While the city is named “two currents” there are many paths to choose in life, and with the help of a counselor, you can choose the life that you want to choose. 

Kailua has two lagoons in two different areas. While it is primarily residential, there are a few commercial areas in the city. There are still ancient temple ruins and a beautiful beach that is in the shape of a crescent. It’s a relaxing place to live, and there are some great counselors ready to help you feel truly welcomed. 

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Dr. Edward Suarez

Offering therapy in HI
License: Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Aloha, I am Dr. Edward Suarez. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 20 years of experience consulting, training and providing mental health services to a wide range of individuals around the world, including Florida, Hawaii and recently, headquartered in Morocco helping U.S. Peace Corps volunteers adjust to life in Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe. I received my doctoral degree from the University of Hawaii, specializing in cross-cultural approaches to severe mental illnesses (such as schizophrenia, bipolar and major depression) but since then have expanded my expertise into areas of adjustment, stress & coping, anxiety (including social anxiety, OCD and phobias) My training and therapeutic approach focus on using best practices such as client-centered, trauma-informed, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), including mindfulness and motivational interviewing, designed to help my clients efficiently assess and address problems in the here and now in order to achieve timely and lasting improvements. Usually this begins with a holistic assessment and focus on each person's health, diet, nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene, socialization, stress coping skills and self-care regimen, in addition to any additional specific concerns of each client I serve. My therapeutic approach emphasizes rapport building, empathic listening, radical acceptance, genuineness, and helping client's develop interpersonal (communication), intrapersonal (mental hygiene) and problem-solving skills so they can build on therapy to independently maximize their potential. The therapeutic relationship involves mutual collaboration in creating a client-based and client-driven plan so we can honestly assess and document progress and client readiness to successfully graduate and move on in a reasonable amount of time, typically just 1-2 months.

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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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Kerri Brown

Offering therapy in HI
License: LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
12 years of experience

Aloha and Welcome! I am licensed in Hawaii as a Mental Health Counselor (MHC), a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), and hold a master's degree in Counselor Education from the University of Alaska, Anchorage. I began working in the mental health field in 2007. I believe the key to counseling is in developing a trusting relationship where people feel safe and respected. I help individuals identify what behaviors they engage in that are helpful and which behaviors they would like to change. I use cognitive behavior and mindfulness strategies to help individuals learn how to notice their automatic thoughts and emotions without judgement allowing them to take a step back and unpack their state of being. I aim to help individuals learn to accept and feel compassion for themselves so that they can set goals with clarity and move through life with purpose. I have worked in many settings since beginning in the counseling field including: Inpatient treatment for teens, group homes for adults, community support for young adults in the justice system, and school based behavioral health. I believe all individuals have the capacity to improve their quality of life from where they currently stand no matter the circumstances. As your therapist I aim to be that person who helps you see the path and supports you in taking steps forward. I firmly believe that small steps taken one at a time generates a momentum that makes reaching goals and fulfilling dreams feel attainable.

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Robert Holliday

Offering therapy in HI
License: LMHC,NCC
Self esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

My counseling experience includes working as a school counselor, school behavioral specialist, mental health therapist, Military Family Life Counselor, and college counselor. I have experience counseling depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, social phobia, eating disorders, oppositional defiant behaviors, substance dependence, attention deficit, learning challenges, and autism. I have worked in crisis situations involving self-harm, harm to others, suicidal ideation, and bereavement. I have also guided young and older adults with academic, college and career counseling. I am a licensed school counselor, licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Hawaii, and a national certified counselor (NCC). My approach toward counseling is solution focused and goal driven. I seek to help people develop abilities to make rational choices. I desire to promote an effective counseling environment of trust and growth.

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Gayle Branson

Offering therapy in HI
License: PharmD, LMHC, NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I am a clinical mental health counselor licensed in Florida and Hawaii with seven years of experience. Counseling is my second career path, as I am also a licensed pharmacist with over 28 years of experience. I have worked with many clients with a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, OCD, and ADHD. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is to work as a team with my clients to figure out what works best for them. I believe in treating all individuals from all walks of life with respect and compassion. My theoretical approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, reality therapy, brief solution-focused therapy, career/vocational counseling, and mindfulness. I will personalize our sessions and your therapeutic treatment plan to meet your unique needs and goals. It takes courage and strength to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. So I commend you for that. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Karen Bludorn

Offering therapy in HI
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has had the privilege of gaining experience in a variety of counseling settings. I offer individual and couples counseling. I provide a holistic approach to counseling by addressing your physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. I approach therapy in a very integrative, client-centered manner to ensure the highest quality care is provided. I have experience working with individuals struggling with negative self-talk, challenging feelings and beliefs about the self, identity development, mood instability, substance use, anxiety, and history of trauma. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques that include cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, solution-focused, psychoeducational, trauma-informed, mindfulness, and more. I promote growth by offering a safe, accepting atmosphere so that you feel heard, validated, and empowered.

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Darryl Khan

Offering therapy in HI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

Aloha and welcome on your journey to wellness. My name is Darryl Khan, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Hawaii. I have been practicing as a mental health counselor for over 19 years. In 2003 I obtained my master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Gonzaga University and since then I have served local populations experiencing challenges including chronic mental illnesses, romantic relationship and family dysfunction, and substance use disorders. My areas of specialty include treatment of depression, anxiety, life transitions, trauma, and abuse. During my career, I have worked with and understand the challenges of individuals involved with institutions such as Child Welfare Services, Family Courts, and the Public Safety Department. I have also empowered individuals using cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, client-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy to restore mental health, recover from addiction and improve their quality of life. I am certified in cognitive behavioral therapy using the Common Elements Treatment Approach (CETA) and I am also certified to provide dialectical behavior therapy. My counseling style is interactive, culturally sensitive, and compassionate. I welcome the opportunity to know, journey and work with you.

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Traci Browne

Offering therapy in HI
Depression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Hawaii with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Nina Puckett

Offering therapy in HI
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hi! My name is Nina and I was born and raised in Hawaii. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have 7 years of professional work experience. I have had a lot of experience working with people with Eating Disorders, having recovered from one myself after many years of trying. After overcoming this challenging experience, I developed a passion to work with others experiencing similar difficulties; because I know first-hand, how hard it was. In addition, I also have had experience working with people who struggle with Anxiety, Depression, OCD and a variety of other issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgment. I understand that reaching out for help is hard and I acknowledge that; and will try my best to make it as least scary as possible. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and joyful life and to take those first steps towards lasting change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey, if you will allow me! :)

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Spring Richardson

Offering therapy in HI
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesSleeping disordersCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in District of Columbia, Hawaii, Maryland, South Carolina and Virginia with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, & sleeping disorders. 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 Kailua

Finding the best therapist close by in Kailua 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 Kailua. 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 Kailua, 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua, elsewhere in Honolulu, 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 Kailua area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua, 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 96734 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 Kailua 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 Kailua 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 Kailua, 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.

Kailua 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 Kailua.

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

96734

Popular cities near Kailua, HI

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