Therapists in Topeka, KS
Mindi Kessler
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I am the author of the book Cycle Breaker: A Guide to Transcending Childhood Trauma. In my work with clients, I use what I have learned as a trauma therapist for 25 years to support people who want to get unstuck and create a life they love. Most people don’t realize they have suffered childhood trauma, but are confused why they are angry, anxious, depressed and have unfulfilling relationships. I help people connect the dots between their current struggles and their unprocessed wounds from the past. I don't just help people with symptoms, I help them get to the root cause of their suffering, so they can enjoy sustainable change.
I am the author of the book Cycle Breaker: A Guide to Transcending Childhood Trauma. In my work with clients, I use what I have learned as a trauma therapist for 25 years to support people who want to get unstuck and create a life they love. Most people don’t realize they have suffered childhood trauma, but are confused why they are angry, anxious, depressed and have unfulfilling relationships. I help people connect the dots between their current struggles and their unprocessed wounds from the past. I don't just help people with symptoms, I help them get to the root cause of their suffering, so they can enjoy sustainable change.
Jim Lance Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
Megan M Torneden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66603
Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your child, or your family, beginning therapy can be daunting and challenging. It is my hope to offer you an environment where you can consistently feel safe, supported and accepted; allowing you to make this step with more assurance and ease. I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship between a therapist and client, and I am passionate about building healthy relationships with children struggling with emotional or behavioral concerns, and their families, to help build resilience, community, and support systems.
Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your child, or your family, beginning therapy can be daunting and challenging. It is my hope to offer you an environment where you can consistently feel safe, supported and accepted; allowing you to make this step with more assurance and ease. I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is the therapeutic relationship between a therapist and client, and I am passionate about building healthy relationships with children struggling with emotional or behavioral concerns, and their families, to help build resilience, community, and support systems.
Bryan Beaty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
Hi! I’m Bryan. My hope is to provide clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand thoughts and feelings that may arise through life. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-worth, life changes, and trauma. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a teenager struggling to make meaningful relationships, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
Ira Stamm
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
I am an experienced therapist with many years of treating patients. If you would like to discuss working with me, please e-mail me the following information: Age, occupation/profession, family status, and the problem for which you are seeking help. I accept Blue Cross, traditional Medicare Part B, and self-pay. I am currently seeing clients via Teletherapy - a process which is helpful to most clients. My orientation is common sense, practical, psychodynamic therapy - blended with several other meaningful viewpoints about the problems people encounter. In our first meeting I will listen to your personal story (history).
I am an experienced therapist with many years of treating patients. If you would like to discuss working with me, please e-mail me the following information: Age, occupation/profession, family status, and the problem for which you are seeking help. I accept Blue Cross, traditional Medicare Part B, and self-pay. I am currently seeing clients via Teletherapy - a process which is helpful to most clients. My orientation is common sense, practical, psychodynamic therapy - blended with several other meaningful viewpoints about the problems people encounter. In our first meeting I will listen to your personal story (history).
Optimum Performance Solutions LLC
Psychologist, PhD, NRHSPP, BCN, BCB, QEEGT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I am deeply committed to each client achieving their optimum functioning. Across the range from disabled to the extremely high functioning executive, I ask that the client bring a commitment to growth, and I provide expertise in a range of specialties. I am best suited to treating the whole person.
I am deeply committed to each client achieving their optimum functioning. Across the range from disabled to the extremely high functioning executive, I ask that the client bring a commitment to growth, and I provide expertise in a range of specialties. I am best suited to treating the whole person.
John B Hymon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
My client centered approach is to assist individuals in accessing needs and assessing how to enhance their cognitive wiring moving from maintaining to thriving. Standing with, in an empathetic process - that focuses on affirmation, self determination and self-actualization while building coping skills, trauma recovery and character development.
My client centered approach is to assist individuals in accessing needs and assessing how to enhance their cognitive wiring moving from maintaining to thriving. Standing with, in an empathetic process - that focuses on affirmation, self determination and self-actualization while building coping skills, trauma recovery and character development.
