Wesley Hirst , LPC

Wesley Hirst is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Missouri with 25 years of clinical experience helping people navigate stress, anxiety, relationship difficulties, trauma, grief, depression, addictions, family concerns, and a range of other life challenges. He combines professional training with a practical, down-to-earth approach that emphasizes honesty, empathy, and collaborative problem solving to support meaningful, sustainable change.

Wesley works with issues including intimacy and parenting struggles, eating and sleeping concerns, anger and self-esteem problems, ADHD, panic disorder and panic attacks, and adjusting to major life changes. He uses evidence-informed methods and values the trust that develops between therapist and client as the foundation for effective work together. There is no simple prescription for change, but with mutual respect, clear goals, and consistent effort, progress is possible.

He holds a Master’s degree in Psychology and has extensive training in trauma, substance use disorders, marriage counseling, mindfulness, and adolescent behavior concerns. Outside of the office he has served in many personal roles - son, brother, husband, father, employee, employer, and friend - experiences that inform his understanding of how complicated relationships and life can be. Wesley welcomes adults seeking compassionate, experienced care and looks forward to meeting prospective clients.

Therapeutic Approaches and Online Care with Wesley Hirst

Wesley integrates several evidence-based approaches to meet a range of concerns. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on helping people clarify their values, accept difficult feelings, and take committed action toward a meaningful life - it is helpful for chronic anxiety, life transitions, and problems tied to avoidance. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches practical skills to identify and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, making it a strong fit for depression, panic, and many anxiety-related issues. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) offers concrete skills in emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, supporting those struggling with intense emotions, relationship conflicts, or impulsive behaviors.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Wesley will work with each client to understand their goals, preferences, and strengths, and together they will adapt methods so treatment fits the person rather than forcing a single model.

Online therapy with Wesley is offered through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, providing flexibility for busy schedules, geographic limitations, or varied comfort levels with technology. These options make it easier to maintain continuity of care and to engage in therapy in ways that suit individual needs while working with a licensed professional.