What is Metis?
The name “Metis” is derived from Greek mythology, where Metis was said to be the goddess of good counsel, advice, planning, and wisdom.
Therapists are verified by Psychology Today and GoodTherapy.org
Partners
Melissa Wright MA, LPC, RPT-S
I have been providing outpatient counseling at Metis Counseling for the past 15 years and bring over 25 years of experience as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Kansas City area. My practice focuses on helping children and teens overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, family changes (like divorce), and other significant life transitions. I work closely with young people to help them navigate these difficult times and develop healthy coping skills for a brighter future.
As a Registered Play Therapist–Supervisor (RPT-S), trained through the Kansas City Play Therapy Institute, I use play therapy and structured activities to help kids process their emotions, build important coping skills, and find healthier ways to manage difficult situations. My approach is designed to meet your child where they are and give them tools that will serve them for a lifetime.
II earned my Master of Arts in Counseling from Webster University and my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Missouri–Columbia. Throughout my career, I have worked in a variety of roles, including outpatient and in-home therapy, clinical supervision, and teaching graduate-level courses on counseling for children. I’ve also gained valuable experience in service coordination and case management, which has helped me understand how to best support families as they navigate complex challenges.
Outside of my work, I’ve been happily married for 26 years and am the proud parent of two college-aged sons.
I primarily offer in-person sessions, but I also offer telehealth for families who need flexibility. I’m here to help your child build the skills and confidence they need to thrive.
Nicole Rich MA, LPC
I am a licensed professional counselor with over 20 years of experience providing care to children, teens, adolescents, and adults in the Kansas City area. For the past 15 years, I have been offering outpatient therapy at Metis Counseling. Prior to establishing my private practice in 2010, I gained valuable experience in case management, group facilitation, and in-home counseling with the Child Abuse Prevention Association and Synergy Services, Inc. I also worked at Healthy Families Counseling and Support, where I served as an outpatient therapist, in-home therapist, and provided targeted case management for children and families.
I hold a Master of Arts degree from the University of Saint Mary and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Park University.
Outside of work, I am a proud parent of three children: a college sophomore, a high school senior, and an eighth grader. I’ve been happily married for 27 years.
I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments.
Independent Contractors
Independent contractors that provide counseling services at this location include the following.
Wendy Barnes MA, LPC
My primary focus as a counselor is to empower clients as we journey together through personal growth and transformation. I provide therapeutic services to children (8–12), adolescents (13–17), adults, families, and couples. As a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified school counselor in Missouri, I have over 20 years of experience working with children and adolescents. I have also served alongside my husband in pastoral ministry for the past 22 years, supporting families and couples through grief, loss, crises, and life’s everyday challenges. While I am a Christian, I practice as a professional counselor for all clients, regardless of faith. One of my key strengths is connecting with people of all ages.
I hold a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Kansas, a Master’s in Counseling from the University of Missouri–Kansas City, and a Master’s in Education from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. My approach is person-centered and individualized, incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused strategies, and trauma-informed techniques.
I offer appointments in person, as well as via telehealth two evenings per week.
Janet Buntain, LMSW
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with a Bachelor’s in Theology from the University of Dallas and a Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Louisville. I’m deeply passionate about helping individuals overcome life’s challenges and achieve lasting change. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief, or low self-esteem, I’m here to guide you toward healing and growth.
I also have experience working with court-mandated clients, substance abuse, anger management, and domestic violence. My approach combines a variety of therapeutic techniques—such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), goal-setting, and psychoeducation—to create a personalized plan that works for you.
I work with children (10+), adolescents, and adults, offering both in-person and remote sessions with flexible afternoon and evening availability to fit your busy schedule.
I’m currently accepting Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare/Optum, and Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance plans, and I have immediate openings.
Let’s work together to unlock your best self and start your healing journey today.
Brittany Hursh, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from the University of Missouri. With extensive experience across various settings, I have worked in inpatient and outpatient substance use facilities, community mental health, the juvenile justice system, and public schools (K-12), providing therapy and coordinating services for youth and families from diverse backgrounds. My background also includes research, policy and advocacy, case management, group facilitation, and crisis work, including specialized training in suicide assessment and intervention.
I take a generalist approach to therapy, meeting clients where they are and focusing on their strengths and growth. I enjoy building strong, collaborative relationships with my clients in a relaxed environment, helping them work toward meaningful change and personal development.
I work with children (ages 7+), adolescents (13-18), and adults (18+), offering both in-person and telehealth therapy. To accommodate busy schedules, I offer 1-2 evening appointments each week.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, being outdoors, traveling, and exploring my creative side through music, arts and crafts, and yoga.
Crystal Richardson MA, PLPC
I earned my Master of Science in Counseling in 2021 and my Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 2017, both from the University of Phoenix. I am currently completing the supervised hours required in Missouri to become a fully Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
I have experience working with a wide range of clients, both individually and in groups, ages 5–60. My clinical internship was at a local domestic violence shelter, where I supported clients who experienced mental, emotional, and physical traumas. My group counseling experience includes mindfulness-based activities and trauma-focused interventions.
I use a client-centered approach, prioritizing listening to each client’s story and helping them find their own path to growth. While individual counseling is central to my work, I also enjoy facilitating groups.and hope to announce one soon.
As a single parent of three grown children and a survivor of domestic violence, I bring personal insight and empathy to my work.
I offer in-person and telehealth sessions with evening and Saturday availability. I receive clinical supervision from Melissa Wright, MA, LPC, RPT-S.
I accept Aetna and Cigna insurance and offer sessions at $100 per visit, with reduced fees available for qualifying clients