Elena Martin
Hi! My name is Elena Martin. As a licensed mental health therapist with many years of experience in inpatient and outpatient treatment programs, I see every person as unique and, so is their story. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families to experience healing and connection. In my opinion, everyone throughout a lifetime will experience some form of trauma, such as personal or relational conflicts, abuse, childhood trauma, crisis, neglect, etc. My essential belief is that when we have support and help, each individual has the power to create positive changes toward personal transformation to live a healthy and fulfilling life. I was born and grew up in Ukraine and I take into consideration cultural, economic, and religious aspects that play a critical role in shaping self-identity. I have lived in Alaska since 1995. I speak English and Russian. I am enthusiastic and caring about working with people. I value warmth, genuineness, non-judgmental, and a safe atmosphere where you can share your story and feel understood. By working together, we will process your current challenges, set clear goals, gain new insights into the nature of your problems while attaining personal growth along your journey. My qualifications include Licensed Professional Counselor (State of Alaska), Chemical Dependency Counselor II (State of Alaska), and a Master Degree in Psychology (I graduated from the University of Phoenix in 2011).
Frank Ponziano
I am honored to serve the Better Help community with compassion and love. My focus is on the client - counselor relationship always working toward consensus of the goals, bond and tasks of counseling interventions. I have advanced training with addictions, grief and loss, attachment and emotional regulation; in which I practice through a relational framework based on empathy and connection. I have experience providing individual, group, family and community-based interventions in urban, suburban and rural communities. Lastly, I have experience working across the age span and within various multi-cultural settings.
Linda Guidry
Hi! My name is Linda Guidry, but please, call me Lindy. (My mother was the only person to ever call me 'Linda!") Are your life challenges holding you back? Do your current problems drain your energy and undermine your ability to reach your full potential? I believe that within each of us is the desire and the ability to thrive, love, connect, and succeed in life. At times it can be overwhelming to surmount the difficulties and stress of living in today’s world. You do not have to do it alone! I am a National Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor and Counselor Supervisor. I am licensed to practice in the state of Louisiana and the state of Alaska. I have been working in the mental health field since 2004. I earned my master’s degree in Educational Leadership, Guidance and Counseling in 2008 from the University of New Orleans. Over the past 16 years, I have worked in several venues: private practice, in the foster care system, in a day program for chronically ill adults, and in the non-profit sector. My experience includes working with individuals with mood disorders, anxiety and depression, anger issues and self control, self-esteem, grief and loss, and adult onset disability and chronic illnesses. I would describe my approach as empathetic, goal oriented, and client centered. I use Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Solution focused therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness to help my clients set goals and objectives and to work through their difficulties to reach their full potential We often find ourselves searching for balance and stability in our lives but have trouble figuring out how to achieve it. My job is to help you do just that. I am dedicated to assisting you, as my client, in pursuit of personal growth, to helping you to gain a better understanding and appreciation of yourself and others, and to support you as you make important changes and decisions about your life. People seek out therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Sometimes it is an overwhelming lack of direction. Often, it's a result of major life changes, loss, psychological injuries, or specific issues such as anxiety, depression, anger, or grief. I offer a private, safe, non-judgmental, and confidential environment for you to explore your concerns, find relief and to bring joy and passion back into your life. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, happiness, and wellness! Available hours Monday - Thursday 9 - 4 CDT Friday 12 - 3 CDT Saturday and Sunday by appointment If these hours are problematic, please call this to the counselor's attention. I will do my best to arrange a time that is workable for you! Linda D. Guidry, M.Ed., NCC, LPC-S Lic # 4416 Guidry Counseling Services 59324 Pineridge Road, Lacombe, LA. 70445 985-272-6810 University of New Orleans, M.Ed., in Educational Leadership, Guidance, and Counseling Specialties: Anxiety, Depression, Parenting, Anger Management, Grief and Loss, General Counseling All fees for services are set by Better Help. Fee information can be obtained at www.betterhelp.com This information is required by the Board of Professional Counselors which regulates all licensed professional counselors: Louisiana Licensed Professional Counselors Board of Examiners 11410 Lake Sherwood Ave North Suite A Baton Rouge, LA 70816 225-295-8444 (phone) 225-295-8448 (fax) Email: lpcboard@lpcboard.org Alaska Dept. of Commerce, Community and Economic Development Division of Corporations, Divisions, and Professional Licensing Phone: (907) 465-1074 Email: ProfessionalCounselors@Alaska.Gov PO Box 110806 Juneau, AK 99811-0806
Annette Senger
