Photo of Laura Bonk, Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Laura Bonk
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64113
Are you living with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and relationship challenges, or major life changes? Maybe you're feeling stuck in a storm of negativity and pain with no ray of hope in sight. Life can be extremely hard AND you are not alone. Connecting with a well-trained therapist is one of the best investments that you can make in yourself. I will help you explore life patterns, heal wounds from the past, and teach skills needed to build the life and relationships that you are seeking. Counseling is a healthy way to uncover the past, embrace the present, and pursue your best path forward. Regain control of your life!
Are you living with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and relationship challenges, or major life changes? Maybe you're feeling stuck in a storm of negativity and pain with no ray of hope in sight. Life can be extremely hard AND you are not alone. Connecting with a well-trained therapist is one of the best investments that you can make in yourself. I will help you explore life patterns, heal wounds from the past, and teach skills needed to build the life and relationships that you are seeking. Counseling is a healthy way to uncover the past, embrace the present, and pursue your best path forward. Regain control of your life!
(913) 399-2187 View (913) 399-2187
Photo of Christina Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Christina Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Being alive and creating the types of relationships you want is a gift and, simultaneously, a challenge. If you are trying to reduce resentment after years of misunderstandings, heal after infidelity, renew your relationship as empty nesters, navigate differences in emotional and physical desires, start your marriage on the right track through premarital therapy, and more, I encourage you to set up a first session or consultation call with me.
Being alive and creating the types of relationships you want is a gift and, simultaneously, a challenge. If you are trying to reduce resentment after years of misunderstandings, heal after infidelity, renew your relationship as empty nesters, navigate differences in emotional and physical desires, start your marriage on the right track through premarital therapy, and more, I encourage you to set up a first session or consultation call with me.
(816) 239-3371 View (816) 239-3371
Photo of Gwynn Olson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Gwynn Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Lotawana, MO 64086
Beginning with a new therapist can be anxiety provoking. It's difficult to know who the "right" therapist will be for you. My focus will be getting to know you and what your goals are for therapy. I enjoy teaching coping skills to manage anxiety and depressive symptoms. I also am a Certified Grief Counselor. I understand the grieving process and how to help support you through this transition. Grieving isn't only seen with death but also with loss of marriage, home, job, friendship, etc. My practice is located on a lake where we can practice mindfulness exercises and focus on calming energy.
Beginning with a new therapist can be anxiety provoking. It's difficult to know who the "right" therapist will be for you. My focus will be getting to know you and what your goals are for therapy. I enjoy teaching coping skills to manage anxiety and depressive symptoms. I also am a Certified Grief Counselor. I understand the grieving process and how to help support you through this transition. Grieving isn't only seen with death but also with loss of marriage, home, job, friendship, etc. My practice is located on a lake where we can practice mindfulness exercises and focus on calming energy.
(816) 875-3369 View (816) 875-3369
Photo of Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lees Summit, MO 64064  (Online Only)
Thank you for visiting. This is the first step to becoming a more fulfilled person. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Missouri (LCSW) with over 25 years experience working with children, families, individuals and couples in multiple settings including in-patient, in-home and private practice. I also have five years experience as an employee assistance program clinician and brief problem focused therapy.
Thank you for visiting. This is the first step to becoming a more fulfilled person. I am licensed as a clinical social worker in Missouri (LCSW) with over 25 years experience working with children, families, individuals and couples in multiple settings including in-patient, in-home and private practice. I also have five years experience as an employee assistance program clinician and brief problem focused therapy.
(816) 479-5046 View (816) 479-5046
Photo of Jon Hindson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Jon Hindson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109
The path to wellness and freedom involves choosing to start or continue a journey of healing and restoration. My desire is to help individuals, couples, and families along their own unique paths of transformation, change, and growth. I believe that emotional and relational wellness are an important piece of a holistic picture of health. I am a proponent of therapy because I have personally experienced the benefits and the sense of empowerment that comes from the process.
