Therapists in Independence, MO

Jennifer Dunsdon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
I opened Dunsdon Counseling, LLC in 2022 to offer mental health services in Independence, MO and the surrounding area. I graduated from UMKC in 2012 with my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been practicing as a therapist for more than 7 years. I work with preteens, teenagers, parents and individuals. I use an individualized, holistic approach, focusing treatment on the need of each client. I believe in the worth of all persons and value each person's unique life experience.
I opened Dunsdon Counseling, LLC in 2022 to offer mental health services in Independence, MO and the surrounding area. I graduated from UMKC in 2012 with my Master’s Degree in Social Work. I have been practicing as a therapist for more than 7 years. I work with preteens, teenagers, parents and individuals. I use an individualized, holistic approach, focusing treatment on the need of each client. I believe in the worth of all persons and value each person's unique life experience.

Nicholas A Simons-Bracken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
My ideal client is a client that wants therapy. A client that is willing to work a treatment plan and wanting a collaborative relationship with the clinician.
My ideal client is a client that wants therapy. A client that is willing to work a treatment plan and wanting a collaborative relationship with the clinician.

Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-mo
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-mo

Jennifer (Jenni) Liles LCSW owns Responsive Mental Health Services LLC (RMHS-LLC). I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contain moments of joy in-between and around the difficult times. Therapy allows us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly, disability aware, and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 13 and up.
Jennifer (Jenni) Liles LCSW owns Responsive Mental Health Services LLC (RMHS-LLC). I believe that all of us can live fulfilling lives that contain moments of joy in-between and around the difficult times. Therapy allows us to experience ourselves as valuable human beings with something to offer. I have extensive experiencing helping people through trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety, and out the other side. I work from a queer-friendly, disability aware, and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 13 and up.

I enjoy helping adults and seniors with life changes, depression, self-esteem and self-worth, family conflict, care-giver burn out, end-of-life concerns and transitions, chronic health issues, anxiety, and parenting.
I enjoy helping adults and seniors with life changes, depression, self-esteem and self-worth, family conflict, care-giver burn out, end-of-life concerns and transitions, chronic health issues, anxiety, and parenting.

Sandra S Fairbanks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am here to support and encourage you by using my gifts, along with effective tools and resources, to inspire change and break cycles. I firmly believe that our past does not define us—we have the power to choose our future while working through our challenges and striving toward our life’s goals. I also firmly believe that connection and understanding have the greatest impact, especially when we have walked similar paths. Through shared experiences, we can foster healing, growth, and meaningful change.
I am here to support and encourage you by using my gifts, along with effective tools and resources, to inspire change and break cycles. I firmly believe that our past does not define us—we have the power to choose our future while working through our challenges and striving toward our life’s goals. I also firmly believe that connection and understanding have the greatest impact, especially when we have walked similar paths. Through shared experiences, we can foster healing, growth, and meaningful change.

Looking to gain a better perspective on life? Improve self-esteem? Stop the racing thoughts, anxiety, constant worry and depression? I provide supportive therapy to help people realize they can make these positive changes and know they are not alone.
Looking to gain a better perspective on life? Improve self-esteem? Stop the racing thoughts, anxiety, constant worry and depression? I provide supportive therapy to help people realize they can make these positive changes and know they are not alone.

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.

Diakonos Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, LPC, PLPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64057
Diakonos is a private mental health counseling center in Independence, MO since 1981. We believe in a healthy approach to healing life's problems through integrating sound principles for the mind, body & spirit. We offer compassionate care for those struggling with painful emotions, distorted thinking, and troubling behavior, as well as those desiring personal growth and more satisfying relationships. We are comfortable and experienced at integrating clients' religious & spiritual beliefs with the therapy and healing process. Treatment is personalized to meet the individual needs of each participant. Therapists are available to lead conferences and speak on topics of interest to your church, business, or organization.
Diakonos is a private mental health counseling center in Independence, MO since 1981. We believe in a healthy approach to healing life's problems through integrating sound principles for the mind, body & spirit. We offer compassionate care for those struggling with painful emotions, distorted thinking, and troubling behavior, as well as those desiring personal growth and more satisfying relationships. We are comfortable and experienced at integrating clients' religious & spiritual beliefs with the therapy and healing process. Treatment is personalized to meet the individual needs of each participant. Therapists are available to lead conferences and speak on topics of interest to your church, business, or organization.

