This is Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins

Offering therapy in AK
License: PhD,LCMHC,CCMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

Hello, I am Dr. Shelia Williamson Collins, PhD, NCC, LCMHC, CCMHC, LCAS, CCS, SAP, MAC. I am a board certified clinical mental health counselor and addiction counselor with nearly 20 years of experience in behavioral health. I am licensed as a clinical counselor in the states of North Carolina, Illinois, and Alaska. I have a PhD in General Psychology from Northcentral University. I also have a master's degree in Community Counseling and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Chicago State University. I have worked in an adult inpatient psychiatric unit, outpatient behavioral clinic, community-based mental health services, and residential substance abuse treatment programs. My counseling style is person-centered. I have a diverse therapeutic approach to counseling. However, my primary approach includes cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy. I specialize in mood disorders, anger management, addictions education, and relapse prevention. I believe that everyone has a story to tell; and I am here to listen. Giving voice to your concerns and issues is the first step to healing. We can accomplish this together. It would be my honor to work with you to assist you in reaching your healthy goals. Please let me know if you would prefer weekly sessions, and I will do my best to accommodate.

This is Jana Gumley's avatar and link to their profile

Jana Gumley

Offering therapy in AK
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in the state of Alaska. I have experience working with a variety of populations, from teens to older adults, and across cultures. I am married to a member of the military and have moved around the country, and I currently live in Illinois with my partner and two children. Some of the issues that I have seen most often in my practice include anxiety and depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, grief and loss, early life traumas, sexual trauma, substance use issues, life adjustment challenges, and relationship difficulties. My style is warm, down-to-earth, and approachable. I come to each person with an open mind and compassion for each individual’s unique journey. People tell me that I make them feel accepted and comfortable opening up, which allows them to do the hard work of examining their lives more deeply. I draw from a range of modalities and tailor my therapeutic approach to meet the specific needs of each person. Some of my favorites are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I believe strongly in the healing power that therapy can have for every person, and I commend you for taking this courageous step. I look forward to working with you!

This is Barbara Kolb's avatar and link to their profile

Barbara Kolb

Offering therapy in AK
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

Welcome!!! I am so excited to join you on your healing journey. I am a professional counselor licensed in Alaska with over 15 years’ experience in both inpatient and outpatient mental health clinics. I have worked with people ranging the entire lifespan from different backgrounds and suffering from mild depression to chronic mental illness and everything in between. The modalities and interventions I really enjoy using are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, Sand Tray Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy. But I think the most important therapeutic tool is the ability to form positive and healthy relationships with the people I serve. My style is down to earth, warm, playful humor, and sometimes gentle confrontation when needed. As a mental health therapist, I have come to realize that at some point in our lives we will all experience stress, anxiety, depression, heartbreak, and some form of trauma to varying degrees. It is inevitable. Sometimes these burdens prevent us from becoming our true authentic and genuine selves. I realize during this process people feel very vulnerable and exposed, so my intent is to create a safe space for people to explore and resolve things to achieve balance in their lives. With support and guidance we have the power to change and heal. The great thing about my job is that I get to witness the transformation, see people grow, find their inner strength, and start to take back control of their lives right before my eyes. It is truly awe inspiring. But it does take work, commitment, courage and is not for the faint at heart. So, if you are ready to roll up your sleeves and dig deep, I am ready to get started. I look forward to meeting you.

This is Dr. Jean Balestrery's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Jean Balestrery

Offering therapy in AK
License: PhD,LICSW, MAC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

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!

This is Wroksie Jackson's avatar and link to their profile

Wroksie Jackson

Offering therapy in AK
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia and Alaska with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

This is Dr. Debra Tolliver's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Debra Tolliver

Offering therapy in AK
License: PsyD, LPC, SAP CPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
18 years of experience

Hello my name is, Dr. Debra Tolliver. My approach is dependent on you the client, you must be willing to truly work toward the issue that has brought you into counseling. It is not about what I know, this is about you as the client opening yourself up and seeing yourself to help yourself. When your ready I'm here to help, I look forward to hearing from you.

This is Markia Anderson's avatar and link to their profile

Markia Anderson

Offering therapy in AK
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas and Alaska with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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. 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.

This is John Sundeen's avatar and link to their profile

John Sundeen

Offering therapy in AK
Parenting issuesDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with parenting issues & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is June Ober's avatar and link to their profile

June Ober

Offering therapy in AK
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. I work with folks with ages anywhere from 18 to 80. Both men and women, all genders and sexual preference. I am here to help you take back your power that you have lost along the way.

This is Richard Robb's avatar and link to their profile

Richard Robb

Offering therapy in AK
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. 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 counseling in Akiak

Finding the best therapist close by in Akiak 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 Akiak. 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 Akiak, 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 Akiak, elsewhere in Bethel, or in the greater state of Alaska.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Akiak 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 BetterHelp or clinicians 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).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Akiak, 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 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 AK, 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 99552 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 Akiak 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 Akiak 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 Akiak, 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.

Akiak 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Akiak.

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

99552

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist