Hawaii is regarded by plenty of (and perhaps even most) people as one of the most idyllic places in the world. But even residents of paradise can struggle with severe mental illnesses and other substantial mental health concerns. The experience of conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders—you name it—isn’t limited to people living among dull scenery, and beauty unfortunately is no cure, however helpful it may be.
While your island may be geographically distant from the rest of the country—and, really, much of the world—you don’t have to remain distant from the supportive environment of a therapist’s office. In fact, there are many passionate, focused clinical practices on the Big Island that are eager to help.
If you’re looking for therapists in Hilo, HI, you can find practitioners through us that have certificates, master’s degrees, and even doctoral degrees. People who began working in the mental health field after facing their own challenges, or witnessing loved ones struggle. People who understand the process of personal growth both professionally and individually, and are keen on helping others like you through it, too.
Robert Holliday
My counseling experience includes working as a school counselor, school behavioral specialist, mental health therapist, Military Family Life Counselor, and college counselor. I have experience counseling depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, social phobia, eating disorders, oppositional defiant behaviors, substance dependence, attention deficit, learning challenges, and autism. I have worked in crisis situations involving self-harm, harm to others, suicidal ideation, and bereavement. I have also guided young and older adults with academic, college and career counseling. I am a licensed school counselor, licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Hawaii, and a national certified counselor (NCC). My approach toward counseling is solution focused and goal driven. I seek to help people develop abilities to make rational choices. I desire to promote an effective counseling environment of trust and growth.
Dr. James Ruby
Hello! I am James Ruby and I am grateful that you have taken a few minutes to look at my profile. I hope we have the opportunity to work together to help you reach your goals! I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I did my MA at Northeastern IL University in Chicago, IL and my PhD at Loyola University in Chicago. I have been working with individuals, couples, and families since 1998. I would imagine that you might want to know a bit about how I work, what I believe about the counseling process, etc. Let me try and give you some information that will help you make the best decision for you, you and your partner, or you and your family... I believe that our past is important, but it doesn't define us. We are shaped by our past and we can learn from it, but we are the authors of our own lives. So, we can write a new chapter for ourselves that will better enable us to reach our goals. Sometimes, our ways of thinking can get in our way. We might have learned some things early in life that no longer seem to work for us. These thoughts and beliefs can feel like "the truth," but they really are only thoughts and beliefs. They can change. We can change. We can grow. We can thrive! I also believe that we humans are complex beings, with multiple dimensions to our lives - the cognitive, emotional, physical, and spiritual, to name a few. All of those dimensions can work for us, or against us, so I like to help my counseling clients look at all of those dimensions. Within each of us is a wealth of knowledge and strength that our problems can make us forget. I like to help my clients tap into that knowledge and activate those strengths. So, I occasionally ask my clients to complete questionnaires or do some "homework" between sessions that helps them move in the direction they would like to go. I would be privileged to have the opportunity to help you reach your goals. I know what it feels like to have the weight of sadness, anxiety, or frustration keep you down. I work in a judgment free atmosphere, so there is no need to feel excessive guilt or shame. In fact, those things can get in our way. I have helped many people get through their most difficult days and come out on the other side, ready to live the life they deserve. I'd love to have the chance to do the same for you. If you have any questions for me, I welcome them. I want you to find the best match for you and your counseling needs.
Yvette Skope
Aloha, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist on The Big Island in the State of Hawaii (LMFT). I have been working in Intensive In Home Services with youths and their families for over 6 years. Before that I was working in adult mental health utilizing therapy and case management cohesively. I draw eclectically from the theories focusing mostly on Solution Focused, Structural, Narrative and Collaborative. I believe we all have narratives we would like to change or adjust, it is at times challenging to find the best way to navigate in this direction. Our intentions are honest and genuine, and that is where it all begins to set this in motion. Person Centered is another familiar approach I utilize as I meet my clients where they are currently and serve as a catalyst for their personal change in their journey. I also utilize shadow work and inner child work into therapy sessions. I have a Bachelors in Psychology from UH Hilo. I have a Masters in Family Therapy from Argosy University. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I have also been involved in various practicum and clinical training opportunities including grief/loss, Internal Family Systems training, Cognitive Behavioral Work, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Sand Tray therapy. I believe that we need to feel heard, to feel safe, and to be provided a space to tell our story. As reaching out for support can be scary and intimidating. I am here to hold space for you and to allow for the change to root, intention to be heard and for your journey to change.
