In 1876, the people of Brainerd stood up for what they believed in and elected a handyman as mayor, losing their charter as a city. Just as the township faced hardship during those six years of his term, people can also face hardship when they stand up for their values. If you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or stress, you don’t have to stand alone.

Brainerd-area counselors are available now to assist you. These confidential and licensed therapists can offer support and guidance regardless of what is going on in your life. Reach out to a nearby counselor today.

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Mark Kaufman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Are you having thoughts and feelings that are self-critical, overwhelming, don’t mesh with your values, or are you procrastinating on your goals? Perhaps you and your partner are struggling in your relationship. I would be happy to help you. Sadness or anger may weigh us down. Trauma is often at the root of all of these, and I will honor your direction in how directly you choose to address the trauma. I work with clients, both individuals and couples, who struggle with anxiety, depression, and trauma; some have family members with addictions or a severe mental illness. In gaining skill in identifying and evaluating thoughts that often go unnoticed and un-checked, you can improve how you think and how you feel. The process can be hard, you are worth it, I am so glad you are reaching out!

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Robert Hinman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed., Licensed Psychologist
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
40 years of experience

I am an experienced psychotherapist having devoted myself for over 40 years to this profession. While I was active duty in the US Army I earned a Master's Degree in Counseling from Boston University and have been a Minnesota State Board qualified Licensed Psychologist since 1992. For most of my life I've lived as fully as I could in the beautiful state of Minnesota with my wife, children and grandchildren. My service has been with individuals, couples, families and groups in a variety of settings - in-office, school, residential and in family homes. I've helped people through grinding issues of anxiety, depression, anger, relationship problems, trauma, and chemical abuse. My professional emphasis is to partner with you to successfully meet your goals at your pace. You may expect me to continually work very hard to understand you and your situation, to clarify this with you, to develop and utilize whatever tools/strategies which may help in your circumstances, and to emphasize your successes and positive efforts. I employ directness and honesty with kindness, humility and humor. I hope to accompany you to a place where you are reasonably happy and able to function as you wish.

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Carol Polzin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I have experience providing therapy services to children and their families in community mental health setting, and, most recently, I was a residential owner and therapist at ASA House. Then went to Eunoia, however they closed. So I now have my own therapy practice in my home. I have worked with older children, adolescents, and adults primarily who struggle with mental illness, developmental disorders, chemical dependency, behavioral problems, trauma, self -harm, fetal alcohol , and attachment issues. I have lived in various areas of Minnesota throughout my life, and currently reside in Gaylord, MN, with my husband and three children. I enjoy traveling, and all the experiences that go along with it. I have had the pleasure of providing mental health and other related services to individuals and families in various settings for the past 12 years, and find my truest passion lies in providing direct counseling services to those in need.

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Andrea Bassett-Snodgrass

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,LCSW,MAC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
5 years of experience

Andrea Bassett is Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW/LICSW). She studied and trained at University of Southern California. Andrea brings years of experience with young children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to her private practice. Her approach begins with a careful and thorough patient centered psychosocial history and assessment, followed with treatment using a multimodal, individualized approach. She works with her clients to identify challenges, focus on strengths and resources, and works toward the achievement of their short and long term goals. She takes a holistic and multicultural view of every situation to help clients gain insights and make positive changes. Andrea is committed to creating a warm, welcoming, and nurturing experiencing. Andrea begins treatment with an empathic, strengths-based, collaborative approach to treatment. She meets individuals and couples where they are at and seeks to understand how their cognitive, emotional, and life experiences shape their relational patterns within themselves, with others, and the external world. Through insight, practice, and support, these relational patterns inform and navigate paths toward healing.

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Derick Chi

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC, LPCC.
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
13 years of experience

Engaging, exploring and empowering my clients has been my occupation as a mental health therapist (LPC/LPCC) since 2015. Tapping into these experiences from different working background, safety and recovery from symptoms of mental health is the goal between me and my clients. Networking, building coping skills and strategies to overcome/reduce symptoms that affect our day to day lives, has given a different meaning in life. Reconditioning the mind to think positively while eliminating irrational thoughts that we struggled with for so long is a gift for me that I have use to empower my clients, to explore their inner self and thought process. Using these techniques and interventions has helped to find meaning in life, joy and happiness to my clients. I have worked with youths experiencing homelessness, anxiety, depression, PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar, ADHD, emotional abuse, bulling and substance use related issues. Haven worked at an Intensive residential treatment service crisis center (IRTS). Listening and supporting my clients in a nonjudgmental way is what I have learned/do throughout the years. Knowing we all have a journey to embark on with barriers/struggles along the way we equally to trust and believe in ourselves. Monitoring and accessing progress have given me courage throughout the years that we can do it. Always have confidence, courage, trust that our journeys are different faith will prevail.

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Dr. Laura Riness

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, adjustment, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, & depression.I can address these areas as they pertain to home or work. I partner 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. Dr. Laura

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Nicholas "Nick" Cross

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) licensed in Minnesota with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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Monica Lindahl

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I use a variety of therapy techniques when working with clients, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing. You will find I am empathetic, calming, non-judgmental, and a bit funny. ;) I hold sessions outside of "typical" business hours - several nights per week and Sunday mornings.

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Bree Zaffke

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Family conflictsGriefParenting issuesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, parenting issues, & coping with life changes; as well as medical complexities and chronic medical implications. 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.

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Angela La Luzerne

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MN, Brainerd
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Ever wonder, "why is this so hard?" "How did I find myself here?" "What do I do now?" You may feel hopeless, or stuck. The desire to get unstuck -- to make changes and show up for life in a happier, healthier way -- is a noble one. The therapeutic relationship provides a safe, sacred space for you to explore new possibilities, especially as the journey may feel overwhelming at times. We often uncover thoughts, beliefs and behaviors that no longer serve you well. Through a variety of interventions, tailored to your individual needs, change IS possible! It is never too late to start caring for ourselves and others more effectively. For 20+ years I've worked with clients to address depression, anxiety, chronic pain, relationship issues, substance use reduction or elimination, trauma, family conflict, etc. Using a strengths-based perspective, I draw from CBT, MI, DBT, EMDR, systems theory, and pain reprocessing therapy. Together, we collaborate to find the resolutions that fit you best. It is an honor to be invited to walk with someone along their life's journey. In a supportive environment, we address the specifics of what brought you to therapy with compassion, grace, hope, and some humor to boot. I have had the privilege of working with many amazing individuals over my career; I'm excited for the opportunity to work with you!

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How to find a therapist for counseling in Brainerd

Finding the best therapist close by in Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd. 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 Brainerd, 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 Brainerd region and in the state of Minnesota. 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd, elsewhere in Crow Wing, or in the greater state of Minnesota. 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd may not take health insurance, some in the state of Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Brainerd online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Brainerd, Minnesota 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 MN, 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 56401 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 Brainerd counselor?

Before seeing your Brainerd 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. Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd 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 Brainerd, Minnesota 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.

Brainerd 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 Brainerd, Minnesota

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 Brainerd 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Brainerd.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Brainerd:

56401

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