Photo of Sammy Stayton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Sammy Stayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or in need of support? Do you have past experiences that you want to understand and heal from? Maybe you just need a space for yourself where you can explore and grow? I bring compassion and warmth to our sessions, helping you connect to your own resilience and make sense of your unique story. My framework is intersectional, LGBTQIA affirming, anti-racist, and feminist. I work collaboratively with you to support your growth and help you thrive.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or in need of support? Do you have past experiences that you want to understand and heal from? Maybe you just need a space for yourself where you can explore and grow? I bring compassion and warmth to our sessions, helping you connect to your own resilience and make sense of your unique story. My framework is intersectional, LGBTQIA affirming, anti-racist, and feminist. I work collaboratively with you to support your growth and help you thrive.
(816) 722-3265 View (816) 722-3265
Photo of Jane Webb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Jane Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064
I work with adults, couples, and families who face challenges related to the stress of modern living as well as traumatic experiences, including complex trauma histories. My clients often come to me with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting, and coping with grief and loss.
I work with adults, couples, and families who face challenges related to the stress of modern living as well as traumatic experiences, including complex trauma histories. My clients often come to me with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, parenting, and coping with grief and loss.
(816) 338-7049 View (816) 338-7049
Photo of Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64050  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles is the owner of Responsive Mental Health Services LLC. I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contains moments of joy in between and around the difficult times. Therapy should allow us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I would like to help you achieve that. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 12 and up.
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles is the owner of Responsive Mental Health Services LLC. I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contains moments of joy in between and around the difficult times. Therapy should allow us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I would like to help you achieve that. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 12 and up.
(816) 448-8183 View (816) 448-8183
Photo of Brian P Heydon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Brian P Heydon
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Finding the right counselor may be one of the most important decisions you can make in seeking a better life. As my client, you will be provided a therapeutic relationship that is non-threatening, challenging, empowering, and ultimately life changing. You will find that your pain, which is actually healing trying to happen, will be lessened and most likely alleviated, your feelings and experiences are valid, and that you can make positive changes to improve your life and relationships. I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in relationships - between couples, parents and children, friends - any human relationship
Finding the right counselor may be one of the most important decisions you can make in seeking a better life. As my client, you will be provided a therapeutic relationship that is non-threatening, challenging, empowering, and ultimately life changing. You will find that your pain, which is actually healing trying to happen, will be lessened and most likely alleviated, your feelings and experiences are valid, and that you can make positive changes to improve your life and relationships. I'm a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist and specialize in relationships - between couples, parents and children, friends - any human relationship
(816) 659-3196 View (816) 659-3196
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 Deanna L Rand, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Deanna L Rand
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
Are you looking to make changes in your life but not sure where to begin? I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for exploring the obstacles that are getting in the way of creating the happy and satisfying life you want. Often, we unknowingly continue in the same path, expecting something different not realizing that real changes starts within us and that understanding ourselves better is a first step for creating growth, healing and happiness. Therapy is hard work but a worthy work and it is a privilege to be a part of your journey and helping you discover, heal and grow beyond your current circumstances.
Are you looking to make changes in your life but not sure where to begin? I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for exploring the obstacles that are getting in the way of creating the happy and satisfying life you want. Often, we unknowingly continue in the same path, expecting something different not realizing that real changes starts within us and that understanding ourselves better is a first step for creating growth, healing and happiness. Therapy is hard work but a worthy work and it is a privilege to be a part of your journey and helping you discover, heal and grow beyond your current circumstances.
(816) 203-3511 View (816) 203-3511
Photo of Emily Viet, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Emily Viet
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64109
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
Sometimes life is hard. We experience stress, difficult experiences, wounding in relationships, and trauma along with many other experiences. We carry these with us and they show up in our daily lives - in our thoughts, emotions, physical body, relationships with others, relationship with our self. Maybe you've noticed feeling stuck and overwhelmed. Weighed down. Maybe anxious. Maybe you've noticed patterns in your relationships. Maybe physical discomfort and pain. Tension in your body. Maybe you're curious about what you're noticing. Or maybe you’re curious about who YOU are – the authentic you.
