Play Therapists in Springfield, MO

I am currently accepting clients who are interested in learning mindfulness. I work with all populations: adults, teens, children, those with autism/aspergers, etc. I am also a certified yoga therapist currently obtaining training in somatic yoga.

Hi! I'm Dr. John VanderKaay. I'm a Texas Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist Supervisor and Missouri and Colorado Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Board Certified in both Professional Christian Counseling and Pastoral Counseling and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I have more than thirty years experience in ministry; Fifteen years in military chaplaincy, in both Active Duty and Reserves, including combat tour of duty in Iraq; Selected as Senior Protestant Chaplain twice as a Captain; Featured in several newspapers, US Air Force website and Department of Defense’s Real Warriors program for work in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Suicide Intervention. I hold a Masters of Arts in Theological Studies, a Masters of Divinity, specializing in Pastoral Counseling, and a Doctor of Ministry in Marriage and Family Counseling. My wife, Terri, have been married 30+ years and have five kids: two married daughters and two sons-in-law, Danielle & Kendall, and Lydia and Blane, and three sons, Timothy, Stephen, and Nate.

Each of us faces obstacles and difficulties in life differently, and at times we can all use help. Individuals frequently seek my services during times of transition, when decision making appears to have a greater impact on our future directions.

Be BOLD Psychology and Consulting is a neurodivergent-affirming, LGBTQIA+ celebratory, trauma-informed therapy practice offering virtual therapy across North Carolina and over 43 PSYPACT states, as well as in-person therapy in Durham. Our team provides inclusive care for individuals, couples, families, kids, and teens, with specialties in trauma, identity exploration, life transitions, relationship support, psychological evaluation, court-ordered services, and grief. If you’re looking for a practice that values authenticity, connection, and affirming care, we’re here when you’re ready.

I am a warm, supportive, clinician who will tailor the therapeutic experience to your unique needs. You will find me to be a trusted partner dedicated to your well-being. I specialize in empowering individuals and families to overcome challenges related to anxiety, trauma, depression, executive functioning, self-esteem, and behavior problems. With a compassionate and collaborative approach, I tailor evidence-based interventions to each individual and family I work with. Contact me today for a free consultation and we will work toward making positive changes and personal growth.

Springfield is Missouri's third-largest city and the hub of the Ozarks region, home to Missouri State University and several other colleges, which gives it an active student population alongside a broader community of families, retirees, and healthcare and service sector workers. The cultural landscape of southwest Missouri is predominantly evangelical and conservative, which influences how mental health is perceived in the community, though awareness and acceptance of therapy have grown considerably in recent years. CoxHealth and Mercy Hospital both operate significant behavioral health programs in Springfield, making the city an important regional resource for mental health care across the rural Ozarks. Common therapy concerns include anxiety, depression, faith and religious identity, family and relationship issues, and the particular stresses of navigating mental health care in a region where stigma is gradually but meaningfully declining.

Gender ID

	80%	Female
	20%	Male

Session Type

	85%	In Person and Online
	15%	Online Only

Top Specialties

92%	Anxiety or Fears
92%	Depression
85%	Parenting
77%	Child or Adolescent Issues
77%	Divorce
69%	Self Esteem
69%	Stress

Ages Served

100%	Adult
85%	Teen
77%	Children
77%	Young Adult
62%	Senior

Client Focus

54%	Women
31%	LGBTQ+
23%	Men
23%	Military / Veterans
15%	Black / African American

Play therapists in Springfield, MO

Tracy Hadel

Restoration Counseling Ministries

Lisa Saponaro

Be BOLD Psychology and Consulting

Linda Friedman

Play Therapy therapists in Springfield, MO Statistics

Average years in practice

Average cost per session

Accept insurance

Offer sliding scale