Veterans Therapists in Topeka, KS

Photo of Jim Lance Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Jim Lance Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Topeka, KS 66614
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
I treat people who suffer from panic disorders (and many other problems) with cognitive-behavioral therapy. I've studied 6 years of CBT at the Menninger Foundation and I have also studied at the Beck Institute in Philadelphia. Panic is basically a "false alarm". Panic happens when a person's body is producing powerful fight or flight chemicals at the wrong time. The body responds as if there is an emergency when there is no physical threat. The intense changes in heart rate and breathing etc. become subject to catastrophic misinterpretations, like "I'm dying" or "I'm losing control". These scary thoughts produce even more chemicals.
(785) 322-8592 View (785) 322-8592
Photo of Ashley Patrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Ashley Patrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Motherhood is beautiful; but from pregnancy to parenting, it’s not easy. Maybe you're holding your baby, wondering why you don’t feel “happy” yet. You’re afraid of not being "good enough" and you feel overwhelmed as you try to survive without sleep. Your expectations around labor and birth did not go to plan and you feel a loss that others don’t understand. Maybe you're pregnant now; filled with hormones, fear, and anxiety about the transition ahead. You want to prepare but don’t know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling to get pregnant, questioning and measuring everything, angry and afraid of hearing the word "infertility".
Motherhood is beautiful; but from pregnancy to parenting, it’s not easy. Maybe you're holding your baby, wondering why you don’t feel “happy” yet. You’re afraid of not being "good enough" and you feel overwhelmed as you try to survive without sleep. Your expectations around labor and birth did not go to plan and you feel a loss that others don’t understand. Maybe you're pregnant now; filled with hormones, fear, and anxiety about the transition ahead. You want to prepare but don’t know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling to get pregnant, questioning and measuring everything, angry and afraid of hearing the word "infertility".
(785) 384-5756 View (785) 384-5756
Photo of John Fleeker, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
John Fleeker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am a licensed clinical marriage and family therapist (LMFT, LCAC) with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups navigating mental health concerns, addiction, family dysfunction, blended family dynamics, trauma, and life transitions. I also support children, adolescents, and adults facing men’s issues and major life adjustments.
I am a licensed clinical marriage and family therapist (LMFT, LCAC) with 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups navigating mental health concerns, addiction, family dysfunction, blended family dynamics, trauma, and life transitions. I also support children, adolescents, and adults facing men’s issues and major life adjustments.
(785) 504-3474 View (785) 504-3474
Photo of Milton E Maricle, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Milton E Maricle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Online Only
Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, substance use challenges, or life transitions, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I believe that every person deserves to feel understood, supported, and capable of change. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a courageous step toward healing and growth.
Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, substance use challenges, or life transitions, you don’t have to navigate it alone. I believe that every person deserves to feel understood, supported, and capable of change. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a courageous step toward healing and growth.
(785) 336-9353 View (785) 336-9353
Photo of Angela D McClain, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCAC, LIMHP, LPC, LMHC
Angela D McClain
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LCAC, LIMHP, LPC, LMHC
Topeka, KS 66614
Hello Kansas, NE, & IA folks. I’m truly glad you’re here. I specialize in working w/ individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, & addiction, including therapists, healthcare professionals, & high-functioning individuals feelingl overwhelmed while caring for others. If you’re feeling exhausted, unsupported, or stuck, you're not alone. I would be honored to walk beside you on your journey toward healing, self-understanding, & growth. I believe genuine warmth & empathy create the foundation for meaningful, effective therapy. I bring extensive experience treating anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, PTSD, & couples.
Hello Kansas, NE, & IA folks. I’m truly glad you’re here. I specialize in working w/ individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, burnout, trauma, & addiction, including therapists, healthcare professionals, & high-functioning individuals feelingl overwhelmed while caring for others. If you’re feeling exhausted, unsupported, or stuck, you're not alone. I would be honored to walk beside you on your journey toward healing, self-understanding, & growth. I believe genuine warmth & empathy create the foundation for meaningful, effective therapy. I bring extensive experience treating anxiety, mood disorders, addiction, PTSD, & couples.
