In Person Therapists in Columbia, MO
![Photo of Jacqulyn Hicks, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3167d692-5b02-4e95-a1b9-8cde080c3d18/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you a teenager, a couple, or an individual who's experienced trauma and in need of healing? Welcome to this valuable space. Meet Christy Phelps, your experienced and more-than-capable therapist. Christy firmly believes that you're not here by coincidence and that now is your time to heal. She employs a compassionate approach that has been refined over 17 years of dedicated therapy provision in order to improve your current situation.
Are you a teenager, a couple, or an individual who's experienced trauma and in need of healing? Welcome to this valuable space. Meet Christy Phelps, your experienced and more-than-capable therapist. Christy firmly believes that you're not here by coincidence and that now is your time to heal. She employs a compassionate approach that has been refined over 17 years of dedicated therapy provision in order to improve your current situation.
![Photo of Brittany Purrington, MA, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/58772085-eee3-421d-9e13-b19b666251e1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Purrington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65211
Currently accepting to new clients! Are you struggling to show up fully and authentically as yourself in your relationships or just in life generally? You just want to feel seen and heard and to feel valued for who you are. If this sounds like you, I’m here to let you know that your story and your voice matters. Whether you are currently going through a life transition or have chronically felt less-than, I can help you explore your experiences and build the confidence and self-esteem to move forward in joy.
Currently accepting to new clients! Are you struggling to show up fully and authentically as yourself in your relationships or just in life generally? You just want to feel seen and heard and to feel valued for who you are. If this sounds like you, I’m here to let you know that your story and your voice matters. Whether you are currently going through a life transition or have chronically felt less-than, I can help you explore your experiences and build the confidence and self-esteem to move forward in joy.
![Photo of Kela L Woods, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd46bc85-5bc1-4dfb-ac25-9692f0d59bf4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kela Woods is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over 10 years experience in Behavioral Health & Social Services. She obtained a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Lindenwood University in St. Charles Missouri. Kela’s work experience includes mental health assessments, diagnosing, treatment planning, referrals, crisis intervention and de-escalation. As a therapist Kela is here to listen, to validate, and to provide support in a safe and non-judgemental setting. Kela’s counseling style is warm, empathetic, and client-centered.
Kela Woods is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over 10 years experience in Behavioral Health & Social Services. She obtained a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling at Lindenwood University in St. Charles Missouri. Kela’s work experience includes mental health assessments, diagnosing, treatment planning, referrals, crisis intervention and de-escalation. As a therapist Kela is here to listen, to validate, and to provide support in a safe and non-judgemental setting. Kela’s counseling style is warm, empathetic, and client-centered.
![Photo of Colleen Marie Innis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c690aa31-4a29-492d-9285-ff16065c582c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you feeling stuck and having a difficult time finding clarity and purpose? 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. Allow me to walk alongside of you to process through these challenging times.
Are you feeling stuck and having a difficult time finding clarity and purpose? 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. Allow me to walk alongside of you to process through these challenging times.
![Photo of Nick T Butcher, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9c35104-5b37-401e-ad40-fd11aa9f01a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nick T Butcher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MO, LCPC-KS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
If you are reading this right now, then you are likely exploring change of some kind in your life. It's not uncommon for someone to explore change if they are experiencing troublesome thoughts, feelings or behaviors. These may be the result of feeling overstimulated, mentally blocked, stuck or even paralyzed by a problem, trauma, belief, or struggle with identity. It can be difficult to think of or put into words what it is that we really want and why. I would like to help in this process.
If you are reading this right now, then you are likely exploring change of some kind in your life. It's not uncommon for someone to explore change if they are experiencing troublesome thoughts, feelings or behaviors. These may be the result of feeling overstimulated, mentally blocked, stuck or even paralyzed by a problem, trauma, belief, or struggle with identity. It can be difficult to think of or put into words what it is that we really want and why. I would like to help in this process.
