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.

This is Staci Jonson's avatar and link to their profile

Staci Jonson

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: CSW-PIP
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
13 years of experience

I have spent the last fifteen years working with individuals, families, and couples in a variety of settings. My primary focus has been working with individuals to understand and cope with childhood trauma, PTSD symptoms, managing and coping with chronic illness, and working through the grief process in organic ways to allow oneself to move forward in healthy ways. I am solution and client focused. I strive to meet each individual where they are and assist them in navigating their life in the way that works best for them.

This is Virginia Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Virginia Jones

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LCSW-PIP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
11 years of experience

Hello! My name is Virginia Jones, I am a licensed mental health counselor in South Dakota and Iowa. My passion is helping others to live a life that is fully satisfying. I have worked with clients from 4 to 90 years of age, with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, life stage, trauma, and addiction issues - to name a few. I have a background in complex trauma therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, person-centered therapy, and have gained a deep appreciation for all therapy modalities. I believe in helping clients by first establishing a caring relationship through positive regard and trust. Past clients say that I am warm and approachable. I have had struggles and know it can be difficult to reach out for help. Let’s work together and see if we are a good fit. I am here to support and empower you.

This is Laura Phen's avatar and link to their profile

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.

This is Stacee Compton's avatar and link to their profile

Stacee Compton

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

I am a professional mental health counselor licensed in the state of South Dakota with over 14 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, relationship/communication issues, parenting issues, and women's issues. I also have extensive practice working with blended and adoptive families and childhood behavioral disorders. I fully believe in meeting my clients where they are and walking with them through whatever challenges they are facing. I tailor interventions and therapy techniques to each client's individual needs and believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools for promoting positive change. 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 and empower you in that journey. I look forward to working with you!

This is Nicole Roth's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Roth

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LPC, LAT, QMHP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersCoping with life changesADHD
26 years of experience

Education: Masters: Clinical Psychology- Bellevue University, Bellevue NE Masters: Human Resources/MBA- Colorado Technical University Bachelors: Addiction Studies- Minot State University- Minot, ND Licensure: LPC-MH, LPCC, LAC, QMHP Certifications: Edit- Specializing in Eating Disorders and body Dysmorphia. Certified Trauma Therapist (CCTP)- International Trauma Training Institute I am compassionate, empathetic and understanding. I believe that each individual is unique and that there is no one size fits all in mental health. Thus, I firmly believe in a person-centered/individualized approach. I believe the best outcomes are for the therapist and individual to work as a team. My goal is to walk along side my clients, honor their feelings- help them heal and be able to create the life they desire. Unfortunately, sometimes life throws curve balls at us that causes pain and brings us to life spaces in which we never probably thought we would ever find self. I feel negative emotions, like anxiety/depression has a way of clouding our vision where it's easy to get lost and loose direction. I have been blessed to have had the opportunities to work with individuals, families and couples in a variety of different settings. I have experience working with individuals inpatient, outpatient as well as in the institutional and correctional setting. I also have experience working with a diversified population of people from various ethnic backgrounds. I specialize in working with those who struggle with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, depression, anxiety, life transitions, adjustment and addictions. It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help and work on change. I am glad you decided to take that step and I am ready to plant footsteps beside you through this journey. I look forward to working with you!

This is Whitney Wanderscheid's avatar and link to their profile

Whitney Wanderscheid

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionADHD
8 years of experience

My goal is to meet every individual with compassion and respect while providing a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgmental environment wherever you are on your journey. Establishing and maintaining a positive therapeutic relationship is key in working together to work towards a place of healing. As a client-centered therapist, my treatment approach is to focus on your individual needs to help you reach your goals. 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 and empower you in that journey. I use a range of styles and techniques in my work, for what is most beneficial and comfortable for each person. I have experience working in school settings, private practice, and community mental health. I am licensed in South Dakota with 8 years of professional work experience "I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it." -Maya Angelou

This is Mary Dallman's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Dallman

Offering therapy in South Dakota
AddictionsGriefEating disordersCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California, South Dakota and Washington with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Amanda Van Kalsbeek's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Van Kalsbeek

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

If you’re here, it’s likely because life feels heavy or overwhelming, and you’re looking for support. Maybe stress is taking over, relationships feel hard to manage, or memories from the past keep surfacing and leaving you feeling stuck or disconnected. Whatever you’re carrying, therapy can be a place to find relief, healing, and understanding. As a licensed professional counselor in Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota I have worked in the behavioral health field for over 8 years. I specialize in helping people who are dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and challenges in relationships or family dynamics. My approach is rooted in compassionate, trauma-informed care, where we can safely explore how past experiences shape the present and gently work toward healing. I care deeply about supporting each person on their unique journey. If you’re ready to find a bit more peace, connection, and meaning in life, I’d be honored to walk with you and support you every step of the way.

This is Lisa Kuzman's avatar and link to their profile

Lisa Kuzman

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Trauma and abuseGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa and South Dakota with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, coping with life changes, & executive and professional coaching. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I utilize a trauma informed approach and will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Barbara Lefdal's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Lefdal

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor with a mental health designation, in South Dakota with 30 years of experience in the field. I specialize in helping clients navigate caregiver stress, anxiety, grief, loss, depression, life transitions, and compassion fatigue. My approach focuses on creating a compassionate, open, and non-judgmental environment where clients feel safe to express their thoughts and emotions. Seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, and I am here to support and empower you as you take those first steps toward meaningful change

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.
Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist