Strength-Based Therapists in Kansas City, MO

Photo of Lauri M Edwards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Lauri M Edwards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
Waitlist for new clients
My passion lies in working with adults, adolescents, and families. My experience has been working on a variety of issues including trauma, mood d/o, anxiety, self-exploration and understanding how our thinking affects our feelings and behavior. I enjoy assisting patients with identifying messages taken from life experiences that drive our choices and behavior in order to give each individual a better understanding of self. It is this understanding that brings awareness of habituated behavior patterns, effective communication skills and balance in our daily lives. Skills that are useful to patients outside of the therapeutic setting.
My passion lies in working with adults, adolescents, and families. My experience has been working on a variety of issues including trauma, mood d/o, anxiety, self-exploration and understanding how our thinking affects our feelings and behavior. I enjoy assisting patients with identifying messages taken from life experiences that drive our choices and behavior in order to give each individual a better understanding of self. It is this understanding that brings awareness of habituated behavior patterns, effective communication skills and balance in our daily lives. Skills that are useful to patients outside of the therapeutic setting.
(816) 226-5807 View (816) 226-5807
Photo of Donna K Burgess, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Donna K Burgess
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111
I focus on strength-based coping skills & CBT.
Overwhelmed? Everyone needs help occasionally through life transitions. Do you have trouble saying no? Do you feel like you do not value yourself enough or have difficulty setting boundaries? Do you have traumatic or abusive experiences (or episodes of panic)? Do you overanalyze things? I have extensive helping experience with these and other issues. I work to get to the root of these issues.
I focus on strength-based coping skills & CBT.
Overwhelmed? Everyone needs help occasionally through life transitions. Do you have trouble saying no? Do you feel like you do not value yourself enough or have difficulty setting boundaries? Do you have traumatic or abusive experiences (or episodes of panic)? Do you overanalyze things? I have extensive helping experience with these and other issues. I work to get to the root of these issues.
(816) 607-3869 View (816) 607-3869
Photo of Jenny K Havemeier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Jenny K Havemeier
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
Families face a multitude of stressors today which can pull relationships apart. Helping families, couples, and teenagers/adolescents identify and cope with these stressors is my passion. If you are facing issues as a family or couple, or have concerns with your teenager/adolescent, my approach to therapy may be what you are looking for. I use a strength based approach to therapy, focusing on solutions to improve communication and reduce conflict and stress in your relationships. Having a safe, relaxed place for clients to work on issues is important to me.
Families face a multitude of stressors today which can pull relationships apart. Helping families, couples, and teenagers/adolescents identify and cope with these stressors is my passion. If you are facing issues as a family or couple, or have concerns with your teenager/adolescent, my approach to therapy may be what you are looking for. I use a strength based approach to therapy, focusing on solutions to improve communication and reduce conflict and stress in your relationships. Having a safe, relaxed place for clients to work on issues is important to me.
(816) 448-8140 View (816) 448-8140
Photo of Dianna Brockman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Dianna Brockman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-DBT, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
DBT to build a solid foundation of skills so you can live in the to help you put your energy into healing, and strength-based therapies to help you increase your resilience to life stressors.
I know therapists are expected to start these bio’s off by sharing what they offer prospective clients, along with their viewpoint on therapy. That info is important, but my primary focus is to make sure you understand that it is YOU that really matters. Meridith Monk said "That inner voice has both gentleness and clarity. So, to get to authenticity, you really keep going down to the bone, to the honesty, and the inevitability of something.” I want to walk with you thru this process.
DBT to build a solid foundation of skills so you can live in the to help you put your energy into healing, and strength-based therapies to help you increase your resilience to life stressors.
I know therapists are expected to start these bio’s off by sharing what they offer prospective clients, along with their viewpoint on therapy. That info is important, but my primary focus is to make sure you understand that it is YOU that really matters. Meridith Monk said "That inner voice has both gentleness and clarity. So, to get to authenticity, you really keep going down to the bone, to the honesty, and the inevitability of something.” I want to walk with you thru this process.