Angela Mendiola
Welcome! My name is Angela Mendiola and I was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii. I have been practicing in the counseling profession for the past 6 years. I received my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Chaminade University of Honolulu with an emphasis in Mental Health. My professional training include graduate internships at Kailua High School, the Chaminade University Counseling Center and a national internship funded by North Carolina State University as a Project Youth Extension Service Intern where I served military youth impacted by deployment for one year. Three components that I find most important in a therapeutic alliance are cultural sensitivity, empathetic understanding and listening. The most profound and insightful thing that I have learned in my years as a mental health professional is that maintaining your mental health is important regardless of what stage of life you are in and it is a practice that may assist you in building meaningful social connections, healthy coping skills and to clarify life goals. I also believe that education and knowledge truly is power so I aim to provide you with self-help or informative tools such as articles supported by trusted sources that explain what you may be experiencing and how you can spark positive change in your life. I’ve worked with individuals who have faced significant grief and loss in their lives, those who struggle with establishing meaningful relationships and connections with others, and those who have had suicidal thoughts. I am also well versed, professional, in the struggles of anxiety. My therapeutic style involves helping you to clarify any goals that you would like to prioritize, brainstorming and discussing strategies and building coping skills that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life.
Marissa Yoshikawa-Machado
At times, it may be challenging and difficult to find and seek help, or even to ask for help. So, let me just say that it's an amazing first step to find help for yourself and/or your loved ones. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor with 3 years of experience in the counseling field. I have experience in numerous settings working with a variety of clients experiencing anxiety and depression, Autism Spectrum Disorder, major life transitions, communication difficulties, etc. My therapeutic modality is focused on Cognitive Behavioral and Mindfulness techniques. I want to create a safe place where openness, trust, and compassion is practiced throughout. Your feelings and thoughts should be shared and heard without judgment. I'm here to help guide you through your current challenges, explore any past difficulties, and work towards your future goals and plans. I look forward to meeting and working with you!
Gayle Branson
I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in Florida and Hawaii with seven years of experience. Counseling is my second career path, as I am also a licensed pharmacist with over 28 years of experience. I have worked with many clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is to work as a team with my clients to figure out what works best for them. I believe in treating all individuals from all walks of life with respect and compassion. My theoretical approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, reality therapy, brief solution-focused therapy, career/vocational counseling, and mindfulness. I will personalize our sessions and your therapeutic treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals. It takes courage and strength to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Mary Dowdle
I am licensed in Hawaii with over 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, My approach combines cognitive-behavioral and humanistic therapy. 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.
Dr. Marnie Richard
I have nine years of professional work experience, and I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, eating disorders, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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!
Kathryn Zarko
Aloha, my name is Katie Zarko and I'm the creator of Therapeutic Eating, LLC. Nothing catastrophic has to warrant seeking a therapist, you get to be here just because. I work with individuals, couples/couples issues, and teens. I specialize in addiction, anxiety, depression and women's issues including lifestyle modifications. I help to bring comfort to the discomfort and cultivate safety where there's survival. I'll help you improve your self dialogue and hone honesty which is the root of recovery. I provide the attention & trust you deserve and encourage you toward cultivating long term contentment. Monday - Friday 8am-6pm. Bimonthly weekday evenings 4-7pm and every other Saturday 8am-1pm.
Gavin Theofield
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 7 years of professional work experience. I have a strong history of providing therapeutic services to individuals in areas including, but not limited to stress management, anxiety, emotional regulation, motivation, self-esteem/confidence and depression. The methods I utilize are specific to the individual. I will make my best efforts to tailor our conversations and treatment plan to meet your specific needs. I am always looking to achieve the next best version of myself, which I believe has continued to maximize my ability to help others. Recognizing your struggles and reaching out for help are some of the first steps towards making a positive change in your life. I look forward to being able to further empower you on that journey!
How to find a therapist for counseling in Hilo
Finding the best therapist close by in Hilo can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Hilo that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Hilo. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Hilo, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.
It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Hilo region and in the state of Hawaii. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Hilo or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Hilo therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.
There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Hilo area offering:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Hilo, elsewhere in Hawaii, or in the greater state of Hawaii. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Hilo area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Hilo therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Hilo due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:
- Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
- Counseling with therapists: $100-300
- Therapy with a psychologist: $100
While many psychologists in Hilo may not take health insurance, some in the state of Hawaii may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Hawaii you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this Hilo online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Hilo, Hawaii working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy.
Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Hilo psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.
How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Hilo above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.
Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.
Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
- EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
- Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
- Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
- Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
- Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
- Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
- Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
- Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
- Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
- Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
- Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
- OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
- ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
- Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
- Sex addiction
- Complex trauma
- Life transitions
You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Hilo provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Hilo?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Hilo therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Hilo therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.
Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Hilo therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words with a psychotherapist.
With a lot of people in HI, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 96721 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Hilo counselor?
Before seeing your Hilo therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Hilo therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.
Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine?
Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Hilo licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.
Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Hilo counselor can be dependent on your process.
People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles that a counselor can help with.
Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?
Therapy with a licensed counselor is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health therapist has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Hilo, Hawaii can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.
Hilo has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.
Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?
The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.
Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Hilo, Hawaii
To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.
Take some time today to learn more about the team of Hilo therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.
If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.
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 feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Hilo:
96720, 96721