Joann Weston

Hello, I'm Joann. For over 21 years, I dedicated myself to helping patients as a certified dental assistant, addressing their physical pain and boosting their self-esteem. However, in 2005, I felt a profound calling to support individuals experiencing deeper emotional pain. This led me to work with those facing unplanned pregnancies, which inspired the creation of a successful community crisis center that continues to serve five counties today.

In 2011, I earned my bachelor's degree in social work, with an internship in acute Adult and Senior Behavioral Health Units, caring for individuals with severe, persistent mental health illnesses. By 2013, I had completed my master's degree in professional counseling and obtained my professional counseling license after providing over three thousand hours of care in private practice and outpatient substance abuse treatment clinics.

From 2013 to 2015, I worked with clients ranging from age 5 to 85, addressing various issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, Bipolar disorders, ADHD, OCD, grief and loss, family dysfunction, marriage counseling, pain management, anger management, life transitions, and personality disorders. I then joined the Missouri Department of Corrections, focusing on intensive sex offender treatment while maintaining my private practice.

Volunteering has always been a significant part of my life. From 2006 to 2015, I mentored young girls and women, facilitated small group studies on self-esteem, shame, guilt, and forgiveness from a Christian perspective.

In 2017, I returned to community treatment and private practice settings, and six years later, I transitioned to working virtually full-time. I founded Better for Life, LLC, and also provide contract counseling services through other online platforms.

Throughout my career, I have continued my education, receiving specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Personality Disorders, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). My primary treatment modality is CBT, which is based on the principle that our thoughts influence our feelings, which in turn influence our actions and life circumstances. By helping clients recognize and challenge faulty thoughts and beliefs, I empower them to manage their feelings and make healthier choices for a better quality of life.

If you're ready to take the next step towards healing and growth, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.