(785) 337-4586 View (785) 337-4586
Photo of Tonya K Ricklefs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
Tonya K Ricklefs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66611
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked for the military as well as veterans.
sexuality and gender, infidelity, communication, military trauma
I have worked for the military as well as veterans.
sexuality and gender, infidelity, communication, military trauma
(785) 524-2481 View (785) 524-2481
Photo of Laura Lyddon - Aletheia Therapy Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, CFLE
Aletheia Therapy Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCAC, CFLE
Serves Area
I have participated in research with PTSD and military members.
Trauma is common and over half of all people will have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. It does not have to continue to disrupt life. My mission is to help people find their power again and move past their trauma so they can live their best life in accordance with their values and goals and fully live and enjoy their lives. I use trauma informed care first and foremost along with a blend of other modalities in order to help clients find their own strength in managing their symptoms, learning self-compassion, and regaining their internal locus of control.
I have participated in research with PTSD and military members.
Trauma is common and over half of all people will have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. It does not have to continue to disrupt life. My mission is to help people find their power again and move past their trauma so they can live their best life in accordance with their values and goals and fully live and enjoy their lives. I use trauma informed care first and foremost along with a blend of other modalities in order to help clients find their own strength in managing their symptoms, learning self-compassion, and regaining their internal locus of control.
(785) 302-9252 View (785) 302-9252
Photo of Justin Modrell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Justin Modrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Serves Area
As a therapist, I help individuals live with intention and align their actions with their core values while navigating life’s challenges—including anxiety, trauma, and sexual addiction. We’ll tap into your strengths and develop practical strategies using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I support clients in breaking free from shame, secrecy, and self-sabotage, creating space for clarity, self-compassion, and freedom. I also use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to resolve distressing memories, build resilience, and foster deep healing and peace.
As a therapist, I help individuals live with intention and align their actions with their core values while navigating life’s challenges—including anxiety, trauma, and sexual addiction. We’ll tap into your strengths and develop practical strategies using Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I support clients in breaking free from shame, secrecy, and self-sabotage, creating space for clarity, self-compassion, and freedom. I also use Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) to resolve distressing memories, build resilience, and foster deep healing and peace.
(785) 425-0290 View (785) 425-0290
Photo of Nicole Graves, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Nicole Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
Hello! I am Nicole, an LPC who takes a person-centered approach, helping you navigate anxiety, strengthen coping skills, build resilience, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-worth while addressing academic, personal, and professional challenges. Using evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support meaningful change and help you move toward your goals with confidence and clarity. I believe growth is a journey rooted in patience, perseverance, and self-compassion, and I will walk alongside you every step of the way.
Hello! I am Nicole, an LPC who takes a person-centered approach, helping you navigate anxiety, strengthen coping skills, build resilience, and cultivate a deeper sense of self-worth while addressing academic, personal, and professional challenges. Using evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), I support meaningful change and help you move toward your goals with confidence and clarity. I believe growth is a journey rooted in patience, perseverance, and self-compassion, and I will walk alongside you every step of the way.
(785) 975-7032 View (785) 975-7032
Photo of Sam Brannen - Sam Brannen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW
Sam Brannen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LSCSW
Online Only
As a retired military, social work officer, I appreciate the unique stresses associated with military personnel and first responders and have been specifically trained to assist in conditions frequently experienced by individuals in these lifestyles.
I am available via telehealth only and am credentialed in both Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being trained and experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, related disorders,and family related issues, I am credentialed as a clinical hypnotherapist.
As a retired military, social work officer, I appreciate the unique stresses associated with military personnel and first responders and have been specifically trained to assist in conditions frequently experienced by individuals in these lifestyles.
