Saint Francis, Minnesota was named after Francis of Assisi, the Italian deacon and friar. The town was founded by Dwight Woodbury in 1855 when he built a saw mill, grist, and dam as well as the first home, which was later changed to a hotel. The town still enjoys its small-town atmosphere even though they have many of the amenities of a larger metropolis.

The Saint Francis area also has a wealth of mental health care experts who can help those who need it. If you are having some mental or emotional concerns, contact one of the counselors or therapists in the Saint Francis area today.

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Dr. Jean Balestrery

Offering therapy in MN
License: PhD,LICSW, MAC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
15 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience working in the behavioral health field and as a life coach. I have worked with clients to address a range of concerns including stress and anxiety, life changes, career challenges, motivation, self-esteem and confidence. My counseling style is client-centered and engaging. I believe in seeing the future as full of possibilities. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic and insight oriented elements. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique needs. It takes courage to seek support for a more fulfilling and happier life. I bring compassion and patience to support one’s journey of growth and view this journey as a commitment worth pursuing. I look forward to working with you!

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Alfred Jaryan

Offering therapy in MN
Anger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
6 years of experience

To understand and connect to the present moment, we must first reconnect to our past experiences. through my clinical and educational experiences, I believe that our past experiences live in our present bodies and shows up through the thoughts, beliefs and emotions we carry about the environment. In therapy, I create a safe space for my clients to engage in this healing process through curious, open-ended questions, modeling, cognitive challenging, supportive reflections, processing culture/diversities, motivational Interviewing strategies, and Self-Care approaches. I value Authenticity, Professionalism, and diversity in all forms. Our stories need to be understood, not changed. I am passionate about helping a diverse population of individuals, couples, and families connect to their healing resources because we are all experts in our own lives. By learning how to love and care for ourselves, we developed and maintained healthier relationships. The imperfections and wounds that we carry in our bodies require the same love and care as our best parts. I graduated from Argosy University, Twin-Cities, with a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I implement a client-centered and motivational interviewing approach to help my clients maintain therapeutic success in the community. I have five years of clinical experience providing individual and family therapy to a diverse clientele in an intensive inpatient/outpatient co-occurring mental health and chemical dependency treatment center and schools, communities, and private practice agencies. I also have experience working with clients who have experienced multiple severity levels of trauma, depressive and anxiety symptoms, and struggles with addictions. I value a one-day-at-a-time approach by helping clients learn how to focus on the “here and now.” When not working, I enjoy exercising, playing basketball, and spending time with family. I also engage in self-care activities like going for walks, reading, and listening to music.

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Susan Brennan

Offering therapy in MN
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20 years of experience working as a clinical psychotherapist. I am a Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family State Approved Supervisor and Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health State Approved Supervisor and currently contracted with MN Adult and Teen Challenge. I have worked with clients experiencing Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues, Addictions and Codependency and Marriage Challenges, and I specialize in Christian-based counseling. My approach is nonjudgmental and affirming. I believe we all experience difficult seasons in life, and sometimes the most courageous decision is to reach out for help. Healing begins as people feel respected and sincerely heard and understood. New perspectives often emerge as problems are discussed in a safe and confidential relationship. I utilize a narrative approach combined with cognitive-behavioral strategies and tools to help further people toward desired goals. Small steps lead to big strides. I have always appreciated this quote by Mary Ann Radmacher: Courage does not always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, "I 'll try again tomorrow."

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Carlyss Kurtti

Offering therapy in MN
License: M.Ed, LPC,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
18 years of experience

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of North Dakota with over 16 years of experience working as a psychotherapist/clinician. I earned my Masters Degree in Counseling at North Dakota State University. I have helped a variety of clients with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, panic disorder, codependency, relationship issues, parenting and co-parenting problems, career challenges and overwhelm, OCD, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, trauma, abuse, experiencing divorce, and ADHD. My therapeutic style is non-judgmental, patient, compassionate, and open to anything that is "on your mind." I believe in treating every person with respect, sensitivity, and unconditional positive regard. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, trauma therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, and acceptance and commitment therapy. I have the ability to individualize your sessions and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults and geriatric clients. I have a special interest in survivors of abuse/domestic violence, divorce, grief, trauma, and codependency. I am very open-minded and embrace diversity. I am very proud of you for taking the first step toward a healthy life. I would be honored to walk with you on your journey to wellness. I am committed to excellence in client care! I look forward to working with you!

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Barbra Hughes

Offering therapy in MN
Depression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with 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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Caitlin Ostman

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefAnger managementSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & anger management. 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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Candiss Williams

Offering therapy in MN
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Texas and have been in the social service field for over 15 years. My general practice includes a focus on depression and anxiety disorders or everyday life stressors. I specialize in: •Multiculturalism/Diversity •Grief/Loss •Interpersonal/Relationship issues (Couples) •Family/Child Development •Mind, Body, Soul •Traumatic situations (PTSD)/Disasters •Women Issues •LGBT or Questioning •Assessment/Diagnosis and Referral to Psychiatry I am a mulit-specialty provider seeing clients of all ages, with all types of concerns and problems. As a leading provider of counseling services, I take pride in offering the best therapeutic techniques and a comforting environment that allows you to express yourself. I am dedicated to serving the needs of my clients each and every day. I am dedicated to helping individuals achieve the growth they long for. I have extensive experience working as a school counselor, domestic abuse, substance abuse, and juvenile/adult criminal justice system with crisis intervention. I combine Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused , and Family Systems theory into an eclectic approach while introducing healthy coping skills to facilitate positive change.

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Autumn Asplund

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTDepression
5 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Professional in Minnesota with 5 years of professional experience; treating depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, & LGBTQI+ matters . I believe that you are the expert of your story and your strengths. We will work together to gain mastery of the challenges your are coming face to face with. You are already embarked on your journey to well being and recovery, I praise your courage and bravery for taking the first step.

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Dr. Ashley Shelanski

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
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, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Kyle Johannessen

Offering therapy in MN
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota with 7 years of professional work experience. I provided my clients with individual, group, and family therapeutic services. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self-esteem, confidence, depression, and communication. I enjoy challenging negative thought patterns and perceptions in order to help my clients achieve a more accurate, realistic, and positive outlook on life. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Every person's life is its own puzzle, and each needs to be approached in a unique way in order to provide effective services. I would like to work with you on how I could help meet your therapeutic needs and change my approach in order to accommodate them. It is extremely difficult to offend me, as my own ego has no place in your journey towards mental health. I encourage and welcome feedback and constructive criticism if you would like to adjust how we approach your therapy sessions! It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. No one person is strong enough to deal with everything on their own, and having the ability to ask for help is where change can truly begin. I am here to support & empower you in this journey.

How to find counseling in Saint Francis

Finding the best therapist close by in Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis. 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 Saint Francis, 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis, elsewhere in Anoka, 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 Saint Francis area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis, 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 55070 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis, 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.

Saint Francis 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 Saint Francis.

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

55070, 55330

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