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.

 

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Dallas Norman

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

Experienced Solution Focused based healthcare professional. Thirteen years experience working independently as part of multidisciplinary teams with clients of varying multi-cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Has worked with adults, couples, families, children and adolescents. Proven work ethic, constructive clinical judgment and has responded appropriately to high stress crisis situations. Demonstrated experience in many environments including inpatient clinical, outpatient clinical telehealth and government installations. Clinical duties have included outreach based counseling, diagnostic care as well as long term therapy. Education includes a Masters of Science in Applied Psychology from Eastern Washington University, a nationally accredited program. Client feedback indicates that my therapeutic strength is adapting skills and techniques to a person's unique circumstance, identifying realistic and tangible action steps and providing a client with an easy to understand approach to personal growth.

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Robin Hughes

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Hello, my name is Robin Hughes, I have been a resident of Alaska since 2007, and a licensed clinical social worker since 2010. In the past I have lived and worked in Nome, and had the privilege to travel to remote villages, and have been working in the Matanuska Valley for the past 5 years. I love connecting with a diverse number of people, and have successfully worked with people from all walks of life including Native Alaskans and Veterans. Topics I am competent in addressing include chronic health issues, relationship or parenting issues and many other recent or long term, life and mental health challenges. I have a background in alternative medicine, and these more eastern outlooks, continue to greatly influence my perception of illness and dis-ease as a mental health provider. I strive to see the balance within people, and strengthen and empower my clients to develop and strengthen their existing, as well as new strengths in order to achieve greater life harmony. The building of a healthy and trusting therapeutic relation is tantamount to the success of therapy, and I am honored by the trust and courage it takes when invited to partner in creating a place where healing can begin. The healing process can be likened to building a garden, where there is first an identification of what may no longer serve, and what needs to be planted for future harvest.

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Lauren Kelly

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: MA,LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I know asking for help is not always the easiest thing to do and I seek to honor the effort it takes to stretch, grow, change and open yourself up in order to reach out. I love working with families, couples and individuals alike. I am a well seasoned therapist with over 20 years of experience helping others with many and varied challenges in their lives. As a Family Therapist, I believe life is all about relationships and connection and this gives me a unique and valuable perspective most individual therapists may not have. I have experience helping people recover from trauma, deal with grief and loss and restore broken relationships. I specialize in helping clients work toward life balance, working from wherever they are to wherever they want to be. I am authentic, non-judgmental, honest, hilarious (or at least I think I am), and look forward to helping you on your journey. I will be available to work with you on Monday through Friday (I take Saturdays and Sundays off) via live chat, asynchronous texting, phone or video. I currently live and travel in my small motorhome in the West and Southwest so my time zone may be a bit different than yours, which is often advantageous. I grew up in California (please don't hold that against me as I left as soon as I could) and I have lived in WI, UT, AZ, GA and Alaska (at the Top of the World in Barrow). I look forward to speaking with you.

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Dr. Michael Vigil

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

Dr. Mikey Vigil, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), received his Doctor of Philosophy in clinical-community psychology from the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA), a Master of Science in clinical psychology from UAA, a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of Guam (UOG), and is an American Psychological Association (APA) Fellow. Dr. Vigil has a decade of experience working in numerous behavioral health settings, including Veteran’s Affairs, substance use treatment, college counseling, community mental health outpatient treatment, and psychiatric emergency stabilization. And, he provides services for adolescents, adults throughout the lifespan, and couples. He has worked with individuals from diverse ethnic/cultural backgrounds and understands that an individual's culture is important to how thoughts, beliefs, and emotions influence and shape patterns of behavior. This conceptualization, scaffolded with research-based interventions, guides Dr. Vigil’s treatment of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Vigil's approach to psychotherapy is from an assimilative theoretical orientation grounded in person-centered and behavioral theories. He also operates from a strength-based model that capitalizes on the individual’s internal attributes to successfully navigate through problems. He is formally trained in various evidence-based psychotherapies such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Substance Use Disorders (CBT SUD), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT).