The path to wellness and freedom involves choosing to start or continue a journey of healing and restoration. My desire is to help individuals, couples, and families along their own unique paths of transformation, change, and growth. I believe that emotional and relational wellness are an important piece of a holistic picture of health. I am a proponent of therapy because I have personally experienced the benefits and the sense of empowerment that comes from the process.
(816) 203-1440 View (816) 203-1440
Photo of Katie Ballard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Katie Ballard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Is a lot of your self talk focused on self loathing, shame, or perceived failings in your life? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or anxious more often than not? Taking the time and effort to look at what is working and what isn’t working in your own life is a brave step toward feeling better in your own skin. Often our work together will look a lot like taking steps (some minuscule, some monumental, all equally as needed and pivotal) toward yourself and the ways you can become more fully you. Through that greater understanding (and ultimate acceptance) of self, you can find a quieter, kinder inner voice.
Is a lot of your self talk focused on self loathing, shame, or perceived failings in your life? Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or anxious more often than not? Taking the time and effort to look at what is working and what isn’t working in your own life is a brave step toward feeling better in your own skin. Often our work together will look a lot like taking steps (some minuscule, some monumental, all equally as needed and pivotal) toward yourself and the ways you can become more fully you. Through that greater understanding (and ultimate acceptance) of self, you can find a quieter, kinder inner voice.
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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 Cara Gruhala, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Cara Gruhala
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lees Summit, MO 64064
Feeling stuck? Not feeling like yourself? Do the stressors of daily life seem bigger to you than you believe they feel to others? I work with clients from early childhood through all phases of adulthood. I specialize in trauma, perinatal concerns (infertility, pregnancy, postpartum mood struggles, traumatic birth, and loss), as well as neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, and more), gender/sexual expansiveness, and anxiety and depression.
Feeling stuck? Not feeling like yourself? Do the stressors of daily life seem bigger to you than you believe they feel to others? I work with clients from early childhood through all phases of adulthood. I specialize in trauma, perinatal concerns (infertility, pregnancy, postpartum mood struggles, traumatic birth, and loss), as well as neurodivergence (Autism, ADHD, and more), gender/sexual expansiveness, and anxiety and depression.
(816) 290-7475 View (816) 290-7475
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 Carla Burke PhD, Psychologist in Jackson County, MO
Carla Burke PhD
Psychologist, MBA, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
It is important to find the right therapist after you have taken the step to get help. My work with clients is collaborative and I strive to connect in a meaningful way with people who work with me. Give me a call and let’s talk, I answer and return calls personally.
It is important to find the right therapist after you have taken the step to get help. My work with clients is collaborative and I strive to connect in a meaningful way with people who work with me. Give me a call and let’s talk, I answer and return calls personally.
(816) 208-8706 View (816) 208-8706
Photo of Alicia Lawton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Alicia Lawton
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
My approach to working with individuals and families is rooted in Attachment Theory with a focus on fostering healthy relationships, increasing emotional well-being and moving past the "stuckness" of traumatic experiences. I am dedicated to employing creative and interactive techniques to help clients of all ages learn to identify and express their emotions. I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Theraplay and Play Therapy alongside traditional talk therapy. I enjoy using EMDR in combination with expressive techniques to address presenting symptoms.
My approach to working with individuals and families is rooted in Attachment Theory with a focus on fostering healthy relationships, increasing emotional well-being and moving past the "stuckness" of traumatic experiences. I am dedicated to employing creative and interactive techniques to help clients of all ages learn to identify and express their emotions. I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Theraplay and Play Therapy alongside traditional talk therapy. I enjoy using EMDR in combination with expressive techniques to address presenting symptoms.
