Sometimes, being surrounded by the volcanoes of life, ready to explode, can be scary, but a counselor in Hilo can help you maintain composure even in the most stressful of situations.

Hilo is near Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, the former being an active volcano, and the other dormant.  It also has one of the largest astronomical observatories.  It also is home to the Merrie Monarch Festival, which is the celebration of Hula that takes place right after Easter time. With new discoveries being made in space every day, you can learn to discover yourself in this area with the help of a counselor.

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Meri "Brooke" Maloney

Offering therapy in HI
License: MS,LPC,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

Aloha! My name is Brooke Maloney and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri and a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Hawaii. I have nearly 15 years experience working as a professional counselor in several different settings. Most recently I worked as an Outreach Counselor in a public middle school for students in 6-8th grade. Here I helped students manage interpersonal issues often arising from conflicts at home, social media, or with their peers. Prior to this, I spent time working as an Individual and Family Therapist. My clients came from all walks of life; some were experiencing difficulty in their lives because of prior abuse and trauma while others were having a hard time navigating and adjusting to certain life events such as the death of a loved one, angry and oppositional children, and/or work and life difficulties. I have worked with families who were having issues establishing roles and defining expectations for all of the members; as well as extensive experience helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, adjustments issues, and other relationship based concerns. My main goal when working with a client is to not only help alleviate the problem that they are coming to therapy to deal with but to also aid the person in creating the life of their dreams. We often get focused on the symptoms but forget to look at the overall picture of how we would like our lives to look and feel and what steps are needed to get there. Once we begin to work through the current problem we are better able to look to the future and decided how we want it to look and more importantly, how we want to feel about the life we live. I strive to help clients through a cognitive-behavioral, person centered approach where I integrate mindfulness-based therapy to promote good mental and physical health. In addition, I have had amazing transformational results using a fairly new technique called Emotional Freedom Technique, sometimes shortened to just "Tapping". This form of therapy has been used to treat anxiety, PTSD, aid in weight loss, and to lessen stress and other interpersonal issues. Any life problem can be aided by learning this easily taught and integrated healing modality and we can integrate it into your therapy sessions if you so choose. Reaching out for help at any point in our lives can be a very difficult decision. Going the distance with a trusted therapist can make all the difference. I applaud you for seeking help to make your life one lived with ease and joy. If you so choose, I would be honored to be your guide on this journey. I look forward to hearing from you!

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Solana Olsen

Offering therapy in HI
License: LMHC,NCC,PPS
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

Much mahalos for taking the time to read my profile. I look forward to working with you! My name is Solana L. Olsen (or as my younger clients call me "Mrs. O"), and I was born and raised on the island of Oahu. I graduated from University of Hawaii-Manoa with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Minor in Family Resources. Go Rainbow Warriors! I continued my education by pursuing my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology at Chaminade University of Honolulu. I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the State of Hawaii, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), and hold a Pupil Personnel Services (PPS) Credential for school counseling in the State of California. For several decades, I have provided mental health counseling services in homes, schools, shelters, and juvenile detention settings. I have experience working with individuals, families, and groups. My theoretical approach with clients is generally eclectic, however, I tailor to each individual or groups’ needs. I pull primarily from dialectical behavioral-, cognitive behavioral-, and solution-focused therapies. It would be a privilege and pleasure to provide that safe, supportive and nonjudgmental space for you to work through the obstacles life has thrown your way and to help you in your journey to find your best self.

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Monica Borge

Offering therapy in HI
License: LCSW
Parenting issues
23 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Hawaii. I have been in the field of social services since 2000, starting in Los Angeles, California. I moved to Hawaii in 2006, resuming and growing in my professional career here. I have worked with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds. My specialty is in co-parenting skill-building, and enhancing parenting skills for families that are struggling with their children's behaviors. My therapy style is structured and direct. I do so with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I strive to make the best use of my time and yours - focusing on strengths, solutions, and sustainable progress. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, structural, and strategic therapies. You are the expert of your own family. We will create goals, and I will help you with taking the steps to get there. I am here to support and empower you to be the best parent(s) that you can be. It takes courage to take these first steps toward change. I look forward to working with you to find harmony and fulfillment, and a renewed satisfaction as a parent. For those of you that don’t want your families to overhear you – I can do lunchtime sessions while you’re at work! Find a private space, or sit in your car. Bring your lunch, and let’s talk!

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Josephine Volpe

Offering therapy in HI
License: mft,csac
AddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Hawaii with over 6 years experience in the substance abuse and counseling field. I have assisted people in numerous areas of concerns, ranging from substance abuse,childhood trauma, sexual abuse,depression, anger management,domestic violence, life transitions,grief counseling and relationship issues. I believe in self empowerment as well as creating an ability to form healthy connections with others. My counseling style is guided by compassion, intuition and non-judgmental attitude. I will hold space for you as we explore your own personal healing processes. Some of the processes used are family of origin work, experiential therapy ,somatic and trauma based work coupled with an individualized plan to meet your personal needs. I will provide a listening ear, emotional understanding and intuitive insight to assist you in discovering your authentic self and supporting your healing journey. It takes a courageous soul to look into oneself for answers and if you are willing I will support you in this journey with love,compassion and truth. I look forward to working with you.

