Clinic Information
Mosaic Life Care psychologists and therapists provide expert counseling care in St. Joseph, MO. Services include marital counseling, family counseling, mental health screenings and more. We believe that mental health is an integral part of overall health.
Services
- Employee Assistance (EAP)
- Individual Counseling
- Marital Counseling
- Family Counseling
- Psychological Evaluations
Resources
Mental Health Screenings and Tools
Meet the Team
Tom Bein, Licensed Psychologist
Why did you choose to become a psychologist?
I became a psychologist because I had interest in understanding the complexities of the human condition.
Why did you choose Mosaic Life Care?
For the opportunity to work in a stable clinic with experienced and like-minded professionals.
Board Certifications
Licensed Psychologist, State of Missouri
What are the top five diagnoses you treat?
- Depressive disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- PTSD
- Adjustment disorders
- Anger issues
What are the top five procedures you perform?
- Individual psychotherapy
- Psychological testing
- Meditation training
- Relaxation techniques – breathing
- Neuropsychological screenings
Brent Harness, LPC
Why did you choose to become a behavioral health provider?
Mental health concerns and treatment in our society and within our cultural structure has long been grossly inferior to the excellent level of care we provide for physical conditions. Many citizens remain woefully uninformed or stigmatized about behavioral conditions. I believe that the ideal for a healthy person of any age or circumstance incorporates a complete approach that ensures physical and mental health working in concert with each other. I like helping people realize the wonderful liberation of a total health concept.
Why did you choose Mosaic Life Care?
No model of treatment of people I have ever encountered captures the level of complete care of Mosaic Life Care. This model dares to improve a great system into one that surpasses conventional and accepted methods of healing. The patient is the focus; they are treated, involved, respected and appreciated. This is revolutionary thinking, and it is exciting to be a part of it.
Board Certifications
Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Missouri
What are the top five diagnoses you treat?
- Family dysfunction/communication
- Anger and/or anxiety, PTSD
- Depression
- Personality disorders
- Adolescent specific
What are the top five procedures you perform?
- Family counseling
- Marriage/couples counseling
- Individual counseling
- Counseling for veterans
Kerri Hilbert, LPC
Why did you choose to become a behavioral health provider?
I have always enjoyed working with people in all stages of life, in helping them to identify and achieve personal stability and positive change.
Why did you choose Mosaic Life Care?
Mosaic's utilization of whole person care with an emphasis of wellness and prevention is a model of care I believe in.
Board Certifications
Licensed Professional Counselor, State of Missouri
What are the top five diagnoses you treat?
- Anxiety and depressive disorders
- Trauma disorders and experiences
- Grief and loss
- Anger issues
- Child and adolescent issues
What are the top five procedures you perform?
- Acceptance and commitment therapy
- Brief-solution focused therapy
- Performance psychology (sports, performance, high intensity work)
- Counseling for those in the military and veterans
Michelle Maguire, LCSW
Why did you choose to become a behavioral health provider?
I became a clinical social worker/therapist to partner with people to affect positive change in their lives, as well as, increase sense of hope.
Why did you choose Mosaic Life Care?
I have an appreciation for the mind and body connection. Mosaic Life Care understands the importance of wellness, prevention and self-care.
Board Certifications
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, State of Missouri and Kansas
What are the top five diagnoses you treat?
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Relationship/family issues
- Grief and loss
- Children-behavioral issues/ADHD
What are the top five procedures you perform?
- Cognitive behavioral model
- Family systems model
- Behavioral modification
- Solution focused model
Tamra Paolillo, LCSW
Why did you choose to become a behavioral health provider?
I enjoy working with people and helping them help themselves to a healthier and more satisfying place in life.
Why did you choose Mosaic Life Care?
The hospital was/is well respected and offered resources not otherwise available in private practice.
Board Certifications
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, State of Missouri
What are the top five diagnoses you treat?
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Marital distress
- Grief and loss
- Life adjustments
What are the top five procedures you perform?
- Individual psychotherapy
- Marriage/couples counseling
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Solution-focused therapy
Catherine Partamian, PhD, Licensed Psychologist
Why did you choose to become a psychologist?
I became a psychologist because I am intensely interested in why humans think, feel and behave in the ways that we commonly do.
Why did you choose Mosaic Life Care?
For the collegial, experienced and professional environment.
Board Certifications
Licensed Psychologist, State of Missouri
What are the top five diagnoses you treat?