(816) 327-9194 View (816) 327-9194
Photo of Gina Staves, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Gina Staves
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64145
I specialize in attachment dynamics, relationships, trauma, stress, burnout, depression and anxiety, and for over 25 years have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
I specialize in attachment dynamics, relationships, trauma, stress, burnout, depression and anxiety, and for over 25 years have worked with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(660) 538-3934 View (660) 538-3934
Photo of Thomas Michael Humphrey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Thomas Michael Humphrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131
There are few joys greater than interpersonal freedom. Living unabashedly and authentically as you deserve and desire. This is our true heritage as humans. When we are barraged daily to find this freedom externally by our culture, (perhaps friends and family) and then osmotically transfer it inward we are left deeply lacking. It never works. The cost of freedom and to a higher level of awareness about ourselves is called work. W-O-R-K! The digging deep kind of work. Working to let go of anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, or whatever repeatedly binds us to a negative narrative from the past that no longer serves the present.
There are few joys greater than interpersonal freedom. Living unabashedly and authentically as you deserve and desire. This is our true heritage as humans. When we are barraged daily to find this freedom externally by our culture, (perhaps friends and family) and then osmotically transfer it inward we are left deeply lacking. It never works. The cost of freedom and to a higher level of awareness about ourselves is called work. W-O-R-K! The digging deep kind of work. Working to let go of anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, or whatever repeatedly binds us to a negative narrative from the past that no longer serves the present.
(816) 323-4697 View (816) 323-4697
Photo of Madeline Cramer, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Madeline Cramer
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
I want to help clients get relief and know that they are not alone. Whether that relief is from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or from relationship issues, we can work together. You might be surprised at how your strengths start to show! I can give you invaluable information and skills that can positively impact your daily life. I care deeply for my clients and restore hope. Together, we overcome your unique struggles to reveal a new life outlook. With your specific concerns, I can show you relief and ways to not have them continuously interfere in your life.
I want to help clients get relief and know that they are not alone. Whether that relief is from anxiety, depression, self-esteem, or from relationship issues, we can work together. You might be surprised at how your strengths start to show! I can give you invaluable information and skills that can positively impact your daily life. I care deeply for my clients and restore hope. Together, we overcome your unique struggles to reveal a new life outlook. With your specific concerns, I can show you relief and ways to not have them continuously interfere in your life.
(816) 625-5977 View (816) 625-5977
Photo of Michele Deeter Accepting New Clients, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Michele Deeter Accepting New Clients
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
I enjoy working with older and younger adults of diverse populations and gender identities dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. I focus on a person-centered approach to guide each unique client to find the proper tools they need to enrich their lives and help each client become more empowered. You can feel better and you can overcome trauma. I can show you how to harness the power of your own psyche to live a happier, healthier life.
I enjoy working with older and younger adults of diverse populations and gender identities dealing with anxiety, depression and trauma. I focus on a person-centered approach to guide each unique client to find the proper tools they need to enrich their lives and help each client become more empowered. You can feel better and you can overcome trauma. I can show you how to harness the power of your own psyche to live a happier, healthier life.
(816) 208-8899 View (816) 208-8899
Photo of Kelley M Grbac, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Kelley M Grbac
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-MO, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
Have you been feeling stuck in your life or relationship. Feeling like maybe things could be better? Do you experience shame with your body and sexuality? You might wish to overcome the stigmas associated with that shame and live a more empowered life full of joy and pleasure. Have you experienced trauma in and around your personal life and relationships?
Have you been feeling stuck in your life or relationship. Feeling like maybe things could be better? Do you experience shame with your body and sexuality? You might wish to overcome the stigmas associated with that shame and live a more empowered life full of joy and pleasure. Have you experienced trauma in and around your personal life and relationships?
(816) 327-2194 View (816) 327-2194
Photo of Whitney Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Whitney Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
My approach is grounded in meeting folks where they are in the moment, and not asking them to feel, look, or act like someone they’re not. I believe that every person has worth and value because of their identity, and I love helping other people tap into their worth. I believe that all humans have the innate capacity to not only overcome difficult experiences, but to heal and thrive, and when we overcome difficult experiences or emotions, we are stronger and more resilient. Lasting change requires work, but when we put in that work we harness the power to define our experience rather than letting our experience define us.
My approach is grounded in meeting folks where they are in the moment, and not asking them to feel, look, or act like someone they’re not. I believe that every person has worth and value because of their identity, and I love helping other people tap into their worth. I believe that all humans have the innate capacity to not only overcome difficult experiences, but to heal and thrive, and when we overcome difficult experiences or emotions, we are stronger and more resilient. Lasting change requires work, but when we put in that work we harness the power to define our experience rather than letting our experience define us.
