Barbara Fotsch
Hello. My name is Barb. I moved to southern California to be near my son, after living in St. Louis Missouri all of my life. I have always enjoyed my work with people and strongly believe we move forward when ready. My approach is mostly cognitive, psycho-educational, and supportive. I am rather casual & like to use humor when appropriate, as a tool, to help make the sessions comfortable. I believe no "one size fits all" in the therapeutic relationship; if something isn't working, we can back it up and try something different. I try to pay attention to a client's energy and offer techniques best suited; for example, some clients want more guidance, others more autonomy. My job is to "listen" and identify helpful movement toward understanding, growth, and healing. I check my emails 2x a day and will respond w/in 24 hours.
Christopher Hummel
I am licensed in Missouri with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma, abuse, & despression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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!
Michael McGaugh
I have about twenty years work experience in the field of mental health services, I have worked as an adult case manager in community support services. I have also been an intake specialist; but the one area I have found the most rewarding is working as a mental health counselor. I enjoy working with people in helping them to see issues and problems from different perspectives and helping them to make better choices that will help them with feeling better about themselves and to overcome their personal problems. I hold advanced degrees in psychology and mental health counseling. From my education and work experience, I have found CBT and positive center approaches along with solution based therapy to be effective in helping clients to become more mindful along with helping them to build coping skills that they can utilize to help them to be more empowered in making healthy decisions in their lives.
Toni McClure
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), with a family therapy concentration, and Life Coach with over 30 years’ experience who will work with you to reach your goals. I am also a trained crisis counselor, and Employee Assistance Professional. I have proudly offered clinical services to our active military, reserved, and veterans. I have also worked intensively with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, with a strong background in trauma recovery. I especially enjoy helping individuals find their internals strengths to solve problems. I specialize in helping individuals gain and maintain a healthy and balanced life: holistic approach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including and not limited to depression, anxiety, life stress, family issues, trauma, and grief and loss. My approach is strengths-based , cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, problem-solving, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy, tailored to meet your unique and specific needs/goals. We will work closely together as we embark on your journey to implement your roadmap to success. I listen and genuinely care about you and your concerns. I will help you identify and use your strengths and set personal goals. I will also assist you with finding the skills and tools necessary to rise above obstacles, improve your life, and reach your personal goals. Ultimately to empower you to make the positive changes you are seeking.
Dr. Michael Cundiff
Hello, my name is Michael Cundiff. I am a therapist with BetterHelp, and look forward to getting to know you. You have taken a bold first step by contacting BetterHelp, reflecting a strength and a good beginning. I enjoy working with people and look forward to speaking with you. My background information is available on my profile along with hours and availability. Forty-five minute sessions seem to work best for most clients, but we can be flexible if you have different expectations. Video, email and chat are the virtual formats, and clients are encouraged to go at their own rate. If you have questions, please ask, but feel free to do so should any come to mind later. I check for messages several times daily and try to respond as quickly as possible. My counseling approach is essentially client-centered, which is to say relationship based, and it is my belief that client and counselor should work together in establishing goals and strategies for solutions. You may have some thoughts on this as well which we can process. Looking forward to speaking with you. Michael Cundiff
Lora Newman
I am a licensed professional counselor as well as a business leadership and mental fitness coach. I have worked with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including stress, money stress, time management, and communication. I offer performance EMDR and Equine Assisted Learning to help business owners and leaders move beyond blocks and barriers holding them back from optimal results. My coaching and counseling style is warm, direct and interactive. Each session is designed to support you right where you are. It takes courage to put yourself out there and sometimes a little support is needed to get through the rough patches. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Louis Koch
I am licensed in Missouri with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbt-related issues, & relationship 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Wesley Hirst
As you search for just the ” right” counselor, the task may seem overwhelming. ” Will I like them?” ” Will they like me?” ” Will anyone ever understand?” ” Will they really be able to help me?” The list of concerns may seem exhausting. I have over thirty years of experience but I don’t have all the answers. I have never met YOU. I have never heard YOUR hopes and dreams and life story. What I do know from my training, professional experience, and life experience is that counseling works. There is no magic pill to ” fix ” your issues but with honesty, understanding, empathy, and proven methods, we can work together to make positive changes. Probably the most important element in a client/counselor relationship is trust. I want you to feel secure in the knowledge that you are entering a safe place. You will not be judged. I will treat you with compassion, understanding, and respect. I have been a son, brother, husband, father, employee, employer, and friend. I know how complicated life and relationships can be because I’ve been there. In my spare time, I enjoy camping, backpacking, music, biking, and photography. I have frequent visits from wildlife and I’m a pet lover. I have a Master’s degree in Psychology and have extensive training in trauma. substance abuse disorders, marriage counseling, mindfulness, and adolescent behavior disorders. I look forward to meeting you.
