The city of Big Lake is a prime destination for anglers looking to catch fish on the lake by the same name. In life’s lakes, the fish of good fortune can be very hard to catch. You wait, trying to be patient, to get a nibble on your line, but you come up empty.

You get more and more nervous, worrying about the future. When your day ends and you’re no closer to accomplishing your mission, you toss and turn in bed, regretting both the failure and the effort. Talk to a counselor in the Big Lake area.

This is Nicole Thomte's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Thomte

Offering therapy in MN
License: MS LMFT
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
9 years of experience

Welcome! My name is Nicole Thomte, my pronouns are she/her or they/them, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, #3853 in Minnesota. My focus in my practice is to serve those individuals, couples, and families who live outside the confines of dominant society's expectations. I offer affirmative therapy for LGBTQIA+/kink/CNM/polyam/etc persons, using a largely solution-focused approach from an intersectional feminist lens. I know that these populations are underserved in current society, and my goal is for you to have the inclusive support you deserve to improve your life the way you want. I am also interested in sex-positive therapy and sex therapy, while still recognizing the validity of asexuality in its own spectrum. My therapeutic style is non-directive, exploratory, accepting, and acknowledging the humor that often leavens the stress of life. You're the expert in your life, and I'm here to provide support and an outside perspective to help find patterns and connections that may not be visible to you in the midst of your troubles. What you bring to the session is what interests me, rather than relying on labeling and constraints of diagnoses. Choosing to sit with people in a therapeutic connection as my third career path has been one of the longest and most complex decisions I have made in my life thus far. It has also been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences I have ever encountered. I worked at a behavioral health agency once I was approved for my state intern license in 2013. The population we served were most often persons who have the most difficulties: often already on disability or in the interminable waiting period after having applied, with multiple health troubles, and with the least access to needed resources. Since before even starting my work as a state intern, I had begun attending supervision groups and co-facilitating survivor groups under the auspices of Gender Justice Nevada in November, 2012. Over the nearly six years until my hiatus in July, 2018, I learned from the bravery of survivors of sex/gender based violence, oppression, and discrimination, including sex/gender diverse young persons, the families and loved ones of sex/gender diverse persons, and sex workers, as I provided therapeutic group facilitation in addition to individual, couple, and family therapy, due to my drive to advocate for marginalized communities. I am a compassionate, driven, tireless advocate for those who are forced into the margins of society, and I look forward to the gift of what you wish to share with me.

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This is Gilbert Clark's avatar and link to their profile

Gilbert Clark

Offering therapy in MN
License: MA,LPC, LPCC
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a MA, LPCC, and LADC. My diverse training through the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies, as well as training through the Mayo Clinic has enriched my understanding of holistic wellness. Additionally, I have experience in a wide variety of treatment environments with diverse clientele and understand that treatment is most effective when care is tailored with respect for the individual. To create this tailored therapeutic approach, I use an eclectic process which draws on cognitive, mindfulness based, narrative, and solution focused therapy. Additionally, I identify as a creative and write, record, and perform original music with a specialization in recovery music. These modalities allow for me to provide a creative, experiential, compassionate, trauma informed, and person-centered approach and therapeutic style. I specialize in addiction treatment and recovery and am able to guide you through the initial substance use assessment, all the phases of recovery, and towards ongoing wellness and maintenance. I also have a passion for mental health healing, and am skilled with relationship challenges, familial challenges, families seeking support for their loved ones, self-exploration, and trauma.

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Sara Ewing

Offering therapy in MN
License: PsyD, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepression
22 years of experience

My work experience includes work as a clinician in Community Mental Health Centers in both urban and rural settings. Individuals I have had the pleasure to work with include people struggling with issues such as depression, anxiety, grief and loss, divorce, life changing events, work difficulties, brain injury, intellectual challenges, personality challenges and many others. I spent many years working as the Clinical Director of a very large Community Mental Health Center giving me a varied experience of clientele and issues. My style of therapy is to work together as a team to figure out how to feel better, think clearer, and act in-line with the way you desire. My approach is warm, welcoming and supportive. I prefer a client centered approach and use unconditional nonjudgmental positive regard as my mainstay in the therapeutic relationship. Reaching out for help can be very difficult and I encourage you to take a breath and make the call for yourself. I will be happy to work with you when you are ready to start. Change your mind, change your life.

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This is Rebecca Andersen's avatar and link to their profile

Rebecca Andersen

Offering therapy in MN
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

Congratulations! Seeking help can feel daunting, but it also can bring about some wonderful results. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota. Over the last 17+ years, I have worked with individuals, families in their homes and couples. Their issues have included challenges such depression, anxiety, grief, family conflict and work concerns. My primary focus is to provide you with a warm and accepting environment in which to look at the issues that are causing you distress. Through the use of cognitive, narrative and dialectical tools, we will look at the source of your concerns and ways to move through these difficulties. I believe in a highly collaborative approach, so you will be part of the process throughout. The end goal is that you will have more opportunities for greater joy and fulfillment in your life. I look forward to working with you!

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This is Amber Strom's avatar and link to their profile

Amber Strom

Offering therapy in MN
License: MS,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello there! My name is Amber Strom and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) and licensed K-12 School Counselor. I have worked in a wide range of clinical settings including a sexual assault center providing support to victims and survivors of sexual assault, I have worked in various schools in Central Minnesota and am currently a school counselor at a high school. I mostly work with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma and parenting issues. I enjoy working with all populations as it gives endless variety and helps to keep my knowledge base growing. I grew up in currently reside in Minnesota with my husband, two sons, two step-daughters, 4 dogs and a Maine coon. Both of my boys have an ADHD diagnosis, and my youngest has Tourette’s Syndrome. I feel that walking beside my boys in their struggles has been my biggest teacher. I attended St. Cloud State University for my Bachelor's degree, Master's degree and School Counseling Certificate. Over the past couple of years, I have enjoyed participating in trainings in ADHD, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and look forward to further expanding my knowledge base about other various disorders and specialties. I feel that in this profession, we are constantly learning and evolving. I would consider my therapy style as humanistic and offering all of my clients unconditional positive regard. I feel that all people have good in them, and it is part of my job to help them find this.

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This is Cynthia Morris's avatar and link to their profile

Cynthia Morris

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in North Dakota with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & depression, as well as other concerns. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I work to treat all clients with the same respect and dignity I would expect and want if I were in their shoes. 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 Sheila May's avatar and link to their profile

Sheila May

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 6 years of experience providing therapy and over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field. I take a compassionate approach to therapy and have experience helping clients with stress, anxiety, lack of motivation, concerns with self-esteem and confidence, and compassion fatigue. I believe you have strengths and wisdom to overcoming challenges presented to you and I am here to support and empower you as you build on this wisdom and strength. It takes courage to seek support and work towards change and I am so glad you have reached out.

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

Heather Cogger

Offering therapy in MN
AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Kathryn Olson's avatar and link to their profile

Kathryn Olson

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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 Matthew Schwer's avatar and link to their profile

Matthew Schwer

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & bipolar disorder. 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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How to find counseling in Big Lake

Finding the best therapist close by in Big Lake 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 Big Lake. 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 Big Lake, 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake, elsewhere in Sherburne, or in the greater state of Minnesota.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake may not take health insurance, some in the state of Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Big Lake, Minnesota 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 MN, 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 55309 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake 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 Big Lake, Minnesota 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.

Big Lake 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 Big Lake.

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

55309

Popular cities near Big Lake, MN

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