Living in Ketchikan can feel as wild and adventurous as the great outdoors surrounding this small town. Or life can feel dull and underwhelming because of difficult life challenges that get in the way of your happiness.

If you aren't enjoying all the beauty and wonder of Ketchikan and the surrounding area like you know you should be due to mental wellness issues, reach out for help today. Contact a local area mental health professional to get the support and services you need, whether it's to work through tough times, cope with trauma or loss, or battle mental illness. They are here to help.

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Brenda Thayer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Counselor License Type(s): LPC-S,CDC II,NCC
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
11 years of experience

Hi, my name is Brenda Thayer and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been in the mental health field for 27 years, LPC for seven years and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor for 9 years. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Alaska. I believe in meeting the person where they are at, helping them reach their potential. I believe in treating the whole person for overall wellness and striving for reaching one’s goals and values in life. I use an eclectic approach; cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy fused with motivational interviewing. I have experience using rational emotive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, gestalt therapy and solution focused therapy. What you can expect from sessions include; questions so that I can get to know you better and to see how I can best help you, nonjudgmental and compassionate support, and energy to help you see your potential.

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Harsimranjeet Minhas

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,CDCI,BHCI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
7 years of experience

Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Alaska. I have been working in the field of behavioral health since 2009, with clients ranging from pre-teens with behavioral problems, to adults with chronic mental illness. My specialties are working with adolescents, and the fields of anxiety and trauma and substance abuse. I offer a client centered counseling approach. I believe that ultimately you are the person who is the expert on you and your struggles, and that you know what help you need. My style can be described as Motivational Interviewing, with a lot of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy techniques connected with it. I try and pepper my counseling with humor and validation with where you are and what you have gone to. Your decision to reach out for counseling is incredibly brave. It takes a lot of courage to make this choice. I want to help make this process as helpful and as least invasive as possible. I am very excited to work together.

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Raymond Butts

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Counselor License Type(s): M.Ed, Counselor Ed.,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficulties
30 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor, ( NCC) with other 30 years experience in both counseling and education. I started my professional career as an elementary special education teacher in the early 80's. I obtained my M.Ed in counselor Education in 1989 from the University of Arkansas and in 1989 I went to Alaska for the first time as along term substitute teacher. I worked in the Bering Strait School District, in Unalakleet, Alaska. I would return a year later, and work a total of 11 years as a teacher, itinerant school counselor, and village school principal in the district. I would go on to work in two other school districts before retiring from Alaska in 2004. After returning to Arkansas, and home, I worked as a kindergarten counselor in a center with 180 kids and 18 teachers. I fully retired in 2007. In 2009, I became a military and family life counselor and have been doing this for 10 years. My treatment approach is based on my training and my personality. I was trained in CCT and it fite my style, even though I so specialize in crisis counseling. I have found helping the client, and not necessarily directing the client is more effective for me. As I stated I specialize in crisis and PTSD counseling right now with the military, and their families.

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Robin Hughes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years of experience

Hello, my name is Robin Hughes, I have been a resident of Alaska since 2007, and a licensed clinical social worker since 2010. In the past I have lived and worked in Nome, and had the privilege to travel to remote villages, and have been working in the Matanuska Valley for the past 5 years. I love connecting with a diverse number of people, and have successfully worked with people from all walks of life including Native Alaskans and Veterans. Topics I am competent in addressing include chronic health issues, relationship or parenting issues and many other recent or long term, life and mental health challenges. I have a background in alternative medicine, and these more eastern outlooks, continue to greatly influence my perception of illness and dis-ease as a mental health provider. I strive to see the balance within people, and strengthen and empower my clients to develop and strengthen their existing, as well as new strengths in order to achieve greater life harmony. The building of a healthy and trusting therapeutic relation is tantamount to the success of therapy, and I am honored by the trust and courage it takes when invited to partner in creating a place where healing can begin. The healing process can be likened to building a garden, where there is first an identification of what may no longer serve, and what needs to be planted for future harvest.

