Mental Health Services Plainville: Professional Psychologists, Therapists, and Counselors For Behavioral Health Care
Welcome to Western Kansas Therapy Associates (WKTA)! WKTA opened in January of 2022 and has grown since that time. Our focus is to provide consistent, sound and caring psychological services in the communities we serve. At WKTA, we empathize that the journey of finding a mental health therapist and/or navigating the mental health system can be difficult. We hope to help facilitate this process with you.
We provide provider an array of services including mental health therapy/counseling, couples counseling, play therapy and psychological evaluation. We also work with nearly any age. We believe that no matter “how small” or “how big” your challenge seems to you, we are here to listen, better understand through collaboration with you and help through the healing process. We also acknowledge and empathize some psychological pains can be so great that “healing” is relative and can be a lifelong journey.
About Us – What Is Unique About Western Kansas Therapy Associates
When you reach out to WKTA initially, you will connect with Josh, the owner and practicing therapist. Unlike simply assigning you to any available therapist, we take a different approach.
Josh will listen to your reasons for seeking therapy or other psychological service and help match you with a provider who seems compatible. While we can’t guarantee a seamless therapeutic relationship, we are dedicated to fostering a strong connection between you and your therapist. At WKTA, we prioritize cultivating the ideal fit for your needs.
We believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Going to see a therapist, can be thought of going to see a medical doctor. Some people may need more frequent and intensive services while others may only require yearly check-ups. Mental health therapy can be a proactive step toward managing your mental health and overall well-being. If you’re uncertain, we provide an initial consultation to discuss your concerns and determine if therapy could be beneficial for you.
How Do I Know It’s Time To “Talk To Someone ” Or See A Therapist
It can be difficult to take that first step and reach out to visit with a therapist. A therapist can be beneficial for almost any life challenge you are facing. However, oftentimes people have difficulty “seeing” when they are struggling. This is why it is important to try and be honest with yourself and/or listen to trusted people in your life who might express concern. It can be difficult to hear from family or friends when they are concerned about us, but it may be a good indicator it is time to get help.
While everyone’s experiences and needs are different, there are some common signs that indicate it might be beneficial to seek professional help:
Persistent Feelings Of Sadness Or Anxiety
If you find yourself feeling down, overwhelmed, or anxious for an extended period and it’s affecting your daily life, therapy may provide valuable support.
Difficulty Coping With Life Changes
Major life events like a loss of a loved one, divorce, job change, or relocation can be challenging to navigate alone. A therapist can help you process these changes and develop coping strategies.
Strained Relationships
If your relationships are consistently troubled, and you’re finding it hard to communicate or resolve conflicts, therapy may be able to assist aiding these interactions and help you gain insight into these dynamics.
Persistent Feelings Of Sadness Or Anxiety
Engaging in harmful habits like substance misuse, self-harm, or excessive avoidance usually indicates that therapy can be helpful to understand these patterns and improve wellbeing.
Feeling Disconnected Or Isolated
If you feel disconnected from others and find it challenging to establish meaningful connections, a therapist can help you explore the reasons behind this and work on improving your social interactions.
Lack Of Motivation And Energy
A persistent lack of motivation, low energy levels, and difficulty finding joy in activities you once enjoyed could be signs of underlying issues that therapy assist in addressing.
Traumatic Experiences
If you’ve experienced psychological and/or physical trauma, seeking therapy can be instrumental in processing and healing from the psychological impact.
Unresolved Past Issues
Lingering feelings or unresolved issues from your past that continue to affect your present life can processed in therapy through a variety of means.
Escalating Anger Or Irritability
Persistent Physical Symptoms
Sometimes, unresolved emotional issues can manifest as physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, or chronic pain. Therapy can explore this with you and sometimes help alleviate these physical symptoms once the psychological roots are addressed.
What If I Don’t Fit Well With My Therapist?
We value your honesty, and your satisfaction with our mental health services is our top priority at WKTA. We understand how vital the therapeutic relationship is in your journey to wellness. Should you feel that the current therapist may not be the best fit for you, we are more than happy to assist you in finding another therapist who better suits your needs.
