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Dr. Damaris Conrad

Offering therapy in ID
License: MS, MA, PhD
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
24 years of experience

Who am I? My name is Dr. Damaris Conrad and I have been in practice as a licensed Marriage, Family Psychotherapist for the past 24 years. I hold licenses as an MFT in California and in Idaho, and Clinical Supervision certification. I also teach online in Masters/ Doctoral programs for CACREP Therapy program in Higher Ed and have been teaching for well over 20 years. I have been married to the same man for 41 years and I will be the first one to admit that marriage is one of the toughest relationships you can commit to. We have walked through many hills and valleys, and there were days we wondered if our marriage would survive or become a statistic. Together, we have 2 adult children who are married and are enjoying their love and life partnerships for the past several years. My Focus in Therapy My commitment to providing high-quality psychotherapy is backed by over 24+ years of experience. Combining evidence-based methods, a comprehensive knowledge of current research and a compassionate partnership with each unique individual, I offer support to help solve problems and assist in making healthy decisions, adjusting comfortably to change, while providing tools to overcome the emotional distress that keeps us stuck. Our work together will be tailored to your specific goals and will incorporate approaches drawn from the Integrative Model of Therapy which includes Psychodynamic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Family Systems while sometimes including a bit of Narrative or Collaborative forms of therapy, in order to help you create the life you want. My clients often tell me that I tend to get to the “juggler quickly” while gently assisting you as we move through the ambivalence, resistance, or pain which may be underlying the stuck feeling when faced with life changes. My job is to provide non-judgmental support and help you explore the steps needed to move forward, whether it's overcoming anxiety, depression or trauma, conquering anger or behavioral issues, addressing relationship and/or family challenges, gaining clarity on career frustrations or transitions, managing issues related to aging, improving communication or reducing stress. I tend to see my role as a coach, co-collaborator, and will partner with you, walk alongside of you, and believe in getting down into the trenches to tackle the obstacles, find the skills, tools, and answers together. My clients often tell me that I am NOT the type of therapist that sits silently by in session by just giving you the occasional head nod and verbal “uh-huh”. Instead, I give direct feedback, and actively challenge you to dig deeper, or look closer, stay with the tension, as we unlock and extract the answers together. It is my desire to bring hope, optimism, humility and humor to my work and feel that it is an honor to be invited on each new journey. You will be treated with respect, care and compassion while also receiving constructive guidance to help you navigate the murky waters. What do I do in my spare time? In my spare time, I have been writing on the issues of my heart. I am the author of 3 books which include The Fork in the Road: When your Spouse goes Left and You go Right, and a book on reversing Diabetes Naturally and gaining back our health and life, and another book called Just Desserts: Sugar Free and Low Carb Desserts for the Sweet Tooth in All of Us! I also play the piano, love to read, serve in various roles at church, love to entertain, and enjoy some forms of camping and hiking, and white-water rafting with our family and friends. Passions in Therapy You might think it a bit strange that a Psychotherapist would write on health-related issues, but it is important to understand the connection between mind, body, spirit. When we are stressed or going through long term or chronic conflict, it often manifests in medical and health disorders, weight and sleep issues. If left unchecked, it can hinder or impact the way we see the world through our emotions, cognition's, psychological-mental health, and in many cases affects our spiritual and physical health. Have you ever heard someone tell you that they can’t sleep, or they are overeating, or all they want to do is lie down and shut the world off? Often this is due to the unrecognized toll and stress or long-term conflict in relationships, which can steal from our bodies, health, and emotions, not to mention our peace of mind. We learn to push these things down deep inside and we don’t necessarily make the connection between the anxiety or depression that we are feeling, and the way it may be manifesting (symptomatically) within our bodies and what our bodies may be trying to tell us. I have personally lived in a very long-term situation with chronic stress and at times, it can feel like you are either going to explode (or even implode) if something doesn’t change soon. It is important to help us make that mind-body connection and learn the value of incorporating specific tools in taking care of ourselves. Sometimes, this can be as simple as removing something off of our to-do list, and other times it can mean heading to the doctor to rule out what is behind our physical symptoms. Another passion I hold dear is working and specializing in issues with couples in crisis. Marriage and family issues have their own unique markers and when we are in crisis, we try many things to bring back the peace and status quo. Sometimes the tools and skills we have may not be enough, and we need to explore what is maintaining the symptoms and why we keep getting stuck into the same old patterns. Together, we will work on identifying what those patterns are, the role the patterns of (behaviors, beliefs, attitudes) serve while we explore how to navigate the minefields that threaten to blow up our relationships. Population(s) and Issues I Serve The population I work with include Individuals, Couples, Families. Whether you are looking for premarital counseling, or you are involved in a marriage of many years, many of us find that we need someone to walk alongside us, as we identify and push through the barriers. Here is a just a small sample of issues I work with which include but are not limited to the following: • Marital Issues (intimacy, fidelity and infidelity, destructive behavior patterns, communication challenges, trauma, abuse, etc., parenting, infertility, sexual issues, in-laws, boundaries, work-life-ministry balance, Stages of Marriage & Parenting, Conflict Resolution, sexual issues, aging, empty nest,) • Stress, Anxiety, Depression • Forgiveness • Relationship Issues (Boundaries, Assertiveness, Mindfulness, Communication, Self Esteem & Other Esteem, Identity, Multi-Generational Patterns) • Premarital • ADHD (Adults, Adolescents, Children) • Woman’s Issues • Health & Wellness: Adjustment & Growth • Trauma and Different Forms of Abuse, Victimization • TBI, PTSD • Military • Ministry Couples, • Grief & Loss • Divorce & Separation (Challenges, Recovery, Healing) • Parenting • Blended Family Issues • Career /Vocational Transitions and Challenges Services Offered Live, Phone, Chat, Video It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life while addressing the issues, uncovering blind spots, and identifying needed changes. I would be honored to walk this path with you, support the needed steps give you feedback, and empower you throughout the journey. If you are looking for an experienced, skilled, and compassionate therapist, then let’s get started, today! Dr. Damaris Conrad

