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Hi, I’m Darbi Keene.

she/her

Hi, I'm Darbi — a late-diagnosed autistic therapist living with chronic illness, who spent years wondering why "just try harder" never seemed to work for me the way it seemed to work for everyone else.

My own diagnosis came later in life, after years of masking, burnout, and quietly wondering why things that seemed easy for other people took everything I had. Around that same time, I was also learning to live with a chronic illness — and learning that pacing, energy limits, and "good enough" days aren't failures. They're just information. Between the two, I've spent a lot of time getting honest about what my body and brain actually need, instead of what I was told they should need.

I tell you this not because it's required reading, but because I want you to know exactly who's on the other side of the screen. I'm not neutral about neurodivergence or chronic illness. I'm not "informed" about them from the outside. I live both, and I built this practice because I wished it had existed for me sooner.

What I believe

I don't see autism, ADHD, AuDHD, or chronic illness as things to manage, mask, or push through. I see them as different operating conditions — ones that deserve real accommodation, not white-knuckled willpower. My job isn't to help you act more "normal" or "productive." It's to help you understand your own wiring and capacity well enough to build a life that actually fits both.

That means we'll talk about masking and burnout. We'll talk about energy accounting, monotropism, rejection sensitivity, the double empathy problem, flare-up days, and pacing — not as jargon, but as tools for finally making sense of things that used to just feel like personal failure.

Who I work with

I provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and autism assessments for adults and teens across Missouri, all through secure telehealth — no traffic, no waiting rooms, no fluorescent lights, no pressure to be dressed up or "on."

You might be a good fit for this space if you're:

  • Newly diagnosed (or newly questioning) and trying to figure out what that means for you

  • Exhausted from a lifetime of masking and ready to stop

  • Navigating a chronic illness alongside neurodivergence, and tired of providers who only see one piece at a time

  • In a relationship where neurodivergence or chronic illness is part of the dynamic, and you want support that actually understands that

  • A teen who's tired of being told to sit still, make eye contact, or "use your words" differently

  • Someone who's tried therapy before and left feeling more pathologized than understood

If you're ready

I intentionally keep my caseload small, because this kind of work — and my own capacity — deserves real attention, not a rushed fifty minutes squeezed between six other clients. If that sounds like the kind of care you're looking for, I'd love to hear from you.

I might be a good fit for you if:

🌿 You are seeking EMDR therapy to process past traumas that are impacting your present-day life in ways you are ready to resolve!

🌿 You are Neurodivergent, struggle with executive functioning, and are ready to work WITH your brain rather than against it!


🌿 You are new to therapy and need someone to walk alongside you through the process with care and compassion!


🌿 You are seeking engaging and innovative therapy for your adolescent or teenager that values and embraces their individuality and insight!


🌿 You identify as LGBTQ+ and are seeking welcoming, affirming and supportive therapy to develop a greater sense self- compassion that aligns with your needs!

You deserve to stop putting your happiness on hold…

You feel stuck in old patterns and behaviors that no longer serve you, and you are ready to break free and create positive change.

Your mind is bombarded with intrusive thoughts and worries about what having these thoughts means about you.

You long to embrace your true identity, whether it relates to your sexual orientation, gender identity, or personal values.

You struggle with self-doubt and want to cultivate greater self-confidence and a positive self-image.

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A woman with short curly hair, glasses, and a red sweatshirt sitting on a black leather sofa, smiling while looking to her left and holding a laptop on her lap, with a tall green plant to her right and a dark textured wall in the background.

Why is virtual therapy so great?!

  • Escape the chaos of traffic, weather woes, and rushed appointments—welcome to the world of virtual therapy!

    Imagine cozying up on your favorite couch, sipping a warm cup of tea, and diving into transformative therapy right from the comfort of your own private haven.

  • Life can be demanding and schedules can feel overwhelming, but with virtual therapy, you have the power to carve out time that fits seamlessly into your busy lifestyle.

    Whether you're a parent, a working professional, or juggling multiple responsibilities, virtual therapy gives you the freedom to prioritize self-care without compromising your other commitments.

  • In the comfort of your own private space, you can experience therapy without the worry of bumping into someone you know in the waiting room or feeling concerned about others overhearing your conversations.

    Virtual therapy offers you a discreet and confidential environment to share your thoughts, emotions, and experiences openly.

Schedule a FREE consultation

Invest in Yourself. You’re WORTH it.

In therapy, it's important to remember that everyone's journey is unique and personal. Your time in therapy will be tailored to your specific needs and the level of engagement that feels right for you. Therapy is a collaborative process, where you and I will work together to create a safe and supportive space for exploration and growth.

Remember, therapy is a personal investment in your well-being, and it's a process that unfolds over time. Your commitment and willingness to engage will greatly contribute to the outcomes you desire. I am here to walk alongside you, supporting and empowering you every step of the way.

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What will you discover?

What could your life look like after therapy? Picture it with me…

🌿 You will develop a stronger sense of self and feel more confident in expressing your authentic thoughts and emotions.


🌿 You will develop effective coping strategies and tools to manage stress, anxiety, and other emotional challenges that arise in your daily life.


🌿 You will discover new perspectives and gain a better understanding of your past experiences, allowing you to heal, grow, and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.


🌿 You will learn practical skills to navigate conflict, set boundaries, and advocate for yourself in various areas of your life.


🌿 You will cultivate resilience and emotional strength, enabling you to bounce back from setbacks and face life's challenges with greater confidence.


🌿 You will notice improvements in your overall well- being, including enhanced mental, emotional, and physical health.


🌿 You will experience a greater sense of fulfillment and joy as you embrace personal growth, find meaning in your life, and create a life that aligns with your values and aspirations.

Credentials

  • desk with open notebook, pen, laptop, mug, vase with flowers, and small glass pitcher, with a window in the background

    Education

    University of Louisiana at Monroe, Bachelors Degree, Social Work

    Louisiana State University, Masters Degree, Social Work
    Advance Standing Status

    Children & Youth Services Certification (LSU)

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    License

    Missouri Licensed Clinical Social Worker #2020033073

    National Association of Social Workers Member

    Behavioral Health Workforce & Educational Training Scholar

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    Training

    TA-TTRPG (Therapeutically Applied Table Top Roleplaying Games)

    EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing)

    SBIRT (Screening, Brief Intervention, Referral to Treatment)