Affirming Liberation Therapy & Healing Arts Practice

When deciding between seeing a counselor and a therapist, it's important to understand that these terms are often used interchangeably, but they can sometimes refer to different levels of training and licensure. A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who has completed extensive education and training, including a master’s degree in counseling, supervised clinical experience, and passing a state-recognized exam. LPCs are fully qualified to provide therapy, helping individuals, relationship partners, and families with a range of emotional and psychological issues.
However, the term "counselor" is also used by professionals who do not have the same level of training or licensure as LPCs. For instance, drug counselors or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADCs) specialize in addiction counseling and may have different certification requirements. Camp counselors, on the other hand, are typically responsible for the care and supervision of children in recreational settings and do not have formal mental health training. Spiritual or pastoral counselors may or may not have formal spiritual or religious training or certification, and rarely have any counseling education unless they have pursued additional education and training to become a licensed counselor. When you’re looking for a therapist, it's crucial to ensure that they have the appropriate credentials.
To ensure you receive the best care, ask potential therapists about their training, licensure, and experience. Licensed professionals, such as LPCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, and psychologists, have undergone rigorous training and adhere to strict ethical guidelines, making them well-equipped to address mental health concerns. Interviewing a few therapists can help you find someone with whom you feel comfortable and confident in their ability to support your mental health needs.
A Brief Guide on How to Choose a Counselor or Therapist:
Choosing the right counselor or therapist involves several key considerations to ensure you find a professional who meets your needs and supports your journey toward mental health:
1. Define Your Goals: Identify what you hope to achieve in therapy, such as reducing anxiety, exploring identity, reducing meltdowns/sensory overwhelm, recovering from burnout, improving relationships, or gaining better self-understanding.
2. Understand Therapy Types: Familiarize yourself with various therapy approaches like Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Nature-Based Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Play Therapy, Queer and Trans Affirming Therapy, Neurodivergent Affirming Therapy, Liberation Psychology Therapy, and EMDR Therapy to find the one that resonates with you.
3. Specialties and Experience: Look for a therapist with expertise in your specific area of concern, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or children’s issues. A therapists with cultural humility, training, and experience working with clients like you may be important. For people of the Global Majority, you may want to search for a therapist with your identity and lived experience or at least positive recommendations from your peers. For queer and gender expansive people, you may prefer a therapist with lived experience, training, and experience working with others with your identity.
4. Check Credentials: Ensure the therapist has the appropriate education and licensing, such as LPC, LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, or a PhD/PsyD. For those in Missouri you can look here. For those in Oregon verify a license at this link.
5. Evaluate Cost: Consider the cost of therapy to make sure it fits your budget.
6. Time Commitment: Determine how much time you are willing to invest in therapy, considering the frequency and duration of sessions.
7. Personal Comfort: Choose a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and understood, as the therapeutic relationship is crucial for success.
8. Practical Considerations: Take into account logistics such as the therapist’s location, availability, and whether they offer virtual sessions via a secure online teletherapy platform which can allow you to meet for therapy from the comfort of your home if you can arrange for privacy and have a good internet connection.
9. Use Online Resources: Utilize directories like TherapyDen, Therapy that Liberates , and Therapy for Black Girls to find therapists based on your criteria.
10. Initial Consultation: Schedule consultations with 3 therapists you would like to interview to ask questions, discuss your goals, and evaluate if the therapist is a good fit for you.
Taking these steps will help you find a therapist who aligns with your needs and supports your path to mental well-being.
Yes, absolutely, therapy can be a worthwhile investment in both the short and long term, but its value often depends on how you choose to engage in the process. In the short term, therapy offers relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, providing you with practical coping strategies and emotional support. It helps you gain insights into your thoughts and behaviors, fostering a sense of empowerment and improved emotional regulation.
Long-term, therapy can lead to lasting personal growth and enhanced mental health. By addressing the root causes of issues, therapy often results in sustained improvements in life satisfaction, relationships, and overall well-being. You might find yourself experiencing significant changes in self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and resilience, leading to a more fulfilling life.
However, the effectiveness of therapy is greatly influenced by your active participation. Engaging in activities like journaling, practicing coping strategies, and self-care between sessions can significantly enhance the therapeutic process. Just like physical fitness requires regular exercise, therapy benefits from consistent effort outside of sessions.
While therapy can be a financial investment, there are ways to make it more affordable. Many clinics and nonprofit agencies offer low-cost therapy, and numerous therapists accept insurance. For those preferring to pay out of pocket, some therapists provide superbills for insurance reimbursement. This flexibility allows you to choose the best payment method for your needs, making therapy accessible and valuable for many.

Frequently Asked Questions about Online Therapy or Counseling in St. Louis, Missouri

What is the difference between seeing a counselor and a therapist?

How Do I Choose a Counselor?

Is Therapy Worth It?