Barbara J Dickerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
Waitlist for new clients
If you are in a difficult time in your life and are experiencing emotional pain, you may be ready to make personal changes. Your past experiences and your reactions to those experiences make you who you are, which makes perfect sense. We can't always stay the same and move on in our lives. I am a directive, involved, compassionate, experienced therapist who is willing to provide insight, options, and perspective to help you resolve individual, marital, family issues.
If you are in a difficult time in your life and are experiencing emotional pain, you may be ready to make personal changes. Your past experiences and your reactions to those experiences make you who you are, which makes perfect sense. We can't always stay the same and move on in our lives. I am a directive, involved, compassionate, experienced therapist who is willing to provide insight, options, and perspective to help you resolve individual, marital, family issues.

Kelsey L Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Looking to strengthen your relationship or explore your unique sexual identity? As a marriage and family therapist specializing in relationship and sex therapy, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for all individuals and couples, including those in consensual non-monogamous (CNM), polyamorous, and kinky relationships. My practice is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of love, intimacy, and sexual expression, ensuring that your needs and desires are understood and respected. Whether you're seeking to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, or deepen connection, I'm here to support you on your journey.
Looking to strengthen your relationship or explore your unique sexual identity? As a marriage and family therapist specializing in relationship and sex therapy, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space for all individuals and couples, including those in consensual non-monogamous (CNM), polyamorous, and kinky relationships. My practice is dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of love, intimacy, and sexual expression, ensuring that your needs and desires are understood and respected. Whether you're seeking to enhance communication, resolve conflicts, or deepen connection, I'm here to support you on your journey.
Meet Our Therapists

John Matthew Scallion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Seeking help can be tough. Some individuals in our society see treatment as a sign of weakness. I learned very early in my career that nothing could be further from the truth. Since earning my MSW in 2015, I have had the privilege of serving both minors and adults dealing with emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, substance use and issues related to grief and loss. I also enjoy helping couples navigate the challenges of their relationship.
Seeking help can be tough. Some individuals in our society see treatment as a sign of weakness. I learned very early in my career that nothing could be further from the truth. Since earning my MSW in 2015, I have had the privilege of serving both minors and adults dealing with emotional regulation, depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal thoughts, substance use and issues related to grief and loss. I also enjoy helping couples navigate the challenges of their relationship.

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.

Anna E Reid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Anxiety can leave us feeling fatigued and powerless. Together, we'll explore ways to manage symptoms getting in our way of living our one life well. Therapy is a collaborative process, developing reconnection with your authentic self, building on pre-existing strengths. My specialties are working with teens and adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and more. Give yourself the gift of therapy today.
Anxiety can leave us feeling fatigued and powerless. Together, we'll explore ways to manage symptoms getting in our way of living our one life well. Therapy is a collaborative process, developing reconnection with your authentic self, building on pre-existing strengths. My specialties are working with teens and adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, self-esteem and more. Give yourself the gift of therapy today.

Melinda Bonham Couple And Family Therapist
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64050
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.
Do you live in a constant sense of disconnection-no matter what you do, things never feel quite "okay?" Do you feel controlled by your emotions, overwhelmed by the pressure to accomplish? Does past trauma impact how you show up daily? Has this snowballed into a constant sense of anxiety, stress, and disappointment? Is your self-care and relationships struggling also? Do communication breakdowns and conflict feel like the norm? Do you feel frustrated by the disconnection that has emerged in your life, and it is hard to know how to break the cycle? There is a way to ask for what you need without sacrificing your own boundaries.

