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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Cory Nelson

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a professional counselor licensed in South Dakota. I have over 20 years of experience. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 3 to 85 and have assisted clients as they work on their concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, relationship issues, loss and grief, and addiction. Years ago, I became a fan of the superhero, Spider-Man. His guiding philosophy is “With great power comes great responsibility.” I adhere to this philosophy in counseling. I treat others with respect and compassion. I understand the journey of counseling can be daunting, especially as the journey begins. I view my role as being collaborative as we identify where you’d like to go. I believe it is important that everyone have an environment where they can feel safe and supported. My approach combines client-centered and cognitive-behavioral counseling. If you are ready to start your journey I am here to walk with you. I look forward to working with you.

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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.

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David Teachout

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger management
15 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor and therapist for individuals looking to address difficulties related to emotional instability, communication and relationship issues, identity struggles and trauma (of violent and/or religious origin). I work from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) perspective, focused on mindfully accepting without judgment the thoughts and experiences that we often attempt to avoid through various behaviors, with the goal of expanding your flexibility when working through the personal difficulties that come up in life. I live by the philosophy of therapy that I use, attempting to live a life of careful acceptance of others as they are, without a judgment that blinds me to who they are as whole people. I do not style myself a guru or plan on having you as a client for the rest of your life. Instead, I actively am attempting to work myself out of a job, by helping build skills of thought and emotion you can use to move out of unhelpful and unhealthy habits into a more flexible and resilient way of living.

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Dorlea Knizley

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Idaho and in South Dakota. I have worked as a Counselor since 2015. I completed my Masters of Science in Mental health Counseling with Walden University. I have operated a private practice for the past 6 years that is person-centered in approach with Client therapy. My therapy style is seeing a person suffering from a disorder / issue not seeing the person as the disorder. I use a mix of techniques when working with Clients in order to create the best fit for each individual's personal growth. I have worked with adults with anxiety, depression, grief and addiction and helped them in coping with life changing transitions. I don't take credit for Client growth, since it takes a lot of courage from a Client to make changes when needed. I see myself as a helper / teacher of skills / objective entity for feedback in providing guidance for Client growth. I do what I can to help the Client learn how to become the change they want to be. I have experience in working with individuals, couples & families. I work with adults suffering from depression, mood disorders, anxiety, addiction and substance use, grief, and relationship issues. I work with Clients to educate on the use of healthy coping skills for anger management, self-esteem building, self-confidence improvement and every day issues. I use techniques form Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Existential therapy, Mindfulness, Narrative therapy, Psycho-educational, Matrix, and Solution-focused therapy.

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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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Dr. Margarita Lopez

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyAddictions
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois and South Dakota with 8+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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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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Malia Holbeck

Offering therapy in South Dakota
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
18 years of experience

I am licensed in South Dakota with 18 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, career difficulties, & 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 am proud of you for getting started!

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Lincoln Witt

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and have been licensed for 12 years. I have worked in a variety of treatment settings, including community mental health, prison systems, hospital settings and private practice. I find fulfillment in therapy and offering compassionate support to those that I work with and offering an Acceptance and Commitment treatment approach to address many of the pains and difficulties that naturally come up in life. I aspire to offer my help and support to those struggling with a variety of different issues from depression and related symptoms to anxiety and panic. Over my career, I have seen the impact of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on the lives of the clients I have worked with as well as finding it helpful and personally relevant as a fellow human in my own life. I look forward to the opportunities and new client relationships ahead and what life changes may happen during our work.

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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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