Have you ever felt disconnected from yourself or loved ones, while wondering what life really means? Have you lost your joy or enthusiasm for life? Many of us have experienced these feelings from time to time. Some of us have had anxiety that was so overwhelming, we forgot how to cope. We usually benefit from a helping hand and sensible guidance, and most of us can feel better with direction and a good set of coping techniques. I am a licensed clinical social worker for both Alaska and Hawaii. I have been on a path to help others heal and grow since my early twenties, when I worked as a teacher’s aide in a tiny, rural community. From there, I went on to help folks with serious mental illness and substance abuse disorders who were incarcerated or living on the streets. I worked in a number of psychiatric institutions, where I came to see how deeply we need to meet our emotional needs in order to achieve happiness and form good relationships. Throughout my journey, I have gathered my own resources for coping, which I am committed to sharing with others. Since the pandemic started, I have worked as a telehealth therapist helping individuals suffering with complex trauma, depression, grief, anxiety, attention problems, career issues, relationship issues, parenting problems, and a number of other concerns. From my experiences, I have learned that we are all basically the same. Everyone wants to be happy and free, and we all benefit from techniques for clearing our thoughts, examining our feelings, and helping our bodies be well. My primary orientation is cognitive behavioral therapy, with a focus on mindfulness, and I emphasize helping the body and mind to relax and clear, so balance can be achieved. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am dedicated to helping individuals discover a sense of meaning, through techniques aimed at developing deeper relationships with ourselves, our loved-ones, and our world.
Dr. Jean Balestrery
I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working in the behavioral health field and as a life coach. I have worked with clients to address a range of concerns including stress and anxiety, life changes, career challenges, motivation, self-esteem and confidence. My counseling style is client-centered and engaging. I believe in seeing the future as full of possibilities. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and insight oriented elements. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to seek support for a more fulfilling and happier life. I bring compassion and patience to support one’s journey of growth and view this journey as a commitment worth pursuing. I look forward to working with you!
Karen Kelly
I am licensed in Alaska and Idaho with over 10 years of professional clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with addictions, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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.
Cora Benedict
I am licensed in Alaska with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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 want to congratulate you for getting started!
Alfred (AJ) Knittel
I am licensed in Alaska and Idaho with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use a strength based approach when working with clients that highlights a clients strengths and assist them in manifesting lasting change for themselves. 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.
Kimberly Curtis
I am licensed in Alaska with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & 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.
Elizabeth Wasonga
I am licensed in Alaska and Texas with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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 Sitka
Finding the best therapist close by in Sitka 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 in Sitka 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 Sitka. 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 Sitka, 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 in the Sitka region and in the state of Alaska. 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 Sitka 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 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 Sitka area in different types of therapy, including:
- CBT
- DBT
- Substance use therapy
- Couples therapy
When you're ready to start your search and find Sitka 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 Sitka, elsewhere in Sitka, or in the greater state of Alaska.
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 Sitka 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 Sitka 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 Sitka 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 Sitka may not take health insurance, some in the state of Alaska 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 Alaska you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.
How is a licensed therapist on this Sitka online therapy platform verified?
Therapists in Sitka, Alaska 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 Sitka 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Sitka 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 Sitka 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.
What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?
BetterHelp's verified Sitka 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 - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
- Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
- Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
- Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
- Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
- Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
- Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
- Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Sitka 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 in Sitka?
One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Sitka 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.
Sitka 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 Sitka 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 Sitka 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 AK, therapists 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 99835 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Sitka counselor?
Before seeing your Sitka 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 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 in Sitka.
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 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 from a therapist. A Sitka 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 with a Sitka 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 Sitka, Alaska 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.
Sitka 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 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 Sitka, Alaska
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 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 Sitka:
99835