- Anxiety disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Child mood and behavior problems
- Parenting concerns
- Learning problems
What are the top five procedures you perform?
- Individual psychotherapy with adults and children
- Psychological testing
- Parenting strategies and support
- Relaxation and stress reduction techniques
- Neuropsychological screenings
Emergency Mental Health Resources
- Family Guidance Center: Urgent Care
4906 Frederick Ave, St. Joseph, MO 64506 816-676-7222 - AFL CIO of St. Joseph: https://helpmenow.myresourcedirectory.com/
- 988: Crisis and Suicide Hotline
- National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
- Compassionate Ear Warm Line: 1-866-927-6327
- Veterans Support Line: 1-800-273-8255 Press "1"
- Text Line Support: Text NAMI to 741-741
https://namigreaterkc.org/crisis-info/
What to Expect in Therapy
The media is filled with images of patients lying on a couch and talking about extreme issues – after all, that is what makes good TV! Unfortunately, this makes us think that that is what therapy looks all the time and that you have to have severe mental health to benefit. The reality is, therapy can be helpful to a lot of people addressing a wide variety of topics.
Therapy can be hard work, and while some people expect that a therapist’s office is primarily a place to vent, the people who get the most out of the process are those who are open and committed to putting in the effort towards a goal or topic they want to address. When successful, all of that work can truly pay off and enable you to make lasting positive changes that can benefit you for years to come.
Therapy can also help you to develop helpful skills on topics such as emotions, anxiety, life changes, relationships and stress management. While many people wait until they are in crisis to seek therapy, it can be smart to talk with a therapist as challenges arise. That way, you will have the energy and ability to do the work involved with creating positive changes in your life.
One of the great things about working with a therapist is that therapists are non-judgmental and objective. While friends and family members may have opinions on or be affected by the choices you make, a therapist can help you sort through your thoughts and feelings without being personally involved in what you choose.
Some people come to therapy expecting a therapist to give them advice on what they should do. In reality, therapists do their best to help you find the answers that are right for you, rather than telling you to follow a particular path.
So what does it actually look like when you go to a counselor’s office?
Most therapists will spend the first session getting to know you by asking you lots of questions about what you are currently experiencing, while also trying to learn a bit about your history. There are a lot of different therapists with different styles and personalities, and it is important to find someone who you feel comfortable with and who is a good match for you.
What about children’s counseling?
When dealing with the mental and emotional health of your young child, sometimes the guidance of a professional can help identify underlying issues your child is experiencing. Many children are unable to express their emotions and mental health symptoms, so therapy can be an option to explore the causes of your child's concerns. A parent/guardian might be asked to encourage their child to be independent in attending as this can foster independence and self confidence in your child.
What if I feel like counseling isn't helping?
It is very important that you give feedback to your therapist about what is or is not helpful. Your time in therapy will benefit the most when you and your therapist solve problems together, which means you will need to let your therapist know when something is troubling you, even if the trouble is something about your therapist. Although this can be difficult to bring up, it can be a great opportunity for growth.
General Mental Health and Self Care
How can I take care of my mental health?
Self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. This can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of self-care in your daily life can have a big impact.
Here are some self-care tips:
- Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
- Eat healthy, regular meals and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Pay attention to your intake of caffeine and alcohol and how they affect your mood and well-being—for some, decreasing caffeine and alcohol consumption can be helpful.
- Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime.
- Try a relaxing activity. Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy, such as listening to music, reading, spending time in nature, and engaging in low-stress hobbies.
- Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much. Try to appreciate what you have accomplished at the end of the day.
- Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down or replay them in your mind.
- Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts.
- Stay connected. Reach out to friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
Self-care looks different for everyone, and it is important to find what you need and enjoy. It may take trial and error to discover what works best for you.
Burnout
Burnout or compassion fatigue are part of working in the helping profession and can range from mild to severe. There are prevention actions you can take in order to reduce the severity and even prevent burnout.
Tools that have been shown to be effective in addressing burnout include:
- Focusing on your “why” for why you got into your field or started your current job.
- Relaxation exercises, including stretches. These should focus primarily on stretching/relaxing your jaw, neck and shoulders.
- Identify your highlights of the day, including highlights which connected to your “why”. Your brain likes to look for patterns, and it will move towards negative in practice during times of burnout. Encourage it to look for patterns of things going well instead.
