For those who are looking to find relief from overwhelming stress, or are simply on the search for a more meaningful life, therapy can offer the tools necessary to achieve your goals. When it comes to finding a therapist, Columbia, MO can offer a wider variety of choice than many surrounding rural and suburban areas, but finding the right therapist isn’t always easy, even in populous metro areas. 

One major challenge can be that there are a number of evidence-based approaches in psychotherapy, and how effective they are can depend on the mental health challenge that you’re experiencing. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be effective at treating anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders, but may not be as effective at treating complex personality disorders (which may need another form of therapy like dialectical behavioral therapy). What you need may not be readily available or accessible in your area. 

That’s where online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp can come in. BetterHelp offers access to over 30,000 mental health professionals who specialize in many different areas of therapy like ADHD coaching, solution focused therapy, and a holistic approach, and have experience working with diverse populations. By filling out an online questionnaire, BetterHelp will connect you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because it can be important to feel confident in your client/therapist relationship for the most effective therapy, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy can also be a convenient solution for busy professionals, parents, or students. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, or text messaging options, you can talk to your therapist from the safe haven of your own home or office. 

Therapy can be beneficial for any number of reasons. Whether you feel stuck in your life, are experiencing low self-esteem, or simply want to explore personal truths, move forward in your personal growth with the help of therapy. Reach out to BetterHelp for a simple way to get started on the wellness journey you deserve.

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Psychologist Ian Guthrie providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Ian Guthrie

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2016035081
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years offering treatment

I am a professional counselor licensed in the state of Missouri, with about seven years of experience, and over a decade and a half of experience working with addiction and mental health. I have worked with a range of clients, from children to elderly, who have come to me for a variety of issues, including anxiety and stress, depression, relationship issues, addiction, and lack of motivation. There are times in our lives when we need a new vision and someone to help us create strategies to overcome old challenges and take life to the next level. Seeking this change can be a daunting task, but I am here to help support you in your success. My counseling style is rather eclectic, based in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, with strong influences from Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused techniques, and existential psychotherapy. I look forward to working with you!

Psychologist Karen Memhardt providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Karen Memhardt

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2010041725
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCompassion fatigue
14 years offering treatment

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?

Psychologist Jean Beatie  providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Jean Beatie

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 002634, KS LCPC 163
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
35 years offering treatment

Hi, my name is Jean. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas. I have 30 years of counseling experience? I have worked with clients from the age of two to ninety nine. I have a wide variety of experience in counseling. I started my career in counseling on an inpatient psychiatric unit. I worked at a shelter for women who had experienced physical abuse or were working on addiction issues as a children’s therapist. Currently I am an elementary school Counselor. I have also done individual outpatient mental health counseling in a variety of settings. I have experience in grief work, anxiety and depression, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, complex trauma/abuse, physical/sexual abuse, codependency and adult children of alcoholics. I use person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and integrative approach to therapy. I believe in starting where you are and helping to establish a treatment plan that is tailored to you. I work to be sensitive to how your individual cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence-based techniques including, but not limited to, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. My style is warm and supportive. I will help you address your struggles head-on. I believe one of the most important aspects of successful counseling is collaboration. I will work with you to establish concrete goals and plan for you to overcome your problems. I am not a quick fix Counselor. My experience has taught me that it takes time to work through problems. I look forward to walking this journey with you.

Psychologist Derick Farmer providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Derick Farmer

Clinician
License Type(s): KS LSCSW LSCSW 4726, MO LCSW 2018001714
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri and Kansas, I provide thoughtful, individualized care for adults navigating complex emotional and life challenges. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, stress, grief, and mood-related concerns, offering a supportive and respectful environment where clients feel heard and understood. My approach is grounded in each client’s unique experiences, strengths, and values. I am committed to helping individuals cultivate self-compassion, enhance communication skills, reduce social isolation, and explore meaning and purpose in their lives. I also work with clients facing workplace stress, relationship challenges, and significant life transitions. Through the use of evidence-based therapeutic practices, I collaborate with clients to process difficult emotions, develop effective coping strategies, and foster lasting, meaningful change. My therapeutic style is both compassionate and goal-oriented, balancing emotional support with practical tools that clients can integrate into their daily lives. I welcome individuals from all backgrounds, with particular specialization in mood disorders and grief and loss. I approach each therapeutic relationship with professionalism, empathy, and a genuine commitment to supporting clients in their healing, growth, and overall well-being.

Psychologist Shawnean Callihan providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Shawnean Callihan

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2000145138
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesADHD
29 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Novella Keyler providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Novella Keyler

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 001315
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
32 years offering treatment

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.

Psychologist Catherine Kendrick providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Catherine Kendrick

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2019036326
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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. Right now summer availability is Monday mornings only.

Psychologist Belinda Timm providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Belinda Timm

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2016000936
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring a compassionate and dedicated approach to supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My professional background centers on helping clients navigate emotional wellness, with specialized expertise in addressing depression, anxiety, stress management, and personal growth. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for emotional resilience. I have extensive experience working with individuals facing diverse challenges, including relationship dynamics, self-esteem concerns, and grief. My practice honors each client's unique background and perspective, with particular sensitivity to those seeking a faith-aligned counseling experience. I strive to provide thoughtful, empathetic guidance that respects individual values and supports personal transformation. Through evidence-based practices and a client-centered approach, I am committed to walking alongside you as you develop stronger emotional tools, cultivate self-understanding, and move toward greater personal well-being.

Psychologist Kay Schechter providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Kay Schechter

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 000827
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
34 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 34 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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.

Psychologist Dr. Marilyn Lewis providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Dr. Marilyn Lewis

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 002106, IL LCPC 180.002152
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Illinois and Missouri with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, depression, & coping with life changes. 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. I specialize in Christian-based counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. 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.

Psychologist Patricia Presley providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Patricia Presley

Clinician
License Type(s): IL LCSW 149029483, MO LCSW 2022032372
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 3 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 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.

Psychologist Durre Mumtaz providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Durre Mumtaz

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2025027013
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesADHD
3 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients of all ages starting from 9 years of age to seniors with relationship issues, Marriage counseling, family conflicts with estrangement, ADHD, Mood Regulation, Anxiety, Depression, and Self Esteem . 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.

Psychologist Millicent Odhiambo providing different types of therapy in Columbia

Millicent Odhiambo

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2012037162
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Psychologist April Vandiver providing different types of therapy in Columbia

April Vandiver

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2024018833, LA LPC 10643
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Oregon, and Louisiana in professional counseling. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, parenting issues, career difficulties, confidence-building, life changes, coping with stress, time management, grief, goal-setting, and more. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I have a warm client-centered approach. It takes courage to take the first steps toward change. I am here to support you in that journey. You can message me 24/7. I will respond at least twice a day.

Find a Therapist Near You in Columbia , 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:

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:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Missouri (MO)
  3. 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 Columbia.

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.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Columbia can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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