Your comfort and well-being matter to us, and we believe that finding the right therapist plays a significant role in your overall progress. Whether it’s another therapist within our network or one in your local community, we are here to support you in making the best choice for your mental health care.
Our ultimate aim is to ensure that you engage in therapy that feels just right for you, providing you with the psychological care you truly deserve. We do encourage giving it a fair chance and attending 2-3 sessions before making a decision, as therapeutic relationships, like any meaningful connection, may take some time to develop and flourish.
Please know that our team is here to listen, understand, and accommodate your preferences, making your mental health journey a positive and fulfilling experience. Your well-being matters to us, and we are committed to providing you with the best support possible on your path to healing and growth.
Who Needs Behavioral Health Care
Behavioral care is also known as mental health care or psychological care. At Western Kansas Therapy Associates, we firmly believe that everyone, at some point in their life, can benefit from assistance. One key principle endorsed by the providers at WKTA is the notion that “Mental health is health.” This simple yet powerful message underscores the importance of mental well-being, which holds equal significance alongside other aspects of overall health.
Furthermore, mental health challenges exist along a spectrum. Some individuals may encounter hardships that necessitate only minimal guidance from a therapist. Conversely, others may grapple with profound and enduring difficulties, requiring a long-term therapeutic relationship to effectively work through their issues. At WKTA, we are committed to supporting individuals wherever they may fall on this spectrum and providing the appropriate level of care tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Children
Behavioral health care for children focuses on addressing the mental, emotional, and behavioral well-being of young individuals. Sometimes, caregivers are reluctant to enroll their children in counseling because of the stigma that exists around mental health. However, it is crucial to look past that and focus on what is best for the child’s mental health.
At WKTA, we offer a wide range of services aimed at promoting positive mental health and addressing any challenges or disorders that children may experience. Some key aspects of behavioral health care for children include assessment and diagnosis, early intervention, counseling and therapy, guidance to parents and caregivers on effective parenting strategies, providing school-based services, as well as trauma-Informed care.
Other behavioral health care components can include collaboration with pediatricians, educators, and other healthcare professionals to support a comprehensive approach to a child’s well-being, and focus on developmental needs.
Teens
Adolescence can be a challenging and vulnerable time for many young people as they navigate various physical, emotional, and social changes while transitioning into adulthood.Teenagers may experience a wide range of behavioral health challenges. These can range from typical teenage angst to a variety of psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, disordered eating, substance misuse and more.. Our providers are trained to understand the unique challenges of adolescence and provide appropriate support and treatment.
Youth Community Support
Youth today encounter an ever-changing and complex world, often accompanied by various stressors that can significantly impact their overall well-being. We at WKTA pride ourselves on the extensive experience and proficiency of our dedicated therapists who are committed to providing psycho-social interventions to youth and their support systems. Through our collective expertise, we have become adept at supporting a diverse range of young individuals facing challenges related to social, behavioral, emotional, and mental health issues. We strive to find different ways to support youth and their families in times of need and also work to prevent challenges before they might arise.
Seniors – Adult Community Support
The aging process often brings significant life changes, including retirement, loss of loved ones, and changes in physical health. These transitions can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, making it crucial to address the behavioral health needs of seniors. Many elderly individuals also struggle with managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease, which can further impact their emotional well-being and mental health. Additionally, depression and anxiety may become more prevalent in older adults due to various factors including social isolation, grief, and adjusting to their a different lifestyle.
At WKTA, we recognize the importance of providing specialized behavioral health care to seniors to help them navigate these challenges successfully. Through counseling and support, we aim to empower seniors to develop strategies for maintaining meaningful relationships, managing stress, and adapting to life changes, fostering a sense of fulfillment and contentment in their golden years.
Individuals
Individuals dealing with workplace stress, experiencing sleep and eating disorders, students under academic pressure, people facing relationship issues, as well as individuals who struggle with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety and the lasting effect of trauma, may benefit from behavioral health care. We are committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based behavioral health services, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
First Responders And Veterans
First responders and veterans are esteemed individuals who selflessly dedicate themselves to protecting and serving their communities and countries. However, their roles often expose them to high-stress situations, traumatic experiences, and unique challenges that can take a toll on their mental health. Behavioral health care tailored specifically for first responders and veterans is a critical aspect of supporting their overall health and resilience.
