of experience

Him my name is Tim and I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional clinical work experience and over 22 years of experience in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, bipolar disorder, & depression. 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! If you feel you have lost steam dealing with anxiety or depression, or if you are an athlete losing your drive due to the demands of your sport, I'd like to talk with you about how we can overcome your struggles. As a therapist, I can help you understand important experiences in your life while coping with difficulties, such as stress, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and substance use disorders. With my Mental Game Coaching Professional certification, I can help you uncover mindsets that lead to a loss in confidence, composure, focus and enjoyment, so that you thrive and have fun again. I am caring, motivating and enjoy helping my clients along their path of self discovery. Your individual journey is unique and important to me. You deserve to have a therapist, coach, and helper that is supportive, knowledgeable and accessible.

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How to find counseling in Waynesville

Finding the best therapist close by in Waynesville can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Waynesville. 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 Waynesville, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Waynesville or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Waynesville area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Waynesville, elsewhere in Pulaski, or in the greater state of Missouri.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Waynesville area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Waynesville 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 Waynesville 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 Waynesville may not take health insurance, some in the state of Missouri may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Missouri you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Waynesville, Missouri working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Waynesville 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 Waynesville helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Waynesville therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Waynesville therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Waynesville therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in MO, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 65583 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Waynesville counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Waynesville licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Waynesville, 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.

Waynesville has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Waynesville.

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

65583

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