Photo of Cheryl A Pendell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Cheryl A Pendell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC, CPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
I utilize an attachment-based perspective in my counseling approach.
There are many presenting issues that might bring you to counseling. Finding a therapist that you can connect with and build an alliance with is important to your success in therapy. I work very hard to create a relationship that will provide you the safety and warmth that you need to explore your experiences; I am very comfortable earning your trust. I use different treatment modalities, depending upon which is appropriate for you personally. Empathy is the primary tool used to give you the safety you need to explore your inner world while we begin to understand your experiences together.
I utilize an attachment-based perspective in my counseling approach.
There are many presenting issues that might bring you to counseling. Finding a therapist that you can connect with and build an alliance with is important to your success in therapy. I work very hard to create a relationship that will provide you the safety and warmth that you need to explore your experiences; I am very comfortable earning your trust. I use different treatment modalities, depending upon which is appropriate for you personally. Empathy is the primary tool used to give you the safety you need to explore your inner world while we begin to understand your experiences together.
(816) 987-7956 View (816) 987-7956
Photo of Dawn Stillinger, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Dawn Stillinger
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC/KS, LPC/MO, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Waitlist for new clients
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
The therapy approaches that I practice are person-centered, family systems, trauma-focused CBT, CBT, EMDR, play therapy, attachment-based interventions, mindfulness, art interventions and psychoeducation.
I currently have a 2-3 week wait to schedule an appointment. I am a creative and caring professional holding a master in counseling psychology degree and a certificate in child and adolescent counseling. With a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I treat the whole person with special emphasis on the effects of trauma. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults. With my previous work in the private sector and art community, I am uniquely qualified to assist individuals with creative challenges or career transitions and concerns.
(913) 728-4016 View (913) 728-4016
Photo of Nicci Marshall, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Nicci Marshall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, S-MFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Feeling alone with your problems is really tough. I know how lonely and powerless this can feel. Do you want to let go of your frustrations, anxieties, stressors or sadness? You can and you don't have to do it alone. What if you could understand and accept yourself fully, including your imperfections? What if you could understand and accept others in the same way? You can become the person you want you want to be.
Feeling alone with your problems is really tough. I know how lonely and powerless this can feel. Do you want to let go of your frustrations, anxieties, stressors or sadness? You can and you don't have to do it alone. What if you could understand and accept yourself fully, including your imperfections? What if you could understand and accept others in the same way? You can become the person you want you want to be.
(816) 429-3767 View (816) 429-3767
Photo of Abby Lindsay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Abby Lindsay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Life can be hard sometimes and full of stress, but my goal is to help provide a sense of inner peace and increase in happiness. I am passionate about the body and mind connection and identifying ways to improve overall happiness to live your best life. Life is meant to be lived and to feel empowered. Finding your own inner strength through improvement in mood, cognitions, and overall well-being. Having a safe space to talk and improve self growth and awareness is critical to improvement in daily functioning. My favorite saying is happiness is good for the soul and finding out that you are capable of that is my motivation!
Life can be hard sometimes and full of stress, but my goal is to help provide a sense of inner peace and increase in happiness. I am passionate about the body and mind connection and identifying ways to improve overall happiness to live your best life. Life is meant to be lived and to feel empowered. Finding your own inner strength through improvement in mood, cognitions, and overall well-being. Having a safe space to talk and improve self growth and awareness is critical to improvement in daily functioning. My favorite saying is happiness is good for the soul and finding out that you are capable of that is my motivation!
(816) 312-5923 View (816) 312-5923
Photo of Vanessa Wray Knight, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Vanessa Wray Knight
