Have you had trouble keeping a job or a relationship because you have a hard time controlling your anger? Do you sometimes feel like you are going to snap or explode at the smallest thing? You may benefit from anger management therapy with one of the many mental health professionals in Alpena.

The City of Alpena has some of the best attractions in Michigan such as the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage center, which boasts a 9000 square foot maritime center with an archaeology lab, theater, and shipwreck gallery. You may also enjoy Thunder Bay River, which is a 75-mile section of river that drains into Lake Huron. Spending the day enjoying nature or learning about history is a great way to relax and the therapists in Alpena will explain how this can help your anger issues.

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Jessica Mangan

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA,LLP,LPC NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
15 years of experience

Hello there! First off, great job at taking the first step for support! I’ve been in your shoes and I know how this part feels – a bit of worry mixed with excitement and hope and perhaps some fear of the unknown. My name is Jess and I am glad you’re here. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Western Michigan University in 2005 and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Limited License Psychologist in Michigan. I’ve worked in a variety of settings from crisis units, to mental health centers to correctional facilities. I have been in leadership and a staff trainer in addition to my clinical practices. I truly enjoy seeing people get through their struggles and come out on the other side as healthier and happier individuals. Much of my career has been centered around helping those with sexual addictions, substance use, anxiety/stress and trauma/abuse. My therapeutic style is open and honest and involves helping you to arrive at gaining insight, increasing strategies, and finding tools that you can begin using immediately to make positive change in your life. I use evidence based techniques including solution-focused counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy, psycho-educational techniques, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and a humanistic approach to helping my clients. Most important, I strive to build a therapeutic relationship with you, in order to maintain a relaxed and welcoming environment that allows you to be who you are and get the most out of your therapy. Thanks for taking the first step, I’d love it if you’d let me help you with the next.

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Lisa Scott

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW,ACSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
31 years of experience

Hi! My name is Lisa and I have been practicing in the field of Social Work and mental health close to 30 years. I have been afforded opportunities to work in a variety of settings. Some of the settings include Psychiatric inpatient, Community mental health clinics, Public School District( mental health) , Substance abuse and Geriatric health, to name just a few. I am energetic and have been described as , honest, caring , hardworking, upbeat ,open-minded, and knowledgeable. I have been known to utilize different therapeutic approaches depending on the concerns of the individual. I try to make each person feel as comfortable as possible. I treat everybody with the utmost respect, just the way I want to be treated. I am a good listener and I like others to feel like they are in a safe space when we are working together. I love to laugh and when appropriate, laughter can be quite healing. If you think based on this brief synopsis of myself, that I may be a good fit, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

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Lisa Draper

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Welcome one and all! Let me introduce myself. I am Lisa. I'm a mother of four and grandmother of five. All exceptionally wonderful souls! I have lived a diverse life since leaving the nest in 1984 and serving my first tour of duty in the U.S. Army. I am a 14 year veteran with combat experience in Iraq in 2007. I also have over 5 years experience as a Corrections Deputy here in Michigan. I remain as a volunteer Firefighter after leaving a full time position as a Paramedic/Firefighter. Now, here I am a fully licensed professional counselor in Michigan (LPC). I have 3 years experience in working with adults with Substance Use Disorder where we see a vast majority also have issues dealing with depression, anxiety and traumatic past issues along with a myriad of other problems that leave people feeling stuck and unable to move forward. I approach each session as another extension of a journey. A journey that I want to be a part of as a partner walking beside you; and, not pushing you from behind nor dragging you along from in front.

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Margaret Millhench

Offering therapy in MI
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Margaret Millhench. I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Michigan for seven years. I have worked with college students and clients on a part-time basis from home. The presenting issues have included anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, career difficulties, relationship struggles and life changes to name a few. I also helped many women experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault. My counseling style is humanistic and person centered with a holistic approach using the body with the mind. Emotional blocks are held in the body from past traumas. In the beginning, depending on your real needs and readiness, we would work to develop trust and support with coping skills. I would use centering and grounding techniques to help create a sense of safety. Eventually, I would use psycho-dynamic, somatic and mindfulness techniques to help express the language of the body. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. Treatment would follow your real needs. I hope to have the opportunity to meet you! Margaret

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Shari Bernstein

Offering therapy in MI
License: M.Ed. ,LPC,CAADC
AddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
25 years of experience