Michael Perkins
Over two decades psychotherapy experience. Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Primarily Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. Both strongly evidenced based. Addressing anxiety, depression, complex life transitions, and relationship challenges. I have experience with adults of all ages, teens, and Veterans (former Army Medic and Navy Corpsman) professionals, and individuals with transitions.
Rodney "Rod" Smith
I am licensed in Missouri and Idaho, with several years of professional counseling experience. I have experience in helping clients with recovering from addictions, relationship, trauma and abuse, anxiety, & depression issues. I have been through my own spiritual/therapeutic journey of change for the past 30 years that has enabled me to overcome my past addictions, feelings of depression, and sexual abuse. I tell you this because it is not only important that we have the clinical and professional experience (25 years experience in the behavioral health field), but that we have personal experience as well. I believe my authentic approach to counseling creates an atmosphere of honesty, trust, and acceptance that helps us to motivate ourselves towards making positive and tremendous changes in our lives. Professional Experience I have recently worked in a prison as a mental health professional for the past 7 years conducting individual and group therapy. I have worked over 25 years in the fields of mental health, addiction, and co-occurring disorders performing evaluations, therapeutic interventions, and individual and group therapy. In addition, I have education in Biblical guided counseling and have offered it to many of my clients at there request.
Dr. Brenda S Melton
I am licensed in Missouri with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Susan Albrecht
I am a family and individual therapist licensed in the state of Missouri for the previous 40 plus years. My years of experience have focused on the physical and mental health issues of individuals and families experiencing grief, loss, isolation, depression adjustment to health issues, pain and death. I am a warm and sincere person. My therapeutic style is supportive and non judgemental. I welcome your story and look forward to helping YOU. I recognize that it has taken alot of courage to seek out a counselor and hope you can now end your search. I am someone who listens intently and will tailor treatment to your individual needs and goals. I look forward to meeting you and taking the next step to support and empower.
Kevin Stegeman
I provide a supportive, structured space where we work together to understand what’s bringing you in and how to move forward. My goal is for you to feel heard, leave sessions with clarity, and begin making meaningful progress from the start. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, and life transitions. Many of my clients feel stuck, overwhelmed, or frustrated by patterns they haven’t been able to change on their own. They’re often looking for more than just a place to talk. My style is collaborative, client-centered, and goal-oriented. I use evidence-based, skills-focused interventions, with a strong foundation in person centered and DBT-informed strategies. Together, we’ll focus on building emotional regulation, strengthening coping skills, and creating real, sustainable behavior change. I believe everyone has the power to heal within themselves and can benefit from counseling.
Oscar McKinley
I'm Dr. Oscar McKinley, a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through some of life's most challenging experiences. Over my career, I've worked with clients navigating depression, trauma, anger, bipolar disorder, couple therapy and ADHD. I'm skilled at helping people address communication difficulties, process trauma and loss, and move toward forgiveness and healing. My approach is grounded in understanding each person's unique story and circumstances. I work collaboratively with clients to build insight, develop coping skills, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for them. I'm committed to showing up with authenticity, respect, and genuine care. I'm honored to support clients from diverse backgrounds and experiences. If you're considering therapy, I want you to know that taking that step takes courage, and I'm here to walk alongside you with compassion and commitment to your growth.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Ava, Missouri
Finding a therapist near you in Ava, Missouri starts with matching to a licensed professional who fits your needs, schedule, and goals. Missouri is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities, which can make it challenging to find care. BetterHelp connects you with a licensed therapist through tailored matching, so you can begin care from home or wherever works for you.
