Sudden growth in life can be a good thing. It can challenge you to be the best person possible. You can grow despite all the obstacles life throws at you. However, if you have depression, anxiety, or any other ills, it can be difficult for you to grow. A counselor based in Meridian can help you. 

Meridian is known for being a fast growing city. The people who run a city need to prepare for sudden growth by accommodating the needs of both the new and the old residents. The same applies to all the life changes you're experiencing. A counselor based in Meridian can help. 

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Shelly Sanders

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCSW,C-DBT
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker for the state of Idaho. I have worked as a therapist for 3 years and worked with children, teens, and adults in mental health settings for around 10 years. In my practice I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, communications issues, parenting problems, anger, oppositional defiant disorder, ADHD, and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. I also have assisted many people who have experienced trauma and abuse, including domestic violence and first responder trauma. My counseling style is warm, interactive and client-centered to meet the needs of the client. I believe in treating everyone with respect, compassion, and understanding. My approach combines play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, choice theory, solution focused, with bilateral stimulation and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing when applicable. I will work with you on a treatment plan designed to be attainable, specific to meet your needs and time sensitive. My overall goal is always to do the best for my clients. I know that it takes courage to admit you need to talk to someone and need some assistance with what is happening in your life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and encourage you. I look forward to working with you.

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Jessica Baecker

Offering therapy in ID
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
3 years of experience

Good day to you! My name is Jessica and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor. After earning my bachelor’s degree in psychology, I found myself working with animals while working toward my Master's Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I have experience with inpatient psychiatric clients, case management for federal inmates, and as a counselor in community-based non-intensive outpatient clinics. My passion for counseling was born from my own experiences and those of my family. I was raised by two US Marines so I’ve lived all over. I spent eight years working in veterinary medicine, and worked with my animal patients, but also their caretakers. No other environment has taught me more about empathy, the power of nonverbal communication, and how precious life is, even at its end. My approach to counseling is based in existentialism and the belief that purpose and meaning lead to a person’s most fulfilling life. I especially enjoy helping individuals who struggle with self-limiting beliefs, persistent and severe mental illness, and history of trauma find healing, as well as practical methods to cope with stressors and build a purposeful and satisfying life. I’m particularly driven to help clients who suffer from chronic self-destructive behaviors such as self-harm and suicidal ideations.

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Garlena Rumsey

Offering therapy in ID
License: LPC,CCTP
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
40 years of experience

My name is Garlena Rumsey, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Idaho. I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP) in Oregon. I live in a border town in Idaho and Oregon is 4 miles away. I specialize in trauma with a certification of Clinical Counselor Trauma Professional 1 (CCTP-1). I work with a variety of diagnoses: PTSD, depression, anxiety, fears, abuse, substance abuse, and sexuality issues. Populations include adolescents, young adults, adults, the elderly, LGBTQ, sex offenders, and the developmentally challenged. I have worked with adolescents in different settings, shelter care, foster care, and group homes. I utilize CBT, Art, Games, and Narratives depending on the individual. Everyone is unique and one type of therapy may not work for another individual. A relationship is important to working with adolescents. Trying to navigate through the world as it is now can be extremely difficult. Couples counseling utilizing CBT, Art, Narratives, and homework creates knowledge and improves relationships. Honesty is important in working together for a better relationship. The mental health of each individual creates education and understanding. Setting boundaries with each other, learning to communicate, and utilizing active listening skills to be obtained. I am a Christian and give all the glory to God for bringing me to this place in my life. I feel I am guided in my work and focus on treating everyone with respect and dignity. I am culturally diverse in my approach and will not turn anyone away from doing counseling with me unless I feel I cannot help in any way. I believe God brings people together and if we are brought together, it must be a God thing. I am accepting of religions different than mine and consider myself spiritual rather than religious.

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Vaughn Knapp

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho with more than 16 years of professional work experience in medical social work and counseling. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression and adjusting to the life changes that medical issues can bring. 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. For some people depression can narrow their focus and make it seem like they have fewer options than they do to change. 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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Lauren Blount

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida, Idaho, and South Carolina with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also come from an integrative approach that utilizes modalities such as expressive arts, yoga, mindfulness, and ayurveda. My approach to therapy is to look at the whole person. 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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Dawn Homsher

Offering therapy in ID
AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho, completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychology while attending Albertson College of Idaho, and went on to achieve a graduate degree at the University of Denver in Social Work with an emphasis in trauma. My work history includes employment at the State of Idaho as a Child Protection Worker, Children’s Mental Health Clinician, and as a certified as a Designated Examiner. My career then moved forward into a regional medical center emergency department, both at St. Luke's and St. Alphonsus. Most recently, I worked in the admission department and provided oversight to an inpatient detox & rehab facility at Intermountain Hospital. I am a licensed clinical social worker. My passion is working alongside those who are invested in becoming the best version of themselves, while creating opportunities for insight and growth. My focus will be to collaborates care with the specialists on your team. Challenges are inevitable. The approach to learning how to manage struggles of our life experience can interrupt mental clarity, physical fitness, and interpersonal work. I can help you or a loved one bridge the connection of mind, body, and soul in an approach to healing and recovery. I am a single mother of a 16-year-old son; we lose ourselves nature, whether it be playing in its’ playground or immersed in its’ beauty. We enjoy a variety of hobbies including competing, riding side-by-sides through nature, skiing the mountainous terrain and traveling the country.