I am available via telehealth only and am credentialed in both Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being trained and experienced in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, related disorders,and family related issues, I am credentialed as a clinical hypnotherapist.
(816) 495-3237 View (816) 495-3237
Photo of Dean R Graby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Dean R Graby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Serves Area
When you work with me, you’re getting a therapist who’s been through the hard stuff, done the work, and shows up ready to walk beside you through yours. I’m not here to sit back and nod. I listen deeply, respond honestly, and meet you without judgment. I’ll challenge you when needed, support you when it feels impossible, and make space for all the parts of you—even the messy ones. Therapy with me isn’t clinical or stiff—it’s grounded, human, and real. We’ll talk strategy, we’ll talk truth, and sometimes we’ll even laugh. Healing doesn’t have to feel like a chore—it can feel like coming home to yourself.
When you work with me, you’re getting a therapist who’s been through the hard stuff, done the work, and shows up ready to walk beside you through yours. I’m not here to sit back and nod. I listen deeply, respond honestly, and meet you without judgment. I’ll challenge you when needed, support you when it feels impossible, and make space for all the parts of you—even the messy ones. Therapy with me isn’t clinical or stiff—it’s grounded, human, and real. We’ll talk strategy, we’ll talk truth, and sometimes we’ll even laugh. Healing doesn’t have to feel like a chore—it can feel like coming home to yourself.
(785) 699-7074 View (785) 699-7074
Photo of Tasha Morris - Therapeutic Journeys, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LMAC
Therapeutic Journeys, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LMAC
3 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66604
Life is a journey, and sometimes, we need support throughout it. My name is Tasha Morris and I'm here to offer you that support, and to partner with you as we navigate toward accomplishing your mental health goals. Whether you are struggling in your interpersonal relationships, with anxiety or depression, or have more serious concerns, I'd like to walk beside you as we navigate your path to wellness together. I have extensive experience working with addiction, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I have training in grief, trauma, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and have earned a EMDRPT-II EMDR certification.
Life is a journey, and sometimes, we need support throughout it. My name is Tasha Morris and I'm here to offer you that support, and to partner with you as we navigate toward accomplishing your mental health goals. Whether you are struggling in your interpersonal relationships, with anxiety or depression, or have more serious concerns, I'd like to walk beside you as we navigate your path to wellness together. I have extensive experience working with addiction, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I have training in grief, trauma, CBT, DBT, motivational interviewing, and have earned a EMDRPT-II EMDR certification.
(785) 369-9735 View (785) 369-9735
Photo of Robert G Heckler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Robert G Heckler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Topeka, KS 66603
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
Practicing in mental health for 41 years; hospitals, group homes, community mental health and private practice. Worked with all populations, with every kind of problem and type of mental disorder. Recent focus on ages23-75, with trauma, ADHD, mood disorders, and relationships, incorporating mindfulness, relaxation and anger management and doing thorough, ongoing assessments. Clients who use substances are asked to abstain while in therapy. Changing the brain requires that. Regular attendance is necessary. Positive skills come with practice and consistency. To maintain the progress, there are avenues for contact during the week.
(785) 579-9952 View (785) 579-9952
Photo of Gary Schmidt - Gary Schmidt | IFS Trained Therapist , Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW
Gary Schmidt | IFS Trained Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LSCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Now Accepting Insurance in MO, KS, and IL. When was the last time you truly felt like yourself? Has it been weeks, months, or even years? If you are navigating major life transitions, relationship challenges, unresolved conflicts within your family dynamics, or anything that holds you back from a sense of freedom, I offer unique path to moving forward. I am a trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and I'm here to support you on your journey back to the "Self" - That calm, clear, confident center that’s always been there. Hope isn’t just possible, it’s waiting. Let’s begin your journey back to wholeness.
