Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Kansas City, MO

I'm here to assist my clients to achieve goals and adapt coping skills by using client-focused tools which are evidence-based. I operate in the spirit of excellence and professionalism with everyone regardless of age, gender, race, social-economic status, or sexual identity. I will create a wellness plan specific to each client's individual needs.

I am curious and validating, providing a nurturing environment to talk openly and honestly about your struggles, strengths, weaknesses, needs, likes, and dislikes. I love helping people explore their unique and particular powers as well as how these powers impact their world and their relationships. As a passionate supporter of those who have been through unjust or otherwise traumatic experiences--including those experiencing discrimination based upon race or gender identity or sexual orientation--I am particularly interested in helping people gain skills for dealing with, and making sense of, the remnants of their pasts.

Having completed Bessel Van der Kolk's Trauma Research Foundation's Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies in early 2025, I have a strong foundational understanding of the most cutting edge approaches to treating trauma. I am also comfortable using a combination of approaches, including Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I received an MSW from the University of Pennsylvania, a psychodynamically focused program, after which I completed Bryn Mawr's certificate program in psychodynamic psychotherapy. I have also completed 1 year of Gestalt Therapy training and the Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Immersion Program.

As an LCSW, my training emphasized the role of social environment--from the family to society at large--in how we construct our narratives, enabling me to help you make sense of what in your life is yours to own and what is a product of your environment.

You can be successful, capable, and still feel like your mind is working against you. Anxiety may have you replaying conversations for hours, ADHD can make everyday responsibilities feel unnecessarily difficult, or obsessive thoughts may leave you questioning things you know shouldn’t need this much attention. You might also be navigating your sexuality, feeling caught between who you are and what your family expects, or noticing depression pulling you away from relationships and things you once enjoyed. I work with adults, teens, couples, and families who want to understand why these patterns keep happening instead of simply learning to tolerate them. You deserve a space where your identity and experiences are understood without judgment. Together, we’ll work toward feeling more comfortable with yourself and more connected to the people who matter to you.

As a therapist, I have a deep passion for supporting others through their journey towards general wellbeing. I place strong emphasis on total holistic wellness as well as creating a safe, inclusive and nonjudgemental space as we work together to help you overcome roadblocks and achieve your goals.

Feeling caught up in your thoughts and unsettled and anxious? Struggling with relationships and finding enjoyment in life? Overwhelmed by trying to make changes, but unsure how to proceed?

I am a guiding presence focused on getting to know you and providing tools you can use to be able to build awareness, sit with the discomfort of your thoughts and feelings, and find a path forward. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting challenges and unfulfilling relationships.

My name is Vanessa Cox. I'm the Founder and CEO of Extensive Prevention Intervention Counseling Services (EPICS) LLC, a professional counseling practice, and the Founder and Board Secretary of EPICS J. R. Foundation. The driving force behind my lifework has been a personal mission to live with integrity and make a difference in the lives of others. With over 30 years of clinical and administrative experience,

I firmly believe that everyone has the capacity for growth and change, even when they feel stuck. I've always been drawn to understanding what makes people tick and what gets in the way of them living their best lives. I'm passionate about helping others improve their quality of life by providing a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental space for clients to explore their thoughts, identify their strengths, and develop practical strategies for creating positive change. I see my role as a facilitator, guiding individuals on their own unique path to greater well-being and a sense of liberation from what holds them back.

I believe mental health care should feel collaborative, compassionate, and free of judgment. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and supported throughout your treatment journey.

I specialize in women's mental health, including anxiety, depression, pregnancy (antepartum), postpartum mental health, life transitions, and the unique emotional challenges women experience across different stages of life. Whether you're preparing for motherhood, adjusting after delivery, balancing career and family, or navigating everyday stress, I strive to provide personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your goals.

My approach is warm, patient-centered, and collaborative. I take the time to understand your story, educate you about your treatment options, and develop a plan that aligns with your values and lifestyle. I believe the best outcomes happen when patients feel empowered to participate in their care and have a provider they can trust.