Photo of Laura Shaughnessy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Laura Shaughnessy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64114
I am a CERTIFIED IMAGO RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST. I specialize in relationship work, and my style is collaborative. I believe that my clients are looking for three things when they come into my office: 1-Encouragement that their pain or negative situation will lessen or end, 2-An opportunity to be heard and validated for their feelings and experiences, 3-A plan of action to improve their lives. My clients often report that they feel empowered after working with me. I offer more than one solution to a problem so that my clients may choose the one that best suits them.
I am a CERTIFIED IMAGO RELATIONSHIP THERAPIST. I specialize in relationship work, and my style is collaborative. I believe that my clients are looking for three things when they come into my office: 1-Encouragement that their pain or negative situation will lessen or end, 2-An opportunity to be heard and validated for their feelings and experiences, 3-A plan of action to improve their lives. My clients often report that they feel empowered after working with me. I offer more than one solution to a problem so that my clients may choose the one that best suits them.
(816) 852-0947 View (816) 852-0947
Photo of Kaitlyn Rusca, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kansas City, MO
Kaitlyn Rusca
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, S-MFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64102
Perhaps you - or you and your partner - are standing on a threshold, a doorway between the life you have known and the life ahead of you. You may feel disconnected from yourself, from what used to give your life meaning, from that spark that used to enliven your relationship. You are walking in the dark, overwhelmed by the unknown, maybe feeling depressed or anxious, or both. I am here to sit with you in that scary, and sometimes exciting space, to help you be attentive to your deepest needs, fears, and longings, to communicate clearly and gently, and to uncover the deep well of wisdom and love that lies within and between you.
Perhaps you - or you and your partner - are standing on a threshold, a doorway between the life you have known and the life ahead of you. You may feel disconnected from yourself, from what used to give your life meaning, from that spark that used to enliven your relationship. You are walking in the dark, overwhelmed by the unknown, maybe feeling depressed or anxious, or both. I am here to sit with you in that scary, and sometimes exciting space, to help you be attentive to your deepest needs, fears, and longings, to communicate clearly and gently, and to uncover the deep well of wisdom and love that lies within and between you.
(816) 209-1937 View (816) 209-1937
Photo of Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Jerald Payne, LSCSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
I work with individuals, couples and families on such issues as relationship issues, problem solving, conflict resolution, communication enhancement, anger management, drug/alcohol abuse and addiction. Many clients present with depression, bipolar disorder and other mood disorders, psychotic disorders, ADHD, childhood disorders such as conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, etc. I work with adults and couples on relationship/marital issues, domestic violence, etc. I work with clients who have experienced abuse, both sexual and physical. I assist parents with parent-child relational issues and behavior modification skill development. I also assist clients with anxiety disorders, grief/loss issues and struggles with adjusting to life circumstances.
(816) 839-9448 View (816) 839-9448
Photo of Benjamin Smalley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Benjamin Smalley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64109
Our lives are so complex and layered. Our relationships are too. We all learn ways of being and patterns of relationship that we're required to outgrow as adults. That type of growth is quite difficult. If you're anything like most of my clients and I, you've tried a lot of different ways of intervening in your problems before seeking therapy. It's hard to accept when we really do need some help from the outside. And yet it's when we are heard and gain insight that we're able to make the changes we're looking for. I'd be glad to listen, share some insights and support your growth.
Our lives are so complex and layered. Our relationships are too. We all learn ways of being and patterns of relationship that we're required to outgrow as adults. That type of growth is quite difficult. If you're anything like most of my clients and I, you've tried a lot of different ways of intervening in your problems before seeking therapy. It's hard to accept when we really do need some help from the outside. And yet it's when we are heard and gain insight that we're able to make the changes we're looking for. I'd be glad to listen, share some insights and support your growth.
(816) 494-2026 View (816) 494-2026
Photo of Keith L Allen, Psychologist in Kansas City, MO
Keith L Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I have been a psychologist for 30+ years. I am licensed as a Psychologist and Health Care Provider. I work with individuals and couples and specialize in issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and vocational issues. I also specialize in helping individuals overcome sexual difficulties, which may include low sex drive, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and sexual addiction. I work with couples and families on relationship issues including marital and divorce issues, parent child difficulties, and sexual difficulties as they relate to the couple's relationship.
