Life is all about discovery. No matter how old you are, discovering yourself can occur on a daily basis. You can discover new likes, dislikes, and other aspects about yourself that you never thought were possible. However, when you have depression, anxiety, and other problems with life, it can be hard to make new discoveries. A counselor based in Missoula can help you. 

Missoula’s motto is “The Discovery Continues,” and it’s a good way for you to think about life. Life is always about continuing to discover yourself. A counselor can help you make the discoveries that can benefit you for a long time to come. 

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Nicole Kindt

Offering therapy in MT
License: LCPC (Montana),LPC (Colorado)
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed counselor in both Montana and Colorado. I graduated from Montana State University in 2008 with a masters degree in Marriage and Family Counseling. I have been providing therapy services for over 10 years and have experience in multiple settings. While much of my experience has been with kids and young adults, I also have a great deal of experience in family therapy, as well as providing parents support and coaching through difficult situations. I also have a great deal of experience in helping those going through transitions including, but not limited to, grief and loss, divorce, changes in careers, and children going off to college. I am also experienced in working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, and anger management issues. I also have a background in working with survivors of abuse and other traumatic events. My counseling style is very open, meeting people where they are at. Therapy can be very difficult and people entering therapy may feel very vulnerable. Thus, I like to try to help my clients feel comfortable and supported throughout the process. Compassion and sensitivity are key to my counseling style and I strive to ensure that my clients feel accepted throughout the counseling process. My counseling approach is a combination of cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, person-centered, and reality-based therapy. I often adjust my counseling style to fit each individual, their therapy goals, and current needs. It takes a great deal of bravery to engage in the self-exploration process and make the changes needed to become the best version of you that you can be. If you are ready to start this process, I would love to be able to support and assist you in your journey to self-discovery, realization, and resiliency.

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Dr. Theresa White

Offering therapy in MT
License: PhD,LCPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am a strength-based, client-centered clinician. I firmly believe that no two people, and therefore, no two problems, are alike, and deserve honor, respect, and careful attention to detail. I hold three earned degrees with a counseling focus/specialization: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.); Master of Arts (M.A.); and Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D). I am fully licensed in the state of Montana and have been a Nationally Certified Counselor since 2005. I have served as an outpatient therapist, a day treatment therapist, and the lead clinician of a whole team of mental healthcare workers. I have completed original dissertation research about the importance of self-care for caregivers, an area that I very often explore with each of my clients. My approach to therapy is to help my client decrease anxiety, achieve inward peace and clarity of thought, and approach issues from a calm and collected stance. I have experience working with individuals, couples, groups, and adolescents. I enjoy coming alongside individuals as they navigate life and am honored to play a part in the journey.

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Gene Bilodeau

Offering therapy in MT
License: M.Ed,LPC,LCPC
Relationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

Hi, my name is Gene Bilodeau. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Montana and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wyoming. I have many years of experience in the Mental Health field. Over my career I worked in Residential Treatment for Children and Adolescents, Community Mental Health, Higher Education Mental Health and Private Practice. In my career I've worked with individuals of all ages, families, and couples. I value the trust others have placed in me to help them create change in their lives. I see my role as working with people to become the very best version of themselves. I enjoy helping people overcome obstacles in life in order to live the most satisfactory and fulfilling life possible. I accomplish this by listening and understanding the issues and concerns being expressed. I provide a safe and judgement free atmosphere for others and treat people with warmth, respect, compassion, and dignity. I recognize it can be difficult to ask for help and share your situation with a complete stranger and I do not take this lightly. I would very much like to work with you and assist as you create the change in your life you are seeking.

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Raylene Franklin

Offering therapy in MT
License: LCSW,LAC,CCATP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Hi, my name is Raylene Franklin. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in Montana. I have experience working with troubled teens, chemical dependency, developmentally disabled, mental illness including depression and anxiety, physically handicapped, and hospice (end of life) care. I have learned in my 15 plus years of professional experience that life can sure throw us some curve balls, some being more difficult to navigate than others. Over the last four years I have been working as a life coach, helping people transition through their personal struggles and regain the confidence to reclaim their life. My style is person centered and easy going. I like to think of myself as a coach who enjoys meeting people where they are at and helping them navigate through whatever challenge they are facing. I take a solution focused approach. I have been trained in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and am a certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). I enjoy getting to know each client as an individual who is experiencing a unique time in their lives and I look forward to working with you.

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Cheryl McNeil

Offering therapy in MT
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I have worked as a therapist for about 30 years==with a private company, with a Job Corps, and with a mental health center in my community My approach with any client is eclectic and responsive to a client's needs. I have dealt with a range of clients (from teenagers and young adults at the Job Corps), to adults dealing with childhood trauma, relationship issues, abuse, addiction issues, mental health disorders, lifestyle concerns--and have been blessed by some clients telling me I have saved their lives! Acceptance of one's life situation, and understanding the need to change or make different choices and the courage to do so are what I can assist with. Look forward to assisting those who are seeking help.

