Human beings have many psychological needs, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when they are not being met. If you live in Alaska, Anchorage and other large cities may be too far to travel to if you’re seeking mental health care. Other barriers, like worries about therapy cost or transportation, can make it challenging to find in-person treatment in Fairbanks, Juneau, or Anchorage, AK, as well as any place in between.
With BetterHelp, you can work with social workers, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals from anywhere you have an internet connection at a time that works for you. Note that there are no psychiatrists or advanced nurse practitioners on the BetterHelp platform, so providers cannot write prescriptions or help with medication management at this time.
While BetterHelp does not currently offer group therapy, every provider on the platform has at least a master's degree and is familiar with counseling psychology. They work to create a welcoming environment where you can receive one-on-one treatment to work toward your goals.
Whether you live in a rural area or a big city like Anchorage, therapists are available online. If you need support with stress management or want to work through overwhelming feelings, connect with a licensed therapist. AK has many providers available, and you can learn more about them below.
Raymond Butts
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor, ( NCC) with other 30 years experience in both counseling and education. I started my professional career as an elementary special education teacher in the early 80's. I obtained my M.Ed in counselor Education in 1989 from the University of Arkansas and in 1989 I went to Alaska for the first time as along term substitute teacher. I worked in the Bering Strait School District, in Unalakleet, Alaska. I would return a year later, and work a total of 11 years as a teacher, itinerant school counselor, and village school principal in the district. I would go on to work in two other school districts before retiring from Alaska in 2004. After returning to Arkansas, and home, I worked as a kindergarten counselor in a center with 180 kids and 18 teachers. I fully retired in 2007. In 2009, I became a military and family life counselor and have been doing this for 10 years. My treatment approach is based on my training and my personality. I was trained in CCT and it fite my style, even though I so specialize in crisis counseling. I have found helping the client, and not necessarily directing the client is more effective for me. As I stated I specialize in crisis and PTSD counseling right now with the military, and their families.
Anthony Washington
I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Alaska. I graduated with my Master's degree in Community Counseling from the University of South Alabama in 1999. Since that time I have worked with teens, adults, couples, individuals and families. I have worked with clients who have experienced trauma, abuse, anxiety, depression, anger related issues, domestic violence, substance abuse, communication problems as well as grief and loss issues. I practice by utilizing an eclectic, strengths based approach to therapy. I have experience using cognitive behavioral therapies, motivational Interviewing, mindfulness techniques and emotionally focused therapy.
Jana Gumley
I am a clinical social worker licensed in the state of Alaska. I have experience working with a variety of populations, from teens to older adults, and across cultures. I am married to a member of the military and have moved around the country, and I currently live in Illinois with my partner and two children. Some of the issues that I have seen most often in my practice include anxiety and depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief and loss, early life traumas, sexual trauma, substance use issues, life adjustment challenges, and relationship difficulties. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and approachable. I come to each person with an open mind and compassion for each individual’s unique journey. People tell me that I make them feel accepted and comfortable opening up, which allows them to do the hard work of examining their lives more deeply. I draw from a range of modalities and tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the specific needs of each person. Some of my favorites are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe strongly in the healing power that therapy can have for every person, and I commend you for taking this courageous step. I look forward to working with you!
Heather Dominguez
Hi, my name is Heather Dominguez. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in Alaska with over 20 years of experience working as a clinical therapist with various populations throughout the United States. I began my career in Alaska 8 years ago as a Parenting with Love and Limits Therapist. I worked to help put many families back together again. My most recent experience, the last 4 years, has been as an Itinerant Therapist in the North West Arctic. My experience includes but is not limited to: vocational counseling, crisis intervention, trauma, chemical dependency, grief and loss, family, and spiritual matters. • Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Blue Mountain College, Blue Mountain, Mississippi 1993. • Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Counseling, Southwestern, Fort Worth, Texas 1997. • Certified in EMDR for those with trauma • Proficient in Spanish Due to the fact that I was born in North Mississippi and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, I like to say that I am a “little bit country and a little bit rock and roll.” I have lived in Alaska since 2013. I have worked 4 of those years in the Northwest Arctic and 4 years on the Kenai Peninsula. My years in the Northwest Arctic were often spent doing crisis counseling with first responders and family members of those tragically lost to unexpected tragedies. I have a great deal of respect for those who are brave enough to say that sometimes I need a little help. I am a woman of Faith but I do not impose my values on others. Often times Faith can be a source of healing for ourselves and our families. It takes courage to come to a stranger and share some of your most shameful, often painful moments with. I will be honored to assist you and your family with achieving a balance in life that you are looking for.
