We often move through our lives focused on serving the ones we love. We serve our friends, our family, and others often at the cost of our own health and well-being. While serving others is important, our mental health should not be neglected.

Kirksville is a town focused on serving its residents through its public infrastructure, safety, and financial management. It also has mental health professionals ready to serve residents who need a little help now and then, no matter what the need. If you're one of those residents, please reach out to a nearby counselor today.

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Psychologist Karen Kavaloski providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Karen Kavaloski

Clinician
License Type(s): MI LPC 6401224938, NM LPCC CCMH0197151
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
17 years offering treatment

Hello, my name is Karen Kavaloski and I am a LPC in New Mexico, North Carolina and in Missouri. I was originally licensed as a counselor in 2009 while working in Arizona by the State of North Carolina after making a career change from a almost 30 year history in nursing. My passion since I was a young adult was counseling and it took me almost 30 years to achieve my goal of becoming a counselor. I was a Marine wife for almost 30 years and have traveled allot, I have 3 children and 5 grandchildren. My youngest, a son, and one of my grandchildren are severely autistic so I can identify with the stress and struggles some families have with managing special needs within their family. I am also a cancer survivor. I believe we all have an ability to heal the body, mind and soul and I consciously strive daily to be an active participant in my life and support and encourage others to do the same. My education beyond my nursing and counseling includes a Masters in Business Administration and a Doctorate in (Christian) Ministries. I have worked primarily over this past 17 years with trauma and substance abuse in the adult population with about 3 years working with the teenage population in these areas. I also have worked about 5 years total with prison reentry and counseling individuals and families with histories of incarceration in state and federal prison. I believe in working with individuals and families to achieve their highest goals. I believe the client is the expert in his/her own life and I fully encourage one to strive to work towards building a strong foundation within themselves and their families whatever that looks like to them, to that end I use focused solution therapy, internal systems therapy, mindfulness/compassion therapy, cognitive and cognitive behavioral, dialectical therapy, emotional freedom techniques and/or neurolinguistic techniques . I am also the author and publisher self help books under my Sacred Self Workbook Series Outside my therapy practice, I spend my leisure time reading. meditation/praying and gardening. I do light exercise daily.

Psychologist Lexie Avery providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Lexie Avery

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2024044443
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with 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. 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. Michael Cundiff providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Dr. Michael Cundiff

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 000290
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
45 years offering treatment

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

Psychologist Aquila Rives providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Aquila Rives

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2019043759
Mental Wellness Specialties: Trauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
6 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist serving Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional approach centers on understanding the unique challenges of communication, family dynamics, and personal growth. I have worked with clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, and interpersonal conflicts. I strive to create a compassionate and affirming therapeutic environment. My practice is deeply committed to cultural responsiveness and meeting diverse client needs. I bring a nuanced understanding to working with individuals from varied backgrounds, including those seeking faith-informed support and culturally sensitive counseling. My goal is to provide a supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, develop resilience, and cultivate meaningful personal transformation. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate with clients to develop personalized strategies that honor their individual strengths and lived experiences. Whether addressing stress, family challenges, or navigating complex emotional terrain, I approach each therapeutic relationship with empathy, respect, and genuine commitment to your healing journey.

Psychologist Steven Forsyth providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Steven Forsyth

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2019046401
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
25 years offering treatment

I began my addictions counseling career six years after entering recovery from alcohol/drug use, on 5/13/1982. My original counseling schooling was in Rational Emotive Therapy, which evolved into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and led to my schooling in Narrative Therapy and Transactional Analysis. Most recently, I have become interested in Miller & Rollnick's Motivational Interviewing, Prochaska & Diclemente's Stages of Change model of behavior change, Berg & Miller's Solution-Focused Therapy, Marlatt & Donovan's relapse prevention strategies and techniques, ACT therapy, and Internal Family Systems therapy. My most recent Certification is in Robin Shapiro's Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing-EMDR-, through the EMDRIA International Institute in November of 2021. As a Therapist, I necessarily became conversant in telehealth methodology during the recent COVID-19 pandemic. I approach counseling holistically: I understand individuals as "whole cloth", i.e., as the current product(s) of their total life experiences. I also firmly believe in all-ways maintaining a positively enthusiastic outlook on life and living!

Psychologist Stacey Walsh providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Stacey Walsh

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2015006346
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
17 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, ADHD & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Robert Good providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Robert Good

Clinician
License Type(s): TX LPC 19134, MO LPC 2023050846
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed in both Missouri and Texas with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & anger management. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Stephanie Valenzuela providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Stephanie Valenzuela

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2022014721
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical focus centers on addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction, and grief. I am deeply committed to helping clients work through challenging experiences like isolation, shame, guilt, and panic attacks. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and personalized, emphasizing self-love, healing from past wounds, and developing healthy coping strategies. I understand the unique challenges faced by individuals struggling with substance use, and I create a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences and build resilience. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I work collaboratively with clients to help them reclaim their sense of control, process difficult emotions, and move toward meaningful personal growth. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming space where individuals can heal, discover their inner strength, and transform their lives.

