Today we’d like to introduce you to Tara Spry.
Hi Tara, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My story really begins in the classroom. I spent years as a teacher North Kansas City School District and later as a school counselor in the Excelsior Springs and Kearney School Districts, where I discovered how much I loved walking alongside students and families during both their struggles and successes. Over time, I realized I wanted to create something of my own that allowed me to combine that educator’s heart with a counselor’s perspective.
That’s what led me to start 816 Counseling Services, LLC in Liberty, Missouri. Building this practice has been a way to serve children, teens, and families in a more personal, flexible, and impactful way—whether that’s through individual therapy, family counseling, or school-based and telehealth services. I’ve also leaned into community outreach, professional development for educators, and creative therapy groups for kids and young adults.
Getting to where I am today has been a mix of courage, hard work, and a deep belief that families in our community deserve compassionate, practical, and accessible support. Every step—whether in the classroom, the counseling office, or now as a business owner—has brought me closer to doing what I feel I was meant to do: help people find hope, healing, and practical tools to thrive.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Starting a private practice means wearing every hat—therapist, business owner, marketer, bookkeeper—all at once. There were moments early on when I questioned if I could balance it all, especially while also raising a family and making sure I didn’t burn myself out.
One of the biggest struggles has been navigating the business side of counseling. As a teacher and counselor, I was trained to help kids and families, not necessarily to run a business, so there was a steep learning curve. I’ve had to figure out insurance panels, office logistics, marketing, and even things like website design—all while making sure clients felt supported and cared for.
But honestly, those struggles have also been the biggest lessons. They’ve taught me to ask for help, to get creative, and to trust the vision I have for 816 Counseling Services. Every challenge has pushed me to grow not just as a counselor, but as a leader, and I wouldn’t trade that process.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At 816 Counseling Services, we are passionate about helping children and families find hope and healing, especially when life feels messy or divided. We specialize in working with families navigating high-conflict situations—whether that’s the aftermath of divorce, custody challenges, or strained parent–child relationships. I provide reunification and reintegration therapy that gives every family member a voice while creating a safe, structured path back toward connection.
What sets us apart is our child-centered, family-focused approach. We don’t just meet with individuals; we guide the whole system. We blend clinical expertise with compassion, helping parents and children rebuild trust, learn healthier ways to communicate, and develop tools for long-term stability.
Brand-wise, we’re most proud of our reputation as a steady and neutral support in moments of conflict. Attorneys, courts, and families trust us because we stay focused on the child’s emotional wellbeing—always. Our goal is not simply to resolve conflict in the short term, but to equip families with skills and understanding that last well beyond our sessions.
For readers, we want you to know that 816 Counseling Services isn’t just a counseling office—it’s a place of restoration and new beginnings. Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, or a professional working with families, you can count on us to walk alongside you with empathy and evidence-based strategies. Our work is about more than mending relationships; it’s about helping families move forward with hope and resilience.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I’ve been incredibly blessed with a strong circle of support. My family has been my biggest cheerleaders—encouraging me when the work felt overwhelming and reminding me why I started. My significant other, Clay, has been right there helping me brainstorm ideas, dream bigger, and keep moving forward when the business side felt daunting.
My three boys—Brooks, Jake, and Cooper—also deserve so much credit. They’ve been patient, understanding, and supportive as I’ve poured time and energy into building 816 Counseling Services. They remind me daily why this work matters, and they keep me grounded in what’s most important: family.
I also owe so much to my professional mentors and colleagues in education and counseling. The teachers, administrators, and fellow counselors I worked alongside in the districts I have worked in shaped how I approach kids and families with both structure and compassion. Their examples taught me that relationships come first, and I carry that lesson into every session.
And of course, I couldn’t leave out my clients. They’ve trusted me with their stories and their families, and they inspire me daily. Watching their resilience and growth has been one of the greatest motivators in continuing to build 816 Counseling Services into something that serves our community well.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.816counselingservices.com
- Instagram: 816_counseling_services_llc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/816-Counseling-Services/61555929941123/
