You never stop learning about yourself. No matter how much you think you know about yourself, you discover that there is always more to learn. When you have poor mental health, you may always feel like you don’t know yourself, and you may feel like there’s no way to figure it out. A counselor based in Rochester can help. 

Rochester is a town where many are educated. However, you can be the most educated, book smart person in the well and still no little about yourself. A counselor can help be that scholar who studies with you and helps you make a map of who you are and where you're going.

This is Kirstina Quast's avatar and link to their profile

Kirstina Quast

Offering therapy in MN
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefCompassion fatigue
9 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker in Minnesota. I have been working as a psychotherapist for over 8 years. I also have a variety of professional experiences in various aspects of the social service system including adult and children's mental health, residential treatment, child welfare, and adoption/foster care services. I am honored to work with people with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, parenting challenges, blended family dynamics, career stressors, infertility concerns, mood disorders, trauma, domestic violence, and grief/loss. My special interest areas include working with those who are adjusting to life changes, striving to heal from any form of trauma, processing grief and loss concerns, navigating adoption related challenges, and supporting family members through significant life changes. I have specialized training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), attachment concerns, adoption competency, and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR). I also utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, experiential forms of therapy, and a strengths based solution focused approach with those I serve. I utilize an eclectic and flexible approach to tailor my counseling style to meet each person's individual needs and preferences. I believe you are the expert in your life and I am grateful to have an opportunity to come along side you to support you in your journey. I see myself as an "outside the box" kind of thinker. I try to utilize creative problem solving and practical strategies to support you in attaining your personal goals. Taking the first step toward seeking help and pursuing growth or change takes courage. I deeply respect and commend you for exploring your options and taking steps on your journey. I look forward to meeting you.

This is Pietro (Pete) Martucci's avatar and link to their profile

Pietro (Pete) Martucci

Offering therapy in MN
License: MS,LPCC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

Hello, my name is Pete Martucci and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, currently working in the state of Minnesota. I have been a practicing counselor for 6 years and I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years. I am currently completing my PhD in Counselor Education with a specialization in crisis and trauma. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Counselor as well as a Disaster Mental Health Counselor and an Approved Clinical Supervisor. I have spent the bulk of my career studying the impact of trauma and how it can direct our thoughts and behaviors. I have worked with individuals across a broad spectrum of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, panic disorders, personality disorders, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, body image, self-esteem concerns, addiction and other life challenges. My therapeutic/counseling style is rooted in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy. I believe it is an empowering framework that assists clients in recognizing and treating their mental health concerns, by challenging the way we think and how we act on those thoughts. I also will challenge you to move outside of your comfort areas and address those discomforts. In addition to CBT, I practice through a Solution-Focused approach that is helpful in addressing life challenges and stressors. I want you to feel comfortable in our work together and because of that I treat all individuals with respect, kindness and removed of any judgment. It takes great courage to ask for help and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with you as you move forward on this journey to a healthier life and mind. I believe the work we do together, is a collaborative process and I will assist you to learn, grow, and make positive changes that can result in a more fulfilling life. I look forward to hearing from you and beginning our work together.

This is Jessica Hartman's avatar and link to their profile

Jessica Hartman

Offering therapy in MN
License: MSW,LCSW/LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! I am a clinical social worker licensed in North Dakota, Minnesota, and Nevada. I have worked in the mental health profession providing counseling for over 20 years, 6 of those years as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in Psychology, from the University of North Dakota in 1997. I earned my Master of Social Work degree from the College of St. Catherine/University of St. Thomas in 2003. I have lived and worked in both small town/rural areas, as well as in urban areas including Minneapolis/St. Paul and Phoenix, AZ. I have provided therapy in numerous settings including schools, day-treatment programs, in-home, virtually, and in an outpatient behavioral health clinic. I have experience helping people with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, abuse/trauma, adjustment to life changes, relationship issues, LGBTQ+ issues, school/career challenges, family problems, and intrapersonal problems. It is my priority to provide a safe, inclusive, non-judgmental space for my clients. My therapy style is warm and relational. I treat my clients with respect and compassion. My approach is strength-based and person-centered, which means I meet you where you are and help you recognize and build on the positive qualities you already posses. I combine cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, and mindfulness practices to help my clients learn how to help themselves. I recognize that it takes courage and strength to ask for help. Your decision to seek therapy for yourself is evidence that you possess these qualities and have the ability to make changes that will lead you to a happier, healthier life. I would be honored to work with you on your journey!

This is Stephanie Kandie's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Kandie

Offering therapy in MN
License: MA, LADC, LPCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

Stephanie earned her Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice: Client Services from Rasmussen College. She also received a Master’s degree in Integrated Recovery for Co-occurring Disorders Counseling from Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies. Stephanie has experience working in the fields of Criminal Justice, Social and Human Services, and mental health/addiction counseling over the last 10 years. She is currently a dually licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). Stephanie has experience working with diverse populations in a wide range of settings, including dual-diagnosis care. Stephanie finds it important to take a person-centered approach in all of her work and prides herself in meeting clients where they are at and walking alongside them in their unique journey so that they can become the best versions of themselves. Stephanie believes that each client is the expert in their own unique journey and life, and she will merely act as a GPS, guiding them through therapy with tools and skills to make the trip easier. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys family time and traveling.

