Chisago City, Minnesota, a city known as the Gateway to the Lakes, embodies nature and the great outdoors. Did you know that being in fresh air and around natural elements can be very helpful to one’s emotional and mental state. Regardless of who you are or where you come from, there is absolutely a place for you in Chisago City.

Of course, the benefits of Chisago City are not merely limited to recreational activities and the great outdoors. The Gateway to the Lakes also provides great mental health services to those in need of them. Never underestimate the benefits which can come from sitting down with a Chisago City-area counselor and allowing them to work with you.

This is Stacy Bednar's avatar and link to their profile

Stacy Bednar

Offering therapy in MN
License: LPCC,CUG,CCUG
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
13 years of experience

Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to learn more about me! My name is Stacy and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Minnesota. I have over 13 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including inpatient, outpatient, free inner-city medical and mental health clinics, high schools and in my private practice. All of these settings have given me experience working with a broad range and severity of clinical issues. I have the most experience working with stress and anxiety disorders, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), relational conflicts, and personal growth. Currently I’m training in integrative measures to help heal mental health concerns through natural supplements, food, movement and the outdoors. I have also graduated from coach training and am a graduate of Coach U and Corporate Coach U. My passion for the field of mental health stems from my personal experience with it. I have overcome a debilitating anxiety disorder with accompanying depression. This left me housebound, unable to drive for years due to various physical symptoms from panic attacks, and unable to do much of anything physical. It was the scariest, most difficult time of my life. However, I made a promise to myself that if one day I could overcome my debilitating anxiety, then I would help others with theirs. Not only did I learn tools and mindsets to overcome it, but I now challenge myself every year with new physical goals to meet (this year that goal was to summit the Grand Teton, and I made it!). In doing this, I have pushed myself to be stronger and more resilient mentally and physically than I have ever been. Having had intense anxiety, I also learned along the way that the way you care for your body—what you eat, how you move, getting outdoors all have a tremendous impact on your mental health. What you put in your body affects your mind. Thus, I provide my clients with evidence-based integrative health strategies to help you set overall goals that will not only help you with what you are struggling with mentally but also aid you in reaching better health all-around. I know firsthand that having mental health concerns can be extremely difficult and scary. Aside from the omnipresent stigma, the process for getting help can be overwhelming and exhausting, leaving one feeling frustrated and lonely. However, I also know how life-changing it can be to find the right help. You only get this one life and I am here to help you live it in your most authentic, fully expressed, ideal way. I use a person-centered, holistic, multicultural, and eclectic approach in treatment, meaning I begin where you are and tailor the treatment approach to your needs while being sensitive to how your own personal cultural identities and lifestyle choices impact your experience. I primarily use evidence-based techniques including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, outdoor therapy and emotion and solution-focused therapies. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, but I also like to push you and hold you accountable to your goals when you are ready. Together we can work on setting goals and the steps needed to help you overcome your current problems. I believe in taking time and working on mental and physical wellness slowly, holistically, and consistently. I look forward to helping you in any way I can! Thank you again for taking the time to learn more about me!

This is Lura Smedstad's avatar and link to their profile

Lura Smedstad

Offering therapy in MN
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
20 years of experience

In her counseling practice, Lura combines aspects of what she loves the most: a deep regard for the spiritual Source within every person; effective therapeutic art processes, and a sound cognitive behavioral therapy approach. For many years, she has had the opportunity to support both adult and teen clients in the process of healing their lives. Lura specializes in helping her clients alleviate the effects of trauma, anxiety, and depression, as well as grief and loss issues. She helps them to establish workable, sustainable life goals and healthy relationships. Her clients describe her approach as “direct but compassionate!” and uniquely suited to each individual or couple who meet with her. According to Lura, “We all have a Voice of Wisdom within us. Part of what I do is to help clients get in touch with that Voice.” EXPERIENCE: I have been working as a Counselor and Therapist for many years. My primary work was partially accomplished as a Ministerial Partner with my husband who is a Unity Minister while serving Unity Churches in Clear Lake, Texas; Taos, New Mexico; Charlotte North Carolina; Hartford, Connecticut and Key West, Florida. In 1993, we relocated to Minneapolis, MN where we established a school with a three year course of study to support individuals in personal growth and spiritual maturity. We led the school for 10 years and attracted students from a variety of occupations and religious/spiritual affiliations. Many of our students came from "helping" occupations, (e.g., doctors, nurses. social workers, teachers, etc. ) and this taught us that our approach was valuable and timely. I continued to work as I completed BA and Masters programs and had the advanced opportunity to do practicums in both Counseling and Art Therapy degrees while working for a Psychiatric hospital in Key West, Florida. In 2015 we left Florida, did another round of Interim ministry work in Hartford, CT before moving back permanently to Minneapolis, Minnesota. I joined an established counseling clinic as an associate and worked there from 2016 to 2021. Because of COVID-19, I moved my practice to my home office and have been serving clientele on telehealth services ever since. EDUCATION: Ordained: Theophilus Divinity School 1995 BA in Fine Arts: Minneapolis College of Art and Design - St. Cloud State University, Saint Cloud, Minnesota 2006 Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling w/concentration in Art Therapy: Prescott College, Prescott, Arizona 2014 LICENSING: Minnesota LPC #1916 (expires 10-31-21)

