Working with a therapist can provide a supportive environment for working through many of life’s challenges. If you’re looking for therapy in South Dakota, using an online therapy platform like BetterHelp can make access to mental health care more convenient and flexible.

With BetterHelp, you can work with a marriage and family therapist, licensed mental health counselor, or other licensed therapist from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. This flexibility makes accessing therapy more convenient, whether you’re a busy professional trying to avoid burnout or a graduate student working on a doctoral degree. 

While BetterHelp does not currently offer therapy in group settings, the marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and social workers on the platform have extensive experience and can help individuals overcome their unique challenges and meet their goals.

Whether you have experienced trauma or you want to learn to overcome other emotional challenges, therapy can help. If you’re looking for an online therapist, SD has many options. The South Dakota therapists listed below are licensed to provide teletherapy across the state and can help you gain insight and take steps toward a more satisfying life.

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Jessica Shaffer

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: CSW-PIP,QMHP
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

I'm glad you're here on my page. Help is a hard thing to ask for and you're already showing great strength by reaching out! Even if you don't get your help from me, you're in the right place! Clinically and personally, I bring a broad range of experience. I believe that the connection between the therapist and the client is the number one tool in counseling, and I am skillful at building trusting relationships. I have been working in the mental health field since 2003 and have been practicing therapy since 2011 . Currently, I am working with youth ages 5-18, and occasionally some adults, providing individual and group therapy. The youth and adults that I'm working with have experienced various types of trauma. My treatment will consist of finding out what will work best for you. That might look like providing solution focused therapy, crisis intervention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or even mindfulness techniques. I have also worked with clients experiencing depression, PTSD, anxiety, and relationship issues. Previously, I worked in a locked correctional facility in Colorado where I specialized in crisis therapy with the clients that were acutely suicidal, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of severe and persistent mental illness. I received my Bachelor's of Science in Psychology in 2003, from Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD (My favorite city in SD!) and graduated with my Master of Social Work in 2010, from Newman University in Colorado Springs, CO (My favorite city in CO!). I am licensed in the State of South Dakota as a Certified Social Worker in Private Independent Practice (CSW-PIP). In my free time, I enjoy traveling, spending time with family and enjoying the outdoors. I love what I do and am excited to join the movement of online counseling!

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Dianne "Anna" Beard

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: MA ,LPC,QMHP
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Anna, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over ten years of experience providing therapy services. I work with clients affected by depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transition, mood and emotional distress. I have specialized training in working with couples, highly sensitive persons (HSP) and introverted personality styles. I received my master’s degree in counseling and completed post graduate studies in mental health counseling. The teen years are some of the most awesome ones we experience. It's a time a learning, growing and experiencing life. It can also be some of the most challenging as you try to figure out who you are are and make sense of the world around you. I can a support system for you as you navigate. On a personal note, I enjoy playing piano and guitar. I am backpacker, kayaker and SUPboarder. Contact me if you would like to work together.

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Amanda Wetz

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am Amanda Wetz. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have a combined 19 years experience in social work services with 10 years experience providing clinical services. I value being a supporter in day to day stressors and planning. I am experienced in a variety of specific areas of issues as well as other issues such as anxiety, depression, feelings of inadequacy, coping skills, and problem solving skills. I have experience with specific populations. I have provided individual, group, and family therapy services. I value increasing coping skills and building confidence to have a fulfilling life. I have provided services to individuals for personal issues as well as individuals with professional/profession issues. I believe in the importance of supporting caregivers of those with mental illness and disease process changes. It is important to have strength around us in our intimate and professional relationships. It is important to have many different circles of support and I specialize in helping others identify those supports and have them in the most supportive position for you. My therapeutic approach is supportive in nature. I value person centered approach with recovery based principle. This provides you as the client control of your progress and change. I view myself as a guide and mentor in therapy. We work together to provide a choice based plan and support you in developing coping skills and strengths to create your desired path forward. I value short term brief therapy. I feel therapy can be 8 to 12 sessions and you can gain the skills and confidence to continue on practicing them in your day to day. I prefer to only provide these timeframes of therapy to client and can provide supportive therapy after 12 sessions. I am a strong proponent of strengths based approach. We will identify your strengths and build on them to assist you in overcoming areas of less strength. Not weakness just less strong. We will work together to increase your confidence and strength to have a satisfying and fulfilling life. It takes courage and strength to reach out for additional support in making changes. I am here to support and encourage you as you make decisions and changes to better yourself. I am here to support, guide, and provide options as you make your way forward. I am here to walk with you on your journey.

