Saint Paul, the capital of Minnesota is one of the oldest cities in the state. It’s also a regional business hub and one of the “twin cities” at the core of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. With a diverse population, and a lot of high-stress jobs, sometimes people living in St. Paul need a little help navigating all the burdens of life.
When it comes to finding a therapist, Saint Paul, MN may seem like a likely place to succeed. With its large population and progressive ideals, professional psychology practices are not hard to find. However, finding the right therapist is not as simple as it seems, even in a big city. There are a number of evidence-based therapy options, and some work better than others with specific issues. The type of therapy that works best for you may not be available in your area. It can also be important to consider therapeutic alliance. Therapy is as effective as the effort you put in, and if you don’t have a deep understanding and rapport with your therapist, it may not be as successful.
That’s where telehealth counseling can help. With an online therapy platform like BetterHelp, you get access to 30,000 mental healthcare professionals including licensed psychologists, social workers, and counselors. These providers specialize in all areas of mental health care from dialectical behavior therapy to commitment therapy, and have experience working with everything from family conflict to unresolved trauma and racial justice. By filling out an online questionnaire, BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And if for any reason you don’t feel that they offer the most safe and caring environment for you, you can switch therapists at no additional cost.
Convenience is another factor that makes online therapy the right choice for many busy individuals. It’s easy to fit sessions into your schedule, and with video chat, phone, or text messaging options you can attend therapy from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re a busy professional, an overwhelmed parent, or a student working on their master’s degree, BetterHelp can give you a boost in taking that first step toward prioritizing your mental health.
Dr. Joelle Kallio
I see the therapy process as a partnership and the client (You) are the most important part of that process. It is your process and I see myself, as the therapist, as a part of the process like a guide. Feedback is important to me, as I can use this information to help guide you in the way that is most helpful. Most of my work is done in a model that is based on helping you find your strengths to resolve any problems that you identify. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps you examine how what you think, and how you are thinking can impact your experiences. Also I focus on helping you find solutions to your situation and ways of looking at things that help you to find solutions. I also encourage people to find their own ways of self-care and rejuvenation, because all of us need to use the best self-care that we possibly can, in order to find the best quality of life for ourselves in this world.
Stacy Bednar
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! My name is Stacy and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Minnesota. I have over 13 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, free inner-city medical and mental health clinics, high schools and in my private practice. All of these settings have given me experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with stress and anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), relational conflicts, and personal growth. Currently I’m training in integrative measures to help heal mental health concerns through natural supplements, food, movement and the outdoors. I have also graduated from coach training and am a graduate of Coach U and Corporate Coach U. My passion for the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I have overcome a debilitating anxiety disorder with accompanying depression. This left me housebound, unable to drive for years due to various physical symptoms from panic attacks, and unable to do much of anything physical. It was the scariest, most difficult time of my life. However, I made a promise to myself that if one day I could overcome my debilitating anxiety, then I would help others with theirs. Not only did I learn tools and mindsets to overcome it, but I now challenge myself every year with new physical goals to meet (this year that goal was to summit the Grand Teton, and I made it!). In doing this, I have pushed myself to be stronger and more resilient mentally and physically than I have ever been. Having had intense anxiety, I also learned along the way that the way you care for your body—what you eat, how you move, getting outdoors all have a tremendous impact on your mental health. What you put in your body affects your mind. Thus, I provide my clients with evidence-based integrative health strategies to help you set overall goals that will not only help you with what you are struggling with mentally but also aid you in reaching better health all-around. I know firsthand that having mental health concerns can be extremely difficult and scary. Aside from the omnipresent stigma, the process for getting help can be overwhelming and exhausting, leaving one feeling frustrated and lonely. However, I also know how life-changing it can be to find the right help. You only get this one life and I am here to help you live it in your most authentic, fully expressed, ideal way. I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your own personal cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence-based techniques including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, outdoor therapy and emotion and solution-focused therapies. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I also like to push you and hold you accountable to your goals when you are ready. Together we can work on setting goals and the steps needed to help you overcome your current problems. I believe in taking time and working on mental and physical wellness slowly, holistically, and consistently. I look forward to helping you in any way I can! Thank you again for taking the time to learn more about me!
Nicolette Ulstrom
I obtained a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Argosy University in Eagan, Minnesota in 2012 and have been licensed since 2016. My previous work experience has been in a family residential treatment center where families healed together by self growth and an increase in self awareness. I focus on a person’s strengths and building upon this to find new ways of living a life of joy and fulfillment. I have over eight years of experience working with substance use disorders, anxiety, women's issues, self-esteem and self worth. My goal is to offer a supportive environment so together we take steps at finding your true self. I believe one needs a safe environment to be able to look at the challenges they are experiencing. I value one's experiences in how it shaped the person they are today and who they want to become. Learning our stories, we allow ourselves to be able to find how we want our stories to look moving forward. I believe people have the courage to start to unweave their challenges to find themselves when they have encouragement and support. I want to support you in finding ways to connect with your true self. I take a side by side approach when finding ways to better support one's growth.