(816) 670-3776 View (816) 670-3776
Photo of Alyssa Myatt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Alyssa Myatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153  (Online Only)
My motto in my practice is “we can do hard things.” My approach is a collaborative approach and I believe in meeting you where you want to be met. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Missouri and Kansas. I accept insurance to include Aetna, Optum, and UHC. I am EMDR Trained. I enjoy integrating various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered, and Mindfulness followed through by using strength-based and solutions-focused approaches. I have experience with clients presenting with challenges such as anxiety, depression, major life changing events, trauma, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My motto in my practice is “we can do hard things.” My approach is a collaborative approach and I believe in meeting you where you want to be met. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Missouri and Kansas. I accept insurance to include Aetna, Optum, and UHC. I am EMDR Trained. I enjoy integrating various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered, and Mindfulness followed through by using strength-based and solutions-focused approaches. I have experience with clients presenting with challenges such as anxiety, depression, major life changing events, trauma, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
View
Photo of Erin Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Erin Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64111  (Online Only)
She uses strength-based, mindful, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral techniques in therapy to achieve individualized goals for each person, couple, or family.
Erin Phillips is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has spent 20 years working with children and families in the child welfare system. She has experience working with generational trauma and foster care and adoption issues. She also has experience working with adults and adolescents who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and anger management. Erin is alternative lifestyle and LGBTQ+ friendly.
She uses strength-based, mindful, solution-focused, and cognitive-behavioral techniques in therapy to achieve individualized goals for each person, couple, or family.
Erin Phillips is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri who has spent 20 years working with children and families in the child welfare system. She has experience working with generational trauma and foster care and adoption issues. She also has experience working with adults and adolescents who are seeking help for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and anger management. Erin is alternative lifestyle and LGBTQ+ friendly.
(816) 227-6675 View (816) 227-6675
Photo of Alex Ratzlaff, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kansas City, MO
Alex Ratzlaff
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
The modalities I use include DBT, EMDR, person-centered, and strength-based approaches to help clients grow towards a lifestyle that feels more aligned with their values and beliefs.
As a therapist, my goal is to help guide clients through the uncomfortable and often painful process of making life changes and better understanding themselves. Many of my clients struggle with trauma that has kept them stuck in a cycle. I am here to help clients navigate through difficult feelings, relationships, and/or experiences and develop ways to live a healthier, happier lifestyle. Also, as an athlete and a coach, I have unique insight working with athletes of all ages and levels. In sports performance, unlocking the mental side of the sport and making it work for you can help you achieve your next level.
The modalities I use include DBT, EMDR, person-centered, and strength-based approaches to help clients grow towards a lifestyle that feels more aligned with their values and beliefs.
As a therapist, my goal is to help guide clients through the uncomfortable and often painful process of making life changes and better understanding themselves. Many of my clients struggle with trauma that has kept them stuck in a cycle. I am here to help clients navigate through difficult feelings, relationships, and/or experiences and develop ways to live a healthier, happier lifestyle. Also, as an athlete and a coach, I have unique insight working with athletes of all ages and levels. In sports performance, unlocking the mental side of the sport and making it work for you can help you achieve your next level.
(816) 297-0887 View (816) 297-0887
Photo of Sandra Italiano, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Sandra Italiano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106  (Online Only)
As an experienced counselor, I integrate a variety of evidence-based techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices, to help clients overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors, and develop strength-based and solution focused outcomes.
Life is not always easy. Even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help at times to work through the more challenging chapters of life. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whatever you may be struggling with, you should know there is hope for a better tomorrow. It takes courage to take the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am honored to work with you on your healing journey. Remember, we can do hard things.
As an experienced counselor, I integrate a variety of evidence-based techniques, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness practices, to help clients overcome negative thought patterns and behaviors, and develop strength-based and solution focused outcomes.
Life is not always easy. Even the strongest people amongst us need a little bit of help at times to work through the more challenging chapters of life. Everyone has battles to fight and hurdles to overcome at some point. Whatever you may be struggling with, you should know there is hope for a better tomorrow. It takes courage to take the first step toward a more fulfilling and happier life, and I am honored to work with you on your healing journey. Remember, we can do hard things.
View
Photo of Margaret P Ragan, Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Margaret P Ragan
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is eclectic, supportive and strength-based; partnering with my clients in meeting their challenges.
Problems overwhelming you? Ready to take action and make changes within a confidential, supportive environment? I've helped people with relationship issues; bereavement issues; job problems; substance abuse; traumatic events; stress and anxiety; women's issues; improving communication skills. I believe we gain new insights when we are able to look at our problems and lives through a different perspective. My goal is to teach clients new ways of perceiving the problem, healthy coping skills for responding to the problem, and healthy attitudes and communication skills for working with partners, families or work environments.
