Nestled in the Ozarks, Salem, Missouri, is full of natural resources, including a state park, where people like to fish for trout, all while enjoying resplendent Mother Nature. Fishing is a sport that takes a lot of time and patience. So, there’s no question that fishermen have a lot of time to observe the natural beauty around them.
Living with mental health struggles takes a lot of time and patience, too. And it’s not always easy to enjoy your community when everything around you feels so negative. But a Salem area counselor can help you. They understand what you’re going through and are committed to helping you make your life better. Match with a licensed, confidential mental health professional today for a better tomorrow.
Casey French
Hello, my name is Casey French and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. Through guidance, encouragement and support, I have helped clients of all ages and backgrounds discover a better quality of life. My main area of focus is first responders; police, fire, EMS, and military personnel that work in crisis everyday and that live in a constant state of alertness. Transitioning back into "normal" life with family and friends can be difficult. Not only can asking for help be stressful, but finding the time can be all but impossible. Being able to reach out to someone at times that work best for you is critical and is why I began working with Betterhelp. Are you seeking relief from depression, anxiety, frustrations in relationships, low self esteem? My goal is to provide a safe and supportive setting where you can explore your deepest questions and to help you find ways to become more confident and comfortable in the world. My approach is collaborative and eclectic although I have extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I will seek to understand you as a unique individual and tailor my approach to what works for you. I am experienced and dedicated to working with you in overcoming the obstacles that cause you distress and to create a more balanced and satisfying life. Let me help you take the first step in accepting your past, living in your present, and changing your future.
Karen Kavaloski
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.
Carla Frankoviglia-Gilfry
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I bring over two decades of compassionate clinical experience supporting individuals through life's complex challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, relationship dynamics, and personal growth with empathy and expertise. I specialize in supporting women through transformative life stages, focusing on self-esteem, communication, workplace challenges, and midlife transitions. My approach is deeply attuned to the unique experiences of individuals seeking to understand themselves more deeply and cultivate meaningful personal change. My therapeutic work emphasizes self-love, body image healing, and helping clients discover their sense of purpose. I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their inner landscape, develop resilient coping strategies, and build more authentic, fulfilling lives. Through collaborative and personalized counseling, I'm committed to walking alongside you as you navigate your personal growth journey, honoring your individual strengths and potential for transformation.
Belinda Licea
Using a person-centered trauma-focused approach, I will help you learn to have a more fulfilling life. I believe in being real and providing unconditional positive regard which means that I accept you for how you are and believe that anyone is capable of having a new life. My diverse life experiences have provided me the tools to provide genuine empathy which is important to build that connection and trust. I have had several opportunities to work with diverse populations. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and have worked a lot with anxiety, depression, foster care, self-esteem, and family conflict.
Brenda Swift
I’m Brenda Swift. When I’m not working, I like to take my dog for long walks in various parks and binge watch shows. I also look forward to the reading challenges offered through the library, because it forces me to make time to read at least 20 minutes. I have a passion for working with clients having difficulty navigating life’s situations and wanting to hide from society, I help clients who have stress and anxiety, relationship issues, need to cope with grief and loss, & depression. I understand what it’s like to struggle in life, because life has not been easy for me. I’m skilled in creating a trusting environment that allows clients to share openly and freely, that allows them to express their reasons for seeking professional help. I look forward to meeting you, so we can help you find contentment in your life.
Lexie Avery
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.
Jessica David
Welcome! My name is Jessica David. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Missouri. I am so happy to hear that you are taking the time to seek out support for something that you are struggling with. I would love to work with you and help you overcome the challenges you are facing. I have been working as a professional counselor for the past 14 years. I have worked in both a residential setting helping individuals with trauma and abuse as well as the school setting. It is important for you to find someone that you can speak to open and honestly without the fear of judgement. As a therapist, I respectfully support clients in identifying and reaching goals. My goal is to act as a guide and support as clients become empowered through the therapeutic journey. I have the most experience in working with those struggling from depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem and confidence. I enjoy working with clients using many different therapeutic modalities; client-centered, solution focused, cognitive behavior therapy, strength based and mindfulness therapy. I really look forward to working with you and helping you become the best version of you!