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
(816) 608-8444 View (816) 608-8444
Photo of Daylin Rodriguez Cesar, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Daylin Rodriguez Cesar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, PhDc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050  (Online Only)
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
(913) 884-1812 View (913) 884-1812
Photo of Annalisa Gramlich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Annalisa Gramlich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." C.G. Jung-- You might suffer from anxiety, depression, grief, and/or relationship issues, but the key is that you are willing to explore why. My philosophy is holistic in that I feel like it is important to examine each part of life because I truly believe everything is connected when it concerns mental, emotional, and physical suffering and pain. I have recently completed a yoga teacher certification so I am able to incorporate somatic principles and movement into my work with clients.
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." C.G. Jung-- You might suffer from anxiety, depression, grief, and/or relationship issues, but the key is that you are willing to explore why. My philosophy is holistic in that I feel like it is important to examine each part of life because I truly believe everything is connected when it concerns mental, emotional, and physical suffering and pain. I have recently completed a yoga teacher certification so I am able to incorporate somatic principles and movement into my work with clients.
(816) 565-4951 View (816) 565-4951
Photo of Laura K Probasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Laura K Probasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S, CDWF
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
If you're reading this, I want you to know how courageous it is that you've already taken the first step: asking for help. It's something no one wants to do, but I've been there, and it can be the change you need to live the life you were meant to. Being vulnerable and brave enough to tell your story is tough. But getting you to the place where you can actually own your story, and maybe even write a new ending, is totally worth it.
If you're reading this, I want you to know how courageous it is that you've already taken the first step: asking for help. It's something no one wants to do, but I've been there, and it can be the change you need to live the life you were meant to. Being vulnerable and brave enough to tell your story is tough. But getting you to the place where you can actually own your story, and maybe even write a new ending, is totally worth it.
(913) 270-6738 View (913) 270-6738
Photo of Jennifer Reid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Jennifer Reid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or anxious and don't know what to do or where to go? Do you feel very alone and nobody else understands or has experienced what you have/or are experiencing? Are you having trouble sleeping due to looping thoughts running through your mind? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. When circumstances happen making life more difficult, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path and tools to get you back to feeling more like yourself.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, down, or anxious and don't know what to do or where to go? Do you feel very alone and nobody else understands or has experienced what you have/or are experiencing? Are you having trouble sleeping due to looping thoughts running through your mind? Have all your old ways of coping stopped working? We all need support and guidance along our journey. Sometimes we need more than what our family and friends can provide. When circumstances happen making life more difficult, you may need some extra help. Together, you and I can find the right path and tools to get you back to feeling more like yourself.
(816) 875-0868 View (816) 875-0868
Photo of Amber Utter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Amber Utter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Every person has a unique path to walk in life. Sometimes you need someone to walk with you to guide, support, validate and encourage . I would see it as a privilege to walk beside you on your journey. It's difficult to reach out and it takes courage to seek positive change. I'm here to help you navigate life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflict and more.
Every person has a unique path to walk in life. Sometimes you need someone to walk with you to guide, support, validate and encourage . I would see it as a privilege to walk beside you on your journey. It's difficult to reach out and it takes courage to seek positive change. I'm here to help you navigate life transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship conflict and more.
(816) 253-8164 View (816) 253-8164
Photo of Alicia M. Hegarty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Alicia M. Hegarty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTP, CAIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Springs, MO 64015  (Online Only)
