Family therapy and counseling in Missouri

I believe every person deserves to feel heard, understood, and supported. With more than 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have had the privilege of working with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families facing a wide range of challenges. I earned my Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Pittsburg State University and am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Missouri Associate Alcohol Drug Counselor II.

Throughout my career, I have worked in juvenile and adult justice systems, drug courts, schools, and community behavioral health settings. These experiences have given me a broad understanding of the many factors that influence emotional well-being and personal growth. I work with concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, anger management, substance use, relationship challenges, and adolescent behavioral issues. My goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their concerns and building a healthier, more fulfilling life.

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 a Missouri Ozarks native, nature and the outdoors have always played a huge part in my healing journey and mental health. Growing up, I was outside any chance I got; riding bikes, riding horses, climbing trees, bird watching, rock collecting, camping, hiking, floating, boating, spelunking, exploring creeks, and enjoying campfires. Nature immersion, movement in nature, outdoor recreation, and horsemanship remain part of my daily practice; and I incorporate these into my therapeutic work wherever possible.

If you are moving through a major life transition, especially one you did not choose, you may notice that old ways of coping no longer work. Many people I see are adapting to a new chapter, trying to build skills for what is next while caring about how change will affect the people they love. Some arrive unsure about trying therapy again after a difficult experience. Together, we explore how your family of origin and earliest relationships echo in what you face today.

I have been working as a clinician and an administrator for over 25 years. After gaining a Master's of Social Work, I worked in community mental health centers in Northern Arizona, Chicago, Missouri and Kansas. I have held roles as a case manager, therapist, clinical supervisor and an administrator overseeing operations of a community mental health center. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work at organizations across the country that focus on helping clients achieve wellness and balance in their lives. As a clinician, I am dedicated to providing personalized care to clients, and helping clients move towards wellness through the use of CBT, EMDR and other evidence based practices.

I look forward to meeting you and working with you.