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Melody McKibbin

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

Hey there! I'm Melody, your go-to gal for therapy vibes. I have three years of counseling experience and would like to welcome you! By day, I'm a certified Personality Disorder Treatment Provider, specializing in all things personality disorders and rocking a DBT Level II Accreditation. I love working with BPD, and am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) for the state of Idaho, Nevada, Montana, Washington, and Texas. I am a Christian, and my faith guides my life. Therefore, I offer Christian faith-based counseling upon your request. If you wish, I am happy to include The Bible and/or counseling from a Christian perspective I am on a mission to prove that life's challenges are just plot twists in our epic story. In the therapy arena, I consider it an honor to be the sidekick in your journey of self-discovery. PHILOSOPHY OF COUNSELING I believe everyone has their own set of experiences, thoughts, and feelings (and maybe a few quirks); I strive to craft a cozy, client-centered space where folks feel as snug as a bug in a rug—heard, valued, and ready for some serious self-love. Counseling is a tag-team effort. I try to be all ears, actively listening and dishing out tailored feedback. What is the formula for great counseling? Individualized care, collaboration, and a non-judgemental space. Are you ready to join me in the quest for positive change? As a trained Enneagram Informed Mental Health Professional, I can integrate this approach into our sessions for more focused and effective support. Other focus areas include grief/loss (particularly child loss), depression, adoption/foster care, and anxiety. In my downtime, you'll catch me diving into the world of fiction. I'm currently cooking up a murder mystery comedy about mannequins! When I'm not writing, I enjoy family hangs, cozying up with my Russian Blue cats, tackling puzzles, and adding a splash of color to life through my paintings. Let's chat and see if we are a match. "From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed; lead me to the towering rock of safety." Psalm 61:2 Clients 25+

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Cortney Edwards

Offering therapy in ID
License: LPC
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesBipolar disorder
5 years of experience

I am a professional counselor licensed in Texas. I have been working with clients from all walks of life for the last 6 years. I believe in meeting you where you are and won't have preconceived ideas about what topics should be the focus of your sessions. It is my goal for you to get the most out of the process, it is your time and you are investing in yourself. In my opinion one of the most important aspects of the counseling process is the relationship between myself and you. I want you to be able to trust me and feel my encouragement and compassion for you. I will work alongside you delve into past hurts in order to heal and be relinquished from those burdens as much as possible. I have worked with clients presenting an array of concerns including anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, parenting, relationship issues, kids, adolescents, life transitions, LGBTQ, prenatal and postnatal concerns. My counseling experience is in a private practice as well as a school setting. Whether you are experiencing some current struggles or just want to focus on personal growth, I would be honored to help out in any way possible. I commend you for beginning this journey, you are courageous for searching for help. I am here to answer any questions that you may have about me or what to expect from the counseling process.

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Paula Green

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho with 20 years of professional work experience. I have worked in clinic and private practice settings. I have 10 years of experience working with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. in a domestic violence shelter and with the domestic violence courts in private practice. I have been trained and conducted training for child sexual abuse prevention. I have worked for the past 8 years with St. Luke's Center for Neurobehavioral Medicine where I counseled children and families in an outpatient basis as well as in an intensive partial hospitalization program. I love helping adults, teens, children and families to gain insight so they can feel better and do better in their lives. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I want to get to know you so we can tailor treatment 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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This is Gerald Baird's avatar and link to their profile

Gerald Baird

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CMHC) in the states of Utah and Idaho with 5 years of professional work experience. I am trained in the following therapy methods: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) Internal Family Systems (IFS) Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Radically Open Dialectal Behavior Therapy (RO-DBT) I have a master's degree in professional counseling from Grand Canyon University and have experience working in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have expertise in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & depression. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and supportive environment while working to address your treatment goals. I recognize the risk associated with selecting a new therapist and will do my best to earn the trust you are offering by making the decision to work with me.

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How to find counseling in Meridian

Finding the best therapist close by in Meridian 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 Meridian. 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 Meridian, 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian, elsewhere in Ada, or in the greater state of Idaho.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian may not take health insurance, some in the state of Idaho 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 Idaho 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 Meridian, Idaho 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 ID, 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 83680 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 Meridian 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 Meridian 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 Meridian, Idaho 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.

Meridian 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 Meridian.

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

83642, 83646, 83680

Popular cities near Meridian, ID

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