In a world full of judgment, we need someone we can be vulnerable with. We need someone we can talk to about the uncomfortable thoughts and emotions associated with fears and insecurities. We need someone we can bounce ideas off of to find perspective. In a world full of judgment, we need a nonjudgmental someone who can be kind, empathetic, and psychological educated to help us grow in self and life contentment. My 32 years of cosmetology and services industry work, along with my achievement of honors in both my BA and MA, has allowed me to build acceptance, wisdom, perspective, and awareness in my therapeutic approach.
In a world full of judgment, we need someone we can be vulnerable with. We need someone we can talk to about the uncomfortable thoughts and emotions associated with fears and insecurities. We need someone we can bounce ideas off of to find perspective. In a world full of judgment, we need a nonjudgmental someone who can be kind, empathetic, and psychological educated to help us grow in self and life contentment. My 32 years of cosmetology and services industry work, along with my achievement of honors in both my BA and MA, has allowed me to build acceptance, wisdom, perspective, and awareness in my therapeutic approach.
(816) 338-7345 View (816) 338-7345
Photo of Amy Lynn Hanson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Amy Lynn Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64082
Love and nurturing are the cornerstones of my practice. From my youngest clients to my oldest, I believe that a positive connection in a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere encourages and empowers the children, families and adults I work with to heal and grow from the inside out! My focus for the past 13 years of my career has been on supporting children, families and individuals to reconnect with each other and themselves in a way that enhances their sense of peace, joy and fulfillment.
Love and nurturing are the cornerstones of my practice. From my youngest clients to my oldest, I believe that a positive connection in a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere encourages and empowers the children, families and adults I work with to heal and grow from the inside out! My focus for the past 13 years of my career has been on supporting children, families and individuals to reconnect with each other and themselves in a way that enhances their sense of peace, joy and fulfillment.
(816) 253-8338 View (816) 253-8338
Photo of Teresa Nguyen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Teresa Nguyen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
I see each person as a lotus, unfolding gracefully despite life's challenges—much like how it grows beautifully in the mud. We all deal with stress, fears, worries, and tough times that can make life feel overwhelming or lonely. My goal is to create a safe space where you can learn to navigate these ups and downs, and realize that you're not alone on this journey. Growing up in a Vietnamese household within American society has given me unique insights, inspiring me to become a mental health counselor. I understand the struggle of finding someone relatable to talk to, so my main focus is on building trust between us.
I see each person as a lotus, unfolding gracefully despite life's challenges—much like how it grows beautifully in the mud. We all deal with stress, fears, worries, and tough times that can make life feel overwhelming or lonely. My goal is to create a safe space where you can learn to navigate these ups and downs, and realize that you're not alone on this journey. Growing up in a Vietnamese household within American society has given me unique insights, inspiring me to become a mental health counselor. I understand the struggle of finding someone relatable to talk to, so my main focus is on building trust between us.
(913) 675-1468 View (913) 675-1468
Photo of Embark Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Embark Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
We are here to help! We are a group of professionals who approach therapy with compassion and understanding, providing a partnership with you in a safe, caring and supportive place to explore life's difficulties, and learn how to balance any challenge, and improve your relationships. We use an individualized, integrated approach to therapy, promoting wellness in all areas of your life: physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual. We work with children, teens, young adults, millennials, families, couples and partners. We also have counseling interns to provide an affordable options for your mental healthcare.
We are here to help! We are a group of professionals who approach therapy with compassion and understanding, providing a partnership with you in a safe, caring and supportive place to explore life's difficulties, and learn how to balance any challenge, and improve your relationships. We use an individualized, integrated approach to therapy, promoting wellness in all areas of your life: physical, mental, emotional, social and spiritual. We work with children, teens, young adults, millennials, families, couples and partners. We also have counseling interns to provide an affordable options for your mental healthcare.
(913) 353-3769 View (913) 353-3769