![Photo of Kim Warden - Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a16ea25-6549-4948-8755-74e7616746a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lutheran Family & Children's Services of MO
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) provides support for children and families in St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Franklin County, to address and manage issues such as Anxiety and Depression, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Self-harm and Suicidal Thoughts, Behavioral Problems, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Bullying, and Helping Children Cope with Separation and Divorce. Psychiatric services are also available in St. Louis County and Franklin County.
Lutheran Family and Children’s Services (LFCS) provides support for children and families in St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Franklin County, to address and manage issues such as Anxiety and Depression, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Self-harm and Suicidal Thoughts, Behavioral Problems, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Bullying, and Helping Children Cope with Separation and Divorce. Psychiatric services are also available in St. Louis County and Franklin County.
![Photo of Alaina Marie Borra, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a74f3b1e-f283-4732-bd6f-822b39c368fa/1/320x400.jpeg)
In the words of Glennon Doyle, “Wasn’t it all supposed to be more beautiful than this?” I believe that deep healing is a process of connection, freedom, and joy. I aim to tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual needs and circumstances. Therapy should be about YOU and starts with compassion and understanding. Everything you bring to my office is welcome.
In the words of Glennon Doyle, “Wasn’t it all supposed to be more beautiful than this?” I believe that deep healing is a process of connection, freedom, and joy. I aim to tailor my therapeutic approach to your individual needs and circumstances. Therapy should be about YOU and starts with compassion and understanding. Everything you bring to my office is welcome.
![Photo of Jenna Amato, MS, NCC, CIT, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e86b5682-3650-437e-8e2f-0e1b43c009e4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you so anxious the tears come and in that moment you're not even sure what you're anxious about, you just wish the clench of your stomach and the tightness in your chest would subside? Do you think sometimes you're a monster under your skin and no one knows the real you? Do you sometimes feel like crawling in a hole and and sleeping it all away, until it maybe feels ok, until your body isn't tense anymore and your skin isn't prickled because you feel like vomiting but can't. I work with clients experiencing intense anxiety, shame, self-harm, and self-sabotage.
Are you so anxious the tears come and in that moment you're not even sure what you're anxious about, you just wish the clench of your stomach and the tightness in your chest would subside? Do you think sometimes you're a monster under your skin and no one knows the real you? Do you sometimes feel like crawling in a hole and and sleeping it all away, until it maybe feels ok, until your body isn't tense anymore and your skin isn't prickled because you feel like vomiting but can't. I work with clients experiencing intense anxiety, shame, self-harm, and self-sabotage.
![Photo of Rynn Wyrick, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56d48b8e-e82a-433a-bde3-d41e981878d7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rynn Wyrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65211
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
![Photo of Jason C Purinton, MS, PLPC, CRC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78880505-bca1-4510-8066-65664e8b9051/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jason Purinton is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor focusing on career counseling and job placements. Vocational Pros, LLC is an employment services firm specializing in career coaching and vocational consultation to individuals, corporations, and institutions. I provide placement and support to those looking for employment and those looking for more satisfying careers. These services include vocational assessment, testing, consulting, earning capacity evaluation, labor market access, job placement, and post-placement support.
Jason Purinton is a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor focusing on career counseling and job placements. Vocational Pros, LLC is an employment services firm specializing in career coaching and vocational consultation to individuals, corporations, and institutions. I provide placement and support to those looking for employment and those looking for more satisfying careers. These services include vocational assessment, testing, consulting, earning capacity evaluation, labor market access, job placement, and post-placement support.
![Photo of Ronald Laney, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c985bf4-337a-40c6-868e-e7248c907fde/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ronald Laney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65211
If you’ve been longing to develop a deeper understanding of self and others in the context of a more longterm, intimate therapeutic relationship—one in which you are free and encouraged to be your authentic self, we may very well be a good fit. I’m certified in existential-humanistic therapy from the Existential-Humanistic Institute in California, and while I do incorporate other modalities of therapy, I take a predominantly philosophical approach, focusing on the human condition and how we might best navigate a variety of existential concerns that may hinder us from living fully—engaging in self-sabotage for example.