Now Accepting Insurance in MO, KS, and IL. When was the last time you truly felt like yourself? Has it been weeks, months, or even years? If you are navigating major life transitions, relationship challenges, unresolved conflicts within your family dynamics, or anything that holds you back from a sense of freedom, I offer unique path to moving forward. I am a trained Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and I'm here to support you on your journey back to the "Self" - That calm, clear, confident center that’s always been there. Hope isn’t just possible, it’s waiting. Let’s begin your journey back to wholeness.
(314) 526-3336 View (314) 526-3336
Photo of Carleen Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSCSW
Carleen Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSCSW
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
Therapy can be a place where you feel seen, heard, supported, and safe to show up exactly as you are. Life brings moments that can shake us, stretch us, or leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves — and none of us are meant to navigate those moments alone. My role is to walk alongside you with compassion, curiosity, and a trauma‑informed approach that honors your lived experiences. I work with teens (15+) and adults through end-of-life, offering a space where your story is met without judgment and where your identity, culture, and personal truth are respected. I bring a multicultural lens, empathy and humility to your space.
Therapy can be a place where you feel seen, heard, supported, and safe to show up exactly as you are. Life brings moments that can shake us, stretch us, or leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves — and none of us are meant to navigate those moments alone. My role is to walk alongside you with compassion, curiosity, and a trauma‑informed approach that honors your lived experiences. I work with teens (15+) and adults through end-of-life, offering a space where your story is met without judgment and where your identity, culture, and personal truth are respected. I bring a multicultural lens, empathy and humility to your space.
(785) 979-1772 View (785) 979-1772
Photo of Stacey Tadokoro - Community Treatment Services/Hall & Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCPC, LCMFT, LCP, LMSW
Community Treatment Services/Hall & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCPC, LCMFT, LCP, LMSW
Serves Area
Please visit our website for each of our team member's bios. Our diversity of therapists serves people of all ages, from children to senior citizens, both as individuals and as members of their families. Whether you know your specific needs, or you are looking for help but don’t know where to start, we work closely with you to ensure you get the safe, effective treatment you need from our team of therapists.
Please visit our website for each of our team member's bios. Our diversity of therapists serves people of all ages, from children to senior citizens, both as individuals and as members of their families. Whether you know your specific needs, or you are looking for help but don’t know where to start, we work closely with you to ensure you get the safe, effective treatment you need from our team of therapists.
(913) 675-2721 View (913) 675-2721
Photo of Amanda Parkman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Amanda Parkman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you doing too much, thinking too much, and carrying more than your share in relationships - and it’s exhausting, but you don’t know how to stop. You may start to feel resentful, shut down, or like you’re the problem. These patterns didn’t start overnight. In therapy, we look at how these patterns show up, where they come from, and why they’re so hard to change. We pay attention to your reactions and what you might be avoiding, even when it's uncomfortable, so things start to make more sense.
Are you doing too much, thinking too much, and carrying more than your share in relationships - and it’s exhausting, but you don’t know how to stop. You may start to feel resentful, shut down, or like you’re the problem. These patterns didn’t start overnight. In therapy, we look at how these patterns show up, where they come from, and why they’re so hard to change. We pay attention to your reactions and what you might be avoiding, even when it's uncomfortable, so things start to make more sense.
(316) 247-2431 View (316) 247-2431
Photo of Staci Pershall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Staci Pershall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
I am interested in assisting people of all ages in reaching their fullest potential. Whether you are experiencing a difficult life phase, are a trauma survivor, or are navigating life with a persistent mental health diagnosis, I am here to partner with you.
I am interested in assisting people of all ages in reaching their fullest potential. Whether you are experiencing a difficult life phase, are a trauma survivor, or are navigating life with a persistent mental health diagnosis, I am here to partner with you.
(785) 914-5714 View (785) 914-5714
Photo of Carissa Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Carissa Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
been incarcerated, veterans, abuse survivors, and people of varying ethnicities.
