Ruth Stoan, LPC
Licensed counselor guiding meaningful life changes
- 35 years experience
- MA in Counseling
- Accepts international clients
About Ruth Stoan
Ruth Stoan recognizes that reaching out for counseling is a significant step and emphasizes the importance of that first move toward change. She brings 35 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor - an LPC indicates a state license to practice professional counseling - and also holds a master of arts in Counseling from the University of Missouri-Kansas City. In addition to her counseling credentials, she is a certified coach and has supported individuals and couples in private practice as they navigate relationships, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, life transitions, and LGBTQ issues.
Her background also includes work in community agencies addressing addictions and roles in facilities assisting families with changing responsibilities and aging parents. A particular area of focus is supporting women through major life transitions, helping them explore questions about identity and what they want next in life. She blends a variety of therapeutic approaches to match each person’s needs, drawing from tools such as mindfulness, breath work, relaxation techniques, imagery, and methods designed to address blocking beliefs.
Ruth integrates a range of clinical approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, somatic techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused methods, existential perspectives, and client-centered work. This breadth of training allows her to collaborate with clients to build practical skills and a personalized plan to move toward more meaningful, successful living. She aims to identify both immediate concerns and underlying factors that may limit progress, working alongside clients as far as they wish to go in the healing process.
Ruth typically prefers video sessions to foster a stronger therapeutic connection, but she is also available by phone and text when that format is more comfortable. She schedules sessions on weekdays, offers some evening times, and may accept Saturday appointments by request. She maintains a presence online through a Facebook page called Opening Choices at https://www.facebook.com/Opening-Choices-2216183171967672 and checks messages frequently to stay responsive to those she works with.
Her background also includes work in community agencies addressing addictions and roles in facilities assisting families with changing responsibilities and aging parents. A particular area of focus is supporting women through major life transitions, helping them explore questions about identity and what they want next in life. She blends a variety of therapeutic approaches to match each person’s needs, drawing from tools such as mindfulness, breath work, relaxation techniques, imagery, and methods designed to address blocking beliefs.
Ruth integrates a range of clinical approaches including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, somatic techniques, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused methods, existential perspectives, and client-centered work. This breadth of training allows her to collaborate with clients to build practical skills and a personalized plan to move toward more meaningful, successful living. She aims to identify both immediate concerns and underlying factors that may limit progress, working alongside clients as far as they wish to go in the healing process.
Ruth typically prefers video sessions to foster a stronger therapeutic connection, but she is also available by phone and text when that format is more comfortable. She schedules sessions on weekdays, offers some evening times, and may accept Saturday appointments by request. She maintains a presence online through a Facebook page called Opening Choices at https://www.facebook.com/Opening-Choices-2216183171967672 and checks messages frequently to stay responsive to those she works with.
Areas of Expertise
Also Specializes In
Additional Focus Areas
AbandonmentAging and geriatric issuesBody imageCaregiver issues and stressCodependencyCommitment issuesCommunication problemsControl issuesDissociationDivorce and separationEmptinessFamily of origin issuesForgivenessGuilt and shameHospice and end-of-life counselingIsolation / lonelinessJealousyLife purposeMidlife crisisMoney and financial issuesMood disordersPolyamory / non-monogamous relationshipsPost-traumatic stressSelf-loveSmoking / vaping cessationWomen's issuesWorkplace issues
Therapeutic Approach
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Client-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) Existential Therapy Mindfulness Therapy Motivational Interviewing Narrative Therapy Solution-Focused Therapy Somatic Therapy Internal Family Systems
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience does Ruth Stoan have?
Ruth Stoan has 35 years of experience in counseling and coaching.
Is Ruth Stoan a licensed therapist?
Yes. She holds the credential LPC, which denotes a Licensed Professional Counselor. License details are MO LPC 000702.
In which languages does Ruth Stoan provide therapy?
Therapy is provided in English.
Where is Ruth Stoan located?
She is located in Missouri.
How can I work with Ruth Stoan as my therapist?
You can work with Ruth Stoan through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging.
Does Ruth Stoan work with international clients?
Yes, Ruth Stoan works with international clients.
How much does therapy with Ruth Stoan cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started with therapy is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.
Could Remote Sessions Be a Good Fit?
Many people ask whether online therapy can make a real difference. For a wide range of common concerns - such as stress, anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or major life transitions - online therapy is often found to be comparable to traditional in-person care and can be a practical, effective option for many individuals.One major benefit of remote work is flexibility. People can connect with a therapist in the format that best suits their needs - video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or in-app messaging - which makes it easier to integrate therapy into a busy schedule or to meet care needs from a distance.
Therapists offering remote services are licensed professionals, and clients can choose a different provider if they need a different fit. For many, online therapy provides accessible ways to work on stress, relationships, mood, coping skills, and life changes with a licensed professional from wherever they are.