I am a therapist licensed in Ohio and Michigan with over 20 years of experience working as a counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, career challenges, and substance abuse disorders. I’ve also helped many people who have experienced trauma and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe strongly in authenticity, intuition, and in movement toward self-actualization. I think it’s important to relate to everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, though I also believe in gentle confrontation when it’s needed. I don't rely on stigmatizing labels, as I find them limiting. My approach is eclectic – a mix of cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic and rational-emotive therapy. I believe that you already have the answers to what you need within you; and my role is to help facilitate bringing those answers to the surface by being supportive and helping you to feel empowered to change. It takes a lot of courage to seek a more gratifying and satisfying life and to begin to move toward change. (Nothing changes if nothing changes.) If you feel like you are ready, I am here and excited to join you on your journey! :)

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Kathaleen Bruce

Offering therapy in MI
License: LMSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a Social Worker (LMSW) in Michigan with over 20 years of experience. My career includes providing: support for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence, court ordered services to parents in the form of supervised visitation and safe exchange , foster care and child protective services, In addition, I spent four years providing case management and supportive services through the Veteran's Administration to the homeless veteran program. Most recently I have provided behavioral health services in a pediatric practice, to children age three to young adults. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career and life transition challenges. I am nationally certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (for children 17 and younger). While my education and career experience is vast , I believe one of my most valuable assets is my personal life experiences. I am a Veteran, retiring from the military after 15 & 1/2 years of services. I am a survivor of domestic violence and sexual assault. I intimately understand the pain, grief and loss watching a loved on battle the ravages of terminal illness, having lost an adult son to cancer. In addition, I have been a caregiver to my aging parents and am also intimately familiar with the challenges of ensuring the safety of our elderly while fiercely trying to protect their Independence and right to self determination. My therapy style is warm, and accepting. I quickly establish rapport with my clients, by communicating compassion, genuine interest and confidence that by working together, they can feel better. Whether the issues that brought them to seek help include how to cope with loss, life difficulties, pursuing their goals, or seeking ways to manage anxiety or getting a better night sleep. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral, supportive, motivational interviewing, relaxation, and mindfulness therapy. I work with you in the development of the treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I offer video as well as phone sessions. I do not offer live chat or messaging however. Seeking help can at times be difficult. When you are ready, it would be my honor to work with you to meet your goals, and to feel better.

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Ikesha Brown

Offering therapy in MI
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
9 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan with over 8 years of experience working with a diverse population. I have worked with clients with a multiple of different mental health challenges which includes low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting issues and other family conflict. I have also worked with clients with a history of trauma, bipolar and schizoaffective diagnoses. My therapeutic style is eclectic and person-centered. My approach combines cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic and mindfulness therapy to address my clients’ individual needs. I assist my clients in developing a personalized treatment plan to meet their specific needs. I am eager to assist you with moving forward in your journey of recovery and wholeness. I am glad you had the courage to make the first step. I am here to support you on your journey.

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Karl Johnson

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am an experienced Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a background in youth, adolescent, adult, couples, and family counseling. I have been practicing for over ten years. I currently work with clients who are wanting to gain a better approach to their life while going through difficulties with transitions, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, and/or life rediscoveries. My training, education, and experience in counseling have provided me with a strong background in individual, couples, and family therapy. The therapeutic approach is both interactive and collaborative, allowing, the client to have an individualized experience. I specialize in anxiety, depression, life transitions, relational issues, and stress management. Regardless of the situation I have always provided my clients with the highest quality of care and treatment, treating them with the utmost respect, integrity, and empathy. Encouraging my clients to move towards behavioral transformations without fear or apprehensions. As a result, my clients will gain a positive outlook and adopt new attitudes and positive reactions within their lives. I use an integrated approach and do not believe in a one size fits all model, we are all uniquely different and because of this I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, be proud of yourself for getting started!

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Kathleen Stark

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

I received a BA in Child Psychology and a MA in Counseling, from Oakland University. I have been a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional since 2019. I am working on getting my certification as an Autism Specialist. I am a native and licensed in Michigan with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I have a devotion to youth, especially youth and adults with special needs. I frequently give presentations to youth about service dogs, and provide insight on what it is like to live with Cerebral Palsy. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Stephanie ​B​a​l​d​w​i​n​ McGowan's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie ​B​a​l​d​w​i​n​ McGowan

Offering therapy in MI
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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How to find counseling in Alpena

Finding the best therapist close by in Alpena 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 Alpena. 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 Alpena, 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 Alpena 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 Alpena 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 Alpena, elsewhere in Alpena, or in the greater state of Michigan.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Alpena 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 Alpena 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 Alpena may not take health insurance, some in the state of Michigan 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 Michigan 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 Alpena, Michigan 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 Alpena 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 Alpena 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 Alpena 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 Alpena 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 Alpena 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 MI, 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 49707 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 Alpena 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 Alpena 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 Alpena, Michigan 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.

Alpena 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 Alpena.

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

49707

Popular cities near Alpena, MI

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