If you’ve been longing to develop a deeper understanding of self and others in the context of a more longterm, intimate therapeutic relationship—one in which you are free and encouraged to be your authentic self, we may very well be a good fit. I’m certified in existential-humanistic therapy from the Existential-Humanistic Institute in California, and while I do incorporate other modalities of therapy, I take a predominantly philosophical approach, focusing on the human condition and how we might best navigate a variety of existential concerns that may hinder us from living fully—engaging in self-sabotage for example.
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![Photo of Christy L Stephens, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e37650-6cc5-4d92-9a0e-f6a761045945/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christy L Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
Are you emotionally and physically exhausted at the end of each day? Do personal relationships leave you wounded and questioning your value? We should talk. Life experiences often leave us feeling emotionally crushed and overwhelmed. Together we can sort through these experiences and determine your unique path to healing. I believe in the inherent value of every individual and their capacity to be whole, happy and free from persistent emotional pain. Let's discover the approach that feels good and makes the most sense on your way to a happier, healthier you.
Are you emotionally and physically exhausted at the end of each day? Do personal relationships leave you wounded and questioning your value? We should talk. Life experiences often leave us feeling emotionally crushed and overwhelmed. Together we can sort through these experiences and determine your unique path to healing. I believe in the inherent value of every individual and their capacity to be whole, happy and free from persistent emotional pain. Let's discover the approach that feels good and makes the most sense on your way to a happier, healthier you.
![Photo of Steven M. Portnoy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dbe6c661-352d-45ed-8dfe-1ebed86bf0b3/1/320x400.png)
Put most simply, my approach to psychotherapy is centered around helping you come to know yourself as fully as possible. Many people come to me in search of a more depth-oriented approach to therapy. Many approaches out there right now, in the interest of attempting to reduce symptoms as quickly as possible, may miss the mark in terms of understanding the “why” of it all, the more nuanced understanding of why our difficulties and symptoms are there to begin with, how they actually may have been serving us in some way, and their connection to our relational patterns and our past developmental experiences.
Put most simply, my approach to psychotherapy is centered around helping you come to know yourself as fully as possible. Many people come to me in search of a more depth-oriented approach to therapy. Many approaches out there right now, in the interest of attempting to reduce symptoms as quickly as possible, may miss the mark in terms of understanding the “why” of it all, the more nuanced understanding of why our difficulties and symptoms are there to begin with, how they actually may have been serving us in some way, and their connection to our relational patterns and our past developmental experiences.
![Photo of Karen Cole, MEd, SEP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/664a64bb-dff5-4470-9506-52053228baed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you ever feel like your emotions and logic just don't line up together? Does it feel like you're stuck in a neverending cycle and the autopilot that once worked just isn't working anymore? Want to move forward in your life but feel like it’s a constant battle? I want to be there to help you through that struggle so that you can find the path leading to your goals while gaining a sense of self-awareness, fulfillment, and happiness that you deserve. I believe that people are their own personal experts in their lives, but sometimes we need help unlocking that expert due to times of becoming overwhelmed and shut down in the past.
Do you ever feel like your emotions and logic just don't line up together? Does it feel like you're stuck in a neverending cycle and the autopilot that once worked just isn't working anymore? Want to move forward in your life but feel like it’s a constant battle? I want to be there to help you through that struggle so that you can find the path leading to your goals while gaining a sense of self-awareness, fulfillment, and happiness that you deserve. I believe that people are their own personal experts in their lives, but sometimes we need help unlocking that expert due to times of becoming overwhelmed and shut down in the past.
![Photo of Ashley Swon, MS, CIT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76aaf214-cbf3-41f7-b090-e3358823cce0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healing happens when we feel connected with others. It is my goal to create a strong therapeutic relationship where my clients can begin to recognize their strengths, understand their patterns, and challenge themselves to grow. I enjoy tailoring sessions to meet each client’s unique needs. My clients are often looking to resolve childhood trauma, break generational patterns, improve their relationships, set boundaries, recover from addiction, explore their sexuality, or navigate transitions such as divorce or blending a family. I am available for in-person sessions in Fayette or via telehealth for anyone in Missouri.