(417) 815-6332 View (417) 815-6332
Photo of Charity Ann Clavey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Charity Ann Clavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055  (Online Only)
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am licensed in the states of Missouri, Kansas, and Utah as a LSCSW, LCSW, and LCAC. I am trained in Trauma Informed Care, CBT trained, and thoroughly trained in Motivational Interviewing/Person Centered approaches to ensure that my clients are able to make progress with issues that are important to and for them. I use modern approaches to help individuals achieve goals and make personal improvements in their lives. My passion is to help you through difficult, accomplish your goals, and have the life you want. I ALSO focus on the LGBTQIA+ community.
(816) 323-5589 View (816) 323-5589
Photo of Kira Harkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Kira Harkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64131
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed? For over a decade, I have specialized in helping clients with navigating transitions and cultivating hope.  My intention is to create an environment of compassion, connection, and healing, which allows you to grow and thrive. I have training and a passion for working with Perinatal Mood Disorders and specialize in EMDR for perinatal trauma. As an Approved Consultant, I also provide consultation to EMDR therapists completing foundational hours or seeking certification.
Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed? For over a decade, I have specialized in helping clients with navigating transitions and cultivating hope.  My intention is to create an environment of compassion, connection, and healing, which allows you to grow and thrive. I have training and a passion for working with Perinatal Mood Disorders and specialize in EMDR for perinatal trauma. As an Approved Consultant, I also provide consultation to EMDR therapists completing foundational hours or seeking certification.
(816) 227-6469 View (816) 227-6469
Photo of Jannae Turley in Jackson County, MO
Jannae Turley
PLPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
Do you ever feel like it is you against the world? Or wonder if there is anyone “in your corner”? This world can throw all sorts of difficulties our way and sometimes it is helpful to know you are not alone in the fight. Those difficulties may present with symptoms of depression, anxiety, fear, worthlessness, addiction, trauma, negative thinking, or loss. I understand how tempting it is to give up the fight, but I also know the joyful victory that comes with healing and freedom. I am holding hope for you even if, right now, you are not able to hope for yourself. I believe there is abundant life and wholeness for YOU!
Do you ever feel like it is you against the world? Or wonder if there is anyone “in your corner”? This world can throw all sorts of difficulties our way and sometimes it is helpful to know you are not alone in the fight. Those difficulties may present with symptoms of depression, anxiety, fear, worthlessness, addiction, trauma, negative thinking, or loss. I understand how tempting it is to give up the fight, but I also know the joyful victory that comes with healing and freedom. I am holding hope for you even if, right now, you are not able to hope for yourself. I believe there is abundant life and wholeness for YOU!
(816) 992-5647 View (816) 992-5647
Photo of Katie Wheeler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Katie Wheeler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64063
Learning how to heal can be difficult, especially if you have tried to do so all on your own! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in therapy for all types of trauma, relationship dynamics, acceptance and commitment, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, emotion management, anxiety, depression, and adapting new ways of thinking. My goal is to be genuine, and to give you the space to heal in the ways that you find most helpful. I am here to start where you are, empowering you to become the person that you have always wanted to be, no matter the barriers.
Learning how to heal can be difficult, especially if you have tried to do so all on your own! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in therapy for all types of trauma, relationship dynamics, acceptance and commitment, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, emotion management, anxiety, depression, and adapting new ways of thinking. My goal is to be genuine, and to give you the space to heal in the ways that you find most helpful. I am here to start where you are, empowering you to become the person that you have always wanted to be, no matter the barriers.
(816) 750-5828 View (816) 750-5828
Photo of Olufemi (Femi) Sharp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Olufemi (Femi) Sharp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Spring time is here a time for clearing and shedding away the old narratives that keep us stuck in the past. Are you ready to release and let go of the trauma, anxiety, unworthiness, depression, loneliness? Trauma lives in the body you are worthy of healing, renewal and restoration in the mind, body and spirit. I will inspire you to feel it and heal it and carry the shift toward becoming fully present and alive in self-love. You will learn the ancient transformative power of emboded presence, peace and practice. I will teach you the powerful science-based practices for increasing the neural pathways of happiness. Spring forward.
Spring time is here a time for clearing and shedding away the old narratives that keep us stuck in the past. Are you ready to release and let go of the trauma, anxiety, unworthiness, depression, loneliness? Trauma lives in the body you are worthy of healing, renewal and restoration in the mind, body and spirit. I will inspire you to feel it and heal it and carry the shift toward becoming fully present and alive in self-love. You will learn the ancient transformative power of emboded presence, peace and practice. I will teach you the powerful science-based practices for increasing the neural pathways of happiness. Spring forward.
(816) 839-9476 View (816) 839-9476
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 Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 760-2389 View (816) 760-2389

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.