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Christy Alten

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LAC,LPCMH,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
31 years of experience

I'm so glad that you are reaching out for help! I believe with all my heart that there is hope, and purpose and healing from pain. I am a Licensed Addictions counselor in South Dakota, and a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor in South Dakota and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Iowa. I have been practicing for over 28 years working with adults and adolescents struggling with addictions and mental health issues. This is a judgement free zone! I am a Chrisitan counselor with a passion for hope and healing through the love of God and evidenced based strategies. I am experienced in 12 Step therapies, DBT and CBT, Gottman couples work, and Polyvagal approaches. I approach counseling from an existential and spiritual perspective. We will work together to create a plan to best meet your needs and walk through the healing journey together. You are not alone! I also have a passion for helping to develop new clinicians and to support clinicians long in the field. I have over 19 years of experience providing clinical supervision and professional development. Helpers need helpers too! So don't be afraid to admit you are struggling and ask for help! You can do this! As for scheduling, I do not put all my open slots through self-scheduling. I am able to accommodate more than is posted. I have limited availability on nights and weekends, but am not opposed to making something work for you when you are willing to fully engage in the therapy process. Together we can do what we could not do alone. Thanks for reaching out!!

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Laura Phen

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

****Only accepting clients from Arizona at this time. I have 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe space where you can experience a trusting and supportive therapeutic relationship. Thank you for having the courage to reach out and for consider me to be with you in that journey.

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Rachael Majeres

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in South Dakota with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Antoinette Gooden

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LPC, LPCC, NCC, MAC , ACS, CCTP,BH-TMC
GriefDepressionCoping with life changes
22 years of experience

Hello, Welcome to the Better Help Community. My name is Antoinette, and I am a licensed professional counselor in Colorado, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri, Kansas, South Dakota, and Virginia. I have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including grief and loss, depression, anxiety, marital concerns, women issues, workplace stressors, family conflict, and issues related to military families. I would describe my approach as goal-oriented, and client-centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). Both modalities are hands-on, practical approaches to problem-solving. CBT treatment usually involves efforts to change thinking patterns and or behaviors. The goals are to change patterns of thinking or behavior that are behind difficult situations, and so change the way one feels. This helps people identify unhelpful ways of thinking as they learn better ways of coping with life's stressors. It would be my privilege to become a partner in your journey while helping you to figure out your goals. I will provide a supportive and understanding environment that offers a clear direction with specific strategies to assist with your current stressors. I look forward to helping/serving you!

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Janita Easter

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Therapist in the state of Michigan with over 10 years of experience in Behavioral Health. I have worked with clients on a wide range of concerns including trauma, depression, relationship issues and personality disorders. I have helped many clients overcome the lasting effects of trauma and reduce the frequency and severity of their symptoms. Mental Health deserves equal importance as physical health and it takes dedication to achieve your goals. I am a dedicated Therapist here for you, let me guide you on your journey to feeling better! My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion; I meet my clients where they are and we start building from there. My areas of training include Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Therapy, Trauma Focused and DBT Informed. I use a Humanistic approach and dialogue based format. I will tailor your treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a resolution and work toward a happier life. I applaud you for taking the first steps towards change. Together we can work toward a healthier, happier you!

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Rachel Erdman

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in South Dakota with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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!

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Stacy Herman

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Stacy and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Montana. I have worked in community-based clinics for over three years working with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including family conflict, parenting styles, depression and anxiety, stress-related issues, autism, communication challenges, self-esteem, and many more. My choice to work in this field comes from the belief that everyone deserves to be understood, heard, and supported while working towards becoming what they feel is their best and being comfortable with who they are. After several years working in the school district and witnessing family members struggle to be their best selves, I decided this was my calling. I graduated from Chadron State College with a Master of Arts in Education. I would describe myself as being pretty down to earth with a side of truth to it. I believe that we all deserve to be heard and understood and to be shown compassion during those difficult times. My beliefs that we are all capable of getting to our best and a big part of that starts with how we process our thoughts as our thoughts are a big part of shaping who we are. It would be my pleasure to help you on that journey to help with thoughts and to help shape you into the person you feel is your best. I look forward to meeting you.

How can a counselor support you?

Therapists 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 609,545 people live in SD, and one out of five Americans has a mental health condition. Searching for local licensed professionals 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 a BetterHelp therapist does not offer diagnostic or medication management services.

Why do people choose to work 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, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed professional tailored to your preferences noted when you sign up.

The mental health therapists in South Dakota support clients with varying issues through therapy, such as:

  • 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 to contact in a crisis

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use the BetterHelp site. 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 of the most commonly asked questions about therapy can be found in the section 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.

When should I get a therapist in South Dakota?

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 can allow clients seeking therapy to experience professional help through video, phone, or live chat sessions without commuting to an office.

Does insurance cover the cost of 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 the safe option?

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.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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