This is James Engen's avatar and link to their profile

James Engen

Offering therapy in MN
License: LMFT
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
11 years of experience

I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist with over 14 years of experience. I approach therapy from a Narrative Neuro-experiential viewpoint. You are not the issue – issues are getting in the way of you attaining your goals and your full life potential. All of us reflect where we have come from and that reflection is not necessarily where we want to end up. As you are able to see in my profile, I am trained in many modalities and we as a team will determine jointly what methods are employed to meet your needs and goals. I also have a wide range of career experience - I have been a professional truck mechanic, a management assistant to the CFO of a large urban school district, a therapist to homeless individuals/families, and I have been in private practice helping individuals develop into who they want to be. My goal is to help you maximize your potential and capitalize on your strengths.

This is Sheri Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Sheri Johnson

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
7 years of experience

A relationship with a therapist is it’s own sort of bond, and can often mirror other relationships you have experienced. Our sessions will sometimes feel like friends catching up over a cup of coffee, and will sometimes feel heavier than that. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can learn about yourself and how you interact with the world. I will challenge maladaptive behaviors that are getting in your way, even while validating that these same behaviors helped you survive at some point in your life. I want to be your partner in solving the mystery of you, and be your collaborator in figuring out strategies to help you move forward into well-being and happiness. You come to me because something in your life isn’t going right, and I welcome you with loving kindness. I will use everything you teach me about yourself to assist you in reaching your self-defined goals. I work with adults with anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, relationship difficulties, attachment disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, life transitions, addiction, general trauma, childhood trauma, social anxiety, grief and loss, identity exploration, and even more. I have specific training in several different therapeutic modalities, including trauma therapy. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker (LICSW) in Minnesota with 7 years of professional work experience and 50 years of life experience. I work from an eclectic mix of psychological theories and fully embrace the concepts of unconditional positive regard, harm reduction, and strengths-based treatment planning. I ask you to set the direction of our work together, and you can count on me to keep us on track.

This is marcie goehring's avatar and link to their profile

marcie goehring

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder. I also have experience working with 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. 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.

This is Eugene   (Gene) Taylor's avatar and link to their profile

Eugene (Gene) Taylor

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with anxiety, stress and 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Alexandra Hanson's avatar and link to their profile

Alexandra Hanson

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in New Jersey with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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.

This is Linda Slaikeu's avatar and link to their profile

Linda Slaikeu

Offering therapy in MN
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
16 years of experience

Linda Slaikeu, LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I completed a Master’s degree at Bethel University, and I am licensed in Wisconsin, Minnesota and Michigan. I have 16 years of professional experience helping clients with relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, etc. I am a certified Prepare and Enrich Couples Inventory Facilitator. I work with couples to rebuild trust, improve communication, and rekindle emotional intimacy. During my therapy sessions, clients learn practical tools, strategies and skills that empower them to maintain the positive changes they achieve. It takes a lot of courage to take the first steps towards change, but you don’t have to face your challenges alone. I am here to support and empower you on your healing journey.

This is Tracy Kressin's avatar and link to their profile

Tracy Kressin

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota and North Dakota with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!

This is Kayce Bragg's avatar and link to their profile

Kayce Bragg

Offering therapy in MN
License: LPCS,LAC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I look forward to the opportunity to walk this journey together! Let me tell you about myself: I’m a wife, mother to four, and a dog mom! I live in SC but love to travel to see new places and try new things. My favorite place is anywhere with a beach as I love anything involving sunshine and water! Professionally, I am a Board-Certified Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, and a Licensed Addiction Counselor in the state of South Carolina and have been practicing in the mental health field since 2011. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Kansas, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon, and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois . I am currently working on my Doctorate of Psychology and was EMDR trained in 2021. I am very person-centered in my work with clients as I believe that you know you better than I know you! My practice is solution-focused as I believe in focusing more heavily on the problems you’re experiencing right now and working together to develop effective strategies for improving not only your current symptoms, but also your overall life satisfaction. I often incorporate Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy at times to help identify problematic thinking and retrain your brain to be more positive! Some other theories I believe in are Positive Psychology and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I have significant expertise in dealing with adults (18+) who are experiencing the following: various mental illnesses (including but not limited to Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, other Psychotic Disorders, Depression, Anxiety); difficulty adapting to life situations; relationship issues; stress caused by pressure at work or home; grief and loss; self-esteem issues; other difficulties maintaining life balance. I also have experience with addictions issues and am able to help in those areas. I am skilled in aiding others in developing coping skills, interpersonal skills, independent living skills, stress management, personal empowerment and advocacy, healthy leisure habits, and other important life skills. It is important to understand that therapy is about you and what you need, so the process is really driven by the client! My role is to facilitate discussion and prompt new ways of thinking in order to inspire fresh perspectives. :)

How to find counseling in Chisago City

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City, 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 55013 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City 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 Chisago City, 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.

Chisago City 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 Chisago City.

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

55013

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