I have been a psychologist for 30+ years. I am licensed as a Psychologist and Health Care Provider. I work with individuals and couples and specialize in issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and vocational issues. I also specialize in helping individuals overcome sexual difficulties, which may include low sex drive, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, and sexual addiction. I work with couples and families on relationship issues including marital and divorce issues, parent child difficulties, and sexual difficulties as they relate to the couple's relationship.
(816) 934-4810 View (816) 934-4810
Photo of Taylor Luttrell-Deeds, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kansas City, MO
Taylor Luttrell-Deeds
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
My areas of expertise are couples work, relationship issues, self-criticism and self-doubt, anxiety and depression, and body image struggles.
Relationships are tricky - even the one you have with yourself. They can be an amazing part of life when running smoothly, but when life throws you a curve ball things can quickly change. Maybe you're struggling with past experiences, low self-esteem or low self-worth, or continuously attracting the wrong type of partner. Maybe your relationship is suffering due to boundaries being crossed, trust being broken, or life changes altering the way your move through the world. When this happens, it can feel almost impossible to get your life back to equilibrium. But I promise, it's not.
My areas of expertise are couples work, relationship issues, self-criticism and self-doubt, anxiety and depression, and body image struggles.
Relationships are tricky - even the one you have with yourself. They can be an amazing part of life when running smoothly, but when life throws you a curve ball things can quickly change. Maybe you're struggling with past experiences, low self-esteem or low self-worth, or continuously attracting the wrong type of partner. Maybe your relationship is suffering due to boundaries being crossed, trust being broken, or life changes altering the way your move through the world. When this happens, it can feel almost impossible to get your life back to equilibrium. But I promise, it's not.
(816) 623-2514 View (816) 623-2514
Photo of Vanessa Wray Knight, Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Vanessa Wray Knight
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
Hello! I'm Vanessa, co-owner of Secure Counseling Clinics. I've lived in KC for 20 years with my husband, 4 children, 3 dogs, 2 cats, 1 bearded dragon, and a flock of backyard chickens! I'm a Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in both MO and KS, Nationally Certified Counselor, Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and KS board-approved clinical supervisor. My heart work is helping humans with complex trauma. Couples, as well as parents and their children, work with me to form secure attachments with each other. I help clients experiencing relationship difficulties and those who experience pain from circumstances or losses.
(816) 608-8444 View (816) 608-8444
Photo of Aryana Crittleton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Aryana Crittleton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, P-LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
Waitlist for new clients
Do you want to control your anxiety/depression? Are you tired of dealing with childhood trauma? Does your relationship feel like work instead of play? I know finding a therapist is HARD - let alone trying to find one when you're not feeling your best. You're not alone. I get what it's like to feel alone and powerless. I don’t want you to feel stuck anymore. It's time to let go of the anxiety, sadness, frustration, loneliness, and shame. NONE of this is your fault. Life is hard. That’s why I’m here to help. Let's figure it out!
Do you want to control your anxiety/depression? Are you tired of dealing with childhood trauma? Does your relationship feel like work instead of play? I know finding a therapist is HARD - let alone trying to find one when you're not feeling your best. You're not alone. I get what it's like to feel alone and powerless. I don’t want you to feel stuck anymore. It's time to let go of the anxiety, sadness, frustration, loneliness, and shame. NONE of this is your fault. Life is hard. That’s why I’m here to help. Let's figure it out!
(816) 675-5606 View (816) 675-5606
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 760-2389 View (816) 760-2389
Photo of Holly L. Ramaeker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Holly L. Ramaeker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
The primary areas of focus include trauma, life transitions, pregnancy/post partum, & relationship stress.
