Trying to stay focused on your life’s goals while struggling with a mental health condition is difficult. In fact, it can be impossible if you do not get professional help. Forest Lake has some of the top mental health care in the state of Minnesota who can help. 

In the town of Forest Lake, you will find some famous landmarks including Cedar Park’s Forest Dragon, Lakeside Park, The Tin Man water tower, the Wildlife Science Center, and the Carlos Avery Wildlife Area. However, if you are trying to deal with a mental illness, you cannot enjoy most of these. You need to get treatment from one of the therapists in Forest Lake today.

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Lisa Rivers

Offering therapy in MN
License: MA LP
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
29 years of experience

Hello and Welcome! I am glad that you are here. I am a Licensed Psychologist in Minnesota. For over 25 years, I have worked as a therapist with many clients with various issues, including anxiety, depression, stress management, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief and loss, and trauma. My counseling style is warm and supportive. I use a person-centered approach focusing on the individual's strengths. Identifying one's strengths and coping skills that can be used to help work through various issues is an essential part of my therapy approach. I believe in building a relationship that is trusting, respectful, and comfortable. I will work with you on achieving your goals and getting what you want out of therapy. I believe that each individual can overcome struggles. Sometimes, having additional support in therapy can help identify better and recognize the coping skills and strengths they already possess. My hours are generally 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday-Thursday and until 3:00 pm on Friday. I like to start this process with an intake to make sure that we are a good match. I ask that you do not schedule an appointment until this short process is completed. You have taken the first step in your journey to being a happier, healthier you. I would be honored to assist you on this journey.

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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!

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April Justice

Offering therapy in MN
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social work in the state of Minnesota and I have 20 years of experience. I have worked many years with women's issues surrounding depression, postpartum depression, and anxiety as well as relationship issues and self-esteem. I believe a relationship is very important to help you achieve your goals. I offer a warm, calm presence and believe in respect, integrity, sensitivity and compassion. I tailor our therapy together to what works best with and for you. I can utilize many approaches such as cognitive behavioral, psychodynamic, or an eclectic mix. I work with you to build goals because you know yourself best. It takes courage to seek a better path and I am here to help you on your journey. I look forward to working together!

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Dr. Tanya Sundberg

Offering therapy in MN
License: PhD,LP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

Welcome to BetterHelp! My name is Tanya Sundberg and I am a Licensed Psychologist in the state of Minnesota with a PhD in Counseling Psychology. I have over 16 years of experience in a variety of settings including community mental health, private practice, cancer care, and behavioral health. I have experience working with individuals on a wide range of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss, and self-esteem. My approach to working with clients involves elements of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, and motivational interviewing. My goal is to provide a safe, affirming, and collaborative space for growth. I would love to provide guidance, support and encouragement as you work toward making positive changes in your life!

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David Winkler-Morey

Offering therapy in MN
License: MSW, LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
21 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with over 30 years of experience providing mental health services and behavioral supports to youth and families in diverse settings. I recently retired from Minneapolis Public Schools after 20 years working with youth and families of students with anxiety disorders such as school phobia, self-injurious behaviors, eating disorders, learning disorders, focus and attention concerns. I facilitated family change groups, Native student groups, LGBTQ+ and grief and loss support groups. Prior to Minneapolis Public schools, I worked in a variety of settings including the Center for Victims of Torture, The Minneapolis Crisis Nursery, and supervised ICF/MR group home facilities for young adults with multiple disabilities. I have also worked as a community organizer. I draw from an eclectic array of treatment modalities including Cultural Informed Trauma Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Insight Therapy, Mindfulness Meditation, and Yoga Calm. Treatment will be based on goals we set together. The ultimate goal will be to help you develop your internal resources, tools, and social support networks to sustain a healthy, meaningful, and fulfilling life. I am a white male in my early 60’s. I have been involved with equity and social justice work my entire adult life. I live in, have worked in, and highly value multi-racial and multi-cultural communities. I read and speak Spanish, have lived and traveled extensively in Central and South America. My pronouns are he/him. I live in South Minneapolis with my wife of 39 years. I am a yoga and mindfulness meditation practitioner. I enjoy singing, playing my guitar, swimming, and biking.

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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.

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Felicia Kellen

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT) based in southwest Minnesota. My experience comes from provider direct mental health services to children, teens, and families for over 10 years. I have worked with individuals with varying level so abilities, mental health concerns, and stressors. I have experience working with presenting issues such as: depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting concerns, anger and aggression, relational difficulties, and family dynamics concerns. I believe creating a positive therapeutic relationship with the people I work with is done best by provider a relaxed, open, and non-judgmental environment. I make an effort to approach each new relationship with an acute sensitivity and respect of each persons’ unique experience. My goal is to take a collaborative approach with others to ensure that they feel heard, are working towards the goals they have created, and in a way that they feel comfortable. I have formal training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), and Illness Management and Recovery. I have also completed an immersive course in Polyvagal Theory and have my 200 Yoga Teacher Training. I use this and many other techniques to approach each problem with a holistic approach backed by current research. I am a strong believer of using body based techniques to calm our body’s natural response to trauma and stress. While I find this to be effective approach, I am open to other approaches as I acknowledge it is not for everybody. It takes a lot of strength and will power to work towards a more fulfilling and happier life. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you.

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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!

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Caitlin "Cait" Earle

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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!

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Bridget Ideker

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Child Parent Psychotherapist in Minnesota and Washington with 10 years of clinical practice in a variety of settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, PTSD, PPD/A, traumatic births and disability, trouble adjusting after a big life change, and helping to process and shape impactful experiences. I've been able to facilitate healing from trauma, support navigating parenthood, inspire self expression, light motivation to make change, and witness clients embody renewed confidence. I will stay curious about your thoughts, feelings and experiences, to understand and help you. I use attunement, humor, intuition and education to guide you through a reflective and therapeutic experience.

How to find counseling in Forest Lake

Finding the best therapist close by in Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest Lake, elsewhere in Washington, 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 Forest Lake area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 55025 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 Forest 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 Forest 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 Forest 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.

Forest 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 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 Forest Lake.

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

55025

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