Working with a therapist can provide a supportive environment for working through many of life’s challenges. If you’re looking for therapy in South Dakota, using an online therapy platform like BetterHelp can make access to mental health care more convenient and flexible.

With BetterHelp, you can work with a marriage and family therapist, licensed mental health counselor, or other licensed therapist from the comfort of your home at a time that suits your schedule. This flexibility makes accessing therapy more convenient, whether you’re a busy professional trying to avoid burnout or a graduate student working on a doctoral degree. 

While BetterHelp does not currently offer therapy in group settings, the marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and social workers on the platform have extensive experience and can help individuals overcome their unique challenges and meet their goals.

Whether you have experienced trauma or you want to learn to overcome other emotional challenges, therapy can help. If you’re looking for an online therapist, SD has many options. The South Dakota therapists listed below are licensed to provide teletherapy across the state and can help you gain insight and take steps toward a more satisfying life.

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Victoria Scott

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: CO LPC 17177, MS LPC 2071
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I have enjoyed working for various mental health agencies and have extensive experience in several areas of counseling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, in the states of Mississippi, Colorado, Georgia, North Carolina, Louisiana and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the state of Nevada. I have worked with individuals, couples, families and groups. I have worked with children as young as 4 to adults up to age 101! I have assisted clients who struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, relational and self-esteem issues. I am a mother of seven, including a son on the autism spectrum. My counseling style is person-centered. I believe in treating everyone with respect and unconditional positive regard. I will devise a plan of treatment created specifically for you. My personal life experiences, in addition to my education and work history, help me to empower individuals to overcome difficult emotional obstacles. I know that asking for help can be difficult. Congratulations on taking that first step. I am looking forward to hearing from you and guiding you through the therapeutic process.

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Jacquelyn "Jackie" Berke

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: AZ LPC LPC-21867, SD LPC LPC-MH30775
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, 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! All scheduled sessions are done through Jackie as her schedule is busy. She does apologize for this inconvenience.

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Cory Nelson

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC LPC934
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a professional counselor licensed in South Dakota. I have over 20 years of experience. I have worked with clients ranging in age from 3 to 85 and have assisted clients as they work on their concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting issues, relationship issues, loss and grief, and addiction. Years ago, I became a fan of the superhero, Spider-Man. His guiding philosophy is “With great power comes great responsibility.” I adhere to this philosophy in counseling. I treat others with respect and compassion. I understand the journey of counseling can be daunting, especially as the journey begins. I view my role as being collaborative as we identify where you’d like to go. I believe it is important that everyone have an environment where they can feel safe and supported. My approach combines client-centered and cognitive-behavioral counseling. If you are ready to start your journey I am here to walk with you. I look forward to working with you.

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Jenee Hill

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC LPC21098, NE LIMHP 1455
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

Hello, my name is Jenee' (pronounced Janay) and I have provided mental health services and drug and alcohol services for over 12 years. I am a licensed independent mental health professional (LIMHP), a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC), a licensed mental health provider, and a Nebraska Registered Service Provider. I work with all ages. I also offer trauma-informed services that are supportive, empowering, and safe. I am currently Certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)-Evidence Based Psychotherapy (EBP) for ages 3-Teenagers. I also have training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) another EBP psychotherapy for treating trauma, mental health, and addictions. I have a special interest in the complexities of the human brain and the role it plays in human existence, addiction, trauma, and mental health. My expertise lies in helping people with Trauma simple and complex as well as co-occurring issues related to drug use, alcohol use and/or other mental health conditions. People are diagnosed with co-occurring conditions when one issue is established independently of the other. My counseling style is person-centered. I believe each person has unique issues, stories, and paths/journeys t healing. I employ clinically-proven techniques to help people overcome their concerns and reach their treatment goals. I am passionate about working with individuals (all ages) and families as they achieve recovery, wellness, and wholeness. I view long-term recovery as a journey, not a destination.​ I look forward to working with you!