Life is a journey, a journey that is most difficult when traveled alone. I strive to walk with clients on their path towards healing and happiness. Working from a client-centered approach, it is essential for me to understand each client as an individual to develop trust and a partnership in therapy. Relationships, trauma, careers and other stressors take a toll on a person's ability to flourish. I believe that each person has potential for growth from those experiences. My goal is to help you regain your footing on your path to living a full and vibrant life.
The primary areas of focus include trauma, life transitions, pregnancy/post partum, & relationship stress.
Life is a journey, a journey that is most difficult when traveled alone. I strive to walk with clients on their path towards healing and happiness. Working from a client-centered approach, it is essential for me to understand each client as an individual to develop trust and a partnership in therapy. Relationships, trauma, careers and other stressors take a toll on a person's ability to flourish. I believe that each person has potential for growth from those experiences. My goal is to help you regain your footing on your path to living a full and vibrant life.
(816) 992-5801 View (816) 992-5801
Photo of David Donovan, Psychologist in Kansas City, MO
David Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I believe that mental health is a vital component in creating a complete and satisfying experience of personhood. It's as important to take care of your inner life and psychological well-being as it is to take care of your physical health. I feel that every individual is unique, and therefore every therapeutic relationship is unique. For counseling to be effective, it is essential that you find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and understood. The key ingredient for successful results in psychotherapy is a strong relationship between you and your therapist.
I believe that mental health is a vital component in creating a complete and satisfying experience of personhood. It's as important to take care of your inner life and psychological well-being as it is to take care of your physical health. I feel that every individual is unique, and therefore every therapeutic relationship is unique. For counseling to be effective, it is essential that you find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and understood. The key ingredient for successful results in psychotherapy is a strong relationship between you and your therapist.
(816) 282-6927 View (816) 282-6927
Photo of Adam Lynch, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Adam Lynch
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
We are not meant to live life alone, but rather deeply involved in relationships. Some of these relationships are highly successful, while others have come with great loss, significant struggle or just the every day difficulty of learning to live and enjoy life with another person. I believe in the value of working through personal problems in the context of building stronger relationships. I will help you work through this on a personal level or with whomever you are needing to have a restored relationship with.
(816) 327-7967 View (816) 327-7967
Photo of Jill Hamilton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kansas City, 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 Dawn Hood, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Dawn Hood
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112  (Online Only)
My approach concentrates on thought and behavior patterns, relationship dynamics, and how these combine to affect you daily.
You may find the life you are living isn't healthy, or is in need of some change. With over 20 years in private practice, I have had the opportunity to help men and women make significant improvements in their relationships and in their life direction. If you are an individual needing to make a significant change, or a couple needing relationship help, I offer an individualized and practical approach. First, we will find what isn't working for you and identify the core changes you want to make. Then, together we will map out realistic steps to make that change happen.
My approach concentrates on thought and behavior patterns, relationship dynamics, and how these combine to affect you daily.
You may find the life you are living isn't healthy, or is in need of some change. With over 20 years in private practice, I have had the opportunity to help men and women make significant improvements in their relationships and in their life direction. If you are an individual needing to make a significant change, or a couple needing relationship help, I offer an individualized and practical approach. First, we will find what isn't working for you and identify the core changes you want to make. Then, together we will map out realistic steps to make that change happen.
(816) 293-3168 View (816) 293-3168
Photo of Annalisa Gramlich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Annalisa Gramlich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." C.G. Jung-- You might suffer from anxiety, depression, grief, and/or relationship issues, but the key is that you are willing to explore why. My philosophy is holistic in that I feel like it is important to examine each part of life because I truly believe everything is connected when it concerns mental, emotional, and physical suffering and pain. I have recently completed a yoga teacher certification so I am able to incorporate somatic principles and movement into my work with clients.
"Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes." C.G. Jung-- You might suffer from anxiety, depression, grief, and/or relationship issues, but the key is that you are willing to explore why. My philosophy is holistic in that I feel like it is important to examine each part of life because I truly believe everything is connected when it concerns mental, emotional, and physical suffering and pain. I have recently completed a yoga teacher certification so I am able to incorporate somatic principles and movement into my work with clients.
(816) 565-4951 View (816) 565-4951
Photo of Brian P Heydon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Brian P Heydon
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64114
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy as well as crisis intervention, addiction, mood disorders, sexuality issues, child/adolescent problems, and adjustment issues among high-functioning professionals.
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
I specialize in Imago Relationship Therapy as well as crisis intervention, addiction, mood disorders, sexuality issues, child/adolescent problems, and adjustment issues among high-functioning professionals.
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 Jessica Horine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Jessica Horine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
My main goal as a therapist is to build a respectful, trusting relationship that truly supports your hopes and goals.
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.
My main goal as a therapist is to build a respectful, trusting relationship that truly supports your hopes and goals.
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 Merritt Leonhardt Benz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kansas City, MO
Merritt Leonhardt Benz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, CDWF, MCLC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Life is messy but good therapy ends. Curious about therapy or psychedelic medicine? If you came here looking for support, be encouraged. There are answers your questions. When will I feel better? What will it take for me or my relationship to change? What keeps getting in the way of my healing? The quality of your life is crafted from your decisions. Decisions can be intentional or passive, we create and re-create our lives every day. Struggle can be our greatest call to courage and the clearest path to your best life. Your breakthrough is waiting. Relationship counseling, executive coaching & individual therapy offered.
Life is messy but good therapy ends. Curious about therapy or psychedelic medicine? If you came here looking for support, be encouraged. There are answers your questions. When will I feel better? What will it take for me or my relationship to change? What keeps getting in the way of my healing? The quality of your life is crafted from your decisions. Decisions can be intentional or passive, we create and re-create our lives every day. Struggle can be our greatest call to courage and the clearest path to your best life. Your breakthrough is waiting. Relationship counseling, executive coaching & individual therapy offered.
(816) 396-8013 View (816) 396-8013
Photo of Valerie Hughes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Valerie Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64116
Do you feel as though you lack confidence in your ability to express yourself in relationships? Are you having a hard time finding affirmation and support for your needs or desires? Maybe you feel inauthentic in your roles or relationships and uncertain in your ability to change these uncomfortable aspects of your life. The therapeutic relationship can provide an affirming space for you to build confidence in yourself. It can be a place to explore your needs and wants and develop strategies to align yourself with them.
Do you feel as though you lack confidence in your ability to express yourself in relationships? Are you having a hard time finding affirmation and support for your needs or desires? Maybe you feel inauthentic in your roles or relationships and uncertain in your ability to change these uncomfortable aspects of your life. The therapeutic relationship can provide an affirming space for you to build confidence in yourself. It can be a place to explore your needs and wants and develop strategies to align yourself with them.
(312) 626-0680 View (312) 626-0680
Photo of Ann L Hakan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Kansas City, MO
Ann L Hakan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64112
I have been in private practice for over twenty years. During those years I have counseled both individual clients and couples with a variety of issues. These issues include relationship issues, life transitions, abuse, depression, eating disorders, grief, stress, anxiety, sexual identity, and parenting issues. I believe we all go through difficult periods in our lives where we need someone to talk to who can give understanding, support, guidance, tools, and suggestions. I believe that counseling can often help our lives become less painful but instead become more hopeful and fulfilling.
I have been in private practice for over twenty years. During those years I have counseled both individual clients and couples with a variety of issues. These issues include relationship issues, life transitions, abuse, depression, eating disorders, grief, stress, anxiety, sexual identity, and parenting issues. I believe we all go through difficult periods in our lives where we need someone to talk to who can give understanding, support, guidance, tools, and suggestions. I believe that counseling can often help our lives become less painful but instead become more hopeful and fulfilling.
(816) 531-6777 View (816) 531-6777

Relationship Issues Therapists
While need for human connection appears to be innate, the ability to form healthy, loving relationships is learned. Some evidence suggests that the ability to form a stable relationship starts to form in infancy, in a child's earliest experiences with a caregiver who reliably meets the infant's needs for food, care, warmth, protection, stimulation, and social contact. Such relationships are not destiny, but they are theorized to establish deeply ingrained patterns of relating to others. The end of a relationship, however, is often a source of great psychological anguish.