Darlene Kirtley, Counselor in Parkville, 64152

Darlene Kirtley, MS LPC

Profession(s):
Counseling, Other
License Status:
I'm a licensed professional.
Primary License:
Licensed Professional Counselor

My Approach to Helping

My approach as a therapist is collaborative, strengths-based and creative. Each client brings a unique set of strengths and challenges and receives treatment tailored to their unique circumstances. Together we will gain insight, learn new skills, and build on strengths. In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer sandtray therapy, which many people find to be an enjoyable and effective adjunct to their therapy. Please visit my website for more information on my services, fees, training and FAQ's.

More Info About My Practice

Most people find my office to be very comfortable and welcoming. When you arrive you will be greeted immediately and offered coffee, tea, or water. You will never be in a waiting room with other clients. I hope that you will feel very much at home at Oasis and consider me an ally in your life whether for short-term, long-term, or occasional counseling needs.

In addition to counseling services, I offer mentoring and internship to graduate students, continuing ed classes for counselors, team-building for groups, and many fun enrichment classes.

On the Fence About Going to Therapy?

I understand the ambivalence. Starting therapy can be a big step. The growing side of you is drawn toward the next step in your development, while doubts and other obstacles pull in the opposite direction. I encourage people to take all the time they need to make sure they are ready. Sometimes it helps to have an initial chat with the potential therapist or stop by for a "meet & greet." It can be hard to jump into something as important as therapy and make that first appointment when you haven't met the therapist, been in the office, etc. Usually once that first visit happens, things feel much more comfortable from there...kind of like jumping into a pool!

Important Factors for Choosing a Therapist

After choosing someone who is educated, experienced, credentialed and licensed, the biggest factor in choosing your therapist is the rapport or "fit." Every therapist has their own style, office policies, etc. and you are likewise unique. Initially, you can look over their website, read their profile, and talk a bit on the phone to get some useful information and a general sense of how you feel about any particular therapist compared to another. Although location shouldn't be your biggest consideration it is important. Your therapist should be in a location you feel comfortable going to and if it is relatively convenient, you are more likely to keep your appointments.

Why Going to Therapy Does Not Mean You are Weak or Flawed

It is very unfortunate that there is any stigma attached to mental health. When we see someone jogging or going to the gym we don't think "That poor person is flawed," we think "Good for you! You are doing hard work to take good care of yourself!" It should be the same for mental health. Going to counseling shows courage, openness and good self-care. We all have flaws or things that we could improve on. Going to counseling means that you are willing to do something about it. And sometimes it's not even about flaws. We don't always go to counseling in order to "fix" something about ourselves, but to receive support during a difficult time. There is nothing wrong with seeking support from someone who has been professionally trained in providing caring, ethical counseling service. I named my practice Oasis Counseling & Enrichment to convey a resource for support and growth that people would choose to visit as opposed to a more clinical sounding name. Secondly, I provide a comfortable and welcoming environment and treat people as guests in my office. Thirdly, I focus and build on areas of strength rather than weakness. Fourth, since I do not take insurance I am not required to diagnose anyone, so there are no labels. My website also addresses these issues. Taking care of your mind and psyche is just as important as taking care of your body and neither should be stigmatized.

Services I Provide

Individual Therapy & Counseling
Marriage, Couples, or Relationship Counseling
Family Therapy
Group Therapy

Ages I Work With

Children
Teens
Adults

Languages I Speak

English

Groups I Work With

I've worked with sexual abuse survivors, people with anxiety and depression, difficult relationships, recent divorce, and many other issues. My background, training and office set-up are uniquely conducive to work with children, teens, creative individuals and "children at heart."