Psychologist Carleen Roberts providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Carleen Roberts

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LCSW 2026018808, KS LSCSW LSCSW 06007
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years offering treatment

Each day, life unfolds in ways we don’t always expect. We encounter moments that leave us baffled, overwhelmed, confused, or emotionally shaken — and far too often, we face those moments feeling alone, ashamed, or pulled away from our own inner needs, no matter who we are or how we identify. Having someone to share these experiences with in a non‑judgmental, affirming space can make all the difference. I’m here to walk alongside you on the healing journey you’re creating, offering support as you reconnect with your strength, clarity, and sense of self. I work with adults 18 and older, offering a safe and supportive space rooted in trauma‑informed care, holistic well‑being, and collaborative partnership. Together, we focus on your goals, self‑love, and strengthening your personal intuition so you can move toward your vision of a grounded and empowered life. Your truth and your experiences deserve to be heard, honored, and understood. I’m here to listen with care and to support you as you move toward the healing path that feels right for you.

Psychologist Patricia Hewkin providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Patricia Hewkin

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2021032961
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Missouri with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

Psychologist Kevin Herbert providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Kevin Herbert

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2011024362
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
18 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring 18 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My approach is compassionate and holistic, focusing on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I specialize in addressing a wide range of emotional and psychological experiences, including social anxiety, workplace challenges, relationship difficulties, and personal growth. My therapeutic style emphasizes understanding individual needs, whether you're dealing with midlife transitions, young adult concerns, or seeking to improve self-esteem and communication. My background includes extensive work with diverse populations, including veterans, first responders, and individuals managing chronic health conditions. I'm committed to creating a supportive environment where clients can explore their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards meaningful personal transformation. I understand that seeking therapy takes courage, and I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with respect, empathy, and professional guidance as you navigate your unique journey of healing and self-discovery.

Psychologist Christina Cook providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Christina Cook

Clinician
License Type(s): MS LCSW C5536, MO LCSW 2024036160
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years offering treatment

As a mental health professional, I will apply evidence-based approaches to assist with recognizing symptoms, thought patterns, and emotional triggers that contribute to persistent anxiety, stress and depression, while providing psycho education to help you understand how thoughts, feelings, and behaviors interact. My commitment to you is simple: I will listen carefully, communicate openly, and act with integrity in every interaction. I’ll take the time to understand your unique goals, challenges, and values, and I’ll tailor my approach to meet your needs rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. You can expect transparency from me at every step. I’ll explain not only what I recommend, but why I recommend it, so you always feel informed and empowered to make decisions.

Psychologist Jennifer Nelson providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Jennifer Nelson

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2026013907
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice focuses on helping clients develop deeper self-understanding and resilience, particularly for those experiencing depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I'm passionate about creating an affirming space for all individuals no matter religion, culture, race, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. My work centers on addressing challenges like communication difficulties, self-esteem struggles, and feelings of isolation. I believe in empowering clients to cultivate self-love and develop effective coping strategies. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and compassionate, designed to help you build meaningful connections with yourself and others. Together, we'll explore your unique strengths and work towards transformative personal growth. I'm committed to walking alongside you as you navigate life's challenges and discover your inner resilience.

Psychologist Molly Thompson providing different types of therapy in Kirksville

Molly Thompson

Clinician
License Type(s): MO LPC 2018040814
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issues
8 years offering treatment

I'm Molly Thompson, a therapist with extensive experience supporting individuals through life's most challenging moments. Over the years, I've worked with clients navigating stress, anxiety, addiction, and parenting concerns—helping them build resilience and find meaningful pathways forward. My approach is grounded in compassion and collaboration. I specialize in helping clients cultivate self-love, improve communication, and work through feelings of guilt and shame. I believe that healing happens when we create space for honest reflection and growth, and I'm committed to meeting you where you are with respect and understanding. I'm honored to work with clients who value faith-based perspectives in their therapeutic journey, and I integrate that dimension thoughtfully into our work together. I’m equally as honored to work with clients from other faiths or who don’t ascribe to any faith. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, relationship dynamics, parenting challenges, or questions about self-worth, I'm here to support you with genuine care and evidence-based guidance. Taking that first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm truly grateful you're considering this journey. I look forward to walking alongside you.

*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.

Find a therapist near you in Kirksville, Missouri

Finding a therapist near you in Kirksville, 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 Kirksville.

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 Kirksville, Missouri

Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Kirksville and the surrounding MO area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.

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