Shelly Foster
After being successful for 17 years in corporate America, I made the drastic decision to change careers and follow my passion. This lead to my attending graduate school 19 years ago and obtaining my Master’s degree in Clinical Social Work. I am licensed in the state of Minnesota as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and have worked in the field of mental health for the past 15+ years. I have had the privilege of providing therapy to individuals, couples, and families – adolescents and adults struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, attachment, relationship issues, and life transitions. In addition, I have experience in crisis risk assessment, suicide ideation, training coping skills, and providing psycho-education. I have experience providing therapeutic services to individuals from various socio-economic backgrounds in both urban and rural settings. This has included providing mental health services to homeless young adults in a large urban setting, doing in-home family counseling in a rural community, providing family and individual therapy in a suburban mental health clinic, and assessing suicide risk in a hospital emergency department. What I have found is at the heart of all individuals regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, social status, gender identity, or sexual orientation is the desire to live their best lives. I believe we are all experts on ourselves. We may not fully understand why we feel the way we do, what our next steps should be, or how to deal with a particular situation. I believe my role as a therapist is to come along side whoever I am working with to help them in discovering the answers to these questions and assisting them in reaching their goals. I do this by listening, really listening, so I can truly understand. I think the relationship between the therapist and individual is of primary importance. Therapy should be a partnership between the client and therapist. There has to be trust in the relationship. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental place where each person feels heard, understood, supported, and helped. I believe each person is multi-dimensional with his or her own reasons for seeking out help. I work towards customizing my therapy for the individual and their particular needs. I am trained in and pull from several different therapeutic models; Cognitive Behavior, Dialectical Behavior, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, Trauma Focused, and Mindfulness among other modalities. Again, I believe the relationship between therapist and individual is crucial to the success of any therapeutic model. In addition to my training and education in the mental health field I bring life experience and humor to the work I do with individuals. I believe humor is one of our greatest resources. I personally have experienced challenges and transitions in my own life. My philosophy is that life is like floating down a river on a raft. Sometimes the river is calm and the sun is shining down on us while we just bask in the rays. What we don’t know is what is around the next bend in the river. We may be facing rocks, rapids, and turbulence. The goal is to just stay on the raft no matter what is coming next. Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. If I sound like the type of counselor/therapist you are looking for, I would love to work with you. If not, it is my hope that you find the best fit to address your needs.
Kevin Knack
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the states of Wisconsin and Minnesota. My graduate school training was from Winona State University in Winona, MN. I worked in a private practice mental health agency there in Winona for three years, in addition to serving in a residential treatment facility assisting adults in recovery from mental health crises back to independent living. I am currently meeting with out-patient clients in a new counseling agency in La Crosse, Wisconsin. I have worked with people from all walks of life facing difficult and unexpected challenges, causing a variety of mental health issues. I work with a Person-Centered approach and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, along with Strength-Based modalities. I like to identify strengths in people and help them grow. The therapeutic relationship between client and counselor offers a strong foundation to assist clients in recovering balance in life and the freedom to move ahead on a more peaceful journey. I know life can be rough at times, but with help, it can also be better! Some may be desiring a Christian-based therapy, and that is also an option we can incorporate.
Lul Haji-Mohamed
My name is Lul Haji-Mohamed, LICSW in the state of Minnesota. I have about 10 years of experience in the mental health field. My philosophy is to meet people where they are at and work in partnership. I recognize that an open and honest relationship between client and therapist can produce a positive effect in the therapeutic process and the level of acceptance demonstrated. I strive to reduce anxiety in order to increase engagement and connection, create a safe environment for discussion, and impart knowledge and facts about the various options and their implications. I have worked with clients in various settings such as schools, intensive residential treatment, outpatient and homes. In addition, I have served diverse group of people in terms of race, socio economic, education, gender identity, sexual orientation, age and religious background. My work experience also includes working with people who carry diagnosis such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, borderline personality disorder, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder and major depressive disorder. My areas of expertise are Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief & Self-esteem, Attachment Issue, interpersonal conflicts, and Stress management. Clinical approaches: Attachment-Based Therapy, strength based, Solution focused therapy, Cognitive Behavioral therapy, person-centered, holistic, multicultural and integrative. My goal is to bring a holistic approach to therapy. I believe in the power of healing through love and connections within the community people are part of. I try to balance between addressing immediate concerns and promoting empowerment, confidence and lifelong wellness with my clients. I approach therapy from a culturally responsive lens and believe in honoring cultural diversity and social justice. I believe together we must construct and cultivate our community collectively through the enrichment of our belonging and significance. I hope to provide a warm, safe, compassionate and culturally sensitive space utilizing therapeutic techniques that are specific to your struggles and goals to help you create lasting change. By creating a safe space where you can be vulnerable and honest, I seek to empower you to develop more compassion for yourself while navigating through life challenges. I will meet you where you’re at in your journey, discuss where you want to be, and support you until you get there.
Dr. Laura Riness
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
Susanne Short
I am licensed in New Mexico, Colorado, and Minnesota with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with trauma, interpersonal conflict, relationship and intimacy struggles, and self-esteem issues. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I am passionate about supporting and guiding people as they heal from trauma and find joy and meaning in a new life. Therapy can be hard, at times, but it can also be filled with humor, connection, and fun!
Hoa Le
I am licensed in Minnesota with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & intimacy related issues. I would like to work with someone who is willing to be challenged and motivated for change.
Haewon Jun
I am licensed in Minnesota with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Katelyn "Kate" Wamhoff
I am licensed in Minnesota with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, & 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.
Katrina Deschene
I am licensed in Minnesota with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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.
Ivette Orozco-Mayares
I am licensed in Minnesota with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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. 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.
How to find a therapist for counseling in Elgin
Finding the best therapist close by in Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin. 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 Elgin, 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin, elsewhere in Wabasha, 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Elgin, 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 55932 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 Elgin counselor?
Before seeing your Elgin 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. Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin 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 Elgin, 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.
Elgin 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 Elgin, 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 Elgin 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 Elgin:
55932