Are you soaking up the gorgeous sun on a sandy beach in the beautiful town of Sandpoint?
Then you're a lucky person. Not everyone gets to live in such ideal circumstances. If you're not taking full advantage of the beauty and luxury Sandpoint has to offer, maybe you should ask yourself why.

If the answer has anything to do with mental wellness, then perhaps it's time to reach out for a little help. Please don't hesitate to contact a Standpoint-Area mental health professional to get the support you need to battle issues such as anxiety, depression, complicated relationships, trauma, loss, or anything in between.

This is Jennifer Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Smith

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

At any point in time, each of us are facing our own unique life's circumstances and their impact on us can be a lot to bear sometimes. I understand and value the courage it takes to reach out for help navigating those circumstances. In some cases, those circumstances have to do with our past and some have to do with something more recent. My primary goal is to provide a judgment-free place to grow through and past what is getting in the way of living a fulfilling life. I've been working as a private practice counselor for over 9 years working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families in Idaho. I've helped treat individuals with anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, family conflicts, co-parenting issues, blended family issues, self-esteem, and life transitions. Whether you need assistance developing specific attainable goals for the short or long term, or working through historical, current, or situational challenges as your counselor I feel honored to have the chance to walk alongside another's journey.

This is Heidy Mead's avatar and link to their profile

Heidy Mead

Offering therapy in ID
License: LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemADHD
3 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor who understands life circumstances can cause stress, anxiety, depression, anger and a host of other emotions. I provide an integrative approach to counseling clients who have unique experiences, needs, goals and personalities. I enjoy helping clients find their strengths and have worked with clients who have anxiety, depression, problems with addiction, PTSD, ADHD and anger management issues. I follow a holistic strength-based approach to counseling mental, emotional, social, spiritual, and physical needs. I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Solution-Focused and Mindfulness. I believe clients accomplish their goals and can thrive when supported in developing their strengths, healing attachment and emotional wounds and enhancing self-esteem. I also take pleasure in working on my home, walking my dog and sitting by the river.

This is Kristi Skeem's avatar and link to their profile

Kristi Skeem

Offering therapy in ID
License: Lpc,Acadc
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hi, my name is Kristi Skeem, and have been in Counseling for over 15 years. I have a doctorate degree in business. I have worked with very diverse populations from those who are affluent and influential; and everyone in between. I have worked many years providing counseling in correctional institutions, mental health agencies, and drug/alcohol agencies. I also am a conference speaker for public and private settings and events. I have walked along side of those in the counseling realm that have made life choices and/or committed crimes that shattered their life and others as well. We walk together each week, picking up life pieces, using strengths that still are within them; and starting a new life. I have also worked with influencers who are working and serving in high levels of our society, those who are in prominent roles, that struggle as other do with anxiety, stress, and transitions. I have worked with stay-at-home moms who are both winning and losing and experiencing feelings of both in their circumstances. Everyone has unique issues based on their personal circumstances, but also unique gifting and personal strengths that will help them to preserve through. I provide support for those struggling in their interpersonal relationships, preparing for relationships, or even restoring the relationship with themselves. I work with the more modern virtual vs reality identity crisis and/or disorders -that currently are not even found in the DSM-V as an official diagnosis. This is individuals who are struggling to find their way understanding their online persona vs their real-life reality. I typically use a Cognitive Behavioral approach to brief counseling to tackle life dilemmas. My treatment approach of cognitive behavioral therapy offers empowerment to individuals to take back control of their life, understanding how core beliefs are developed, where they come from, and how they are generating thoughts, feelings and behaviors; and ultimately all outcomes. I personally have a licensed in mental health/school/ and addiction counseling. I have my doctorate in Business with an emphasis in Industrial /Organizational Psychology. Therefore, if you are struggling in your business told, leaders, leadership, or other aspects of career growth; I can support that. If you struggle with fear of facing daily life or the after life, let me help you. I see my role here with you as a place of service, and I have a gift of helping others through their circumstances, with what I have learned in my training over the years. I invite you to come along in the therapy journey and see what can be discovered about your purpose in making meaning in this life.