At WKTA, we recognize and honor the distinct cultures of first responders and veterans and value these cultures. Moreover, we understand that seeking help can be accompanied by stigma. Therefore, our therapists are committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where first responders and veterans can openly discuss their individual challenges at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
Couples Therapy
At WKTA, we work with couples in a variety of ways to help improve life and relationship satisfaction.. The therapist will work with them to identify underlying issues, patterns of behavior, and communication styles that may be contributing to difficulties in their relationship.
WKTA therapists utilize various therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, emotion-focused therapy, or Gottman methods, the couple are helped to improve communication, resolve conflicts, strengthen emotional communication, build trust, develop problem-solving skills, promote empathy and understanding, address individual issues, establish mutual goals for the relationship and enhance intimacy. The aim is to create a healthier and more satisfying relationship dynamic, fostering mutual support and growth within the marriage.
Family
Family behavioral health care, also known as family therapy or family counseling, is a specialized form of psychotherapy that focuses on improving the functioning and well-being of the family as a whole. It is based on the understanding that families are interconnected systems, and the issues of one family member can affect the entire family unit.
The primary goal of family behavioral health care is to address and resolve conflicts, communication problems, and dysfunctional patterns within the family system. At WKTA, a licensed therapist or counselor conducts these sessions, and the therapy may involve various family members or the entire family group depending on the specific needs of the family.
Family behavioral health care can be effective for various challenges, including marital conflicts, parent-child conflicts, substance abuse, mental health issues, grief, and other family-related stressors. It is a collaborative process that empowers the family to work together toward positive change, mutual understanding, and emotional growth.
Other Community Support
There are many people who need behavioral health care such as individuals struggling with substance misuse or addiction issues. Members of the LGBTQ+ community may benefit from behavioral health care to address challenges related to identity, coming out, discrimination, and mental health concerns that can be unique to their experiences. In addition, individuals with traumatic stress and PTSD, people with chronic illnesses, caregivers, immigrants and refugees, individuals with personality disorders, people with developmental disabilities, individuals with body image and self-esteem issues, people without homes are all different populations of people WKTA takes pride in working with.
Behavioral Health Challenges And Our Health Programs
Behavioral health challenges refer to a wide range of mental health and emotional issues that individuals may face. These challenges can significantly impact a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and overall well-being. Some common behavioral health challenges include:
Anxiety Disorders
At WKTA, anxiety is a prevalent mental health concern we frequently address. Our skilled therapists offer personalized therapeutic approaches to cater to each individual’s unique circumstances.. Anxiety is a common experience that varies in intensity for each person. Yet, when anxiety or panic reaches a disruptive level, seeking professional assistance can bring about transformative changes in one’s life. We acknowledge that people possess diverse coping objectives when dealing with anxiety. Some may find it essential to delve into the root causes of anxiety, while others may aim to address anxiety arising from life transitions and adjust accordingly.
Depression
Depression manifests in various physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms, making it a multifaceted issue that affects individuals differently. At WKTA, our therapists can help people comprehend depression and develop coping strategies for the long term. We prioritize creating a safe, non-judgmental environment to offer the necessary support. We genuinely believe in providing a supportive environment where you feel your experiences matter to us.
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
In recent decades, the mental health sector has increasingly recognized the significant impact of psychological trauma on people’s daily struggles. Traumatic events come in various forms, ranging from brief incidents like car accidents to enduring situations such as childhood trauma or abusive relationships. At WKTA, our therapists are highly trained in trauma-informed care therapies, encompassing TF-CBT, Play Therapy, EMDR, and DBT. We understand the intricacies of psychological trauma and recognize that, like any mental health challenge, it is crucial to proceed at your own pace and meet you wherever you are in your healing journey.
Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that primarily affects children and can persist into adulthood. It is characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity that interferes with daily functioning and development.
ADHD can have significant impacts on various areas of life, including academic performance, social relationships, and self-esteem. However, with proper diagnosis and management, individuals with ADHD can lead fulfilling lives and thrive in their endeavors. The therapists at WKTA, are well-versed in handling the intricacies of these challenges and providing assistance to individuals and families affected by ADHD.
