Bipolar disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Columbia, MO

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses.

Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

It takes courage to reach out for help! Showing up that first time may be the hardest part of the journey. Being someone who has sat in that chair, I have a good idea how you are feeling. Being someone who has done her own personal work of therapy and helped hundreds of others with theirs, I also know how much better life can be! Emotional wounds can be heavy. Medication may help, but the feelings can make living feel like swimming with a shot put ball.

I strive to come alongside those struggling to provide support, education and encouragement. I have worked with clients from age 5 to 103, and what I have found to be most important is the connection (or the “fit.”) You need a therapist you can bring your authentic self to. You are hiring me to do a job, to help you think, feel, and behave better. I want that for you, even if it is not me, so never be afraid to interview a few therapists before deciding! After all, if it is me, I will be in your corner and I will challenge you, at the same time. You want to know you chose wisely for yourself.

As a licensed clinical social worker, I believe therapy should meet you where you are while also helping you move toward where you want to be. I often compare therapy to going to the gym: it is dedicated time to strengthen the way you understand and respond to your thoughts, emotions, relationships and behaviors.

My approach is warm, direct and collaborative. You can expect empathy, compassion and acceptance, along with thoughtful questions and practical strategies that help you make meaningful changes. Your needs, experiences and goals will guide our work together.

I support adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges and major life transitions. I also have experience working with concerns related to sexual orientation, identity, suicide prevention, family dynamics and professional stress.

You do not have to have everything figured out before beginning therapy. We can start with what is happening right now and work together from there.

As a licensed professional counselor, I bring specialized training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Integrated Treatment of Complex Trauma for Adolescents. I graduated from Pittsburg State University in 2018 with a Bachelor's in Psychology and a minor in French, and completed my Master of Science in Counseling Psychology with a specialization in Children and Adolescents in 2023 at Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri. I am passionate about supporting young people and their families through challenging seasons.