Photo of Sharree Jensen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Sharree Jensen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS-MFT, PLMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Let's be real. You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. You are here, and that is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together by scheduling a free consultation call to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
Let's be real. You are here looking for a therapist because something in you knows it is time for change. Whether that change is just for you or within your relationships... whether it is old stuff you "should be over," new stuff that is just hitting, or another combination of life's challenges... I'm here, ready to walk through it with you. You are here, and that is the first courageous step. Let's take the next step together by scheduling a free consultation call to see if we are a good fit. Please note: In order to provide you with personalized & flexible therapy, I do not accept insurance. I do accept HSA, Debit, & Credit Cards.
(816) 925-9541 View (816) 925-9541
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 Dan Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Dan Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, S-MFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Don’t continue doing life closed off and disconnected. Open yourself up to connection and find the peace you’ve been needing. I want to help, but more importantly, I want to point you back to you. You don’t deserve to keep living in the dark. There is hope for all the parts of you.
Don’t continue doing life closed off and disconnected. Open yourself up to connection and find the peace you’ve been needing. I want to help, but more importantly, I want to point you back to you. You don’t deserve to keep living in the dark. There is hope for all the parts of you.
(816) 597-4868 View (816) 597-4868
Photo of Paul Carlisle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Paul Carlisle
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64057
I realize that today there is a tremendous amount of stress on individuals. Depression and anxiety abound because of the sheer amount of stress persons are facing. One possible answer to this dilemma is to engage a skilled and seasoned therapist to help. I have faced my own battles with stress, depression, anxiety and childhood trauma. Each of these are extremely painful experiences. I would be privileged to companion you on your healing and growth journey. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult.
I realize that today there is a tremendous amount of stress on individuals. Depression and anxiety abound because of the sheer amount of stress persons are facing. One possible answer to this dilemma is to engage a skilled and seasoned therapist to help. I have faced my own battles with stress, depression, anxiety and childhood trauma. Each of these are extremely painful experiences. I would be privileged to companion you on your healing and growth journey. Contact me for a free 15 minute phone consult.
(816) 207-2843 View (816) 207-2843
Photo of Jill Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Jill Hamilton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Maybe you're feeling stuck. Maybe you are seeking answers but not able to see through the darkness. Maybe peace feels impossible. Maybe you're questioning who you are or going through a life transition. Maybe it's your relationship or parenting or past hurts. This life experience is filled with highs, lows, and in-between moments. At times, we all want someone to join in our journey and walk alongside us so we can feel supported. I am here to meet you where you are in your life right now. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe that all of life is relational, whether that is within or outside with family, friends, society.
Maybe you're feeling stuck. Maybe you are seeking answers but not able to see through the darkness. Maybe peace feels impossible. Maybe you're questioning who you are or going through a life transition. Maybe it's your relationship or parenting or past hurts. This life experience is filled with highs, lows, and in-between moments. At times, we all want someone to join in our journey and walk alongside us so we can feel supported. I am here to meet you where you are in your life right now. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe that all of life is relational, whether that is within or outside with family, friends, society.
(816) 839-9683 View (816) 839-9683
Photo of Ada Gillespie Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Ada Gillespie Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, RN, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64113
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in personal growth, relationships, emotional wellbeing and spirituality. I enjoy working with a broad spectrum of clients who want to increase their awareness about their emotional, spiritual, and physical health. I enjoy guiding clients through changing habits, attitudes and beliefs and healing emotional obstacles that prevent them from feeling and being their best selves to support life-long well-being.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in personal growth, relationships, emotional wellbeing and spirituality. I enjoy working with a broad spectrum of clients who want to increase their awareness about their emotional, spiritual, and physical health. I enjoy guiding clients through changing habits, attitudes and beliefs and healing emotional obstacles that prevent them from feeling and being their best selves to support life-long well-being.
(816) 203-1954 View (816) 203-1954
Photo of Liz Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Liz Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Waitlist for new clients
It's hard to find a therapist. Especially when you're not feeling your best. I applaud you for getting this far. Now it's time to invest in your relationship with yourself. I know what it’s like to feel alone with your problems. Maybe you have no one to talk to. Or maybe you feel bad making your friends, your family, or your partner listen to your problems again. I know what that feels like, and I’m here. I’m ready to listen. It’s time to let go of anxiety, sadness, frustration, anger, and shame. I want to process these things with you. You don’t have to go through this alone anymore.
It's hard to find a therapist. Especially when you're not feeling your best. I applaud you for getting this far. Now it's time to invest in your relationship with yourself. I know what it’s like to feel alone with your problems. Maybe you have no one to talk to. Or maybe you feel bad making your friends, your family, or your partner listen to your problems again. I know what that feels like, and I’m here. I’m ready to listen. It’s time to let go of anxiety, sadness, frustration, anger, and shame. I want to process these things with you. You don’t have to go through this alone anymore.
(816) 339-8475 View (816) 339-8475
Photo of Erin Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Erin Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
I see a variety of clients in various life situations and complexities, and I view the space you share with me an honor and privilege. It’s a big step in committing to understanding what's happening for you and reaching out for help. I respect your desire for understanding yourself and the situation you're in, for a deeper level of self-reflection, and a desire for implementing change. You're already doing hard work right now searching for the right fit, and in valuing personal growth and investing in yourself by reaching out. I look forward to connecting with you. I am committed to walking alongside of you every step of the way!