Wendy Weston
Hello there. My name is Wendy Weston, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Alaska since 2012. I graduated from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and got my Masters degree at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Let me tell you a little about my background. Since 1999, it has been my privilege to assist families of all ethnic and social backgrounds in various situations. As a military family member myself, I understand the unique issues service members and their families face. The relationship between therapist and client is essential. The more comfortable you are with your counselor, the more effective the counseling, which is why my approach is client-centered and solution-focused, meaning you decide what you want from counseling then we work together to reach that goal(s). Sometimes, life’s challenges can seem overwhelming, taking away our confidence in our own abilities. It’s often helpful to have someone outside your life listen to your personal truths without placing judgment. Together, we will identify and use your strengths while adding new coping skills to meet your needs. I’m excited to get to know you and begin working together.
Joan Dewey
Hello! My name is Joan Dewey. I am a licensed clinical social worker with 25+ years experience. I am licensed to provide psychotherapy services in both Alaska and Arizona. I have worked with many clients of all ages, and life circumstances including individuals with histories of traumatic events, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, parenting special needs children, addictions and substance misuse and trauma and stressors related to racial, cultural and historic impacts. I support clients in building positive communication, fostering meaningful relationships, and healing from past life events, to promote optimum growth and empowerment. My therapy style is respectful, compassionate and with unconditional positive regard for you, the client. My therapy framework is the person-in-environment utilizing CBT, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am trained in narrative therapy, mindfulness, Trauma Focused CBT, motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, and addictions recovery. Reaching out for the tools that therapy can offer is a worthwhile and potentially life changing event. I encourage you to take these first steps and open the door to a more fulfilling life, I look forward to working with you!
Cora Benedict
I am licensed in Alaska with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I want to congratulate you for getting started!
Edmore Mangena
I am licensed in Alaska with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Alfred (AJ) Knittel
I am licensed in Alaska and Idaho with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use a strength based approach when working with clients that highlights a clients strengths and assist them in manifesting lasting change for themselves. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Jennifer Hensley
I’m Jennie, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Alaska, but more importantly, I’m a human being who is passionate about helping others identify the source(s) of their distress, and implement strategies that invite continuous growth and genuine contentment in life. I want to get to know you and what makes you tick, to assist you in gaining a thorough understanding of yourself, your strengths, your weaknesses, your emotional ‘triggers’…all of the fun (and not so fun) characteristics that make you a unique individual or couple. From there, my work focuses on identifying problematic thinking, relational dynamics, and/or behaviors, then systematically replacing those maladaptive tendencies with positive self-talk, healthy communication and boundaries with others, and productive behaviors that help you reach your fullest potential. People have always deeply interested me. I grew up in a military family and have seen many parts of the world. I love to interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds. I completed my Bachelor of Science in social psychology and graduated with highest honors while serving 7 years on active duty in the US Navy. Later, I earned a Master’s Degree in counseling psychology and opened a private practice specializing in treating trauma (PTSD) in combat veterans and victims of sexual assault. Years later, I discovered I have a real passion for couples’ work, and also for treating people with mood and personality disorders. I believe we are all doing the best we can in life with the tools we have, and the field of psychology offers a plethora of resources with which to improve your toolbox. I’m here to listen, guide, and support you as you identify and learn to utilize the tools that will help you reach and even surpass your life goals.
Michelle Ely
I am licensed in California and Alaska with 29 years of professional work experience as a social worker and 6 years as an Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in helping clients with overcoming past traumatic experiences, reducing stress and anxiety, and addressing relationship issues & parenting issues. I also have experience working with clients on anger management. My therapy style is warm, interactive and direct. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have an eclectic approach to therapy meaning the interventions I utilize are based on the needs of my client and their current situation. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Ivy Villani
Hi there! Way to go on taking a beginning step to achieve one of your many goals in life. My name is Ivy and I have worked with people my entire life. I found that as a child, I was able to meet people and understand where they came from in a way that not many people could. As an adult, I have been able to develop that into a career. There is always a story that begins with "when I was a child", and mine is no different. When I was a child, I was faced with many different problems and situations that I felt that no one in the world could understand. I tried many different things in an effort to get my own life on track without letting anyone else know that I was struggling. As you may or may not know, this is not always the best option. However, what this did was that it lead me down a path of being able to walk in the shoes of other people; to see things as they see things. I have experience working with families who are involved in the child care system, both as foster parents and as clients involved in the system. I have experience with individuals who are questioning where they are in life and where they want to be. I have experience, helping people feel like people again. The way that I chose to work with individuals is that everyone is an individual and everyone lives their lives through a day to day schedule. I believe in checking in and allowing you to tell me what you need and what you want. What do you feel like you need today; what about yesterday. Can we plan for tomorrow? Do you need me to listen or do you need me to respond? Would it be helpful for a brainstorming partner or someone who can take all that emotional weight you have and take it off your back for a while? My work is not based upon a single method of thinking or processing, but rather whatever combination you need. I believe that even if you don't believe in your own ability to help yourself right now, it is there, and together we can make a difference and a change that you can continue to use and implement long after we are no longer working together.
