Mental Health Services Phillipsburg: Professional Psychologists, Therapists, and Counselors For Behavioral Health Care
About us – What Makes Western Kansas Therapy Associates
At Western Kansas Therapy Associates, we empathize that there are a vast array of challenges that people encounter in life. Some of these are new adversities and some are old adversities from earlier in life. For these reasons, we are committed to offering empathic and full therapeutic services . We have an exceptional team that consists of skilled and professional therapists, counselors and psychologists.
We acknowledge and understand the importance of the therapeutic relationship. Everyone copes with challenges or heals from wounds at their own pace and path. Therapy is not a one-modality-fits-all process. Therapy often takes time, but can be well worth the investment of time. Prioritizing your psychological well-being can save you time in the long run. We also strive to address the wholistic needs of our clients with our collaborative approach to healthcare, improving the quality of their life and promoting overall wellness.
The therapy services we offer are for individuals throughout all phases of life (children, adolescents, young adults, and adults). In addition, when you call WKTA, you speak with an actual therapist right from the start who will listen to what you are struggling with and help match you with a therapist who may be a good fit. It is impossible to predict the therapeutic relationship, but we do the best we can to listen to you and get things going in the right direction, right away.
Mental Health Challenges We Treat
At WKTA, we have therapists that treat a wide range of mental health challenges. They can help you scale through trying challenges in life, whether it be painful emotions, relationship issues, family conflict, and others.
Our therapists have several treatment approaches to help you get through it through whatever you are facing. Below are the most common mental health conditions we treat at WKTA, however, this is list is not exhaustive as the range of challenges people experience is vast.
Depression
Depression manifests itself in different ways and has several levels of severity ranging from feelings of being stuck in a rut or having the seasonal blues, to a more serious condition such as major depressive disorder. There are a variety of ways to help people recognize these depressive patterns and help manage them over time. WKTA therapists also work to collaborate with other healthcare professionals if you would like us to do so.
Anxiety
Anxiety can be feeling of uneasiness, fear, or worry. It can also affect people physically (upset stomach, sweating, etc.). Some people experience panic, which is an intense form of anxiety. Anxiety can sometimes overwhelm our ability to cope with general life adversities that it interferes with your relationships, job, or schoolwork. We treat anxiety-related disorders such as agoraphobia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, specific phobias, panic attacks, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and others. There are many different modalities and interventions that may help with anxiety related challenges.
Psychological Trauma and PTSD
An individual that has gone through a traumatic event may experience traumatic stress and find it difficult to overcome. Several of our therapists are WKTA specialize in traumatic stress and PTSD. Traumatic stress in reaction to a traumatic event or chronic abuse is normal. PTSD sets in when these challenges continue despite the threat being absent now. There are a variety of therapeutic modalities that can assist in reprocessing the traumatic event with the aim of relieving the traumatic stress.
Grief
Grief is an emotional pain that can be brought on by the loss of a loved one. At WKTA, our therapists are here for you to help support you through this challenging time. Everyone has their own path with grief. It is not about “getting over it” but living with it and understanding that grief changes in time, but does not go away. We provide a safe space for you to express your feelings in confidence and without judgment. We aim to create an understanding of the emotional pain from loss so that a path of healthy grieving can transpire.. We also provide strategies to help you cope with your grief in the short and long term.
Play Therapy
Some WKTA therapists make use of the play method as a therapeutic tool while working with children. This helps children express emotions well and develop coping skills through play. Play therapy can help children to work through their emotions, including those surrounding trauma. This can also help them develop communication skills, build relationships with peers and increase general functioning. Play therapy is especially effective with young children who may not be able to articulate their feelings yet. Through play, they are able to communicate better and process whatever challenges they might be facing.
Autism Spectrum
The autism spectrum is very broad. We understand that no two people with autism are exactly alike. We also understand that many families of children with autism are under a lot of stress in navigating systems and advocating for their child. Or, they may not know where to start or how to navigate for their child. This is okay, we can help with this.. Our therapists work with you to develop a plan to address the challenges you or your child faces. Therapy may help gain social skills, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities.
ADHD
WKTA therapists provide therapy for those suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). ADHD is often misunderstood by the general public and we empathize with that. Often times, it can empower a person to learn more about their diagnosis and how to compensate for their challenges. Treatment approaches may include behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy as well as others.
Couples Therapy
Taking the step to engage in couples therapy is a big commitment to working on your relationship with your significant other. At WKTA, our therapists are here to support couples in their journey towards a healthier and more fulfilling relationship. We use an understanding approach to help couples feel heard and understood by each other. Couples therapy can help build communication skills, resolve disagreements, identify individual goals and shared values, cultivate empathy, work through trust issues, and more. Our therapists are committed to helping couples improve their relationship and stay connected.
When do I need to “talk to someone” or see a therapist?