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Skyla Hammond

Offering therapy in HI
License: LMHC,NCC
Trauma and abuse
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Hawaii with a fairly young practice. I attended school late in life, and understand life's developmental issues. I am a conservative Christian, and look forward to helping anyone who is seeking help. I am not judgmental, and can work with any population. Most of my work over the past 5 years has been with people with Serious Mental Illness (SMI). I believe this has given me a strong base to work with clients from all walks of life, facing all kinds of issues. I use a variety of techniques, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, relaxation and breathing techniques, among others. I believe that people know themselves better than anyone, and often know what they need to do, and just need some support and encouragement to move forward in life.

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Sharmy Rasheed

Offering therapy in HI
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Hawaii with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, coping with grief and loss, and enhancing 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.

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Marissa Katz Bellani

Offering therapy in HI
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor and I have 6 years of work and intern experience. I graduated from Lesley University with a focus in Music Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapies. My treatment approach is warm and interactive. We can explore your inner creative self through Music Therapy or more traditional counseling techniques such as person-centered therapy. I'll meet you where you are at in your journey to wellness and mental health. Together we can work towards a calmer and more balanced, self-actualized place in your inner world. Dealing with mental health issues and difficult life experiences is not easy. The world can seem like an overwhelming place sometimes. I believe you are the expert of yourself and I can serve as a nonjudgmental, unconditionally loving and supportive counselor so that healthy change is possible. *Currently offering only online therapy to Hawaii clients

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Joachin Kaaihue

Offering therapy in HI
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawaii with 14 years of professional experience. Throughout my career, I have worked with individuals of all ages, from young children as young as five years old to middle school-aged children (i.e., 11 - 14 years old), adolescents (i.e., 14 - 19 years old), and adults of various ages. I have worked in the helping profession, in one capacity or another, since 1996. I have worked in both private (non-profit) and public settings. “The Conversation” in Sessions I firmly believe in " the conversation" and, in my way, demystifying the counseling/therapy session while acknowledging the client's individual experience. The hope is to provide a non-judgmental, honest, virtual environment for the client to share their story. Here in Hawaii, we refer to the "conversation" as a "talking story." YOU (the client) are the expert on your life story, and whether you know it or not, YOU (the client) possess the strengths that will assist you in overcoming your present challenges--I am here to help. My "Systemic Perspective” My specific license (i.e., Marriage and Family Therapist) may suggest I exclusively work with marital couples and families. Most of my experience is with providing counseling/therapy to individuals. I review an individual's case and what brought them to counseling/therapy through a "systemic" perspective. A "systemic" perspective refers to the individual's relationship with others in different aspects of their life, i.e., work, family, social, and personal life, and the possible influence it may have on that individual's current attitudes, habits, and behaviors. The "systemic" perspective may appear broad on the surface; however, it is just the starting point or what I refer to as a "blank canvas” for an individual to fill with their personal experiences during sessions. The Approach and Process in Sessions During my counseling/therapy sessions, I aim to create a dynamic process of sharing, exploration, and learning. I adopt a strength-based and pragmatic approach that focuses on identifying general themes and specific details behind the client's current situation that initially brought them to counseling/therapy. This initial process of sharing includes the client telling their story relative to their "presenting concern(s) and possibly conveying their ideal and realistic outcomes. The primary goal is to develop relative goals and direction for future sessions by identifying "exceptions" or instances within the client's life where their "presenting concern(s)" did or did not occur. Clients may need to recall specific details of these occurrences, such as the people involved, location, time of day, and period in their lives (past, present, or future), which can sometimes be a challenging and emotional experience. If a specific memory becomes especially difficult, the client may want to take a break, stop altogether, or shift the conversation to another topic--the client decides when they are ready to talk about a particular situation. Assignments and Resources The BetterHelp platform provides resources such as worksheets, access to and use of an online journal, and, in some cases, informational videos. I understand that people have their daily lives and that their time is at a premium; therefore, rest assured, I am judicious regarding worksheet assignments, whether they are requested to be completed or just reviewed. If clients feel comfortable doing so, I recommend using the journal function if they are inclined to do so. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage, a level of commitment, and a willingness to explore the unfamiliar. I and other therapists on this platform are here to support you in this process. .

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Camille Magalogo

Offering therapy in HI
Trauma and abuseGriefEating disordersDepressionADHD
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & 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.

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Donna Dennerlein

Offering therapy in HI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Hawaii with 10 years of professional work experience. 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. 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.

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How to find counseling in Hilo

Finding the best therapist close by in Hilo 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 Hilo. 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 Hilo, 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 Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo, elsewhere in Hawaii, or in the greater state of Hawaii.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo may not take health insurance, some in the state of Hawaii 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 Hawaii 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 Hilo, Hawaii 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 Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo 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 HI, 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 96720 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 Hilo 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 Hilo 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 Hilo, Hawaii 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.

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

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

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

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

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

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

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

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

96720, 96721

Popular cities near Hilo, HI

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