Staci Pershall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
I am interested in assisting people of all ages in reaching their fullest potential. Whether you are experiencing a difficult life phase, are a trauma survivor, or are navigating life with a persistent mental health diagnosis, I am here to partner with you.
I am interested in assisting people of all ages in reaching their fullest potential. Whether you are experiencing a difficult life phase, are a trauma survivor, or are navigating life with a persistent mental health diagnosis, I am here to partner with you.
Wendy Bair-Loehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. Wendy has 20+ years experience in mental health. A graduate of Grinnell College and KU School of Social Welfare, Wendy has vast experience working in both rural and metropolitan communities. Having worked with individuals with chronic mental illness, eating disorders, addiction and trauma at Menninger, Wendy went on to broaden her skills to include extensive work in anxiety, depressive and behavioral disorders in Kansas City. There, she also provided treatment for people who had experienced workplace violence and airline accidents.
PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL. Wendy has 20+ years experience in mental health. A graduate of Grinnell College and KU School of Social Welfare, Wendy has vast experience working in both rural and metropolitan communities. Having worked with individuals with chronic mental illness, eating disorders, addiction and trauma at Menninger, Wendy went on to broaden her skills to include extensive work in anxiety, depressive and behavioral disorders in Kansas City. There, she also provided treatment for people who had experienced workplace violence and airline accidents.
Shannon Lynn Solander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66604
Trauma, anxiety, depression, stress and relationship conflict can leave us feeling overwhelmed. It takes courage to ask for help. I utilize a holistic, strengths based approach that is tailored to honor the uniqueness within each one of us. Our work together is a partnership designed to provide you with the best care possible in addressing your concerns.
Trauma, anxiety, depression, stress and relationship conflict can leave us feeling overwhelmed. It takes courage to ask for help. I utilize a holistic, strengths based approach that is tailored to honor the uniqueness within each one of us. Our work together is a partnership designed to provide you with the best care possible in addressing your concerns.
Beth Chippendale Katona
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66603 (Online Only)
Beth Katona is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) who has extensive experience with group, couples, and individual counseling, Beth specializes in many areas such as anxiety/depression, family and relationship issues, grief, dual diagnosis, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. She has 15 years of experience in the mental health field and her diverse professional background includes business management and extensive experience working with children and families in the foster care system.
Beth Katona is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) who has extensive experience with group, couples, and individual counseling, Beth specializes in many areas such as anxiety/depression, family and relationship issues, grief, dual diagnosis, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance abuse. She has 15 years of experience in the mental health field and her diverse professional background includes business management and extensive experience working with children and families in the foster care system.
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Bethany Hirsh-Street
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
I enjoy working with clients of all stages of life from toddler to adulthood. I work with individuals and families. I help clients address issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, problematic behavior, parenting, and interpersonal stressors. I help them work through their stressors to find peace and healthier functioning.
I enjoy working with clients of all stages of life from toddler to adulthood. I work with individuals and families. I help clients address issues such as anxiety, trauma, depression, problematic behavior, parenting, and interpersonal stressors. I help them work through their stressors to find peace and healthier functioning.
Liz Munns
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Searching for the right therapist can be daunting. The prospect of starting therapy can be scary. It can be especially frustrating to try many different things to feel better, yet never finding a sense of long- term relief. Sometimes we all need extra support to start this healing journey– I know this from a deeply personal level. I have found that lasting change must involve our whole self- body, mind, and spirit. I use mindfulness skills to help bring awareness to how thoughts, feelings and sensations impact our nervous system and sense of well-being and to help you heal those places where you feel stuck and depleted.