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Barbara Lefdal

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC-MH LPC-MH30757
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
30 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience in South Dakota, I specialize in supporting individuals through life's complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges such as depression, anxiety, grief, and significant life transitions. I have a deep commitment to working with older adults, caregivers, and individuals experiencing social isolation, loneliness, and complex emotional experiences. My therapeutic approach is compassionate and nuanced, focusing on areas like self-love, communication challenges, social anxiety, and healing from traumatic experiences. I understand the unique emotional journeys of aging, caregiving, and navigating profound personal transitions. My work is dedicated to creating a supportive, understanding environment where individuals can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strength. I bring extensive clinical expertise in addressing guilt, shame, codependency, and the intricate emotional needs of individuals facing significant life changes. My goal is to walk alongside my clients, offering gentle guidance and professional support as they move toward healing and personal growth.

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Lisa Adler

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC-MH LPC-MH2060
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed therapist in South Dakota with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, parenting, as well as many other life challenges and issues. 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 on that journey without judgement or criticism. I will be open and honest in my assessment of your situation, and we will use evidence based methods to help you successfully achieve your therapy goals. I generally check messages here a few times per day and respond as quickly as I can. I do appreciate your patience when it takes a bit longer at times, as I may be tending to other clients or professional/personal responsibilities.

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James Cady

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC-MH 30534
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
17 years of experience

I was born and raised in Sioux City, Iowa. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in psychology from Morningside College in Sioux City . I earned a Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota . In the spring of 2013, I was awarded a Specialist’s Degree in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of South Dakota in Vermillion, South Dakota. For six years, I worked as a counselor with a local community mental health center. In June of 2013, I established a private practice . In my years as a counselor, I have worked with a variety of populations experiencing a wide range of emotional challenges. This work has included working with families, couples, and children.

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Kathryn Sims

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC LPC20592
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in South Dakota with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Pamala Topp

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: MI LPC 6401019479, SD LPC LPC20726
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Dakota and Michigan. My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, are anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life. I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, attachment disorders. I also work with anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADHD, anger/impulse control, grief & loss, relationship issues. I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy with all individuals, and tend to approach what I do from an Existential, Psychodynamic and Person-Centered way. Navigating through issues on your own can be difficult and overwhelming. It helps to have someone that understands your struggle, and walk with you on your path of recovery.

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Dr. Dawn Schulze

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: AZ LPC LPC-22868, NM LPCC CTB-2024-0010
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoaching
30 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with three decades of experience in providing therapy, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex life transitions and emotional challenges. My practice centers on helping clients navigate stress, relationship dynamics, trauma recovery, and personal growth. I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach that honors each person's unique journey. My expertise spans a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, grief, communication difficulties, and life purpose exploration. I'm particularly passionate about supporting individuals through significant life changes, addressing interpersonal challenges, and helping clients develop deeper self-understanding and resilience. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and adaptive, drawing from evidence-based practices to meet each client's specific needs. I create a supportive environment where individuals can explore their experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards meaningful personal transformation.

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Mary Ruhland

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: IA LISW 01284, SD CSW-PIP 3229
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

As a licensed therapist in Iowa with three decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and self-esteem issues. I am particularly passionate about working with individuals experiencing social isolation, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each person's unique journey. I focus on empowering clients to develop self-love, improve communication, explore life purpose, and heal from past experiences. Whether you're struggling with panic attacks, relationship challenges, body image concerns, or midlife transitions, I provide a supportive and understanding environment. I believe in creating a collaborative space where clients can explore their emotions, develop resilience, and rediscover their inner strength. My goal is to walk alongside you as you work towards healing, personal growth, and meaningful life changes.

This is Melodie Heupel-Carney's avatar and link to their profile

Melodie Heupel-Carney

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC 20529, OK LPC LPC03361
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma and South Dakota with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & 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. 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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Shanua Smith

Offering therapy in South Dakota
License: SD LPC-MH 30699
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
19 years of experience

As a licensed therapist with nearly two decades of experience in South Dakota, I specialize in supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, and life transitions. I am deeply committed to creating a compassionate, non-judgmental space where individuals can explore their inner world and develop meaningful strategies for healing. My approach is holistic and personalized, drawing from evidence-based practices to address issues such as self-love, communication barriers, social anxiety, grief, and personal growth. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering clients to understand their experiences, build resilience, and cultivate healthier emotional patterns. Whether you're struggling with workplace stress, relationship challenges, or seeking deeper self-understanding, I'm dedicated to walking alongside you with empathy and professional expertise.