Grief
Grief is an inevitable part of the human experience. At WKTA, we deeply comprehend that it is not a matter of simply “getting over it.” Instead, grief is a personal journey, and each individual moves through it at their own pace and in their own unique way. Our team is dedicated to providing grief counseling to support clients in coping with the loss of a loved one and navigating the grieving process in a healthy manner.
We acknowledge that everyone’s experience of grief is distinct, and our services are specifically tailored to meet individuals where they are in their grief journey. Our goal is to help clients find solace and healing as they process their emotions, memories, and adjustments after a loss. Through compassionate and understanding counseling, we aim to guide clients in finding a path that allows them to honor their grief.
Autism Spectrum
As of 2023, the CDC has reported that 1 in 36 children fall on the autism spectrum, which means almost one child in every school classroom may have autism. WKTA acknowledges that autism is now viewed as a spectrum, encompassing a wide array of challenges and strengths. Our team at WKTA includes several providers with extensive experience in supporting individuals with autism and their families over many years.
Couples Therapy
Couples therapy is a valuable service provided by WKTA (Western Kansas Therapy Associates). We understand that relationships can encounter challenges and difficulties at various stages, and addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining a healthy and fulfilling partnership. Our therapists are trained in couples therapy and are dedicated to helping couples improve communication, resolve conflicts, and foster a deeper understanding of each other.
During couples therapy sessions, our therapists create a safe and non-judgmental environment where both partners can express their thoughts and feelings openly. We work collaboratively with couples to identify the root causes of their concerns and explore effective strategies to enhance their relationship.
Whether couples are facing communication breakdowns, trust issues, unresolved conflicts, or struggling with life transitions, our therapists are equipped with a range of evidence-based approaches to address these challenges. Couples therapy can assist in rebuilding emotional intimacy, increasing mutual respect, and reinforcing the bond between partners.
At WKTA, we believe in the power of healthy relationships and are committed to supporting couples in their journey towards a more connected and harmonious partnership. If you and your partner are experiencing difficulties, seeking couples therapy with WKTA can be an essential step towards fostering a stronger and more fulfilling relationship.
How Our Mental Health Service Works: Comprehensive, Psychiatric And Behavioral Health Care
Your First Session With WKTA
Once you have visited with Josh on the phone or through email, your therapist will personally contact you to arrange further appointments. At WKTA, we utilize an electronic medical record system called “Simple Practice,” which enables clients to conveniently complete their therapy consents before the initial meeting with the therapist. While you’re free to discuss any of these consents during your first session, completing the paperwork beforehand enhances a more personal and human connection during your initial encounter with your therapist.
What Are Therapy Sessions Generally Like ?
Therapy can sometimes feel daunting, especially if you’re unsure about what to expect. Let’s draw a parallel to physical therapy for better understanding. When we seek help from a physical therapist for an injury, we know that exercise and gradual progress are essential to strengthen and heal our body. Similarly, behavioral therapy follows a similar concept in that it can take time and it is usually important to attend therapy consistently.
In behavioral therapy, the therapist isn’t a mystical figure with all the answers to fix everything you’re going through. Instead, mental health therapists focus on building a strong therapeutic relationship with you. Trust might take time to develop for some clients, while others may find it easier. Some individuals can clearly identify their challenges, while others have great difficulty identifying their challenges but “know something is wrong”.
Therapists are trained to collaboratively approach your unique challenges, but they are not all-knowing or capable of fixing things as a mechanic does with a car. When you begin therapy, you enter into a professional relationship with a highly trained individual whose purpose is to help you identify, clarify, and address the difficulties you face in life.
What Will My Therapy Sessions At WKTA Be Like?
At WKTA, we believe that therapy is a journey, and our team of dedicated therapists are here to walk alongside you. Our primary goal is to provide you with personalized care and assistance in addressing your unique concerns and challenges. Here’s what you can generally expect from your therapy sessions at WKTA:
Initial Assessment
Your first session is typically focused on building rapport with your therapist and going over the general purpose of therapy. It is a great time to share your hopes and possible goals in therapy. However, therapists also recognize you may not know what these are and that is okay too!
