It is my mission to help every person I work with become their vision of their best self.

As a professional counselor I value:

* the healing power of the therapeutic relationship

* a safe, encouraging and empowering atmosphere

* respect for the individual

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) by the authority of the State of Missouri. My office on Main Street in downtown Blue Springs is open for in-person appointments. Telehealth appointments are available to anyone in the state.

My Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), awarded by the State of Kansas, allows me to provide Telehealth services for anyone physically located within the state.

My education and training in Counseling began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Missouri – Kansas City. A Master of Arts degree in Counseling through Webster University followed.

Beyond formal education, I continuously seek professional training that grows my knowledge and skills. They make me a better therapist. Training includes EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Advanced EMDR training, and Levels 1 and 2 of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. Together, these inform my ability to treat trauma, developmental wounds, and attachment issues in ways that focus on the uniqueness of each client.

I maintain Board Certification with the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC). I passed the National Counselors and Clinical Mental Health Counseling Exam.

I am an EMDR Certified therapist.

"Jan" is my preferred name. If you would like to verify my licensure and other official documents you will find them listed as "Janet S."

Being a Therapist is not my first professional career. Life experiences changed the direction of my path toward this genuinely rewarding profession. What can be better than the privilege of walking with my clients along their journey of healing? In my view, not much! I see many reach their goals. And I hear of their efforts’ trickle-down positive effect on their relationships.

It was my involvement in counseling as the client that motivated me to begin the pursuit of a Master of Arts degree. That was 2002. Until then, I had never considered ending my professional career path. That path was one that I found much value in doing. I had developed a leadership role. It was where I wanted to stay for the rest of my working life.

Why did I choose to be the oldest student in undergraduate classrooms?

It was 2 years earlier when my comfortably settled life imploded. Everything I counted as secure and confident collapsed, and I almost fell. In that dark and desperate time, I reached out for help. That reach led to an appointment with a therapist. Quite coincidentally, that day was also one in which a critical life decision had to be made.

I’ve not forgotten how this therapist leaned into my story with kindness and acceptance, saying, “I cannot tell you what to do, but I can promise to walk this journey with you.” Many well-meaning friends, family, books, church leaders, and others had advice on how to move forward. NO ONE had promised to walk it with me. I was no longer alone.

Studies have shown that a significant factor in the change that occurs through therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship between client and therapist. My desire for every client is to recognize and appreciate their individuality. To build a trusting environment where my clients can freely express their hurts, thoughts, and dreams without judgment. I seek to join them through the concerns that brought them to my door or computer screen. We celebrate together when they have reached their goals, and it is time for them to fly solo.

When I’m not working, these are some of the things that bring me joy:

* Reading good books, especially historical novels.

* Listening to podcasts that make me feel welcomed, connected, and challenged.

* Watching wildlife come to eat the neighbor’s evening offering while sitting on the deck. It’s a great way to unwind.

* Hanging out with my family and spending quality time with them is always a pleasure.

* Traveling to new places and experiencing new things. There are still so many places I want to go!

* Watching a beautiful sunrise or sunset fills me with awe and peace.

* What about you? How do you like to unwind and recharge?

Whether you choose to work with me or another therapist, I share my story here to encourage you. Find a counselor you are comfortable with and let them walk with you on your journey. You don’t have to do it alone.