(816) 306-1066 View (816) 306-1066
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 Justin Grotheer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Justin Grotheer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PLMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! I’m glad you’ve found your way to this space. Life is hard sometimes! We can all use a little help. I work to help you feel less overwhelm—and more of the joy and belonging you are searching for. I help you find a way out of distress or feeling stuck, and back to your best self. We’ll figure out the map to your best self together, and then start moving toward an increased sense of joy, strength, calm, and freedom. If that is something you’d like for yourself, contact me for a consultation. It is my honor to accompany so many wonderful people on the journey to wellness!
Hello, and welcome! I’m glad you’ve found your way to this space. Life is hard sometimes! We can all use a little help. I work to help you feel less overwhelm—and more of the joy and belonging you are searching for. I help you find a way out of distress or feeling stuck, and back to your best self. We’ll figure out the map to your best self together, and then start moving toward an increased sense of joy, strength, calm, and freedom. If that is something you’d like for yourself, contact me for a consultation. It is my honor to accompany so many wonderful people on the journey to wellness!
(816) 290-6829 View (816) 290-6829
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 Jason Phelps, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jackson County, MO
Jason Phelps
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64102
Sometimes we have experiences that make us feel different, out of place, foreign and even unwelcome. Life can bring challenges, pain, and experiences that do not always make sense to us. It's easy to become trapped in those moments, in need of help. I believe in being someone who will listen with unconditional positive regard, without judgement, to you and your story. I seek to help you see your situation from a different vantage point in order to discover something new about yourself and your world.
Sometimes we have experiences that make us feel different, out of place, foreign and even unwelcome. Life can bring challenges, pain, and experiences that do not always make sense to us. It's easy to become trapped in those moments, in need of help. I believe in being someone who will listen with unconditional positive regard, without judgement, to you and your story. I seek to help you see your situation from a different vantage point in order to discover something new about yourself and your world.
(816) 239-3457 View (816) 239-3457
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 Adriana Albors, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Adriana Albors
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PLMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64109
Making the choice to begin therapy is not a sign of weakness; choosing to deal with stressors is actually a sign of incredible strength. Therapy is for everyone. Life is crazy and often hard, and we are not pre-programmed with all the answers. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unclear on how to make things better. I know that you and your relationships are worth the time and investment. My areas of specialization include working with couples to communicate more respectfully and authentically and helping adult individuals navigate life transitions.
Making the choice to begin therapy is not a sign of weakness; choosing to deal with stressors is actually a sign of incredible strength. Therapy is for everyone. Life is crazy and often hard, and we are not pre-programmed with all the answers. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed and unclear on how to make things better. I know that you and your relationships are worth the time and investment. My areas of specialization include working with couples to communicate more respectfully and authentically and helping adult individuals navigate life transitions.
(816) 239-3516 View (816) 239-3516
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 Jessica Horine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Jackson County, MO
Jessica Horine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
Suffering, while valuable, doesn’t have to define you or your story. If you’re wanting to move beyond old hurts, or feeling stuck despite desiring change, together we can re-author your story to include healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and being. In addition to my office in Brookside, KCMO, I also offer sessions via Telehealth for those who are unable to leave home or feel it is a better fit.
Suffering, while valuable, doesn’t have to define you or your story. If you’re wanting to move beyond old hurts, or feeling stuck despite desiring change, together we can re-author your story to include healthier ways of thinking, feeling, and being. In addition to my office in Brookside, KCMO, I also offer sessions via Telehealth for those who are unable to leave home or feel it is a better fit.
(816) 306-0228 View (816) 306-0228
Photo of Lisa Daly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jackson County, MO
Lisa Daly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individual adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life balance, grief, and relationship issues as well as past trauma, and addiction. I believe in helping clients set boundaries to manage anger and anxiety as well as learning better communication skills to improve the quality of their relationships.
I enjoy working with individual adults and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life balance, grief, and relationship issues as well as past trauma, and addiction. I believe in helping clients set boundaries to manage anger and anxiety as well as learning better communication skills to improve the quality of their relationships.
(816) 583-0894 View (816) 583-0894

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.