When we have physical health concerns, we go see a physician. Going to see a therapist when we have mental health concerns is no different. I am happy you have found me. I have worked with a plethora of clients throughout my time in the mental health field. The people I have worked with have never fit neatly into one category. Instead, they represent a broad range of identities, emotions, ways of life, perspectives, and treatment goals. I have worked with people from different cultures, people with different religious preferences, and people who are non-religious. I have worked with people who identify LGBTQ+, people who have
been incarcerated, veterans, abuse survivors, and people of varying ethnicities.
When we have physical health concerns, we go see a physician. Going to see a therapist when we have mental health concerns is no different. I am happy you have found me. I have worked with a plethora of clients throughout my time in the mental health field. The people I have worked with have never fit neatly into one category. Instead, they represent a broad range of identities, emotions, ways of life, perspectives, and treatment goals. I have worked with people from different cultures, people with different religious preferences, and people who are non-religious. I have worked with people who identify LGBTQ+, people who have
(785) 377-5759 View (785) 377-5759
Photo of Laurynn Lake, LMSW
Laurynn Lake
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Topeka, KS 66614
It's time to put yourself first, reaching out for help is often the hardest part of the therapeutic process. As a Therapist I believe in the importance of providing Clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand the thoughts and feelings that may arise when dealing with life challenges. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a parent struggling with your child’s behaviors, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
It's time to put yourself first, reaching out for help is often the hardest part of the therapeutic process. As a Therapist I believe in the importance of providing Clients with a supportive and safe environment where they feel comfortable to explore and understand the thoughts and feelings that may arise when dealing with life challenges. You may be handling these difficulties in ways that are not satisfying or that impact your relationships. Whether you are a parent struggling with your child’s behaviors, a young adult starting with new changes in life, or a survivor of trauma looking for a safe place to heal, I am here to help.
(785) 264-6349 View (785) 264-6349

See more therapy options for Topeka

Veterans Therapists
Why is mental health important for veterans and the military?
Veterans are more likely to face mental health challenges than the general public, and such mental health challenges can make it difficult for them to navigate day-to-day life. Improved mental health can result in better interpersonal relationships, lower levels of stress, and decreased dependence on substances, such as drugs or alcohol, for many veterans. Addressing common mental health conditions can also help facilitate recovery from physical health challenges that are faced by many veterans, such as chronic pain, physical injury, or poor sleeping patterns. Therapists trained in working with veterans can help address these concerns and help improve veteran mental health.

How can veterans get access to mental health support?
There are many resources for veterans to get mental health support, including through the VA or through their primary care doctor. Many service personnel are eligible for free or reduced-cost mental health counseling through the VA, depending on their service history and current income. Veterans can also utilize online directories, such as Psychology Today, or nonprofit organization resources like the Wounded Warrior Project, to find a therapist or other healthcare professional that specializes in their specific mental health needs. Veterans may also benefit from community-based groups that facilitate social connection and/or address specific concerns, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

What type of therapy is best for veterans?
Veterans may benefit from multiple types of therapy, depending on what mental health challenges they are facing. Veterans seeking therapy for anxiety or depression may benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), which encourage clients to understand how their thought patterns influence their behavior. Veterans with PTSD may seek other more specialized forms of therapy to treat trauma symptoms, such as EMDR or exposure therapy. Many veterans and military personnel may also benefit from family or couples counseling to address the stress and adjustment challenges that can be associated with military life.

Can therapy for veterans help with trauma and PTSD?
Therapy can be highly effective in helping veterans with trauma and PTSD. Therapists specializing in veteran mental health often have extensive training and experience helping veterans navigate symptoms of trauma and can teach clients coping techniques to handle common symptoms associated with trauma and PTSD. Some therapists may use talk therapy as their primary approach, while others utilize more structured therapy modalities in sessions, such as EMDR. Veterans can try multiple therapy modalities to find the best fit for them. Therapists can also help make referrals or connect clients with available resources, such as VA benefits, to help address other life concerns.