Obsessive-compulsive disorder therapists & psychiatrists in Missouri

My name is Vanessa Cox. I'm the Founder and CEO of Extensive Prevention Intervention Counseling Services (EPICS) LLC, a professional counseling practice, and the Founder and Board Secretary of EPICS J. R. Foundation. The driving force behind my lifework has been a personal mission to live with integrity and make a difference in the lives of others. With over 30 years of clinical and administrative experience,

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in both inpatient psychiatric settings and outpatient therapy. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Missouri State University, where I developed a strong foundation in evidence-based, client-centered care.

My background includes working with individuals across a range of needs, from acute crisis stabilization to ongoing therapeutic support. I have extensive experience helping clients navigate depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, self-harm, anger, aggression, and oppositional defiant behaviors. I am also trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which I frequently use to help clients better understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors while building practical coping strategies.

Heyo! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, I attended the University of Central Missouri (aka CMSU) for my Bachelor Degree and Avila University for my Master Degree. I utilize EMDR and IFS techniques to explore things from anxiety to trauma.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist. I work with ages 8+ in addictions, depression, anxiety, trauma, self-harm, and suicidal ideations. We all experience unwanted circumstances, emotions, and addictions that are difficult to handle alone. What has been harmed in relationship with others must be healed with relationship. That's where I come in.

For those who cannot use insurance, my self-pay rate is flexible as I provide a sliding fee scale. Please contact me for more information.

I care about real connection, steady progress, and creating a space where you can show up as yourself. I’ve spent years helping people sort through heavy thoughts, navigate big life changes, and rebuild a sense of direction. I won't rush you or force you into a mold, I help you understand what matters to you and take the steps to move towards it. I'm happy to be the calm, steady guide who will walk alongside you.

I believe mental health care should feel collaborative, compassionate, and free of judgment. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and supported throughout your treatment journey.

I specialize in women's mental health, including anxiety, depression, pregnancy (antepartum), postpartum mental health, life transitions, and the unique emotional challenges women experience across different stages of life. Whether you're preparing for motherhood, adjusting after delivery, balancing career and family, or navigating everyday stress, I strive to provide personalized, evidence-based care tailored to your goals.

My approach is warm, patient-centered, and collaborative. I take the time to understand your story, educate you about your treatment options, and develop a plan that aligns with your values and lifestyle. I believe the best outcomes happen when patients feel empowered to participate in their care and have a provider they can trust.

I am an empathetic, patient, and inclusive therapist with a passion for helping others that are going through difficult transitions in life and experiencing hardships. My foundation is based on establishing trust and providing a safe and accepting space for open communication to build a strong therapeutic alliance. I collaborate with clients to improve their emotional quality of life, develop their capacity to handle life’s stressors and mental health concerns. My counseling style is diversified, integrating person-centered, psychodynamic, emotionally focused, cognitive-behavioral, and existential therapy into counseling sessions.

I am passionate about helping adults of all ages struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism spectrum disorder, trauma/post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive behaviors. I welcome clients from diverse backgrounds, including neurodivergent and those who identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.