Confidentiality
Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us. You can feel assured that what you discuss in therapy will be kept confidential within the limits of the law. Your therapist can review this with you during your first session and it is discussed in the consents.
Open and Non-Judgmental Environment
We hope you find a non-judgmental, and empathetic atmosphere during your sessions. Our therapists are here to listen and support you without bias.
Individualized Approach
Therapy at WKTA is not a “one size fits all” approach. Although evidenced based interventions and modalities are crucial, we understand this is not a “cut and paste” situation for each client.
Goal-Oriented
Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us. You can feel assured that what you discuss in therapy will be kept confidential within the limits of the law. Your therapist can review this with you during your first session and it is discussed in the consents.
Collaborative Process
Therapy is a collaborative process, and you’ll be encouraged to actively participate in your treatment, ask questions, and provide feedback.
Progress Evaluation
Periodically, you and your therapist can discuss how therapy is going and where you see it going in the future.
Different Modalities
WKTA offers a range of therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, trauma-informed care, and more.
Frequency and Duration
The frequency and duration of your therapy sessions will be determined based on your specific needs and progress. Typically, sessions are held on a regular basis to ensure continuity and support.
When Should I Seek Therapy For A Child In My Care?
Sometimes, society tends to believe that children are naturally tough or will outgrow their issues. However, this isn’t always true. It might be tough to accept that a child you care for could benefit from therapy. But it’s generally better to seek early intervention rather than waiting and backtracking. Moreover, when you call initially and are uncertain about whether something is an issue or not, you’re welcome to discuss it with Josh. And once you begin therapy, you can continue having conversations about whether something still presents a challenge.
Almost no matter how young a child is, they express themselves in their play and at WKTA, we have skilled play therapists who can help children express themselves in this way. Play therapy, like traditional “talk therapy” can help children understand challenges they face, express emotions and cope with adversity.
How Does Western Kansas Therapy Associates Work With Insurance Companies
WKTA is committed to maintaining transparency in our billing procedures. All billing is handled in-house and is not outsourced to external parties. We collaborate with various insurance companies to ensure that our providers are credentialed appropriately. The majority of these providers accept most major insurance plans, and we actively seek credentialing with smaller companies that have a substantial number of subscribers in our service areas, such as ProviDRs Care.
During each session, your therapist will keep you informed about any outstanding balance on your account after insurance processing.
To make the payment process convenient for you, WKTA can send you an electronic statement via email (with your consent) every month. The statement will include clear instructions on how to easily pay through the client portal.
If you have any questions or inquiries about billing or payments, feel free to reach out to us at our main contact number: 785-260-0924. We are here to assist you and ensure a smooth and transparent billing experience.
Does WKTA Have A Waitlist For Services
Regarding therapy services, we aim to schedule appointments within two weeks from your initial call, although the timing may vary slightly depending on the therapist’s availability and your personal circumstances. Nevertheless, we are committed to facilitating swift connections and starting therapy as soon as you prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a psychological evaluation?
At WKTA, we are fortunate to have two skilled practitioners, Dr. Marijo Rooney and Brett Bieberle, LMLP, EdS, who specialize in conducting comprehensive psychological evaluations for children and teenagers. Unlike therapy, a psychological evaluation is designed to examine various aspects of a child’s life and determine if there are any diagnostic concerns.
How long do psychological evaluations last?
The duration of psychological evaluations can vary based on multiple factors. 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 can Mental health services offer?
Mental health services provide a range of valuable offerings to support individuals in managing their mental well-being. Our services encompass various forms of support, guidance, and treatment aimed at assisting individuals in navigating mental health challenges. We work collaboratively with clients to address the underlying causes of their mental health challenges and develop effective strategies for long-term healing and wellness.
What are common mental health challenges or disorders?
A mental health challenge encompasses any difficulty an individual may be experiencing. When these challenges significantly impact a person’s functioning and well-being on a frequent basis, they can be considered a “disorder” and cause distress. 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 important to receive a diagnosis? Is it a “label”?
This is a complex question that both mental health professionals and philosophers have debated for years, and there is no simple answer. 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. For example, receiving a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder can validate the experiences of both the individual and their family, while also opening doors to specific resources that may not be accessible without a formal diagnosis.
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.