Healing happens when we feel connected with others. It is my goal to create a strong therapeutic relationship where my clients can begin to recognize their strengths, understand their patterns, and challenge themselves to grow. I enjoy tailoring sessions to meet each client’s unique needs. My clients are often looking to resolve childhood trauma, break generational patterns, improve their relationships, set boundaries, recover from addiction, explore their sexuality, or navigate transitions such as divorce or blending a family. I am available for in-person sessions in Fayette or via telehealth for anyone in Missouri.
![Photo of Dr. Linda Sterling, PhD, LPC, LCPC, CMPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70b73359-f6cf-4f87-86bc-581d6b9d8d08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there, athlete (and sport parents)! I'm glad you're here. Being an athlete is amazing (most days), but it comes with challenges. Maintaining a high level of performance AND enjoying your sport experience can be tough. Maybe you've lost your confidence, can't shake anxious thoughts, or you're afraid of letting others down. Maybe you're feeling the demands of athlete life. You're probably doing a lot of traveling, training, practicing and competing, sometimes sacrificing a personal life for your sport goals. Challenges with coaches and teammates happen too. Seeking support is such a strong choice. We'll work through it together.
Hello there, athlete (and sport parents)! I'm glad you're here. Being an athlete is amazing (most days), but it comes with challenges. Maintaining a high level of performance AND enjoying your sport experience can be tough. Maybe you've lost your confidence, can't shake anxious thoughts, or you're afraid of letting others down. Maybe you're feeling the demands of athlete life. You're probably doing a lot of traveling, training, practicing and competing, sometimes sacrificing a personal life for your sport goals. Challenges with coaches and teammates happen too. Seeking support is such a strong choice. We'll work through it together.
![Photo of Amber McCartney, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1da9c4c5-e831-4929-abf2-9cf9e0e548e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber McCartney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, & related issues using a combination of evidence-based modalities like EMDR, IFS, & DBT skills. My goal is to provide you with the tools & resources needed to navigate life's challenges with greater ease, compassion, acceptance, & a renewed sense of self. Together, we will create a safe & supportive environment to explore the effects of past experiences on your mental health & address the underlying causes of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms themselves. This approach allows for deeper healing & lasting change, leading to a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in treating adults with PTSD, depression, anxiety, & related issues using a combination of evidence-based modalities like EMDR, IFS, & DBT skills. My goal is to provide you with the tools & resources needed to navigate life's challenges with greater ease, compassion, acceptance, & a renewed sense of self. Together, we will create a safe & supportive environment to explore the effects of past experiences on your mental health & address the underlying causes of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms themselves. This approach allows for deeper healing & lasting change, leading to a more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Mallory Zarcone, LPC Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2763b613-3728-44a8-b41d-611bd7527156/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mallory Zarcone
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65203
Not accepting new clients
Hello, I'm Mallory! I'm a Student Counselor at Strong Heart Counseling. I love to work with young adults, adults, couples and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am passionate about helping individuals through various aspects of self-discovery and growth, including, identity exploration, addressing religious trauma, navigating life transitions, understanding attachment dynamics, and fostering healthy relationships.
Hello, I'm Mallory! I'm a Student Counselor at Strong Heart Counseling. I love to work with young adults, adults, couples and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am passionate about helping individuals through various aspects of self-discovery and growth, including, identity exploration, addressing religious trauma, navigating life transitions, understanding attachment dynamics, and fostering healthy relationships.
![Photo of Amy Michelle Evans, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3fae079-2d58-487d-8777-283688e7ee1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amy Michelle Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65201
Not accepting new clients
Clients who have experienced difficulties in life may desire support and encouragement as they process events and navigate life changes.
Clients who have experienced difficulties in life may desire support and encouragement as they process events and navigate life changes.