(816) 209-1522 View (816) 209-1522
Photo of Lindsey Santellan, Pastoral Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Lindsey Santellan
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, MH, RTTP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101
I help people gain freedom from their issues with a revolutionary technique taught by my mentor, Marisa Peer, voted Britain’s best therapist. With RTT I can fix anything from skin conditions to weight issues, to phobias, to addictions, to chronic illness and disease, in just 1-3 sessions. I’m still seeing traditional therapy clients, but since my accreditation in RTT, I’m focusing on moving my practice to exclusively RTT and coaching clients. My target client includes anyone who has been unable to fix or heal from any type of issue, they’ve tried other ways, but have been unsuccessful! RTT is the missing link that can free you!
I help people gain freedom from their issues with a revolutionary technique taught by my mentor, Marisa Peer, voted Britain’s best therapist. With RTT I can fix anything from skin conditions to weight issues, to phobias, to addictions, to chronic illness and disease, in just 1-3 sessions. I’m still seeing traditional therapy clients, but since my accreditation in RTT, I’m focusing on moving my practice to exclusively RTT and coaching clients. My target client includes anyone who has been unable to fix or heal from any type of issue, they’ve tried other ways, but have been unsuccessful! RTT is the missing link that can free you!
(316) 202-9818 View (316) 202-9818
Photo of Sophie Halma, LPC Intern in Jackson County, MO
Sophie Halma
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64141
I use humor and creativity to create an atmosphere where people feel safe to be themselves and talk openly about their lives. My approach involves building a strong connection with clients and meeting them exactly where they are. We then collaborate to determine their own goals so that I can custom-tailor a treatment plan and support them on their journey toward change. My clinical approach utilizes interventions from DBT, ACT, narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems. I also use techniques from the Gottman method for couples with tangible tools to strengthen relationships, manage conflict, and cultivate shared dreams.
I use humor and creativity to create an atmosphere where people feel safe to be themselves and talk openly about their lives. My approach involves building a strong connection with clients and meeting them exactly where they are. We then collaborate to determine their own goals so that I can custom-tailor a treatment plan and support them on their journey toward change. My clinical approach utilizes interventions from DBT, ACT, narrative therapy, and Internal Family Systems. I also use techniques from the Gottman method for couples with tangible tools to strengthen relationships, manage conflict, and cultivate shared dreams.
(913) 372-3746 View (913) 372-3746
Photo of Emma Wood, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Emma Wood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
I provide individual, couple and family therapy and specialize in teenagers and adults. I conceptualize concerns through an attachment and family systems perspective and apply solutions. I value evidence-based theories and interventions and holistic treatment getting to the root of the concerns. This brain based approach helps heal trauma, addictions, mood disorders and relationships. I have advanced training in emotionally focused therapy and Gottman Institute couples therapy. I have practiced in inpatient and outpatient settings and own a group therapy private practice. I look forward to helping you grow!
I provide individual, couple and family therapy and specialize in teenagers and adults. I conceptualize concerns through an attachment and family systems perspective and apply solutions. I value evidence-based theories and interventions and holistic treatment getting to the root of the concerns. This brain based approach helps heal trauma, addictions, mood disorders and relationships. I have advanced training in emotionally focused therapy and Gottman Institute couples therapy. I have practiced in inpatient and outpatient settings and own a group therapy private practice. I look forward to helping you grow!
(913) 325-4569 View (913) 325-4569
Photo of Michelle Washburn-Busk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Michelle Washburn-Busk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Not accepting new clients
I believe that all humans have the capacity for growth, but that growth is often thwarted by a lack of self-compassion or self-confrontation. I aim to help clients nurture their deepest and most hidden wounds, to examine the motives driving their actions, and to access new levels of joy and fulfillment by honoring the best parts of themselves. I specialize in working with couples where the power is imbalanced between partners, often resulting in feelings of helplessness. I help couples struggling with communication, disconnection, contemplating divorce or separation.
I believe that all humans have the capacity for growth, but that growth is often thwarted by a lack of self-compassion or self-confrontation. I aim to help clients nurture their deepest and most hidden wounds, to examine the motives driving their actions, and to access new levels of joy and fulfillment by honoring the best parts of themselves. I specialize in working with couples where the power is imbalanced between partners, often resulting in feelings of helplessness. I help couples struggling with communication, disconnection, contemplating divorce or separation.
(816) 495-3290 x105 View (816) 495-3290 x105
Photo of Heather Ann Fitzcharles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Heather Ann Fitzcharles
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LCPC, LPC, CCTP, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes we experience life changing events that cause us lose sight of our hopes and dreams. Our fears can deceive us into believing that we will never be okay again. We do not have to be defined by what has happened to us. I believe that no matter what we have been through we have the potential to create for ourselves, a happy, rich and full life worth living. It is not easy to overcome the bad experiences but it is possible. Therapy can increase psychological flexibility and allow us to not be open again. If you are tired of being limited and ready to make real changes therapy can help you create the life you wish to have.
Sometimes we experience life changing events that cause us lose sight of our hopes and dreams. Our fears can deceive us into believing that we will never be okay again. We do not have to be defined by what has happened to us. I believe that no matter what we have been through we have the potential to create for ourselves, a happy, rich and full life worth living. It is not easy to overcome the bad experiences but it is possible. Therapy can increase psychological flexibility and allow us to not be open again. If you are tired of being limited and ready to make real changes therapy can help you create the life you wish to have.
(816) 307-2112 View (816) 307-2112