Tracy Bailey
Hi, my name is Tracy Bailey and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Dakota. I have had National Counselor Certification and received my Master of Arts for Mental Health Counseling from Colorado Christian University. I hold certificates in Suicide Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, And Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Prior to becoming a counselor, I was a high school special education teacher. I utilize a person-centered approach and believe the relationship between the counselor and client are a significant factor for client success. I believe therapy should be client-driven and work with the client to develop appropriate goals and make adjustments when needed. In addition to CBT and DBT, I specialize in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Christian Counseling. I have experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with individuals and families of individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, anger management, and unexpected changes in life.
Aida Ibrahim
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I realize that seeking help may not be easy, whether you are just beginning or continuing your therapeutic journey. Nonetheless, seeking help is a powerful and courageous step to take and my goal is to be your guide, provide a safe, comfortable, and non-judgmental place for you to express yourself. Through out my clinical career, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns for the past 5 years including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress management, trauma, family and parenting I approach therapy from integrative evidence-based techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, person-centered, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused counseling. I am passionate and committed to serving marginalized and under-served communities. I strive to provide culturally sensitive, empathic, and supportive therapeutic environment where we can explore and confront difficult life stressors to help you become empowered and accomplish your goals.
Sonja Walker
"If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude."- Maya Angelou. My philosophy on therapy is that it is a journey whether it is your first experience, or you are coming back for a tune up within your life. I have worked within clinical practice for over 11 years. My experiences are with clients in crisis counseling, inpatient mental health facilities, outpatient/inpatient addictions treatment and various correctional facilities, attachment injuries, addictions, grief and ambiguous losses, relationships, sexual issues, anxiety and multicultural family systems. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist well versed in providing clinical therapy for families from diverse backgrounds, persons with addictions, mental health challenges, children, adolescence and issues within sexuality. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Attachment Therapy and Family Systems framework. I am flexible and able to adjust my techniques to meet the unique needs of my client. Therapy is not a one size fits all. I am of the belief that everyone can change, resolve conflict, be a better version of themselves and most importantly HEAL.
Diane Neal
I am licensed in Minnesota with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
Cynthia Morris
I am licensed in North Dakota with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression, as well as other concerns. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I work to treat all clients with the same respect and dignity I would expect and want if I were in their shoes. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Heather Cogger
I am licensed in Minnesota with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jamie Finkelstein
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Colorado with 9 years of experience working with a diverse population in both individual and group settings. My experience includes working with depression, anxiety, LGBT related concerns, and trauma. I have also worked with individuals struggling with relationship concerns as well as individuals dealing with emotional distress. My counseling style is open and affirming. I believe that everyone deserves the right to be heard and given the best chance to make a life worth living. I use a client centered, humanistic approach. I also use skills related to Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I use the client centered approach along with the DBT and CBT skills so that treatment is always tailored to you and what you believe is most important. It can be difficult and overwhelming to reach out for help, and I am so hopeful that you have made this decision for yourself and your future. If you feel like this would be a good fit for you and your treatment I would be honored to take this journey with you! I can't wait to hear from you!
How to find counseling in Saint Paul
Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Paul 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 that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Saint Paul. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Saint Paul, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.
Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Saint Paul or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers 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 Saint Paul area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Saint Paul, elsewhere in Ramsey, or in the greater state of Minnesota.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Saint Paul area can be found below:
How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Saint Paul therapist?
The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Saint Paul due to a higher cost of living. 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 Saint Paul 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 BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Minnesota you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).
How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Saint Paul, 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. They 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, they 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 psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.
How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?
BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Saint Paul 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 lead by a therapist in Saint Paul helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?
BetterHelp's verified Saint Paul 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.
Specialties on BetterHelp include:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Behavior therapy
- EMDR therapy
- Talk therapy
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Stress
- Eating disorders
- Grief
- Attachment therapy
- Relationships
- Children, adolescents, and teens
- Addiction (substance abuse)
- Divorce
- Trauma or PTSD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychodynamic treatment
- Career counseling
- Alcohol use disorders
- OCD
- ADHD
- Mood disorders
- 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 Saint Paul therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide.
How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.
A psychologist 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 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 Saint Paul 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 lot of people in MN, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 55130 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.
How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Saint Paul counselor?
Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. 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 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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Saint Paul 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 through therapy 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.
Is mental health care and therapy worth it?
Therapy 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 professional 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 Saint Paul, 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.
Saint Paul has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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?
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
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 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 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 Saint Paul:
55101, 55102, 55103, 55104, 55105, 55106, 55107, 55108, 55114, 55116, 55117, 55119, 55130, 55133, 55144, 55145, 55146, 55155, 55164, 55165, 55170, 55172, 55175, 55188