Searching for the right therapist can be daunting. The prospect of starting therapy can be scary. It can be especially frustrating to try many different things to feel better, yet never finding a sense of long- term relief. Sometimes we all need extra support to start this healing journey– I know this from a deeply personal level. I have found that lasting change must involve our whole self- body, mind, and spirit. I use mindfulness skills to help bring awareness to how thoughts, feelings and sensations impact our nervous system and sense of well-being and to help you heal those places where you feel stuck and depleted.
Thomas S Bartlett
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66611
Not accepting new clients
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
"I work with each client to develop a treatment approach that meets their goals and individual requirements. I believe that people are more than a diagnosis or static label and my work places an emphasis on the person with a challenge rather than simply focus on the challenge alone. The therapeutic process is more than helping a person to develop positive thinking or an optimistic attitude, but involves helping the person gain an understanding of how they can approach the world to obtain the greatest satisfaction from their relationships, their work and their life in general."
Shauna B Vega
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614 (Online Only)
Everyone needs help navigating life's biggest challenges, regrets, losses, illnesses, and/or worries. Sometimes the support system we have been relying upon is just not enough to help us overcome our current frustrations. Anxiety and depression can seep in and take over without us even realizing how paralyzing it can be. Rejuvenate your sense of well-being and get back on track. You have taken the first encouraging step by reaching out to get more help in setting up your goals to a better well-being.
Everyone needs help navigating life's biggest challenges, regrets, losses, illnesses, and/or worries. Sometimes the support system we have been relying upon is just not enough to help us overcome our current frustrations. Anxiety and depression can seep in and take over without us even realizing how paralyzing it can be. Rejuvenate your sense of well-being and get back on track. You have taken the first encouraging step by reaching out to get more help in setting up your goals to a better well-being.
Robert G Heckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66603
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
Kathleen Hunter Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I love to help people begin again to get healthy, well and strong. Whether they are coming through a physical or mental illness, divorce, grief or other life transition, being knocked down in any way, requires support to get back up and start again. I am support.
I love to help people begin again to get healthy, well and strong. Whether they are coming through a physical or mental illness, divorce, grief or other life transition, being knocked down in any way, requires support to get back up and start again. I am support.
Kerri Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Topeka, KS 66614
I am a licensed master social worker, as well as a certified enneagram coach. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, working with individuals, children, families, and couples. I specialize in working with women, in particular mothers, in combating mom guilt. In addition to utilizing the enneagram, I utilize solution-focused and strengths-based perspectives in treatment. I believe therapy is a vulnerable and personal decision, and I want each person to feel empowered and supported through their journey. I look forward to working with you.
I am a licensed master social worker, as well as a certified enneagram coach. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, working with individuals, children, families, and couples. I specialize in working with women, in particular mothers, in combating mom guilt. In addition to utilizing the enneagram, I utilize solution-focused and strengths-based perspectives in treatment. I believe therapy is a vulnerable and personal decision, and I want each person to feel empowered and supported through their journey. I look forward to working with you.
Yolanda Wilson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Waitlist for new clients
Working with youth ages 7-17, making a case by case exception for youth 4-6. Children with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, and Depression are the main diagnoses treated. Evening hours available.
Working with youth ages 7-17, making a case by case exception for youth 4-6. Children with ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, and Depression are the main diagnoses treated. Evening hours available.
Karen D Kriger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
Not accepting new clients
You are meant to thrive. I believe that every life circumstance carries the potential to grow our health, resilience & sense of Self. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside to help & hope for us as we heal & make sense of our stories. Helping couples, families, adults & children pursue this healing & transformation is a privilege.
You are meant to thrive. I believe that every life circumstance carries the potential to grow our health, resilience & sense of Self. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside to help & hope for us as we heal & make sense of our stories. Helping couples, families, adults & children pursue this healing & transformation is a privilege.
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Number of Therapists in Topeka, KS
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Therapists in Topeka, KS who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
75% | Stress |
74% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Self Esteem |
69% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
97% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
57% | Medicaid |
53% | Aetna |
How Therapists in Topeka, KS see their clients
79% | In Person and Online | |
21% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Topeka?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.