My approach is eclectic, supportive and strength-based; partnering with my clients in meeting their challenges.
Problems overwhelming you? Ready to take action and make changes within a confidential, supportive environment? I've helped people with relationship issues; bereavement issues; job problems; substance abuse; traumatic events; stress and anxiety; women's issues; improving communication skills. I believe we gain new insights when we are able to look at our problems and lives through a different perspective. My goal is to teach clients new ways of perceiving the problem, healthy coping skills for responding to the problem, and healthy attitudes and communication skills for working with partners, families or work environments.
(816) 659-3145 View (816) 659-3145
Rennie Chastain Gitthens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101
I believe you have taken the first step of your journey toward healing by seeking a therapist. By using an empowerment and strength-based approach, I guide others in utilizing their own strengths and assets to resolve and heal their struggles and improve the quality of their life, in addition to living a more fulfilled life. It is very important for you, as the client, to feel comfortable with your therapist so that honesty and rapport can be built. I look forward to working with you.
I believe you have taken the first step of your journey toward healing by seeking a therapist. By using an empowerment and strength-based approach, I guide others in utilizing their own strengths and assets to resolve and heal their struggles and improve the quality of their life, in addition to living a more fulfilled life. It is very important for you, as the client, to feel comfortable with your therapist so that honesty and rapport can be built. I look forward to working with you.
(816) 839-9981 View (816) 839-9981
Photo of Tasca M. Tolson in Kansas City, MO
Tasca M. Tolson
MEd, LPC, CADC, BIP, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Tasca Tolson believes in and utilizes strength-based and trauma informed perspectives when working with the individuals, couples, and families that she serves. One goal is to empower and educate to increase positive outcomes within a healing therapeutic environment. Tasca believes that clients should be treated with respect in order to promote success for the individuals with whom we work. Tasca has had more than a 15 years of experience working with individuals from various walks with specific training in substance abuse, domestic violence, trauma, and grief.
Tasca Tolson believes in and utilizes strength-based and trauma informed perspectives when working with the individuals, couples, and families that she serves. One goal is to empower and educate to increase positive outcomes within a healing therapeutic environment. Tasca believes that clients should be treated with respect in order to promote success for the individuals with whom we work. Tasca has had more than a 15 years of experience working with individuals from various walks with specific training in substance abuse, domestic violence, trauma, and grief.
(573) 282-7297 View (573) 282-7297
Photo of ReNu Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
ReNu Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64145  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for considering me as a partner in working through your journey to recovery and well-being. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of addictions, depression and anxiety. With a deep understanding of mental and emotional well-being, I use a strength based approaches to helping individuals overcome known and unexpected challenges effecting their wellness, sense of belonging and emotional safety.
Welcome and thank you for considering me as a partner in working through your journey to recovery and well-being. I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in the treatment of addictions, depression and anxiety. With a deep understanding of mental and emotional well-being, I use a strength based approaches to helping individuals overcome known and unexpected challenges effecting their wellness, sense of belonging and emotional safety.
(816) 677-6836 View (816) 677-6836
Photo of Charity Ann Clavey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Charity Ann Clavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, LCAC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64101  (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 Sherry King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Sherry King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
Life is beautiful even through all its struggles and disappointments. I believe the connections we make with others give us purpose and drive to fulfill our dreams. Though sometimes our intentions do not manifest and we become stagnant and distressed. In my therapy I like to focus on what we can control...ourselves. To take a look inward and view our most delicate fears, insecurities, and desires can be a lot of hard work. I approach each client with this recognition and strive to make a true connection to help foster self-improvement and life satisfaction.
Life is beautiful even through all its struggles and disappointments. I believe the connections we make with others give us purpose and drive to fulfill our dreams. Though sometimes our intentions do not manifest and we become stagnant and distressed. In my therapy I like to focus on what we can control...ourselves. To take a look inward and view our most delicate fears, insecurities, and desires can be a lot of hard work. I approach each client with this recognition and strive to make a true connection to help foster self-improvement and life satisfaction.