Online Therapists

Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153
The heart and soul of how I help others is as a counselor who meets clients where they are in life, relationships, struggles, and so on - with the goal of gaining your trust and helping move you through discouraging and challenging circumstances, while sharing in God's reality for your life. I believe in the value of working through personal problems and issues in the context of stronger relationships. I will help you with this on a personal level, and in the process of restoring health and relationships with whomever you are intending to build this restored relationship with.
The heart and soul of how I help others is as a counselor who meets clients where they are in life, relationships, struggles, and so on - with the goal of gaining your trust and helping move you through discouraging and challenging circumstances, while sharing in God's reality for your life. I believe in the value of working through personal problems and issues in the context of stronger relationships. I will help you with this on a personal level, and in the process of restoring health and relationships with whomever you are intending to build this restored relationship with.
(816) 307-3814 View (816) 307-3814
Photo of Janet Luzmoor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Janet Luzmoor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, MO 64468
It can be difficult to reach out and begin therapy! We understand that and work to make you feel welcome and safe by giving you a counselor with compassion and genuineness, coupled with a wide variety of life experiences, a strong educational background, and a range of past work settings. This combination of qualities fit together to provide you with wise counsel that brings relief and gives hope, resulting in satisfied clients whose lives have been significantly improved. Feel free to check out our website at www.janetluzmoorcounseling.com, where you can directly book your first session online, or call or email with questions.
It can be difficult to reach out and begin therapy! We understand that and work to make you feel welcome and safe by giving you a counselor with compassion and genuineness, coupled with a wide variety of life experiences, a strong educational background, and a range of past work settings. This combination of qualities fit together to provide you with wise counsel that brings relief and gives hope, resulting in satisfied clients whose lives have been significantly improved. Feel free to check out our website at www.janetluzmoorcounseling.com, where you can directly book your first session online, or call or email with questions.
(816) 490-7526 View (816) 490-7526

See more therapy options for Jackson County

Compassion Focused Therapists

How does compassion-focused therapy work?

Compassion-Focused Therapy is based on the idea that humans have at least three emotion regulation systems, including one that responds to threats and another that allows us to self-soothe. Those who experienced serious childhood adversity, the theory goes, have a hyperactive threat system and an underperforming self-soothing system, leaving them vulnerable to shame and a hypercritical mindset. CFT focuses on bringing these systems back into balance, helping the client be kinder to themselves and better able to accept kindness from others.

Is compassion-focused therapy a type of CBT?

Compassion-focused therapy is closely related to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and employs many of its techniques. In addition to CBT, CFT also draws from the fields of biology, evolutionary psychology, neuroscience, developmental psychology, and Buddhism. It also has similarities to some types of trauma-focused therapies.

Is compassion-focused therapy evidence based?

Evidence suggests that CFT can be helpful in the treatment of anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders, personality disorders, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. It has also been shown to be beneficial for individuals who may not have diagnosable psychiatric disorders but who still struggle with persistent self-criticism and feelings of shame.

What are the limitations of compassion-focused therapy?

Compassion-focused therapy is still a relatively new therapy, and research on its efficacy is still in its early stages; while some studies have found positive results, many have suffered from quality issues or small sample sizes. And while most CFT clients find it difficult to practice self-compassion at first, some—especially those who actively fear compassion or are deeply uncomfortable being cared for—may not be fully open to the tenets of CFT, potentially limiting the therapy’s long-term effectiveness.