This is Crystal Morton's avatar and link to their profile

Crystal Morton

Offering therapy in MN
License: LIMHP (Nebraska),LMHC (Iowa) ,LADC (Nebraska)
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Hello! I completed my Bachelor of Science degree in Human Services/Management in 2012 from the University of Phoenix. I earned my Master of Science degree in Clinical Counseling in 2016 from Bellevue University in Nebraska. I have worked in a variety of mental and behavioral health venues, including at-risk and detained youth as a support specialist, a mental health crisis responder, outpatient therapist, intensive in-home therapist, and foster care therapist. My recent primary focus has been on behavioral modification, therapeutic skills building with implementation and practice, and resource connectivity targeting stability and maintenance in the community for those with severe and persistent mental and behavioral health problems. I have worked with clients with a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, mood disruption, emotional dysregulation, ADHD, adjustment disorders, parenting problems, suicidal ideation and self-injurious behavior, and anger management. Presently, I hold my independent practitioner license in Nebraska, Iowa and Minnesota; I am board certified through the National Board for Certified Counselors, with additional Nebraska credentials including Licensed Professional Counselor, and Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor. I work to provide individualized and active therapeutic assessment and intervention based on strengths and needs. My counseling style is warm and engaging. I want my clients to be as involved in their treatment planning and interventions as possible. I work hard to provide a mutually respectful and dignified environment that fosters growth and development towards improved functioning and a decrease in symptoms that may be making life difficult. My approach uses a combination of cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavior, person-centered, motivational interviewing, and guided discovery psychotherapy modes in order to meet each individual's needs and goals. Always remember, asking for help and seeking positive change can be difficult but it is worth it. If you are ready to take that step I will be here to support, guide, and empower you.

This is Amanda Averill's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Averill

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota and Ohio with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & 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 Dr. Leia Twigg-Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Leia Twigg-Smith

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
9 years of experience

I am a licensed psychologist in Minnesota. I have been working with Veterans and first responders for the past five years. Prior to moving to Minnesota in 2019, I was working with active duty military personnel and their dependents. As a master's level mental health professional, I worked in a Level 3 prison for two years. I also worked in community mental health for three years, providing clinical services to Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians, and in private practice doing assessments for police department candidates. In my current practice, as a Health Psychologist, I help clients manage health behaviors such as disordered eating, quitting smoking, vaping, dip, alcohol abuse, exercise habits, and sleep problem. Of course, I also manage mental health problems like stress and anxiety, depression, relationship problems, and some personality disorders. I practice Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy (EFT), which is an attachment-based approach designed to increase physical and emotional bonds between partners. Treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion is part of my ethics code. You can expect me to tailor your sessions and treatment planning to meet your unique and specific needs. The first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life requires insight. It also takes courage to make that first step, and dedication to see the changes through. I am here to support you on your journey to a better you. Let's get started!

This is Alexcis Grushinski's avatar and link to their profile

Alexcis Grushinski

Offering therapy in MN
License: LCSW,M. Ed
Self esteemCareer difficultiesBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

Hi, I'm Alexcis! I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker but you might also call me a mindful, coping skills, mood disturbance, values-oriented, polyamorous counselor. I help people who long to feel stable, secure, physically, and emotionally healthy but hold themselves back due to past and present difficulties. These barriers, keep them from moving forward and accomplishing their goals. Living a life of values does not guarantee a stress-free easy life. It can however help get through the tough times by keeping us on track to accomplish our goals. Life is hard and full of stress. I believe that through self-compassion, values, mindfulness, and a desire for something better will lead to a meaningful life. Call or send an email to start on your new path.

This is Evita Sanchez's avatar and link to their profile

Evita Sanchez

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am a bilingual Latina therapist licensed in Minnesota with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Kristen Paeth's avatar and link to their profile

Kristen Paeth

Offering therapy in MN
License: LCSW,CSAC,CSOTP
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in Wisconsin. I have been working as a therapist for the past four years, and have several years of experience as a social worker who has worked in Child Protective Services and in-home Autism therapy. I have worked with clients who experience a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, sex addiction, alcohol and drug addiction, incarceration and legal problems, and sex offenders. I have the most experience working with adult males who are reentering society after a period of incarceration, but I'm comfortable working with anyone. When it comes to scheduling, I am looking to add additional clients for weekends and some evenings during the week! I graduated in 2017 with a Masters in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin - Madison! Go Bucky! My undergrad experience was completed at University of Wisconsin - Whitewater where I completed a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I enjoy talking and learning about others through their experiences and stories, and I find that I am a great listener. My counseling approach is client centered! I enjoy building rapport with clients and challenging them to reach their full potential. I utilize a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, and Mindfulness techniques, as well as focusing on meeting you where you are at in your journey. My goal is to help you reach your goals by providing support and motivation! Change requires vulnerability, empathy, and willingness. Taking that first step means you're on the road to improving your life and I hope to be a part of that journey. I look forward to working with you.

How to find counseling in Rochester

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester, 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 Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester 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 55906 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 Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester, 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.

Rochester 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 Rochester.

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

55901, 55902, 55903, 55904, 55905, 55906

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