It’s my fault this happened to me…I’m not a good person… I’m not worthy of love… I don’t deserve to be happy…no one can be trusted…If I’m not in control then I’m not safe…. I deserve bad things to happen. Sound familiar?
Hi, I’m Ian. I’m a trauma focused therapist who utilizes CPT to help my clients achieve new beginnings. When working with me, we will identify what happened in your past that is impacting your life negatively today. Together we can reshape your perspective towards a healthier understanding of what has happened to you and how we can make small changes to end generational trauma.
It’s my fault this happened to me…I’m not a good person… I’m not worthy of love… I don’t deserve to be happy…no one can be trusted…If I’m not in control then I’m not safe…. I deserve bad things to happen. Sound familiar?
Hi, I’m Ian. I’m a trauma focused therapist who utilizes CPT to help my clients achieve new beginnings. When working with me, we will identify what happened in your past that is impacting your life negatively today. Together we can reshape your perspective towards a healthier understanding of what has happened to you and how we can make small changes to end generational trauma.

My therapeutic goals begin with reducing psychological and emotional pain, and increasing self efficacy and happiness. Whether the source of pain is past trauma, worry about the future, or even current jobs or relationships, I am here to help! I often see clients whose trauma began with surviving domestic abuse in the forms of emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, and/or financial abuses. Abuse in close relationships or families can create pervasive and persistent psych-ache, and may be passed from generation to generation.
My therapeutic goals begin with reducing psychological and emotional pain, and increasing self efficacy and happiness. Whether the source of pain is past trauma, worry about the future, or even current jobs or relationships, I am here to help! I often see clients whose trauma began with surviving domestic abuse in the forms of emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, and/or financial abuses. Abuse in close relationships or families can create pervasive and persistent psych-ache, and may be passed from generation to generation.

Paul Busk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
Keeping passion and connection in relationships while also thriving as individuals is a goal that many of us have. Balancing these aspects of life can be difficult, especially when life stressors, mental or emotional disorders, or trauma present themselves. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals of connection and personal growth, while challenging them to act on the best parts of themselves. I am passionate about working with couples struggling with intimacy and desire issues. My approach in working with couples centers on differentiation based therapies and encourages both individual and couple growth.
Keeping passion and connection in relationships while also thriving as individuals is a goal that many of us have. Balancing these aspects of life can be difficult, especially when life stressors, mental or emotional disorders, or trauma present themselves. My goal is to help clients achieve their goals of connection and personal growth, while challenging them to act on the best parts of themselves. I am passionate about working with couples struggling with intimacy and desire issues. My approach in working with couples centers on differentiation based therapies and encourages both individual and couple growth.

Do you feel alone, and like no one cares? I care about you and your well being. I want to help you win against the struggles you are facing. You are capable of more than you think and I want to bring out the best in you. I am confident that i can help you. I want to be a shoulder to lean on emotionally as well as to cry on. I love working with new people, of all differences, and diversities. Given the chance, I would love to serve and care for you in your time of need.
Do you feel alone, and like no one cares? I care about you and your well being. I want to help you win against the struggles you are facing. You are capable of more than you think and I want to bring out the best in you. I am confident that i can help you. I want to be a shoulder to lean on emotionally as well as to cry on. I love working with new people, of all differences, and diversities. Given the chance, I would love to serve and care for you in your time of need.

I consider what my client and their environment can bring to their process of healing. I believe that I am an active participant, encouraging the process of change alongside my client. My goal is to offer support and strategies so that my clients can decide for themselves what is appropriate for them. I strive to help my clients gain perspective and a deeper understanding of their lives so they are empowered to make meaningful breakthroughs for themselves. In addition to individual therapy, I enjoy working with couples helping them to relate better with one another or to cope with family issues in healthier ways.
I consider what my client and their environment can bring to their process of healing. I believe that I am an active participant, encouraging the process of change alongside my client. My goal is to offer support and strategies so that my clients can decide for themselves what is appropriate for them. I strive to help my clients gain perspective and a deeper understanding of their lives so they are empowered to make meaningful breakthroughs for themselves. In addition to individual therapy, I enjoy working with couples helping them to relate better with one another or to cope with family issues in healthier ways.
See more therapy options for Independence
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Independence, MO
100+
Average cost per session
$125
Therapists in Independence, MO who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
84% | Depression |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Self Esteem |
67% | Relationship Issues |
55% | Grief |
54% | Coping Skills |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
69% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in Independence, MO see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
24% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Independence?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.