Waianae is on the west coast of the island of Oahu,and shares its name with one of the two volcanoes that contributed to its formation. Waianae is very beautiful and picturesque now, but the Waianae Range looms in the background as a reminder of the island’s turbulent past.
If you are working through turbulence from your past, or are dealing with volatile issues in your present, Waianae-area counselors are available to assist and guide you. These licensed\ therapists will work with you confidentially to address problems such as stress, depression, and anxiety, among other things. If you are in need of help, contact a counselor today.

Sophia Hoskins
I have been a licensed psychotherapist, Marriage and Family Therapist, in Hawaii since 2008. I have maintained a private practice on Oahu where I work with individuals, couples, families and groups to overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger, adjustment, relationships and parenting issues . I have spent over nine years working with all branches of military on bases overseas and stateside providing care for service members with trauma, deployment, reintegration, anger and relationship issues. Through out my life I have been active with horses, snowboarding, mountain biking and surfing and therefore developed a special interest in peak performance. Over the last five years I have been working with athletes to enhance their physical and mental performance in efforts to achieve a specific goal, which has been exciting and very rewarding for me. I feel it is truly an honor and gift to support people in being all they can be and in actualizing their dreams.

Sean Gardner
Are you looking to make meaningful change in your life? Do you want to feel more present, authentic and connected to yourself and others? Whether you are feeling stuck in life or are navigating a life-altering event or post-traumatic stress, I am here to provide a safe, nonjudgemental space for you to overcome your obstacles and concerns. I know from both personal and professional experiences that each of us has the ability to awaken to the truth and find our light, even in the darkest of times. I can help guide you back to return home to your innate mental health and true nature, which is peace and wellbeing itself. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC in both Hawaii and Arizona. I was born and raised here in Phoenix, AZ. I served active duty in the US Navy, then post military became a city firefighter-paramedic in Virginia Beach, VA. I eventually graduated with my BA in Psychology from ASU (Go Devils!). I graduated with my Masters Degree in Counseling Psychology from Chaminade University of Honolulu in 2016. I've worked as an inpatient therapist with adolescent youth, then moved on to working for the VA in social work with homeless veterans. I started my career in mental health while living in Honolulu, Hawaii for over 6 years and worked with a wide variety of populations of clients in various community and public school settings. My last job in Hawaii was as a Military & Family Life Counselor working with service members and their families at Joint-Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Honolulu. I've since moved back home to Phoenix and became licensed here in Arizona. For the past 3 years, I've been enjoying working as an independent online therapist on various platforms.

Lori Shinsato
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Hawaii, serving the Hawaiian Islands as a social worker since 2008. I have worked with clients of all ages and diverse backgrounds. My specialty is working with the aging population (60+ years old), their caregivers, and those facing chronic illness. Being born and raised in Hawaii, I have been blessed to grow up in a community that values humility, different cultures, respect towards others, and family (whether by blood or at heart). These values are foundational to my practice. My hope is for clients to feel that I am approachable, present in the moment, and safe. My style of counseling is calm, conversational, and person centered. Each person is different with unique needs. I plan to listen to understand, and I will adjust my approach to what works for you. Together, we can talk about what is important to you and what are goals that you want to achieve. I am here to support and empower you. I love working, because I get to meet and help people! When I am not social work-ing, I enjoy going to museums, watching live theater, and hitting whatever target I am aiming at. I am also a Christian. I look forward to working with you!

Dr. Jeralyn Carter
I am an international therapist and have worked in the mental health field for over nineteen years and have been a licensed mental health counselor and Doctor of Clinical Psychology for eleven years. Additionally, I have collaborated with clients of all ages, cultures, Nationalities and from all social classes dealing with a wide range of issues. My experience is vast as I have worked with the following: neuro-psychiatric, suicidal ideation/attempts, LGBTQIA, PTSD, anger management, grief/loss, trauma, abuse, relationship issues, school counseling, juvenile justice, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, depression, personality disorders, domestic violence, crisis intervention, codependency, and group/family/individual therapy. Moreover, I work with clients to formulate and modify realistic, individualized treatment goals. I will track your improvement and identify either an increase or decrease of desired feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. My therapeutic approach is wholistic and multi-theoretical. I utilize an amalgamation of approaches which are psychodynamic, dialectical behavioral, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, rational-emotive, existential, client-centered, Jungian, mindfulness and motivational. Furthermore, my therapy style is warm, inviting, non-judgmental, honest, and always confidential. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Encouraging dialogue and reflective thinking is paramount in my sessions. You have done yourself a great service by seeking help! We all need help in life and deserve a listening ear and undivided attention. I would love to be your therapist and together, we will manifest amazing results!

Loraine (Lori) Sawyer
I am a therapist licensed in Hawai'i with over 10 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of challenges including depression, PTSD, anxiety, relationship issues, and parenting challenges. I have specialized experience supporting parents of children with special needs. I also have extensive experience working with young adults who have experienced trauma and want to learn new skills that can help them to thrive. I utilize a cognitive behavioral approach and have a comprehensive understanding of trauma informed care which means I strive to be empathetic , kind, and compassionate. I am a proponent of positive psychology and focus on using strengths to support change. It takes courage to ask for help and my goal is to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

Maita Marks
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist licensed in Hawaii with over 3 years of experience working as a psychotherapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting and couples problems, and especially experienced in substance use disorders with dual diagnosis. I was also a former Registered Behavior Technician for ten years working with children with special needs. My style in therapy is genuine, warm and client-oriented. I work within my ethical boundaries. I am culturally sensitive. My approach is ecclectic where I use various interventions from Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman Method for couples. I adapt my interventions according to my clients' goals and needs. I applaud you for reaching out for help. Allow me to be alongside your journey to be well as a whole person. I look forward to working with you!

Brandi Okamoto
Born and raised on the Big Island. I am licensed in Hawaii with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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.

Erean Larry-Fiakpuyi
I am licensed in California with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

Aya Okumura
I am licensed in California with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. *Please note that if you are in need of a counselor to write official documentation for disability, Social Security, FMLA, parole officers, courts of law, or employers, I do not offer this service to clients.

Dr. Ann 'Annie' Vance
I am licensed in California and Hawaii with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, and abuse, as well as, helping with motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. You've started the journey, I am here to support you in that process. I continue to grow and learn through Continuing Education Courses. I have a Doctorate in Christian Counseling Psychology to support Faith-based clients who want that, and respect those who only want secular psychology.
Find a therapist serving clients in Hawaii
What types of therapists are available to clients in Waianae?
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 Waianae 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 Waianae available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Waianae 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, Waianae therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Waianae region and in the state of Hawaii.
How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?
Therapists in Waianae 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 Waianae 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 Waianae 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.