Rosa White
I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Angela Allen
I am licensed in Alabama, Alaska, Mississippi and Montana with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.
Randolph (Randy) Beasley
Hello! Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Randy Beasley I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist here in California. I have been providing psychotherapy and emotional growth services for a wide variety of issues within a number of roles for the past 10+ years. A little bit about me, I graduated with my Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from Biola University and completed a Masters Degree in Theology from Liberty University. I was pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Theology when I felt therapy was a better way for me to help people. I completed my Master of Arts Degree from Touro University in Marriage and Family Therapy. Previously I worked as a pastor and Christian camp director developing curriculum and teaching. I have experience working with addiction, foster services, wraparound, competency restoration, and couples/family therapy having worked within community-based clinics, substance use treatment facilities, a state hospital, and jail. I have received training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing adaptive practices, interpersonal therapy, The Gottman Method, as well as being a certified Mandt trainer (crisis intervention) and strength deployment inventory (motivational values psychometric) facilitator. I would describe my approach as goal-oriented and client-centered. I use solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and an existential therapy approach to foster awareness while developing pragmatic solutions to problems. Goals are developed together and focused on changing patterns of thinking or behaviors driven by unmet needs, when these change we frequently change how we feel. I believe healing hinges on the relationships you develop and progress ultimately follows an individual conquest of fear and acceptance of responsibility. I hope to make that journey with you.
How can therapists in Alaska support you?
Therapists in Alaska can practice many types of counseling, from marriage and family therapy to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). They may also assist you with symptoms of depression, stress, or anxiety.
Therapists may help you set and achieve career goals, work on current issues you may be facing, or address your past. Over 507,294 people live in Alaska, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for licensed professionals in Alaska may help you find mental health support for personal growth, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health concerns. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek support from one of BetterHelp's licensed providers above.
The mental health field can include psychiatric medication management, online therapy, marriage counseling, couples therapy, clinical social work, licensed counseling, and other mental health services in person and online. Seeing a licensed provider can help you navigate mental health conditions and life circumstances through mindfulness and other specialized techniques.
Please note that BetterHelp does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.
Why are many residents in the state of Alaska working with a licensed counselor?
People reach out for mental health support for a variety of reasons. Many individuals work with a counselor for general life advice, while others may attend therapy for a specific concern. Whether you live in a large city or a smaller county in Alaska, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.
Mental health counselors in Alaska support clients with varying issues, which can include:
- Challenging situations or life stressors
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety disorders
- Depression or depressive conditions
- Adjustment issues
- Emotional support for a terminal illness
- Chronic pain emotional support
- Grief
- Personality disorders
- Trauma
- Relationship conflicts and concerns
Finding a therapist that takes new clients in online therapy can be the first step in finding a treatment plan that works for you. Your therapist can provide a safe space for you to focus on self-care and well-being.
If you're interested in speaking to one of the therapists above or being matched with a counselor in 24 to 48 hours, consider signing up for BetterHelp. BetterHelp has over 35,000 providers, including those listed above.
Emergency services
If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline:1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line:Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line<:Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline(LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline: (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST
- Child Help Hotline Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat featur
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Call 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-1
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some commonly asked questions can be found below.
How much does a therapist cost?
Mental health professionals can differ in price. Forbes found that the average cost of in-person therapy in the US is around $100 to $200 per hour. Pricing can also vary based on your location.
BetterHelp offers payment plans of $60 to $90 per session, charged monthly in a lump sum. You can also take advantage of this pricing on one of BetterHelp's sister platforms, like ReGain for couples or TeenCounseling for teens aged 13 to 19.
Many therapists may be upfront about their pricing and whether or not they take health insurance from the beginning. Additionally, some in your area may offer a sliding scale plan to allow those with lower incomes to pay less for therapy. However, services online can often save individuals a few hundred dollars per month.
How do I know if I should get a therapist?
Mental health services and mental health providers may help you navigate various concerns. You do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy; You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Mental health issues don't always present as a crisis. Many professionals provide talk therapy and support for life transitions, skills learning, relationship problems, or life coaching. Online therapy sessions in Alaska can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.
Does insurance cover therapy?
Different counseling services can vary in cost. Therapists must apply to accept insurance through insurance companies, which may take time and money, so not every therapist offers services through insurance. If you cannot find a therapist that accepts your plan, BetterHelp may be cheaper than visiting an in-person therapist.
Is online therapy safe?
Online therapy through BetterHelp and its sister platforms is safe. Therapists are licensed, experienced, and vetted before being contracted with the platform. If you experience any concerns with your therapist, you change your counselor through the platform or app at any time.
Popular cities in Alaska
- Anchorage, AK
- Fairbanks, AK
- Juneau, AK
- Wasilla, AK
- Sitka, AK
- Ketchikan, AK
- Kenai, AK
- Palmer, AK
- Bethel, AK
- Kodiak, AK
- Homer, AK
- Soldotna, AK
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