Therapists in Columbia, MO
My passion is working with children, adolescents, and their families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, selective mutism, stress, anger management, trauma, and issues with military families.
My passion is working with children, adolescents, and their families. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, selective mutism, stress, anger management, trauma, and issues with military families.
If you know something needs to change, but feel lost and unsure of where to begin, you're not alone. Life can be challenging, and most people aren't given all the tools they need to be successful. It can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by everything you're trying to manage. I believe in the power of transformation and growth. My approach centers around helping you repair what's within your control and develop resilience against what isn't. Life's unpredictability can test us, but together, we'll work on building your inner strength and navigating all that comes your way.
If you know something needs to change, but feel lost and unsure of where to begin, you're not alone. Life can be challenging, and most people aren't given all the tools they need to be successful. It can leave you feeling emotionally overwhelmed and exhausted by everything you're trying to manage. I believe in the power of transformation and growth. My approach centers around helping you repair what's within your control and develop resilience against what isn't. Life's unpredictability can test us, but together, we'll work on building your inner strength and navigating all that comes your way.
Jemika Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
Have you reached a pivotal moment in your life, recognizing that the patterns that you have been stuck in no longer serve you? Maybe you have been trying to navigate the complexities of life alone, struggling with self-esteem, self-concept, and the overwhelming feeling that life isn't unfolding as it should. Despite enduring trauma, challenging relationships and struggles in both personal and professional spheres you have tried your best to "keep it all together" and you are exhausted. Each day it gets more difficult to put on the mask and get through the day.
Have you reached a pivotal moment in your life, recognizing that the patterns that you have been stuck in no longer serve you? Maybe you have been trying to navigate the complexities of life alone, struggling with self-esteem, self-concept, and the overwhelming feeling that life isn't unfolding as it should. Despite enduring trauma, challenging relationships and struggles in both personal and professional spheres you have tried your best to "keep it all together" and you are exhausted. Each day it gets more difficult to put on the mask and get through the day.
I operate from a holistic and integrative approach; valuing each individual, their strengths and honoring their experiences. I believe you have innate behaviors and skills that you can draw upon to overcome challenges and move toward becoming a better you. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples, and can assist you in your journey to new beginnings. I primarily focus my work on helping clients navigate and work through depression, anxiety, trauma, intrapersonal and interpersonal issues.
I operate from a holistic and integrative approach; valuing each individual, their strengths and honoring their experiences. I believe you have innate behaviors and skills that you can draw upon to overcome challenges and move toward becoming a better you. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples, and can assist you in your journey to new beginnings. I primarily focus my work on helping clients navigate and work through depression, anxiety, trauma, intrapersonal and interpersonal issues.
Wren Counseling Solutions LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is an adult, couple, or family that has experienced loss or trauma and wants to feel connected to themselves, those they love, and their community again. The individual/s may be experiencing extreme anxiety, irritability, or depression and have been trying to keep picking themselves up, but are tired and concerned about what their future holds. They often find themselves using a variety of means to numb such as eating, substance use, gambling, pornography, sex, video games, etc. They experience emptiness and feel that they really have no sense of who they are or what they want and often feel alone and disconnected.
My ideal client is an adult, couple, or family that has experienced loss or trauma and wants to feel connected to themselves, those they love, and their community again. The individual/s may be experiencing extreme anxiety, irritability, or depression and have been trying to keep picking themselves up, but are tired and concerned about what their future holds. They often find themselves using a variety of means to numb such as eating, substance use, gambling, pornography, sex, video games, etc. They experience emptiness and feel that they really have no sense of who they are or what they want and often feel alone and disconnected.
Every couple struggles. Maybe you keep having the same fight over and over, or you find it difficult to explain your feelings to each other. Perhaps it seems like you’re not communicating at all. I help couples learn to accept, connect, and enjoy each other more. Many people imagine couples therapy as one side against the other, with the therapist deciding who’s right or wrong. In reality it doesn’t matter what your therapist thinks! Their job is to help you communicate in a more productive way with one other. I’d be happy to support each of you as you learn new ways to foster a more loving, peaceful, and joyful relationship.
