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.

Mark Licitra
Sometimes life is hard. "Things fall apart, the center cannot hold," the poet tells us. But we do not have to go it alone. My primary role is to come alongside you as you journey in the way of wellness. I really believe in the strength that is in you. And I believe that we can work together to leverage it toward your goals. I believe that you are unique and will relate to you accordingly. I have been practicing counseling for 16 years in a variety of capacities and settings. My approach is collaborative, eclectic, and solution-focused. My style is calm and conversational. I utilize a variety of interventions, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Behavioral Activation. I work with people with a wide range of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, and mood disturbances. I also have a strong interest in spiritual issues, and am happy to work with people of faith, or people struggling with faith-related issues. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Social Work in 2004 from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK, and a Master's in Social Work in 2009 from Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Hawaii. I am a parent of four girls, a lifelong musician, a bread baker, gardener, lover of forests and baseball. I ride my bike when I can and sometimes do experiments in my kitchen (some of which do not end well).

Kristen Hale
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for over 15 years. I hold independent clinical licenses in Hawaii, Colorado and New Mexico. My approach to therapy is to build trusting relationships that allow for honesty and authenticity. I strive to assist people of any age to recognize their natural potential and learn to move past unhealthy patterns and develop new narratives. I specialize in trauma related conditions, depression, anxiety, self-harm, substance use disorders, acting out behavioral problems, parenting, couples and family conflict. In therapy I draw upon my training in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Family Systems to promote sustainable change. I like to focus on healthy communication and use various tools to promote health relationships. I commend you for taking the first step towards feeling better. Feeling comfortable and safe with your therapist is important and necessary for the change process to unfold. I encourage you to reach out and contact me to see if working together in therapy feels like a good fit.

Anthony Leite
With over a decade of experience working in the field of mental health, I've used a variety of methods and techniques to help individuals work towards a healthy, happy, and balanced lifestyle. I love helping people figure out what, who, and where they want to be, identify their strengths, and work on a plan for how they can use those strengths to overcome barriers and achieve their goals. I am client-focused, non-judgmental, and think outside the box.

Loraine (Lori) Sawyer
I am a therapist licensed in Hawai'i with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of challenges including depression, PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. I have specialized experience supporting parents of children with special needs. I also have extensive experience working with young adults who have experienced trauma and want to learn new skills that can help them to thrive. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach and have a comprehensive understanding of trauma informed care which means I strive to be empathetic , kind, and compassionate. I am a proponent of positive psychology and focus on using strengths to support change. It takes courage to ask for help and my goal is to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Andrew Newhouse
I am a marriage and family therapist who is licensed to practice in the beautiful states of Hawaii, Florida, and South Carolina. For the last 13 years, I have been working with clients from incredibly varied backgrounds dealing with a wide range of concerns. My most frequent work has been with people struggling with substance use issues, anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, and interpersonal and family relationship concerns. When I was 17, my mother passed away and I struggled with the grief and life-changes that followed. I sought the help of a marriage and family therapist and it was through her compassion and wisdom that I was able to navigate this difficult time. This therapist inspired me to want to help others in the way I had been helped and so I began my extensive studies in the world of marriage and family therapy. Over the last 20 years, I have learned and drawn from such modalities as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Structural Family Therapy. Just as my family had to encourage me to seek treatment after the death of my mother, I want to encourage you to reach out to someone who can help you with whatever you are struggling with. If that person is me, I would be honored to listen to your concerns and work with you to achieve a positive outcome.

Graceann Akazawa
I am licensed in Hawaii with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions & coping with grief and loss. 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. 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.

Lora Hasse
Hello and Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Practical Counselor in the state of Idaho with 18 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, personality disorders, trauma, substance abuse, and family of origin concerns. I have a wealth of experience working with teens, families, and individuals. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness. I will make sure my approach and treatment plan are specific to your individual needs. By deciding to engage in counseling you have proven that you are a resilient and brave person. I congratulate you on taking this first step towards feeling like a happier, healthier you. It is so important to your success that the counselor you choose be a good fit. Feel free to look over my information and ask any questions you might have. I look forward to working with you!

Trina Jones Artis
I am licensed clinical social worker in Hawaii with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients solution focused therapy with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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.

Kesha Diodato
I am a Clinical Social Worker licensed to practice in the state of Hawai'i. With over twenty years of professional experience, I help adults cope more effectively with a variety of concerns, including, but not limited to, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, post-traumatic stress (military deployment, abuse), and various life changes. I collaborate with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My therapy style and approach are wide-ranging in nature and are largely influenced by evidenced-based treatments that challenge and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy) and promote skills training in the areas of being present-focused, improving social interactions, managing/tolerating distress, and controlling emotions (Dialectical Behavior Therapy). My experience is varied as I have provided therapy to civilians, active-duty service members, and Veterans in traditional outpatient and residential settings, as well as, remotely via telehealth services. My passion is to meet my clients where they are and to assist them with getting to where they want to be. Taking the first step to achieving a more enriching and satisfying life takes courage. I am here to support my clients along that process.

Laura Cho-Stutler
I am licensed in Hawaii with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, parenting issues, depression, coping with life changes, & executive coaching. I also have experience working with professional coaching. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Find a therapist serving clients in Hawaii
What types of therapists are available to clients in Hilo?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Hilo that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Hilo available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Hilo therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Hilo therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Hilo region and in the state of Hawaii.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Hilo can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Hilo may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Hilo offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.