Therapy can be beneficial for a broad range of people of all ages, for a variety of reasons. Therapists offer support and tools for adolescents and adults dealing with life struggles, coping mechanisms for those who have experienced trauma, and strategies for increasing overall wellness. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Bismark, ND may offer more options than surrounding rural communities, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest independent practice. In the wider field of psychotherapy, there are many therapeutic approaches, and a licensed counselor may specialize in any one of these. This kind of specialization can be beneficial for offering a person-centered approach, but you may not be able to find what you need in therapy nearby. This is where online therapy can help. 

BetterHelp is an online platform that offers a wide variety of mental health professionals who have experience in a number of different therapeutic approaches and populations, from anger management experts to counselors who support victims of domestic violence, to wellness coaches. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best fits your individual needs. And because a strong therapeutic alliance can be essential to success, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Telehealth appointments are also a convenient solution for many busy individuals. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

Whatever your intended focus, therapy can offer tools to support your journey. If you have been thinking about therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp or check out the list of Bismark-based online therapists below for more information.

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Lisa Holter

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPCC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Lisa Holter earned a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from the University of North Dakota. She is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in the state of North Dakota. Lisa has been with the University of Mary since December 2014, serving the Graduate Counseling Program as the Program Director, Student Advisor, and Assistant Professor. Lisa has spent over ten years working with children and their families, first as an In-Home Family Therapist and then as the Director of a state-wide In-Home Family Therapy program. She strongly supported the program's mission to prevent out-of-home placement for at-risk youth. Lisa has a passion for counseling families, supporting parents, and providing guidance through transition times and life difficulties. She offers a strength-based, client-focused approach to counseling and looks for ways to offer hope and healing. She feels honored to be a part of her client's therapeutic journey. Her favorite aspect of her role is walking with clients as they identify and meet their goals.

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Tamara Ward

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Counselor License Type(s): MS,MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
3 years of experience

Your counseling time with me is a safe space for you to grow and to heal and most importantly, to be you. Beautiful you. Just as you are. My therapy style is warm and empathetic. I approach the therapy process from a place of compassion, unwavering patience, and a desire to understand your journey and how you got to where you are. Together we will tailor our sessions to meet your unique and specific needs. If you are hurting, I encourage you to trust the counseling process, give yourself some grace, and keep an open mind. Even the strongest of souls can use a bit of support from time to time. I am so happy you are here today! I have over 8 years experience with the LGBTQ+ community, including gender-minority life experiences. I have over a decade of experience working in case management with adults on the Autism spectrum and with Asperger's disorder. I am comfortable in conversations where my clients may need extra time to find their words.

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Catherine Chapman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Counselor License Type(s): MSW ,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionCompassion fatigue
4 years of experience

Hello! My name is Catherine Chapman. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Oklahoma. I earned my Masters of Social work from the University of Oklahoma in 2012. I have been a practicing social worker for 10 years and, additionally, am certified in EMDR therapy which I have been utilizing in my practice since 2021. I have experience working in the hospital and medical field to help patients and their families to find the support and resources they need to get through whatever difficult life situation they may be facing. I feel this experience has given me a deeper understanding of the challenges people may face throughout their lives and the various reactions they may have, whether it be anger, grief, depression, or something else, while processing their own health concerns or those of a loved one. I realize that everyone faces these struggles either in their own lives or through someone close to them and that they can be very difficult to comprehend and accept at times. My goal as a therapist is to help people overcome these situations by providing them a better understanding and tools to guide them through these hard times. My methods focus on using the Strength Based Perspective, Person-in-Environment Perspective, EMDR, and Solution Focused Therapy. I believe you are the expert in your own life and I hope to help you recognize the strengths in yourself while offering support and a non-judgmental sounding board. I will take our time together seriously and give you my full attention to best help you. I look forward to working with you!

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Tanya White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
25 years of experience

I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Colorado with over 25 years of experience working as a therapist and interventionist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, relationship issues, family conflict, and sexual, physical and emotional abuse. My therapy 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, humanistic, and solution focused therapy. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Christine Barnes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW-S,LISW-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am a seasoned, clinical social worker with ten years of experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs, where I treated veterans with PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Prior to my work at the VA, I worked in nursing homes and community mental health centers where I provided psychotherapy and crisis intervention to individuals of all different ages and backgrounds. First and foremost, I consider myself to be a trauma therapist, and I subscribe to the notion that most diagnoses are rooted in adverse experiences from the past. I've been described as "blunt" and "caring" by my clients due to my no-nonsense - yet compassionate - approach to therapy. I consider the greatest compliment that I've ever received to be "You are the person that tells me the truth that I don't want to hear." If you appreciate being called out when you're not being completely honest with yourself, then I just might be the right therapist for you. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Brennan Atherton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in North Dakota with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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. 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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Jennifer Spinner

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I will help you! You will increase the quality of your relationships and life by working with me. I will provide the non-judgmental, safe environment you seek. I have been counseling for over 30 years, and in private practice for over a decade. I am a cancer survivor and have lived through hurricanes. I successfully raised a special needs child. I empathize with your struggles, and will help you move through them. Whether you are going through divorce, career, health, relationship, communication, addiction, parenting, grief, or any other issues you'll find my listening skills are unparalleled. At Boston University, I was taught to "start where the client is". What matters to you is what matters to me. I understand how important it is to have someone who can offer validation...this is so rare and hard to find. It is so important to have someone tell us "Yes...you make sense!" I care deeply about your concerns. I will work with you as a team, empowering you by developing a treatment plan unique to your needs. This plan will help you achieve your deepest desires, and overcome your obstacles. I have experience working with people from all backgrounds, cultures and walks of life. I also have experience using many different methods of treatment. **I do not write letters for any reason. ie-medical, work, school, pet therapy, court, etc. Any unattended session not cancelled prior to 24 hours will be reported to BetterHelp. ** I will be here with you every step of the way, and I have faith in your ability to persevere!

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Kristi Clifton

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Nan Miller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW ,LMSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
35 years of experience

Hello! Welcome to Betterhelp. I have been in practice for over 30 years in both Michigan and New York, my hometown. My training includes psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique (tapping), and Imago with couples. My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, panic disorder, relationship issues, parenting skills, school and career problems. I also provide life coaching that I combine with counseling as needed. The two combined approaches can provide a very effective way to resolve resistances and blocks to success. I provide therapy to teens through seniors. I work with individuals, couples and families. It is my goal to create a safe, comfortable environment for you in order to help you say whatever is on your mind. Your needs and goals are important, and my focus is to help you get the most out of each session. ***By the way, I ask that you please schedule appointments with me directly, rather than use the online calendar. I see patients outside of BetterHelp and that time that looks open on the calendar may be taken by someone outside of BH. I want to ensure we find an available time for our sessions. I look forward to hearing from you. Best Regards, Nan Miller, LCSW

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Maggie Bohannon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in ND, Bismarck
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am licensed in North Dakota with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & depression. 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Bismarck

Finding the best therapist close by in Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck. 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 Bismarck, 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 Bismarck region and in the state of North Dakota. 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck, elsewhere in Burleigh, or in the greater state of North Dakota. 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck may not take health insurance, some in the state of North Dakota 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 North Dakota 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 Bismarck online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Bismarck, North Dakota 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 ND, 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 58501 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 Bismarck counselor?

Before seeing your Bismarck 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. Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck 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 Bismarck, North Dakota 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.

Bismarck 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 Bismarck, North Dakota

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Bismarck 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 Bismarck.

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

58501, 58502, 58503, 58504, 58505, 58506, 58507

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