Every couple struggles. Maybe you keep having the same fight over and over, or you find it difficult to explain your feelings to each other. Perhaps it seems like you’re not communicating at all. I help couples learn to accept, connect, and enjoy each other more. Many people imagine couples therapy as one side against the other, with the therapist deciding who’s right or wrong. In reality it doesn’t matter what your therapist thinks! Their job is to help you communicate in a more productive way with one other. I’d be happy to support each of you as you learn new ways to foster a more loving, peaceful, and joyful relationship.
Hi, I'm Cheryl. In the counseling journey, I hope to come alongside you as you wrestle with the inherent difficulties and struggles associated with life. Damaged relationships, disappointments, insecurities, hurt, trauma, and anxieties... it all can be overwhelming and debilitating as times. But I believe healing is possible! I also bring my Christian faith to our work together for those desiring to include their Christian faith.
Hi, I'm Cheryl. In the counseling journey, I hope to come alongside you as you wrestle with the inherent difficulties and struggles associated with life. Damaged relationships, disappointments, insecurities, hurt, trauma, and anxieties... it all can be overwhelming and debilitating as times. But I believe healing is possible! I also bring my Christian faith to our work together for those desiring to include their Christian faith.
Through work with individuals aged teen through adulthood and couples in various differing relationships alike, I have developed expertise in areas like attachment, blended families, and depression and anxiety. I have a strong foundation as a caring and supportive counselor and aim to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I welcome the opportunity to have my skills challenged and strengthened through experiences and living life.
Through work with individuals aged teen through adulthood and couples in various differing relationships alike, I have developed expertise in areas like attachment, blended families, and depression and anxiety. I have a strong foundation as a caring and supportive counselor and aim to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I welcome the opportunity to have my skills challenged and strengthened through experiences and living life.
The road we travel towards living as our truest self is by no means smooth. Often, we have learned messages that get in the way of living authentically, whether it be messages from society, family, peers, strangers, or even ourselves. We may feel lost and uncertain of finding a way forward. We will work together to find ways that you can feel empowered to break free from these messages to live openly and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including healing from traumatic experiences, being present with our emotions, creating positive self-narratives, and providing affirming LGBTQ+ care.
The road we travel towards living as our truest self is by no means smooth. Often, we have learned messages that get in the way of living authentically, whether it be messages from society, family, peers, strangers, or even ourselves. We may feel lost and uncertain of finding a way forward. We will work together to find ways that you can feel empowered to break free from these messages to live openly and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including healing from traumatic experiences, being present with our emotions, creating positive self-narratives, and providing affirming LGBTQ+ care.
Quiet Waters Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
Welcome to Quiet Waters Counseling! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years experience working with individuals and couples weathering the storms of life. For the past 16 years I've been working with veterans and families here in the Columbia MO area. I specialize in assisting clients with issues such as addictions, PTSD, physical and sexual trauma, anxiety and depression. I utilize evidence based therapies coupled with compassion, empathy and encouragement to assist clients in their journey of healing.
Welcome to Quiet Waters Counseling! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years experience working with individuals and couples weathering the storms of life. For the past 16 years I've been working with veterans and families here in the Columbia MO area. I specialize in assisting clients with issues such as addictions, PTSD, physical and sexual trauma, anxiety and depression. I utilize evidence based therapies coupled with compassion, empathy and encouragement to assist clients in their journey of healing.
Virginia Almon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
If you find yourself struggling with feeling overwhelmed, depressed, confused, disconnected, or anxious, I can provide effective therapy for your distress. Life can be extremely challenging and it is healthy to reach out for help when we feel stuck and unable to make changes. As I listen carefully to your concerns and your story, we will work together to achieve your goals in a safe, supportive atmosphere.
If you find yourself struggling with feeling overwhelmed, depressed, confused, disconnected, or anxious, I can provide effective therapy for your distress. Life can be extremely challenging and it is healthy to reach out for help when we feel stuck and unable to make changes. As I listen carefully to your concerns and your story, we will work together to achieve your goals in a safe, supportive atmosphere.
