Therapists in Nikolai, AK
Jana Gumley
Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
4 years offering treatment
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!
Tiffany Lemery
Clinician
License Type(s): LMSW, CATP, CDC II
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesCoaching
10 years offering treatment
I enjoy working with many types of people and assisting them in the challenges they are facing. My specialties are the areas of trauma and interpersonal violence, including the secondary effects, such as anxiety, depression, anger, relationship/trust issues, self-medicating, and stagnation. I use a wide range of approaches in working with my clients, meaning that I like to employ many different therapeutic styles in sessions. I approach issues honestly, openly, and directly. I have been described as warm, genuine, easy to talk to, and dedicated. I holistically view every client. Rather than asking, "what's wrong with you?" I ask, "what have you been through?" The effects of trauma and grief/loss can wreak havoc on lives and often cause anxiety, depression, mood dysregulation, relationship/Intimacy issues, and many other problems. The good news is there is hope, and I am delighted that you are ready to take the journey towards healing. I use multiple evidence-based treatments, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); Brainspotting, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness/Zen, TBRI and other modalities to best suit each client and their individual needs. Together we will tailor a plan that works for you.
Wendy Weston
Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years offering treatment
Hello there. My name is Wendy Weston, and I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Alaska since 2012. I graduated from the University of Alaska Fairbanks and got my Masters degree at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Let me tell you a little about my background. Since 1999, it has been my privilege to assist families of all ethnic and social backgrounds in various situations. As a military family member myself, I understand the unique issues service members and their families face. The relationship between therapist and client is essential. The more comfortable you are with your counselor, the more effective the counseling, which is why my approach is client-centered and solution-focused, meaning you decide what you want from counseling then we work together to reach that goal(s). Sometimes, life’s challenges can seem overwhelming, taking away our confidence in our own abilities. It’s often helpful to have someone outside your life listen to your personal truths without placing judgment. Together, we will identify and use your strengths while adding new coping skills to meet your needs. I’m excited to get to know you and begin working together.
Dr. Jean Balestrery
Clinician
License Type(s): PhD,LICSW, MAC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years offering treatment
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!
Fennisha Gardner
Clinician
License Type(s): LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years offering treatment
I am licensed in the state of Alaska with 15 years of professional work experience as a social work change agent for families and youth at risk. 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.
Wroksie Jackson
Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
26 years offering treatment
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.
Michelle Ely
Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesAnger management
6 years offering treatment
I am licensed in California and Alaska with 29 years of professional work experience as a social worker 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!
Kyria Chrisp-Stashak
Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years offering treatment
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.
Angela Schumacher
Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: LGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesAnger management
13 years offering treatment
I am licensed in Alaska and West Virginia with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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.
Joanna Sanchez
Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
14 years offering treatment
Hi, I’m Joanna. I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Alaska with over 14 years of experience supporting individuals through emotional, relational, and life transitions. I hold a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Master’s in Clinical Psychology, and my clinical background spans outpatient therapy, residential treatment, and leadership in mental health and substance use care. I have experience helping clients work through stress, anxiety, addiction recovery, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, and major life changes. I believe in treating everyone with deep respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Therapy with me is never one-size-fits-all—our work will be tailored to meet your unique needs, goals, and pace. My style is warm, collaborative, and insight-oriented. I believe in the power of deep, meaningful conversation—therapy that goes beyond surface-level coping skills and invites true understanding and transformation. If you're someone who finds healing in talking things through and uncovering the “why” behind your patterns, we’ll likely be a good fit. I work from a relational and psychodynamic lens, while integrating trauma-informed care, narrative therapy, and CBT as needed. But above all, I listen deeply. My goal is to help you feel truly seen and supported as we explore what’s holding you back and what healing might look like for you. You don’t have to go through this alone. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship challenges, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself—therapy can offer a path back to clarity, connection, and wholeness. I strive to create a safe, affirming space where you can reflect, process, and grow in your own way. Taking the first step toward a more fulfilling and grounded life takes real courage. If you’re ready, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.
Find a therapist serving clients in Alaska
What types of therapists are available to clients in Nikolai?
Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Nikolai that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.
Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform
Mental health therapists in Nikolai available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Nikolai therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Nikolai therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Nikolai region and in the state of Alaska.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Nikolai can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Nikolai may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment.
Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Nikolai offering online therapy or in person?
Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.
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