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Thomas Childers

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

NOTE: I only work on Fridays or Saturdays depending on the week. If we meet on a Friday one week then we will meet on a Saturday the following week. Some weekday times may become available in the future. I have worked in a variety of settings including acute psychiatric hospitalization, residential substance abuse treatment, partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient, and individual therapy. My experience has allowed me the opportunity to work with a multitude of populations with differing psychiatric diagnoses. I have experience working individuals with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, eating disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder, LGBTQ+ community, substance abuse, and much more. My approach is very person-centered and my focused is on the client's needs. I do not believe it is my place to tell people what they need to change, but rather, to help guide them to self-actualization so they can make change within themselves. I implement several therapeutic modalities to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I also make my best attempts at catering to each person's learning style and have an array of resources to meet each clients unique needs.

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Sheila Hancock

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I enjoy working with adults using a variety of treatment modalities, including client centered, being able to meet you where you are at while providing compassionate and sensitive counseling. I believe it takes a great deal of courage to reach out for help and I respect your process in finding your wings and learning to fly. I also use solution focused therapy and building on your strengths. I am trained in Telehealth services.

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Susan DeHaan

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I'm a LIcensed Clinical Social Worker with over thirty years experience working in a variety of counseling settings and hospitals with adults, children and families who are experiencing a wide range of issues and problems. During our first meeting, you can expect a brief review of information you've already provided about your personal history and current circumstances and to discuss your reasons for seeking counseling along with the goals you'd like to achieve (if known). Based on the information you provide, we'll develope an agreed upon strategy for obtaining these goals. In addtion, most of the time, at the end of our first meeting, I can give you an estimate of the number of meetings it will take to get there. I have Bachelor's Degress in Psychology and Sociology and a Master's Degree in Social Work. I have taught in my profession at the undergraduate and graduate levels, am an approved Clinical Intern Supervisor and have been a fully licensed clinician for decades. I strive to assist all those who work with me in resolving the issues that have brought them to counseling to ensure they feel benefited by the experience.