15 Second Videos
Emily Arth
Oliver C Stone
Julie Hendrix
Kim Oliver
Victoria Warren
Natasha K Young
Joshua C Hulen
Justin Wiseman
Tiffany S Borst
Empower Therapeutic Services, LLC
Beth Orns
Linda Pogo, LLC
Bethany Nunnelly
Kristen Hilty
Rachel Sabulsky
Jackie Ambrow
Bill Clark
Kemberlee Mahaffey
Grace Ann Stout
Sara Nielsen (Individual Coaching Support Grps)
Mike Ghali
Grace Stegall
Brittany Purrington
Leilani Louise Faber
L. Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo
Jessica Cox
Shannon Loos-Vankawala
Rynn Wyrick
Emily Arth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CDWF, RTTP, CHyp
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203 (Online Only)
Stuck in cycles of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and over functioning? Every person is deeply influenced by their connections. When you experience shame, rejection, and neglect in your closest relationships, you can begin to lose trust in your ability to navigate life successfully. When your mental or emotional needs go unmet, it creates a challenging void, and your attempt to fill the void can result in a variety of unhealthy symptoms. Feeling alone, anxious, depressed, guilty, ashamed, avoidant, confused, lost, and overwhelmed are just a few signs that can emerge within the silence and isolation of inner criticism.
Stuck in cycles of people-pleasing, perfectionism, and over functioning? Every person is deeply influenced by their connections. When you experience shame, rejection, and neglect in your closest relationships, you can begin to lose trust in your ability to navigate life successfully. When your mental or emotional needs go unmet, it creates a challenging void, and your attempt to fill the void can result in a variety of unhealthy symptoms. Feeling alone, anxious, depressed, guilty, ashamed, avoidant, confused, lost, and overwhelmed are just a few signs that can emerge within the silence and isolation of inner criticism.
Jared Torbet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I have two primary specialities: ADHD Coaching and Couples/Family Therapy. I work with highschoolers, college students, and adult professionals, who struggle with distraction, disorganization, procrastination, and impulsivity.
I have two primary specialities: ADHD Coaching and Couples/Family Therapy. I work with highschoolers, college students, and adult professionals, who struggle with distraction, disorganization, procrastination, and impulsivity.
Are you transgender or a part of the LGBTQIA+ community? As someone who is a part of that community, I would love to help you sort out your identities and find ways to cope with life. Additionally, many individuals in this community have experienced trauma due to various religious or spiritual environments, and I would love to help you work toward freedom from guilt, shame, and other feelings that come up. Many people, queer or not, churchgoer or not, experience this trauma, and processing this can make a big difference. I also work with addictions, anxiety, depression, grief, and other forms of trauma as well.
Are you transgender or a part of the LGBTQIA+ community? As someone who is a part of that community, I would love to help you sort out your identities and find ways to cope with life. Additionally, many individuals in this community have experienced trauma due to various religious or spiritual environments, and I would love to help you work toward freedom from guilt, shame, and other feelings that come up. Many people, queer or not, churchgoer or not, experience this trauma, and processing this can make a big difference. I also work with addictions, anxiety, depression, grief, and other forms of trauma as well.
Kelly F Jackson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
I have dedicated decades to helping others in one capacity or another and started my career as a nurse. I have training in numerous therapeutic interventions and strive for excellence in my work. I will work to provide you, your child and/or your family with the highest quality service in order to help you achieve your goals in therapy and in life. I will work with you in a way that builds on your strengths and potential, and challenges you to take your life to the next level.
I have dedicated decades to helping others in one capacity or another and started my career as a nurse. I have training in numerous therapeutic interventions and strive for excellence in my work. I will work to provide you, your child and/or your family with the highest quality service in order to help you achieve your goals in therapy and in life. I will work with you in a way that builds on your strengths and potential, and challenges you to take your life to the next level.
