Anxiety and depression therapists and psychiatrists in Independence, MO

As a graduate of Missouri State University’s Counseling program, I am a person-centered counselor. I believe that all those who seek therapy have a desire to bring themselves back into balance. Although I see individuals of all ages, I specialize in children between the ages of 3 and 10 addressing their needs using child-centered play therapy.

Taking the first step toward support can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face life’s challenges alone. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I offer a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where children, adolescents, and adults feel heard, understood, and empowered. I help clients address anxiety, depression, stress, behavioral concerns, self-esteem, life transitions, and relationship difficulties. I tailor care to each person’s needs and support confidence, coping, growth, and resilience.

As an LPC and Board Certified Art Therapist, I practice with a trauma informed, strengths based perspective while including modalities such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Expressive Arts Therapy. The inclusion of art into our sessions allows for a deeper understanding of skills and self.

As a nationally certified, Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing for over 16 years in Missouri and 26 years overall in the field of mental health, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. My goal is to provide you with a safe place to feel seen and heard.

I understand that finding the right psychiatric provider can feel overwhelming, and I believe you shouldn’t have to navigate your mental health journey alone. I provide compassionate, patient-centered care in a supportive and judgment-free environment. I take the time to listen to your concerns, understand your unique experiences, and work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs and goals.

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.

Hi, I'm Tierra Kinnard, LCSW, and founder of Step by Step Healing Services, LLC. With more than 16 years of experience in the mental health field, I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life's challenges with compassion, understanding, and evidence-based care. I believe healing begins in a space where you feel safe, heard, and accepted exactly as you are. I specialize in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Excoriation (Skin Picking Disorder), Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling Disorder), anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief and loss. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds, including members of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities. I understand the profound impact that mental health challenges can have on individuals, families, and relationships, and I am committed to helping clients build resilience, find relief, and create meaningful change.