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Ellen Savage

Offering therapy in MT
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
40 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Montana to do mental health counseling and therapy, as well as a Certified Coach. I’ve been self-employed for over 30 years and have a wide range of experience. I particularly work with persons who experience anxiety, stress and depression - often as a result of family problems and frequently work issues! I’ve also worked with all branches of the military working with troops and family both in the USA and abroad. My style of counseling tends to be more direct than passive. I believe in warmth, compassion and listening along with guidance and direction offered. I do not give advise; I am your mirror and help you see what you most want and need. Therapy is an individual journey, so the path we carve together is unique in it’s terrain, speed and outcome. I look forward to meeting each client with an open mind and heart. Looking forward to hearing from you!

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Amanda Loessberg

Offering therapy in MT
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
22 years of experience

Hello Friend, You have taken a courageous first step toward wellness. Thank you for reaching out! From this moment on, you are not alone. Please note: I provide therapy via live chat, phone, and video/tele. I check my messages on the platform and respond within 24 hours. When first asked what population I most enjoyed working with, my response was, "EVERY population"! I have lived in many places and worked with a diverse group of individuals since 2002. Each person has enriched my life and broadened my view of the human experience. I practice EMDR, as it is an evidence-based treatment that I've witnessed helping many trauma survivors. Life has its challenges and how have we coped with it all? Since infancy, we ask for help in one way or another. I wager to say that seeking a human connection is innate. That is the essence of therapy. I firmly believe we all need each other. We are all in this together. Therapy is rooted in having a comfortable, positive relationship. You and I will be partners. I promise to be that warm person who listens and never judges you. Our sessions are a safe place, always! Some personal things... I grew up in mid-Michigan, from birth to age 20. I lived in San Francisco during my early twenties. I spent many years in Phoenix and also on the Gulf side of Florida (Seminole). Now I am in the Old West, Wyoming!! II have lived here for over 10 years. I love being in touch with nature and have loved every place I have lived. I am newly remarried and have two amazingly perfect children, both diagnosed with autism; ages 14 and 15. Part our of family is an 80-pound rescue dog named Grizzy Bear, an English Mastiff called Zeus, and an elderly cat from the shelter named Barry Catalow. ❤ Now for more education and experience-based information... I am a University of Michigan graduate; Psychology 1999. I earned my Masters in Clinical Social Work degree from the University of South Dakota; 2018. I have provided counseling services since 2002. My experience started with working in a residential program for females, ages 10-65, who suffered from eating disorders. From there, I moved on to provide crisis services and suicide prevention for 7 years. I have designed behavior plans for children and teens with troublesome behaviors and worked hands on with the families and group home staff. I provided crisis services to those whom were sexually assaulted or victims of other violent crimes. I have facilitated group therapy, individual therapy, couples therapy, and done cognitive testing. I have worked with toddlers, the elderly, and all ages in between. I worked with active duty military individuals and Veterans for 9 years. Thank you for your service, brave ones. I have over 3 years of experience working in an acute psychiatric hospital. I am experienced in working with individuals with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, PTSD, and psychotic/delusional disorders. Though, I think diagnosis can be important, and even life-saving, in my role, I am more concerned about treating your symptoms and overall happiness than diagnosis. My style is adapting to what my client needs. Among my styles are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, DBT principles, and good old-fashioned compassionate listening. Other things to know: Please please please give me 24 hours' notice if you need to cancel or reschedule. I tend to keep a very busy schedule and I can use the hour to slide someone else in if I have some notice. Thank you!!! Let's get you feeling better!! I look forward to being a part of your journey!

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Tammy Rea

Offering therapy in MT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Montana with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Tamika Blaisdell

Offering therapy in MT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseAnger managementCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Montana with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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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Melissa Sandford

Offering therapy in MT
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Montana and practice from a lens of support and exploration. I believe in providing a safe and empowering environment where we can work together to help you uncover your existing strengths and build new therapeutic skills for increased ease in navigating life challenges. My approach is effective. In a short amount of time clients often report experiencing important positive internal shifts and external changes. I started out as a trauma specialist and have extensive experience in helping clients with stress/anxiety, depression, anger management, coping with grief as well as setting/reaching significant life goals. I work with my clients to create an open and nonjudgmental therapeutic experience where thoughts, feelings, and needs can be shared and solutions identified. *EMDR trained

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How to find counseling in Missoula

Finding the best therapist close by in Missoula 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 Missoula. 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 Missoula, 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 Missoula 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 Missoula 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 Missoula, elsewhere in Missoula, or in the greater state of Montana.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Missoula area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Missoula 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 Missoula 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 Missoula may not take health insurance, some in the state of Montana 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 Montana 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 Missoula, Montana 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 Missoula 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 Missoula 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 Missoula 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:

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 Missoula 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 Missoula 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 MT, 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 59802 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 Missoula 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 Missoula 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 Missoula, Montana 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.

Missoula 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:

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

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

59801, 59802, 59803, 59808, 59812

Popular cities near Missoula, MT

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