Find Therapy Near You in South Dakota

Finding a licensed therapist near you in South Dakota can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

With a population of 609,545, South Dakota is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in South Dakota, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in South Dakota (SD). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Brown, Sully, Walworth, Grant, Union, Hanson, Bennett, Jerauld, Deuel, Marshall, Day, Todd, Kingsbury, Douglas, Campbell, Sanborn, Pennington, Spink, Brookings, Aurora, Bon Homme, Minnehaha, Oglala Lakota, Butte, Jackson, Brule, Perkins, Meade, Hughes, Gregory, Beadle, Edmunds, Clark, Lake, Ziebach, McCook, Hamlin, Harding, Custer, Corson, Clay, Miner, Lincoln, Jones, Turner, Lawrence, Faulk, Roberts, Moody, Tripp, Mellette, Charles Mix, Hutchinson, Dewey, Fall River, Davison, McPherson, Codington, Stanley, Buffalo, Yankton, Potter, Hyde, Lyman, Haakon, Hand, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across South Dakota with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in South Dakota

When searching for a therapist near me in South Dakota, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across South Dakota, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across South Dakota.

Finding a therapist near you that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in South Dakota want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in South Dakota

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in South Dakota without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in South Dakota (SD)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in South Dakota

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across South Dakota, including residents in Brown, Sully, Walworth, Grant, Union, Hanson, Bennett, Jerauld, Deuel, Marshall, Day, Todd, Kingsbury, Douglas, Campbell, Sanborn, Pennington, Spink, Brookings, Aurora, Bon Homme, Minnehaha, Oglala Lakota, Butte, Jackson, Brule, Perkins, Meade, Hughes, Gregory, Beadle, Edmunds, Clark, Lake, Ziebach, McCook, Hamlin, Harding, Custer, Corson, Clay, Miner, Lincoln, Jones, Turner, Lawrence, Faulk, Roberts, Moody, Tripp, Mellette, Charles Mix, Hutchinson, Dewey, Fall River, Davison, McPherson, Codington, Stanley, Buffalo, Yankton, Potter, Hyde, Lyman, Haakon, Hand.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in South Dakota do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times for online therapy may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

In today's fast-paced society, mental well-being has become a cornerstone of a fulfilling life. Amid the daily challenges and stressors that can overwhelm even the most resilient individuals, seeking professional guidance often offers a path to clarity and balance. The journey toward improved emotional health involves understanding personal triggers, embracing self-compassion, and developing effective coping strategies. While self-help books and online resources provide valuable information, nothing compares to the personalized support offered by a qualified mental health professional. One-on-one sessions with experienced experts can help uncover the underlying issues contributing to anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles. With a careful and empathetic approach, these professionals tailor their advice to suit individual needs, ensuring that each person receives strategies that work best for their unique circumstances. Whether through cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness practices, or other innovative methods, the aim is to foster resilience and empower individuals to take control of their inner lives. For those living in bustling urban centers, engaging in face-to-face sessions in a welcoming environment can be particularly beneficial. Access to a caring clinician provides not only a safe space to explore difficult emotions but also builds a support network essential for long-term recovery. The process encourages self-reflection and greater insight into behavioral patterns that might otherwise go unnoticed. While the journey can be challenging at times, the rewards include enhanced emotional stability, improved interpersonal relationships, and a renewed sense of self-worth. In one notable case, the guidance provided by a highly trained therapist proved instrumental in navigating a tumultuous period. Through structured sessions and tailored interventions, the individual learned to identify stressors and develop healthier responses to adversity. This experience underscored the transformative impact that dedicated support can have on one's overall quality of life. In a region like Texas, community-based initiatives and accessible mental health programs further reinforce the value of professional help. These efforts emphasize early intervention, preventive care, and continuous support, ensuring that more people are equipped to face life's inevitable challenges. Ultimately, investing in mental well-being is an act of self-care that yields lifelong benefits. By embracing professional support, individuals can unlock new levels of emotional resilience and discover pathways to a brighter, more balanced future. Each step taken toward healing represents a commitment to personal growth, enabling a life filled with renewed optimism and strength. Embracing this transformative journey consistently paves the way for deeper understanding, lasting peace, and meaningful personal progress.
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