In order to know if and when you need to get help from a therapist, self-reflection is needed. There are certain questions you need to ask yourself and discuss with people you trust in order for you to gain valuable insights into your mental and emotional well-being. It is essential that during this self-reflection, you should be honest with yourself and listen to whatever concerns those who care about you have expressed. Some of the key questions you should ask yourself are:
- Am I experiencing any changes and challenges in my life? If Yes, what are they?
- What is the extent of the impact these challenges have in my daily functioning — sleep, work, responsibilities, eating habits, performance at school, and leisure activities?
- What is the frequency of occurrence of these challenges? Is it a daily, weekly, or more sporadic occurrence?
- How distressed do I get as a result of these challenges? Do they excessively occupy my thoughts or affect my overall mood?
- Have I been living with these challenges for an extended period, or is there a specific event or trigger that initiated them?
- Are my current coping strategies effective in managing these challenges, or do they seem to exacerbate the situation?
- Do the challenges and their impact on my life feel overwhelming, making it challenging to navigate on my own?
- Have friends, family members, or other trusted individuals expressed concern about my well-being or suggested seeking professional help?
Honestly reflecting and answering these questions can help you acquire clarity and give you an insight into your mental state making you know if you need to see a therapist.
What if I do not “fit” well with my therapist?
At Western Kansas Therapy Associates (WKTA), our main aim is to make sure that you receive the psychological care that feels right for you. If you find that your assigned therapist doesn’t suit you, an open communication with us is encouraged and we would be glad to assist you in finding a better fit. Whether that means exploring other therapists within our practice or referring you to another trusted therapist in your community, we are here to support your journey towards finding the right therapeutic match.
We, however, suggest that you give it 2-3 sessions before considering a change as therapeutic relationships between therapists and patients often take time to grow and develop. This period of 2-3 sessions allows you to better understand the process of the therapy and gives you an opportunity to build trust with your therapist.
Allow our staff to guide you towards the therapeutic relationship that will strengthen you on your journey to healing and personal growth.
Who Needs Behavioral Health Care?
There are a lot of existing mental health challenges, ranging from minor adversity to long-term difficulties that may require ongoing therapy and there are a variety of people that require behavioral health care. We are here to give these people the guidance and support they need in order to navigate these challenges and achieve overall well-being.
Child Psychologist for Children
At Western Kansas Therapy Associates, our child psychologists specialize in providing behavioral health care for children. We understand that children may face challenges in managing their emotions, interacting with peers, and adapting to changes in their environment. A child psychologist can help identify psychological challenges and collaborate with caregivers to develop effective strategies.
Children may also experience difficulties managing their emotions at school or coping with social issues. Our skilled therapists can assist in exploring the causes of these challenges and provide guidance to help the child, caregivers, and the system adapt.
We recognize that caregivers may find it challenging to handle these difficulties on their own. There may be hesitancy to enroll their children in counseling due to the existing stigma around mental health. However, therapy can be a positive experience, providing families and children with skills to cope with the challenges they face.
Individuals
At Western Kansas Therapy Associates, we provide support for individuals struggling with mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety. Our caring and experienced therapists offer personalized treatment to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. We believe in the importance of providing a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can express themselves freely and work towards their personal goals.
We offer evidence-based interventions and collaborate closely with our clients to develop tailored strategies that meet their unique needs. Our goal is to empower individuals to regain control of their lives and build resilience in the face of mental health challenges.
Teens
During adolescence, teenagers often encounter various challenges and may benefit from behavioral health care. Teen counseling provides support in understanding and regulating emotions, fostering positive relationships, managing stress, and transitioning into adulthood. These interventions can lead to enhanced social functioning, improved academic performance, and increased self-esteem. Adolescence is a vulnerable period, and seeking help from a trusted therapist can make a meaningful difference in addressing mental health struggles.
Youth Community Support
Our therapists have a wealth of experience in delivering psycho-social interventions to support youth and their support systems facing a variety of social, behavioral, emotional, and mental health challenges. Early intervention is crucial, and we collaborate closely with children’s support systems to gain a comprehensive understanding of their unique circumstances. We also prioritize offering a range of options to ensure optimal outcomes for our clients.
Seniors – Adult Community Support
Behavioral health care can be crucial for older adults who may face challenges such as feelings of isolation, managing chronic conditions, or experiencing depression and anxiety. Counseling services can assist seniors in developing strategies to maintain relationships, cope with stress, and adapt to life changes. Additionally, we offer specialized behavioral health care for veterans who have experienced trauma. Our veterans mental health services are tailored to address the unique challenges faced by those who have served our country. With compassionate and evidence-based treatment, we strive to help veterans manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
First Responders and Veterans
At Western Kansas Therapy Associates, our therapists undergo extensive training to understand and address the specific challenges faced by first responders and veterans. We recognize and respect the unique cultures and dynamics within these groups. We also understand the existing stigma surrounding seeking help and aim to create a non-judgmental and safe space for first responders and veterans to discuss their unique challenges at their own pace.
Couples: Couples Therapy or Marriage Counseling
Couples may seek behavioral health services to address communication and relationship issues. Our couples therapy sessions focus on helping couples gain a deeper understanding of each other, improve conflict management skills, and develop new strategies for building a stronger and healthier relationship. Our goal is to support couples in fostering meaningful connections and enhancing their overall well-being.