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Wendy Weston

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

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.

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Grace Ferreira

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: LPC,MEd,NBCC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Alaska. I have over 13 years of experience working with adults and families in the areas of anxiety, depression, relationship issues and parenting problems. My counseling style focuses on building a trusting, authentic, therapeutic relationship. My hope is to create a safe, nonjudgemental environment where clients can explore and examine life's challenges. Goal setting, skill building and self explorations are helpful in achieving positive outcomes. I believe that counseling is an empowering experience that fosters growth, highlights strengths, and reveals options for new ways of interacting and solving problems. I graduated from the University of Alaska Fairbanks in 2005 with a Masters in Education, focus in Guidance and Counseling. I became certified as a Nationally Certified Counselor in 2015. My approach combines client centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy and solution focused therapy. I look forward to working with you.

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Joan Dewey

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
25 years of experience

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!

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Edmore Mangena

Offering therapy in Alaska
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
16 years of experience

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.

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Michelle Ely

Offering therapy in Alaska
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger management
6 years of experience

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!

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John Sundeen

Offering therapy in Alaska
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Clarita Requena-Layton

Offering therapy in Alaska
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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. 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.

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Sharon Lilja

Offering therapy in Alaska
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, lack of motivation or poor self-esteem, grief, coping with life limiting illness for patients and caregivers (palliative care, kidney disease and hospice), geriatric and adoption related issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I consider you the expert on what will work best for you as I walk alongside you to help guide you to achieve your goals. 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!

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Karen House

Offering therapy in Alaska
License: MA, LPC,MSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
22 years of experience

Hi! I'm Karen and I'm so happy that you've gained the courage to ask for help! I've been a counselor for 18 years, and have worked with a broad range of clients. My style is casual, but I really like to focus on problem solving. My hope is that you'll come out of your first session with a couple of tools that, if you apply them, will help relieve the problem. During every session, we build onto the foundation we've laid, increasing your tools and addressing any new issues. I'm a great listener, and am able to tease out things that might guide you to relief. Counseling is a great tool, but its a two way street - you'll have some homework and activities to do between sessions, and it's important that you fully engage in your healing. I have expertise with Military - active duty or veterans and have worked with Regular and SOF troops, spouses and families. I believe in empowerment for my clients, and my hope is that through our work together, you can heal and move through your problems with strength, integrity and grace.

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Michon Whiterose

Offering therapy in Alaska
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 7 years of professional work experience. 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. I specialize in substance abuse, parenting and working with children, expressive arts therapy, rural behavioral health, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and working through trauma. I am Alaska Native and have extensive experience working with Native American and Alaska Native people. 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.

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Acea Starks

Offering therapy in Alaska
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

I am a non-traditional therapist with a holistic approach to mental health. I am licensed in Georgia, Alaska, South Dakota, Vermont, and Florida with more than 10 years of experience working with diverse populations. I would like to provide some information about myself. I am a little 'out there.' I have piercings, tattoos, and purple hair. I am a bit of a goth. I came to mental health services a little later than some. I was an English major when I first went to college out of high school. That did not work out very well. I love writing and the English language is beautiful so occasionally I use obscure words or references. If I ever say something that is not understood just tell me and I will rephrase. My second attempt at higher learning was when I was in the nursing program. I knew I wanted to make a difference and ease suffering but to be honest, I do not like to watch people die. I have and can, but I did not want to do it all the time. I was in my 30s when I started my program. I did an associate degree in psychology, a bachelor's degree in psychology and then a master's degree in mental health counseling all in one go. It was very stressful as I was also working at the time. I have worked a lot of jobs I did not like and have had some very interesting experiences. I have worked at Wal-Mart (twice) and did a stint as a grave digger (with a shovel). I have many hobbies and interests. My approach is eclectic because there are no one size fits all treatments. I am very open but believe in setting goals and having accountability. My role is to provide clients with tools to navigate their unique issues and concerns. I am very big on self care and work life balance. I am not on line everyday and try as often as possible to strap a pack to my back and hide in the woods.

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:

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.

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