Do you find yourself struggling through day-to-day life? Whether you’re going through a big life transition such as a divorce or a new baby, or you find yourself anxious or depressed for a reason you can’t seem to figure out, you may need someone to help. I can walk with you through the ups and downs of your life, listening without judgment and helping you get to the root of the issue.
Do you find yourself struggling through day-to-day life? Whether you’re going through a big life transition such as a divorce or a new baby, or you find yourself anxious or depressed for a reason you can’t seem to figure out, you may need someone to help. I can walk with you through the ups and downs of your life, listening without judgment and helping you get to the root of the issue.
Sharon Cantrell-Brush
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
The core of my practice is assisting individuals and families to navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life with success and purpose. To provide guidance on supporting those with mental health symptoms, behavioral and emotional disorders and trauma to be able to thrive. To help identify negative communication patterns and strengthen communication with others. I provide an assortment of parenting ideas to help families live together with a better understanding and appreciation of each other. I draw from Dr. Garry Landreth, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, Dr. Fay & Dr. Cline, Love & Logic, and Dr. Phelan with 1-2-3 Magic.
Jordan Cera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AAMFT
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
Do you feel misunderstood, unseen, stuck in life, and/or lonely? I have been practicing therapy for nearly a decade and offer support in processing emotional pain and unpleasant feelings/thoughts. If you are experiencing anxiety/depression/nightmares/phobias, you’re in the right place. Together, we will develop tools & coping skills that help to lessen your daily struggles/worries. Talk therapy offers space to process emotions, increase self-esteem, and improve communication skills. Start healing today.
Do you feel misunderstood, unseen, stuck in life, and/or lonely? I have been practicing therapy for nearly a decade and offer support in processing emotional pain and unpleasant feelings/thoughts. If you are experiencing anxiety/depression/nightmares/phobias, you’re in the right place. Together, we will develop tools & coping skills that help to lessen your daily struggles/worries. Talk therapy offers space to process emotions, increase self-esteem, and improve communication skills. Start healing today.
Jessika Twehous
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it’s also a powerful act of self-care and a courageous step towards personal growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating a major life transition, or seeking to improve your relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. I am committed to accompanying you on your journey with empathy, understanding, and unwavering support, empowering you to navigate life's challenges with a newfound resilience and self-compassion. Life can be overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it all out alone. You deserve a space to be heard, seen, and understood.
Taking the first step towards therapy can be daunting, but it’s also a powerful act of self-care and a courageous step towards personal growth. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, navigating a major life transition, or seeking to improve your relationships, I am here to support you every step of the way. I am committed to accompanying you on your journey with empathy, understanding, and unwavering support, empowering you to navigate life's challenges with a newfound resilience and self-compassion. Life can be overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it all out alone. You deserve a space to be heard, seen, and understood.
Are you looking to connect with a more authentic version of yourself? As a queer therapist, I want to help support you through difficult times or times of self-discovery. Life can be demanding, and I aim to empower you with what you need. That can encompass many things from developing new skills to giving you a safe space to learn more about who you are. Together we will build a place that allows for reflection, growth, and compassion. Whether you are working through anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, all of the above, or more. I will work with you to overcome them and live the fulfilling life that you want.
Are you looking to connect with a more authentic version of yourself? As a queer therapist, I want to help support you through difficult times or times of self-discovery. Life can be demanding, and I aim to empower you with what you need. That can encompass many things from developing new skills to giving you a safe space to learn more about who you are. Together we will build a place that allows for reflection, growth, and compassion. Whether you are working through anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, all of the above, or more. I will work with you to overcome them and live the fulfilling life that you want.
See more therapy options for Columbia
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Columbia, MO
200+
Average cost per session
$120
Therapists in Columbia, MO who prioritize treating:
89% | Anxiety |
82% | Depression |
71% | Self Esteem |
69% | Stress |
68% | Relationship Issues |
67% | Coping Skills |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
75% | Aetna |
73% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Therapists in Columbia, MO see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
22% | Male | |
3% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Columbia?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.