Online Therapists

Photo of Laurie Pisciotta, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Laurie Pisciotta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64152
Life takes some twists and turns that we just aren't prepared for. From major life changes to struggling with that relentless fear that gets in the way of something you desire in your life. I am here to help you navigate through the confusion and overwhelm to find the answers you need. Together through enhancing awareness, curiosity, patience and self compassion, we will capitalize on your strengths and resources so you can heal and work towards the change you desire.
Life takes some twists and turns that we just aren't prepared for. From major life changes to struggling with that relentless fear that gets in the way of something you desire in your life. I am here to help you navigate through the confusion and overwhelm to find the answers you need. Together through enhancing awareness, curiosity, patience and self compassion, we will capitalize on your strengths and resources so you can heal and work towards the change you desire.
(816) 327-1356 View (816) 327-1356
Photo of Stacy Witzki, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Stacy Witzki
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC, SATP-C, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Liberty, MO 64068
It’s hard to get out of bed each morning. There was a time when you were hopeful about life, but that seems like long ago. That was before all your troubles started. Now, every day feels more difficult than the last. Your kids treat you like their personal assistant. You just got in another fight with your husband, and you’re not even sure what it was about. You try to concentrate at work, but your mind is always racing, darting in countless different directions. In the rare instance that you’re able to carve aside a moment for yourself, you feel guilty about it. It’s getting to the point where you just want to run away and hide.
It’s hard to get out of bed each morning. There was a time when you were hopeful about life, but that seems like long ago. That was before all your troubles started. Now, every day feels more difficult than the last. Your kids treat you like their personal assistant. You just got in another fight with your husband, and you’re not even sure what it was about. You try to concentrate at work, but your mind is always racing, darting in countless different directions. In the rare instance that you’re able to carve aside a moment for yourself, you feel guilty about it. It’s getting to the point where you just want to run away and hide.
(816) 266-4766 View (816) 266-4766
Photo of Donna J Davis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Donna J Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Platte City, MO 64079
I am passionate about providing healing and supportive counseling services to my Clients. I provide individual, family, and couples counseling. My focus is on working with people who experience symptoms of PTSD, gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety, LGBT Issues, behavior disorders, and adjustment to life's ever changing stresses. Each person is unique w/ their own individual biology and environmental experiences. Therefore, therapy is individually tailored to each Clients unique circumstances. I offer face to face counseling and Telehealth where appropriate. BDSM, Poly affirmative.
I am passionate about providing healing and supportive counseling services to my Clients. I provide individual, family, and couples counseling. My focus is on working with people who experience symptoms of PTSD, gender dysphoria, depression, anxiety, LGBT Issues, behavior disorders, and adjustment to life's ever changing stresses. Each person is unique w/ their own individual biology and environmental experiences. Therefore, therapy is individually tailored to each Clients unique circumstances. I offer face to face counseling and Telehealth where appropriate. BDSM, Poly affirmative.
(816) 326-1996 View (816) 326-1996
Photo of Susan E. Palmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Susan E. Palmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Liberty, MO 64068
Whether you have had a therapeutic experience before or not the first important step is that you feel heard, validated and connected. We all have many life experiences in our past and present that at times can be challenging for us to figure out and manage on our own. We need to know that we are not alone, that we can be resilient and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I want to partner with you to help you to see and reach that light and to be where you want to be.
Whether you have had a therapeutic experience before or not the first important step is that you feel heard, validated and connected. We all have many life experiences in our past and present that at times can be challenging for us to figure out and manage on our own. We need to know that we are not alone, that we can be resilient and that there is a light at the end of the tunnel. I want to partner with you to help you to see and reach that light and to be where you want to be.
(816) 370-6483 View (816) 370-6483

See more therapy options for Jackson County

Attachment-based Therapists

Is attachment-based therapy the same as attachment therapy?

Attachment-based therapy may be confused with what is called “attachment therapy” (sometimes called “holding therapy”), a discredited and dangerous approach to treating children with attachment disorders, autism, or other mental health concerns. Attachment therapy—not attachment-based therapy—may involve restraining a child, forcing eye contact, and other coercive or abusive techniques. None of these practices are used in attachment-based therapy and the two modalities are in no way related.

What should I expect from attachment-based therapy?

Attachment-based therapy is based on attachment theory, which posits that children’s early relationships with their caregivers strongly influence their ability to navigate the world later in life. Thus, adults who seek attachment-based therapy should expect to deeply explore their childhood, identifying the dynamics or experiences that disrupted their attachment and the steps necessary to overcome challenges that arose as a result. Parents and children should expect to explore the possible factors that disrupted the parent-child relationship and work toward restoring trust and connection.

How long does attachment-based therapy last?

Certain forms of attachment-based therapy, especially those designed for parents and children, last for a set number of sessions; for example, Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch-Up, a specific attachment-based approach for young children who have undergone early adversity, unfolds over 10 one-hour sessions. When attachment-based therapy is practiced on adults or combined with other modalities, it may not last a specific length of time; clients may wish to ask prospective therapists how long they expect treatment to take.

Does attachment-based therapy work?

Most of the research on attachment-based therapy focuses on children and adolescents. Some of this research shows a positive effect, especially for attachment-based family therapy (ABFT). Other studies, however, have found that attachment-based therapy is no more effective than other approaches to childhood depression, anxiety, or suicidality. Less is known about the therapy’s efficacy on adult populations.