Aquila Rives
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.
Novella Keyler
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Missouri for over 25 years. I have recently moved to New Mexico but retain my Missouri license. . I have a Masters degree in Psychology (from a Systems perspective) from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville and a Masters in Social Work from the University of Kansas. I am quite holistic, aware that we are all multi-faceted. I have accumulated a lot of "tools in my toolkit" along the way and work to find the best approaches and strategies for each client. Talking about the problem is only one approach to make changes. I have worked a lot with people who have depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, and trauma. I also have experience working with people in the LGBTQ+ community. I am compassionate and believe every person has dignity, strengths and value. I love to help people find ways to help them thrive, instead of just survive. I look forward to working with you.
Jodi Fortner
Welcome to my practice! As a Licensed Professional Therapist, I help people develop an understanding of the link between their thoughts, feelings and actions. I utilize a Trauma Informed, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution-Focused therapeutic approach to counseling. I support clients in processing their experiences and developing coping strategies for their emotions so they can face any challenge in life calmly and confidently.
Stephanie Valenzuela
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.
Todd Helm
As a licensed therapist in Missouri, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes, with a strong focus on men’s mental health. I understand that many men face unique pressures related to identity, expectations, emotional expression, relationships, and the stigma of asking for help. My work is especially centered on helping men navigate life’s unexpected journeys while building healthier ways to cope, connect, and grow. I help clients explore life purpose, address feelings of guilt and shame, and work through attachment, control, and emotional barriers that may be keeping them stuck. I’m particularly passionate about supporting men experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, anger, relationship difficulties, and the challenge of feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I also work with men who may turn to avoidance, overworking, substance use, or reckless behaviors as a way of managing deeper pain. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where clients can speak openly without fear of criticism or having to “have it all figured out.” I believe therapy should be practical, meaningful, and grounded in real life. Together, we work to strengthen emotional awareness, improve communication, build resilience, and develop healthier coping strategies that translate beyond the therapy room. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I collaborate closely with clients to create personalized approaches that honor their unique experiences and goals. Whether you’re struggling with life transitions, self-esteem challenges, relationship stress, or seeking greater emotional balance, I’m committed to walking alongside you with genuine empathy, professional support, and a clear focus on lasting growth.
Mario Bailey
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, burnout, or major life transitions. You don’t have to figure it out alone. I provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can slow down, process what’s happening, and begin to feel more grounded and empowered. Together, we’ll explore patterns, build practical tools, and create meaningful change that feels sustainable in your daily life. My approach is collaborative, warm, and tailored to you. I draw from evidence-based practices while honoring your unique experiences, culture, and goals. Therapy with me is both reflective and action-oriented—we’ll build insight while also developing strategies you can use right away. Reaching out can be the hardest step. If you're ready for a space where you feel heard, supported, and challenged in healthy ways, I’d love to connect. Let’s talk about what’s bringing you in and how we can move toward the life you want.
Justine Diaz
As a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating life's complex emotional landscapes. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients work through stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and significant life transitions. I understand that each person's path is unique, and I approach therapy with deep compassion and respect. My practice centers on creating a supportive environment where you can explore your challenges, develop resilient coping strategies, and cultivate meaningful personal growth. Drawing from evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I'm committed to walking alongside you as you build emotional strength and discover your inner resources. Whether you're facing workplace challenges, processing past experiences, or managing life's unexpected changes, I offer a collaborative and empathetic approach to healing. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences, understand your emotions, and develop practical tools for moving forward with confidence and clarity.
*BetterHelp insurance availability, coverage, and cost may vary by state, plan, provider network, therapist availability, and deductible status.
Find a therapist near you in Salem, Missouri
Finding a therapist near you in Salem, 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 Salem.
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 Salem, Missouri
Ready to begin? BetterHelp can match you with a licensed therapist serving Salem and the surrounding MO area. When you are ready to take the next step, get started.