Family: Family Counselor
Behavioral health care can be highly beneficial for families facing various challenges such as family conflict, communication difficulties, parenting issues, and other mental health concerns. Our family counseling services are designed to address these issues and provide support in navigating through them. We also understand that families may seek assistance in dealing with the psychological impact of trauma or significant life events like divorce or changes in living arrangements. Our goal is to help families strengthen their relationships, improve communication, and develop effective coping skills to thrive together.
How Our Mental Health Service Works: Comprehensive Psychiatric and Behavioral Health Care
Your First Session At Western Kansas Therapy Associates
After your visit and meeting with our professional counselor, you will be contacted personally by our therapist to discuss the details of your therapy sessions, your schedule and other vital information you may need. At WKTA, we devised an electronic medical record system called “Simple Practice”, which we make use of to enable clients to conveniently complete their therapy consents prior to their initial session. While you are welcome to discuss these consents during your first meeting with your therapist, completing the paperwork beforehand helps create a more personalized and comfortable experience during your initial session.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a psychological evaluation?
A psychological evaluation is designed for examining different aspects of one’s life and making a diagnosis if there are any concerns. At WKTA, we have skilled practitioners, who specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and teenagers.
Is it important to receive a diagnosis? Is it a “label”?
There is no one simple answer to this question. On one hand, the importance of an official diagnosis or “label” may not be significant in many cases. Some individuals may struggle with life adversities without meeting specific diagnostic criteria. On the other hand, an accurate diagnosis can provide valuable insights and support for understanding one’s challenges, potentially leading to appropriate help and resources.
How long do psychological evaluations last?
Multiple factors determine the duration of psychological evaluations. One factor is the complexity of the child and their specific circumstances. Generally, the more intricate the situation, the longer the evaluation process may take to thoroughly assess and understand it. Another important factor is the availability of the child and their caregivers, as well as the availability of the practitioner conducting the evaluation.
What are common mental health challenges or disorders?
Common mental health diagnoses include Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Less common diagnoses include Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, and personality disorders. These diagnoses help in identifying and understanding specific mental health conditions that individuals may be facing.
Is it okay to use the term “mental illness”?
In the field of mental health, the debate on “politically correct” language has long been a topic of discussion. The respected Mental Health First Aid model currently uses the terms “mental health challenge” or “mental health issue” to encompass the wide range of difficulties individuals may face. This inclusive terminology recognizes that experiences can range from overwhelming stress to disruptive mental health disorders. However, some argue that the term “mental illness” should be used when discussing specific diagnoses like Major Depressive Disorder or Obsessive Compulsion Disorder. They believe it acknowledges the struggles individuals may be going through and aligns with the medical model of addressing illness. In today’s world, using “person first language” is essential. It means placing the person before the diagnosis, like saying “someone with bipolar disorder” or “someone who has depression”. By avoiding terms like “schizophrenic” or defining someone solely by their diagnosis, we challenge ourselves to see individuals as more than their conditions. This shift in language can foster a different, more empathetic perspective.
Can mental illness be cured?
Is mental illness curable? The question is often asked, but “cured” might not be the right term. “Managed” is a more suitable word that mental health professionals use. The goal is to help individuals identify, understand, accept, and manage their challenges to live the life they desire. Some diagnoses, like autism spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder, may stay with someone for life if diagnosed correctly. However, it’s important for professionals not to rush into labeling people inaccurately. Other mental health challenges, like PTSD or a clinical phobia, may not be lifelong. Various factors contribute to these outcomes, which is why “managed” is a better fit than “cured”.
What are the signs of mental illness?
Find out if it’s time to see a therapist by answering these questions honestly:
- What changes or challenges am I facing in my life?
- How much are these impacting my daily responsibilities, sleeping, eating, work, school, and leisure time?
- How often do these challenges occur? Are they a daily occurrence or do they happen less frequently?
- How much distress do these challenges bring? Do they affect my mood and consume my thoughts, preventing me from being happier or more content?
- How do these challenges impact my relationships? Do they hinder healthy connections
- Are these challenges posing a potential harm to myself or others?
- Am I experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm? Do I cause physical or psychological harm to others?
Visit Our Mental Health Practice Locations Today
WKTA has three offices. The main office is in Hays, Kansas in the downtown area. The address is 208 E. 8th Street, STE D, Hays KS 67601. This space has nine offices and a large waiting area as well as two other smaller waiting areas.
The second office is in the downtown area of Plainville, Kansas, 25 miles north of Hays. This large single office is owned by the Rooks County Health Center at 308 W. Mill Street, Plainville KS, 67663. It has the advantage of being very private as we are the only ones in the building.
The third office is in the downtown area of Phillipsburg, Kansas.
This office is in the Fischer building at 205 F Street STE 20, Phillipsburg, Kansas 67661.The building has numerous other businesses in it but we are fortunate to have a first floor office offset from most of the others.