Midwest has served greater Kansas City continuously since its
founding in 1957. It was one of the first pastoral counseling centers established
in the nation.
For nearly half a century, Midwest has worked with
thousands of people and strives to treat each client with dignity and respect. The
psychological, relational and spiritual welfare of clients is our primary concern. (see our complete history here)
Our identity is rooted in Judeo-Christian concepts and traditions, with a variety of
denominations represented among the staff and board. Each staff member is committed to,
and actively serves in his or her faith community. We are dedicated to helping
individuals, couples and families achieve wholeness. The Center offers a distinctive
approach by bringing faith resources and psychological skills to bear on the problems and
challenges of living. We affirm the importance of trust and confidentiality in counseling
relationships as well as offering care to people of all religious persuasions, races and
ethnic backgrounds.
David P. Ehman, Ph.D., Executive Director, is a licensed psychologist.
He earned a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of Southern Mississippi and
an M.A. in counseling from Wake Forest University. Dr. Ehman holds an M.Div. from North
American Baptist Seminary, and is an ordained minister. Prior to coming to Midwest, he
worked for many years with the chronically and persistently mentally ill. His special
interests include depression, anxiety, childhood sexual abuse, stress management,
self-esteem, suicide prevention, communication skills, marriage enrichment and the
integration of stepfamilies.
John A. Larsen, Ph.D., Clinical Director, is a licensed psychologist
and approved supervisor with the AAMFT. He holds an M.Div. degree from Duke University and
a Ph.D. from Boston University in pastoral psychology and counseling. Dr. Larsen is a
member of the AAPC, a clinical member of AAMFT and a member of the APA. He is the author
of a book and numerous articles in magazines and professional journals.
Steven D. Segraves, M.D., Medical Director, is certified by the
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and is also subspecialty boarded in geriatric
psychiatry. He received a medical degree from the University of Kansas and completed
training in psychiatry at the University of Kansas Medical Center. Dr. Segraves is
licensed in Kansas and Missouri, and is a partner in Psychiatry Associates of Kansas City. Dr. Segraves is on staff at
Research Psychiatric Center, Two Rivers Psychiatric Hospital and two hospitals outside the metropolitan area. He is a member of the AMA and American Psychiatric Association.
Arnold V. Abels , Ph.D., licensed psychologist, earned his doctoral degree from the University of Missouri Kansas City, and an M.A. in Counseling and M.Div. degree from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. A member of APA, Dr. Abels is currently serving a 3 year term on the APA Committee on Disability Issues in Psychology. He is trained as a generalist and feels comfortable working with a wide range of psychological concerns. His experiences include working with issues of abuse and trauma, academic skills development, career development, depression, anxiety and other mood disorders, issues related to physical disability, family of origin problems, grief and loss, couple/relationship issues, and spirituality.
Willa J. Kozlowski, M.A., is a licensed professional counselor. She
earned an M.A. in counseling and guidance from the University of Missouri - Kansas City.
She works with individuals, couples, and families. Special interests include anxiety,
depression, stress management, effective communications and issues of childhood and
adolescence.
Linda L. Simmons, Psy.D., is a licensed psychologist, received her degree in clinical psychology from George Fox University. She also has an extensive background in nursing, receiving a BSN degree from Truman University in Kirksville, Missouri. She enjoys working with a wide variety of adult clients, including those with trauma histories, spiritual issues, women's issues, and family problems. Dr. Simmons is a published author (Interactive Art Therapy: No Talent Required Projects), and welcomes speaking and teaching engagements on a variety of topics.
Jill D. Thorne, Psy.D., is a licensed psychologist in both
Kansas and Missouri. She received her doctorate in clinical psychology
from George Fox University in Oregon. Jill has instructed at at Phillips
Theological Seminary and given workshops to therapists, church leaders and
hospital staff. Dr. Thorne created and taught a class on the ethical
integration of religion and therapy at Wichita State University. She
enjoys working with people of all ages and has experience helping those
who struggle with depression anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and
self-harm. She is a member of the APA.