The network includes over 30,000 licensed therapists globally, and over 4 million people have used BetterHelp to find support through online therapy. During matching, 93% of user preferences are met, which helps you connect with a therapist suited to what you are looking for. Whether you are searching for help with anxiety, trauma, affordable or insurance covered therapy, weekend or flexible scheduling, or virtual sessions, you can find a therapist and get started when you are ready.
Why work with a licensed therapist near you?
Working with a licensed therapist near you gives you access to professional mental health support from someone trained to help you understand and manage what you are going through. A licensed therapist can offer evidence-based approaches, a steady space to talk, and guidance tailored to your situation. In Missouri, online therapy can make that care more accessible, since sessions happen from home or wherever you are, without the need to travel to an office. This can help if your schedule is full, if travel is difficult, or if you simply prefer a more discreet setting. You can learn more about what a therapist does on the therapist role page.
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 can help with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety and stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self-esteem and identity, people-pleasing and fear of rejection, insomnia and racing thoughts, workplace stress and burnout, substance use, parenting and co-parenting stress, grief and loss, and relationship and family challenges. Therapists on BetterHelp may draw on approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), depending on your needs and goals. You can explore support for specific concerns on pages such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and eating disorders.
Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.
Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Missouri
Online therapy and in-person therapy both connect you with a licensed professional, and the main difference is how you meet. In Missouri, online therapy through BetterHelp lets you have sessions by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet from home or on a schedule that fits your life. In-person therapy takes place at an office and may involve travel and set appointment windows. Online therapy may be more accessible for people with busy schedules, limited transportation, or a preference for a more discreet setting. Both formats can support meaningful progress, so the right choice often comes down to what fits your life.
Finding a therapist that accepts insurance in Missouri
BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session.
You can check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. If you prefer to pay without insurance, BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, billed as an alternative way to access the same care, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri
BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Missouri through personalized matching that considers your needs, preferences, and goals. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, you can be matched with a licensed therapist from a network of over 30,000 professionals, and 93% of user preferences are met during matching. The search and location matching cover common near-me needs, including anxiety, trauma, affordable or sliding-scale support, weekend or flexible scheduling, and virtual sessions. If your first match is not the right fit, you can switch therapists at no extra cost. When you are ready, you can get started and begin the process.
Therapists near you in Missouri
Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Missouri, including residents in Ava.
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 near you can vary by provider, format, and payment method. With BetterHelp, subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week, and you can use HSA and FSA funds toward the cost. BetterHelp also accepts insurance through many major insurance plans, and eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability, and deductible status.
Does BetterHelp accept insurance?
Yes. BetterHelp accepts insurance through many major insurance plans. Insurance availability and coverage may vary by state, plan, provider network, and therapist availability. Eligible members' average copay is $23 per session. Check your in-network status on the BetterHelp site through the sign up flow. For a full breakdown of how BetterHelp works with insurance plans, see BetterHelp insurance coverage.
Is online therapy effective?
Online therapy can be an effective way to receive licensed mental health care for many common concerns. Research suggests that online therapy may support progress in ways comparable to in-person care for concerns such as anxiety and depression. On BetterHelp, you connect with a licensed therapist who can use evidence-based approaches such as CBT and DBT, and you can meet by phone, video, or in-app messaging.
Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?
No, you do not need a diagnosis to see a therapist. Many people begin therapy to work through stress, life changes, relationships, or personal growth without any diagnosis. Please note that therapists on BetterHelp do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses. If you are looking for a starting point, personalized matching can connect you with a licensed therapist suited to your goals.
How quickly can I start therapy?
You can often start therapy within 24 to 48 hours of signing up with BetterHelp. After you answer a few questions during the sign up flow, personalized matching connects you with a licensed therapist, and you can schedule your first session once you are matched. This process is designed to help you begin care at your own pace, without a long wait.
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 discreet?
Online therapy with BetterHelp offers a discreet setting where you can connect with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home. Sessions take place by phone, video, or in-app messaging, so you can meet without going into an office. Your account and sessions are protected with strong safeguards, and you choose how and where you attend. This can make therapy feel more comfortable for people who prefer a discreet way to get support.
Find a Therapist in Ava, Missouri
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Ava and the surrounding MO area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.