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Michelle Ely

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger management
6 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Alaska with 29 years of professional work experience as a social work and 6 years as an Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in helping clients with overcoming past traumatic experiences, reducing stress and anxiety, and addressing relationship issues & parenting issues. I also have experience working with clients on anger management. My therapy style is warm, interactive and direct. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I have an eclectic approach to therapy meaning the interventions I utilize are based on the needs of my client and their current situation. 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!

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Liza Joseph

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC-QS-CTP,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

Hey you! First off, give yourself a lot of credit for taking this first step into your therapy journey; it is never easy making a decision to seek help. But I am glad you are here, and I am ready to help. I am Liza Joseph, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Qualified Supervisor for registered interns in the state of Florida. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Arizona. I have been a Counselor for 9 years. I have worked with clients with various concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief, relationship issues, self-esteem, existential crisis, adjustment life issues, and stress management. I have also helped many people who have experienced traumatic life events. I always aim to create a safe and trusting space, so you feel free to discuss any type of concern or presenting issue. I believe in treating everyone with respect, cultural sensitivity, and compassion. I also believe that therapy is a collaborative partnership, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels where great transformation can occur when one is ready. My approach combines a variety of therapeutic interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, humanistic therapy, strength-based, positive psychology, culturally sensitive, trauma-focused, solution-focused, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Everyone is unique, so I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your individual and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards change. But, if you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I am bilingual and can conduct therapy in Haitian Creole/Kreyol. I look forward to working with you!

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Rosa White

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Kyria Chrisp-Stashak

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Amber Taylor

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Alaska with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & 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.

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Randolph (Randy) Beasley

Clinical therapist offering therapy in AK, Ketchikan
Counselor License Type(s): M.A., M.A. LMFT 120092
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesBipolar disorderDepressionCoaching
5 years of experience

Hello! Welcome to the BetterHelp community! My name is Randy Beasley I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist here in California. I have been providing psychotherapy and emotional growth services for a wide variety of issues within a number of roles for the past 10+ years. A little bit about me, I graduated with my Bachelor of Science Degree in Business from Biola University and completed a Masters Degree in Theology from Liberty University. I was pursuing a Doctoral Degree in Theology when I felt therapy was a better way for me to help people. I completed my Master of Arts Degree from Touro University in Marriage and Family Therapy. Previously I worked as a pastor and Christian camp director developing curriculum and teaching. I have experience working with addiction, foster services, wraparound, competency restoration, and couples/family therapy having worked within community-based clinics, substance use treatment facilities, a state hospital, and jail. I have received training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, managing adaptive practices, interpersonal therapy, The Gottman Method, as well as being a certified Mandt trainer (crisis intervention) and strength deployment inventory (motivational values psychometric) facilitator. I would describe my approach as goal-oriented and client-centered. I use solution-focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and an existential therapy approach to foster awareness while developing pragmatic solutions to problems. Goals are developed together and focused on changing patterns of thinking or behaviors driven by unmet needs, when these change we frequently change how we feel. I believe healing hinges on the relationships you develop and progress ultimately follows an individual conquest of fear and acceptance of responsibility. I hope to make that journey with you.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Ketchikan

Finding the best therapist close by in Ketchikan can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services with therapists in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Ketchikan, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses for therapists. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Ketchikan area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Ketchikan, elsewhere in Ketchikan Gateway, or in the greater state of Alaska. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Ketchikan due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Ketchikan 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 therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

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

Therapists in Ketchikan, 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. Therapists have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, therapists here all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from Ketchikan psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Ketchikan above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Ketchikan provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Ketchikan?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ketchikan therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan 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 or therapists above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 99901 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Ketchikan counselor?

Before seeing your Ketchikan therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Ketchikan therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist for therapy if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Ketchikan licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find with a Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan, 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.

Ketchikan has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions during telehealth appointments?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform for Ketchikan, Alaska

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 Ketchikan therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out to customer service through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

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

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

99901

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