Dr. Helen E. Weiser is a licensed psychologist based in Kansas City, Missouri, with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She specializes in psychological testing, offering assessments that support therapy, educational planning, and legal cases. Dr. Weiser also integrates psychological and spiritual approaches in her practice, reflecting a holistic view of mental health. 

Dr. Weiser earned her PhD in Philosophy/Psychology from the University of Missouri–Kansas City (UMKC) and later completed theological studies at Sancta Sophia Seminary.  Her educational background reflects a commitment to integrating psychological and spiritual approaches in her practice.

In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Weiser is a Certified Imago Relationship Therapist, focusing on helping couples build deeper emotional connections.  She is also an author, having written books on psychology and spirituality.

Q: How did you end up in the field of psychology?

I don’t believe in coincidences—I was unconsciously led here. I originally planned to teach English Literature, but a work-study assignment in a psychology lab changed everything. I fell in love instantly and knew I belonged.

Q: What advice would you give to someone pursuing psychology?

It’s a rewarding journey, but not if your goal is to make a lot of money. If you’re passionate about helping others heal and contributing to a healthier society, stay with it. Be aware that compensation often doesn’t match the years of training and work it takes.

Q: What kind of training did you pursue?

After licensure, I spent 7 years in intense psychotherapy training at the Hartford Family Institute and another 7 years at the Imago Relationship Institute. I was influenced by Murray Bowen, Carl Whittaker, Virginia Satir, and Fritz Perls. I’m especially excited about health psychology and newer trauma treatments, including psychedelics.

Q: What’s most rewarding about being a psychologist?

Seeing clients have breakthrough “aha” moments, when awareness hits and they begin their path towards healing.  It’s those breakthrough moments that are most rewarding.  For example,  I informed a teenage girl assigned to my caseload that her mother’s addiction was not her fault.  She asked, “are you sure?” and when I said “oh yes,” she broke into deep wracking sobs, letting go of a  burden she was carrying throughout her young life.

Q: How do you avoid burnout?

Take care of yourself. Empathy doesn’t mean carrying others’ burdens. Thankfully, my training included not just theory but deep personal work on understanding and caring for my own mental and physical health. I still believe psychology students should experience therapy themselves—it’s invaluable to sit on the other side of the chair.

Q: How did you discover your niche?

It took time. I loved clinical practice but also found joy in administration. I earned certification as a substance abuse counselor and spent 15 years moving from counselor to executive director at Renaissance West, opening new programs, securing grants, and advocating for better understanding and treatment of substance use disorders.

Q: What accomplishment are you proud of?

Receiving Kansas City’s “Pioneer in Substance Abuse Treatment for Women” award from Alvin Brooks was an incredible honor.

Q: Why did you start your own practice?

I grew tired of the politics in treatment programs and wanted independence. Now I combine leadership and clinical work, alongside my daughters and grandchildren—three generations in the practice.

Q: If you weren’t a psychologist, what would you be?

A sea captain! I love the ocean and imagine leading ships on adventures. But here in the middle of the country, I steer ships on land instead

Q: What challenges do psychologists face today?

We’re facing unprecedented challenges. We must uphold ethical standards, even at personal or political risk, and defend our expertise. We need to take courageous stands to protect our profession and society, always with respect, dignity, and a fearless, positive spirit.

Q: What’s your vision as president of MOPA?

I want psychological and mental health services to be accessible to all—with enough funding and providers to meet the need. I hope psychology will be recognized as a leader in mental health, given our extensive training. I advocate for psychologists to expand into new areas, including prescription privileges with proper training. I’ll continue legislative advocacy and support innovation through continuing education.

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