This is Hannah Brinser's avatar and link to their profile

Hannah Brinser

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

Welcome, I am so glad you are here! I am a trauma-informed counselor who understands the impact trauma can have on your mental health and wellbeing. I have a deep passion for helping people heal from their past experiences, and my approach is grounded in safety, empathy, and genuineness. In addition to trauma-informed care, I am passionate about working with individuals experiencing grief and loss, faith expansions and faith transitions, terminal or chronic health conditions, attachment related trauma, and those struggling to find purpose and meaning in life. This is a safe place for all people, including those who are questioning their religion, who have left their religion, and who are comfortable and happy with their religion. All are welcome. I received a Ph.D. in Counselor Education and Supervision from Idaho State University in 2023, a M.A. in Counseling from Gonzaga University in 2020, and a B.S. in Psychology from Western Washington University in 2018. I have also received training in several different treatment approaches and modalities, including Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment-Based Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Existential Therapy, Reality Therapy/Choice Theory, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I am so honored and excited to be a part of your healing journey!

This is Erika Moe's avatar and link to their profile

Erika Moe

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

I am licensed in Idaho with 5 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 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!

This is Erin Miller's avatar and link to their profile

Erin Miller

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

Inner peace is something that many of us seek, but sometimes we feel stuck in unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior (that’s often handed to us early on) that make life feel challenging. Building awareness of our emotions, thoughts, and behaviors can open the doorway to practicing new ways of being in the world that cultivates inner peace. This is the journey that I seek to help others on. I especially enjoy working with those seeking to cultivate healthy relationships with themselves and others, those going through spiritual transitions and healing religious trauma, and those in the LGBTQ+ community. In my work, I often help clients tease out the unhealthy messages they may have internalized from cultural and familial dynamics. My hope for the clients that I work with is that, through deepening awareness and boldly trying new perspectives and behaviors, they will bit by bit begin to see true positive change in their emotional experiences and relationships.

This is Travis Luttrull's avatar and link to their profile

Travis Luttrull

Offering therapy in ID
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesADHD
4 years of experience

Therapy Doesn't Have to Suck. You don't even need to leave your home! Do it all online with me, Travis, a Professional Counselor servicing all of Montana, Idaho, & Utah. Clinically, I specialize in helping individuals who struggle with OCD and Anxiety disorders techniques. Additionally, I help clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self-esteem, men's issues, and confidence, all through CBT practices and Psychotherapy. I have mainly worked with young adults, men, and Veterans. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. We will work towards your goals during sessions, no matter which way the path takes us. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, and I am proud of you for getting started! "Why do we fall? So that we can learn to pick ourselves up" -Thomas Wayne

This is Heather Hunter's avatar and link to their profile

Heather Hunter

Offering therapy in ID
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Hello, I'm Heather Hunter. I'm an LPC in the state of Idaho. Much of my professional experience has been working with children and adolescents, and I am widening my scope to include therapeutic services for adults. I have experience with trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. I take a person-centered approach when working with my clients. As Carl Rogers explained "It is the client who knows what hurts, what directions to go, what problems are crucial, what experiences have been deeply buried." In our work together, I will walk along side you in your journey of self-discovery, healing, growth, and wellness. My goal is to facilitate a safe space for exploration, a space where vulnerability and truth can be shared without judgement. I often share resources, information, and homework that relate to your therapeutic goals. These are optional and can be done at your leisure and discretion. Remember, this experience is your own. I am here to help in a way that is meaningful for you. I am grateful for the opportunity to facilitate spaces of healing and human connection. I look forward to hearing form you soon. Take care!

This is Jennifer Polignoni's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Polignoni

Offering therapy in ID
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho and Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, anxiety & depression. 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.

This is Donlarae Richardson's avatar and link to their profile

Donlarae Richardson

Offering therapy in ID
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Everyone has a story to tell—stories that will not only engage, inform, surprise, delight, and impact their audience, but ones that will also create opportunities for change. I am the conduit for that process. I am an LCSW with 5 years’ experience in counseling at-risk-juveniles and families to include direct practice experience with service members in a military setting. Coordinated and documented clinical case management and psychosocial services and documented the overall effectiveness of the case management services provided. Excellent client evaluation skills and the ability to locate and promote appropriate community services for clients. Proven ability to quickly establish excellent working relationships with clients. Recognized by colleagues for creative problem-solving skills, and astute contributions to treatment team meetings. Areas of expertise: Anger Management Anxiety Disorders Child or Adolescent Issues Depression Loss or Grief Mood Disorders Relationship and Marriage Counseling Stress

How to find counseling in Sandpoint

Finding the best therapist close by in Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint. 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 Sandpoint, 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint, 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 Sandpoint area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint, 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 83864 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint, 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.

Sandpoint 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 Sandpoint.

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

83864

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist