Book a therapist or psychiatrist in Columbia, MO covered by Cigna

Great to meet you! My name is Kayla Loving, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing virtual therapy for adults.

I specialize in working with adults who may look like they have it all together on the outside, but feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally drained, or disconnected on the inside. I primarily work with anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, low self-esteem, life transitions, boundaries, and difficulty prioritizing your own needs.

My approach is collaborative, relaxed, and individualized. I’m naturally introverted and reserved, and one of my strengths is being a genuine listener. I believe you know yourself better than anyone, so I don’t believe therapy should be about me telling you what to do. Instead, we’ll work together to understand what you’re experiencing, explore what you need, and find realistic strategies that fit your life.

In our first few sessions, we’ll get to know each other, talk about what brought you to therapy, and explore your goals. You don’t need to have everything figured out or know exactly what to say. We’ll take things at a comfortable pace and build from there.

My style is laid-back but professional. I want therapy to feel like a space where you can exhale, be yourself, and talk openly without judgment. I’m passionate about helping people reconnect with themselves, set healthy boundaries, protect their energy, and make space for their own needs.

Outside of therapy, I love traveling, trying great food, spending time with my fur babies, reading, dancing, and watching comfort movies and shows.

If you’re looking for a therapist with a soft, understanding presence who will truly listen and meet you where you are, I’d be honored to work with you.

Life can feel like too much: too many demands, too many pressures, too little space to

just breathe. Whether you are navigating anxiety, trauma, a big life change, or a

nagging sense that something needs to shift, I am here to help you find your footing. I

bring warmth, humor, and a genuine belief that therapy works best when it feels

human. My background spans schools, community health, substance recovery, and a

psychiatric hospital, so whatever you are carrying, I have likely walked alongside

someone carrying it too. If you are curious about what it would feel like to work

together, let us find out.

Clients often describe me as approachable, practical, and easy to talk to. Therapy should be a collaborative process, and I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself without fear of judgment. My style balances support with practical problem-solving, helping clients gain insight while also developing strategies they can use in everyday life. Above all, I want you to feel heard, understood, and supported as we work toward your goals together.

Stephanie Barkley graduated from Saint Louis University with a doctorate in medical family therapy. She has been practicing for 15+ years. She uses modalities that deconstruct patterns preventing you from reaching your full potential. Her counseling sessions will help you reconnect with yourself and the present moment and make yourself and your relationships priorities again.

As an independently licensed professional counselor, counselor educator, and supervisor, I believe that everyone deserves a space where they can feel heard, supported, and accepted. I've been practicing for 15 years and hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, a doctorate in Counselor Education, and a Fellowship in Thanatology with specialized expertise in grief and loss. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and someone with AuDHD, I bring both professional knowledge and lived experience to my work. My goal is to create a warm, affirming environment where you can show up as your authentic self and move toward meaningful change.

If you're carrying the weight of depression, anxiety, or a past you haven't been able to fully

process, you don't have to figure it out alone. With more than five years as a Licensed Clinical

Social Worker, I work with adults and seniors who are ready to make sense of what they've been

through and start moving toward the life they want to build.

I have a particular passion for working with people navigating mood disorders like bipolar disorder,

trauma and PTSD, and the kind of emotional challenges men often face but rarely talk about. I also

work with couples who want to strengthen their connection before things fall apart.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Missouri–Kansas City and clinical experience in both civilian and military settings. Over the years, I’ve supported individuals facing trauma, anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity concerns.

I’ve worked as a therapist in outpatient settings, private practice, and as a behavioral health provider within the Missouri Army National Guard. These experiences have given me a strong foundation in trauma-informed care, EMDR-informed approaches, CBT, and strengths-based therapy.

I support clients dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, burnout, relationship strain, and transitions. I take pride in creating a grounded, non-judgmental environment where you can explore what you’re facing and develop strong, sustainable coping skills.