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Robert Sherman

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Greetings. Thanks for checking in. I am licensed in Oregon, Idaho and Washington with 23 years of professional, clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope better with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse and neglect, grief and loss, and depression. I have specialty working with trauma and assisting adoption reunions. I am a Registered Clinical Supervisor for Idaho and a Substance Use Disorder Professional in all 3 states. I have extensive experience providing EAP services. I also have a Clinical Private Practice serving Idaho, Oregon and Washington state accessed via my Psychology Today webpage under my name. I do NOT provide youth and family counseling, evaluations of any kind for court purposes including custody or fitness to work. I do NOT allow no shows. Late cancellations, less than 24 hours are discouraged and only allowed under special circumstances. *All sessions are scheduled on a first come, first served basis.* I DO provide brief and long-term psychotherapy services to individual adults over the age of 18 years old. I also provide professional consultation regarding mental health topics in the primary care setting to Physicians and Allied Medical Professionals. I DO work with all Clients to create an open and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or shame. There's a sign over the door: "all feelings are welcome here." My therapy style is intentional, direct and purposeful. I hold high expectations for progress. I have a person-centered, trauma informed, clinical practice stance. My Betterhelp Clients show remarkable progress in a short amount of time which is inspiring! The work here is very satisfying. Thank you.

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Logan Kohler

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementDepressionADHD
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, anger management, & 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. 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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Ellen Savage

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
40 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Montana to do mental health counseling and therapy, as well as a Certified Coach. I’ve been self-employed for over 30 years and have a wide range of experience. I particularly work with persons who experience anxiety, stress and depression - often as a result of family problems and frequently work issues! I’ve also worked with all branches of the military working with troops and family both in the USA and abroad. My style of counseling tends to be more direct than passive. I believe in warmth, compassion and listening along with guidance and direction offered. I do not give advise; I am your mirror and help you see what you most want and need. Therapy is an individual journey, so the path we carve together is unique in it’s terrain, speed and outcome. I look forward to meeting each client with an open mind and heart. Looking forward to hearing from you!

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Karen Murphree

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCSW #1496
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over thirty-five years of experience assisting adults and couples with challenges such as stress, depression, anxiety, self-worth, abuse/trauma, chronic and acute health concerns, grief, loss, end of life issues, and finding connections to spirituality apart from traditional organized religion. I was also a licensed practical nurse years ago and have completed a year of health coaching training. I am passionate about the food/mood connection and its bridge between physical and mental health. I have a very eclectic approach that draws from multiple modalities. I have a background in traditional psychotherapy, but prefer to come from a "whole person" strength-based approach rather than the traditional "illness-based" approach. I like to use the other senses in addition to "the mind" and might make use of music, art, movement, or even aromatherapy approaches. My approach seeks to offer genuine acceptance of who you are right now, helping you discover who you would like to be, and finding ways with you to make progress toward your goals. Edison said, "I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that do not work." I would appreciate an opportunity to look with you to finding ways that DO work for you. Thank you for looking at my information. If you think we might work well together, please get in touch. If you don't feel a connection to me, there are many other very qualified persons on this site. Don't give up! Keep looking till you find someone that you think you would work well with! Someone is out there in the other profiles that would be a good match for you! I wish you the best, and applaud your courage in being willing to take a look at other options for your life if you are feeling troubled.

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Elizabeth Torbenson

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed Professional Counselor in Idaho with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, and eating disorders. My focus as a counselor is to help foster self-confidence, psychological flexibility, and a strong sense of identity within clients, so they are able to identify their individual strengths, desires and needs as they navigate through life. I often utilize techniques from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). 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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Barry Brooks

Offering therapy in ID
Relationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Ponderay

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay, 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 83852 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay 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 Ponderay, 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.

Ponderay 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Ponderay.

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

83852, 83864

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