(816) 479-5137 View (816) 479-5137
Photo of Janee V. Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Janee V. Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Not Verified Not Verified
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108  (Online Only)
Do you have dreams but aren't actualizing them? Are you lacking motivation or the push you need to get across the finish line? I am skilled at helping my clients identify goals and providing them with support. Are you noticing a negative pattern in your relationships with others? Let me help you learn new communication strategies and a more effective way to resolve conflict. Have you found yourself changing in a way you don't like? I can help you develop healthy coping skills, identify changes that need to be made, become empowered, and motivated to live life to the fullest.
Do you have dreams but aren't actualizing them? Are you lacking motivation or the push you need to get across the finish line? I am skilled at helping my clients identify goals and providing them with support. Are you noticing a negative pattern in your relationships with others? Let me help you learn new communication strategies and a more effective way to resolve conflict. Have you found yourself changing in a way you don't like? I can help you develop healthy coping skills, identify changes that need to be made, become empowered, and motivated to live life to the fullest.
(816) 625-5426 View (816) 625-5426
Photo of Clarisha Blaylock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Clarisha Blaylock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114  (Online Only)
My mission as a clinician is to provide trauma sensitive compassionate care that allows you to have agency in treatment as well as in your life.
My mission as a clinician is to provide trauma sensitive compassionate care that allows you to have agency in treatment as well as in your life.
View
Photo of Liz Nasseri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Liz Nasseri
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
We all deserve to experience meaningful shifts in our lives. It is a deeply rewarding feeling to see our efforts for positive change show up in our relationships with ourselves, with our loved ones, and with the world around us. It is my goal to be your trusted advocate—creating an emotionally safe space to listen, to encourage, to strengths-build, and to help co-create desired shifts.
We all deserve to experience meaningful shifts in our lives. It is a deeply rewarding feeling to see our efforts for positive change show up in our relationships with ourselves, with our loved ones, and with the world around us. It is my goal to be your trusted advocate—creating an emotionally safe space to listen, to encourage, to strengths-build, and to help co-create desired shifts.
(816) 290-6737 View (816) 290-6737
Photo of Brittany Purrington, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kansas City, MO
Brittany Purrington
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CIT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
Are you tired of feeling like you’re never good enough or like you’re never doing enough? Do you tend to feel emotions deeply? Or perhaps, you’re an adoptee who never quite feels like you belong. You just want to feel seen and heard and to feel valued for who you are. If this sounds like you, I’m here to let you know that your story and your voice matters. I am Brittany, a compassionate guide for individuals (ages 8+) who seek understanding, acceptance, and self-confidence.
Are you tired of feeling like you’re never good enough or like you’re never doing enough? Do you tend to feel emotions deeply? Or perhaps, you’re an adoptee who never quite feels like you belong. You just want to feel seen and heard and to feel valued for who you are. If this sounds like you, I’m here to let you know that your story and your voice matters. I am Brittany, a compassionate guide for individuals (ages 8+) who seek understanding, acceptance, and self-confidence.
(816) 662-7926 View (816) 662-7926
Photo of Jessica Liddell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Jessica Liddell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64131
Do you feel overwhelmed or close to burning out? Do you find yourself doing everything for everyone else and not getting the same back? Do you feel like a stranger to yourself, or that you are not good enough? I help women learn how to set and keep boundaries, increase your self esteem, and challange your negative and/or anxious thoughts. I have a lot of experience and trainings in various therapy approaches and will pull from each on to meet your specific needs.
Do you feel overwhelmed or close to burning out? Do you find yourself doing everything for everyone else and not getting the same back? Do you feel like a stranger to yourself, or that you are not good enough? I help women learn how to set and keep boundaries, increase your self esteem, and challange your negative and/or anxious thoughts. I have a lot of experience and trainings in various therapy approaches and will pull from each on to meet your specific needs.
(816) 551-3061 View (816) 551-3061
Photo of Elizabeth Goslinga, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Elizabeth Goslinga
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
Are you struggling to understand your child's behavior? I can help. My goal is for each child and family to feel safe, accepted and understood. I want to help your child grow to meet their true potential. I will work with you and your child to help alleviate stress and work through the challenges you are facing.
Are you struggling to understand your child's behavior? I can help. My goal is for each child and family to feel safe, accepted and understood. I want to help your child grow to meet their true potential. I will work with you and your child to help alleviate stress and work through the challenges you are facing.
(816) 327-2672 View (816) 327-2672

Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.