Therapists in Yankton County, SD
Life can be very difficult at times and seeking mental health services can help you through those times. I will be able to assist you in coping with the struggles in your life and meeting your mental health goals. I have 20 years of experience in providing mental health therapy in an outpatient setting. Whether you are coming in for individual therapy or for couple's therapy, I will assist you in this journey.
Life can be very difficult at times and seeking mental health services can help you through those times. I will be able to assist you in coping with the struggles in your life and meeting your mental health goals. I have 20 years of experience in providing mental health therapy in an outpatient setting. Whether you are coming in for individual therapy or for couple's therapy, I will assist you in this journey.
As a licensed professional mental health counselor, I strive to help couples, families and individuals find the resources to work together, communicate and find the harmonious balance that will foster a healthy relationship in a marriage or family setting. Couples and families who are experiencing distress often play the "blame game" and experience difficulty in communication. As a counselor and third party, I strive to help clients listen to each other, find healthy communication techniques, and accept responsibility for their roles in the relationship in turn encouraging love and respect to grow within the family system.
As a licensed professional mental health counselor, I strive to help couples, families and individuals find the resources to work together, communicate and find the harmonious balance that will foster a healthy relationship in a marriage or family setting. Couples and families who are experiencing distress often play the "blame game" and experience difficulty in communication. As a counselor and third party, I strive to help clients listen to each other, find healthy communication techniques, and accept responsibility for their roles in the relationship in turn encouraging love and respect to grow within the family system.
Life can shift in unexpected ways, leaving you feeling disconnected, stuck, or unsure of who you are now. Maybe you’re navigating loss, grief, trauma, or a major life change that’s left you feeling disconnected, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, searching for your way forward, hoping to find an increased sense of self worth, confidence, peace, and purpose. Together, we’ll explore what matters most, strengthen your resilience, and help you move toward a life that feels grounded, hopeful, and truly your own with a refreshed heart and newfound joy.
Life can shift in unexpected ways, leaving you feeling disconnected, stuck, or unsure of who you are now. Maybe you’re navigating loss, grief, trauma, or a major life change that’s left you feeling disconnected, anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, searching for your way forward, hoping to find an increased sense of self worth, confidence, peace, and purpose. Together, we’ll explore what matters most, strengthen your resilience, and help you move toward a life that feels grounded, hopeful, and truly your own with a refreshed heart and newfound joy.
Melissa Kaiser is a licensed clinical social worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Iowa and over 20 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. Throughout her career, she has worked with both children and adults, providing comprehensive, compassionate care across a wide range of diagnoses.
Melissa Kaiser is a licensed clinical social worker with a Master’s degree from the University of Iowa and over 20 years of experience in inpatient and outpatient mental health settings. Throughout her career, she has worked with both children and adults, providing comprehensive, compassionate care across a wide range of diagnoses.
Journey To Change Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP
1 Endorsed
Yankton, SD 57078
Seeking mental health services can help an individual learn to cope with the difficulties that occur in one’s life. I will be available to assist you in your mental health needs, learning to manage symptoms causing one discomfort. Mental health therapy, whether individual or couples, is about change and meeting the best needs of those involved.
Seeking mental health services can help an individual learn to cope with the difficulties that occur in one’s life. I will be available to assist you in your mental health needs, learning to manage symptoms causing one discomfort. Mental health therapy, whether individual or couples, is about change and meeting the best needs of those involved.
My passion for mental health and helping others has been a prominent part of my life for as long as I can remember. Having been born in Yankton, SD, and raised in Vermillion, SD, I became acutely aware of the limited access to mental health resources in rural communities, like my own. It is both inspiring and fulfilling to witness organizations like Rising Hope bridging those gaps in service, and to now be part of that mission to expand accessible, quality care.
I work with adolescents and young adults, ages 8 to 25.
I am available for in-person sessions at Rising Hope's Yankton office location and for Telehealth.
My passion for mental health and helping others has been a prominent part of my life for as long as I can remember. Having been born in Yankton, SD, and raised in Vermillion, SD, I became acutely aware of the limited access to mental health resources in rural communities, like my own. It is both inspiring and fulfilling to witness organizations like Rising Hope bridging those gaps in service, and to now be part of that mission to expand accessible, quality care.
I work with adolescents and young adults, ages 8 to 25.
I am available for in-person sessions at Rising Hope's Yankton office location and for Telehealth.
I provide mental health services as a licensed clinician in South Dakota (CSW‑PIP) and Nebraska (LIMHP/LCSW).
My ideal clients are people who are overwhelmed by life’s demands and are looking for a seasoned, steady therapist who can help them regain emotional balance. They tend to be:
1. Adults and adolescents navigating depression or anxiety who feel stuck, exhausted, or emotionally overloaded.
2. Individuals facing major life transitions (Divorce, Career changes, Health challenges, Caregiving stress. Empty‑nest transitions)
I provide mental health services as a licensed clinician in South Dakota (CSW‑PIP) and Nebraska (LIMHP/LCSW).
My ideal clients are people who are overwhelmed by life’s demands and are looking for a seasoned, steady therapist who can help them regain emotional balance. They tend to be:
1. Adults and adolescents navigating depression or anxiety who feel stuck, exhausted, or emotionally overloaded.
2. Individuals facing major life transitions (Divorce, Career changes, Health challenges, Caregiving stress. Empty‑nest transitions)
I have experience working in the inpatient setting with adolescents, adults, and their families. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults from all backgrounds with a variety of mental health needs including trauma and PTSD, relationship concerns, challenging life transitions, anxiety, depression, anger management issues, Autism, depression, and other emotional/ behavioral issues/needs. I welcome court-referred clients or clients otherwise involved in the legal system. I have been intensively trained by BTech for DBT.
I have experience working in the inpatient setting with adolescents, adults, and their families. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults from all backgrounds with a variety of mental health needs including trauma and PTSD, relationship concerns, challenging life transitions, anxiety, depression, anger management issues, Autism, depression, and other emotional/ behavioral issues/needs. I welcome court-referred clients or clients otherwise involved in the legal system. I have been intensively trained by BTech for DBT.
Austin Nachtigall - Yellow Brick Road Counseling
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
1 Endorsed
Yankton, SD 57078
Welcome to a space where your journey to understanding and improving your mental well-being takes the next step. I’m Austin, a dedicated mental health professional committed to assisting individuals in living up to their fullest potential. I specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, cultivate resilience, and achieve personal growth. Whether you’re grappling with anxiety, a major life challenge, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, my approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration.
Welcome to a space where your journey to understanding and improving your mental well-being takes the next step. I’m Austin, a dedicated mental health professional committed to assisting individuals in living up to their fullest potential. I specialize in helping individuals navigate stress, cultivate resilience, and achieve personal growth. Whether you’re grappling with anxiety, a major life challenge, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, my approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration.
Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, NCC, LMHC
Yankton, SD 57078
Life can be better! Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy is a safe and comfortable place to address your concerns. Many of us carry hurt and pain for years but choosing therapy to address it helps your life to become better. With a passion for helping people through difficult times in their lives, we use a refreshing approach to address crisis, hurt, and pain. We enjoy working with all ages, individuals, couples and groups with a special interest in adolescents and young adults. We use a variety of tools to address anxiety, depression, behavior and relationship issues. Let's begin your journey to healing for a better life!
Life can be better! Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy is a safe and comfortable place to address your concerns. Many of us carry hurt and pain for years but choosing therapy to address it helps your life to become better. With a passion for helping people through difficult times in their lives, we use a refreshing approach to address crisis, hurt, and pain. We enjoy working with all ages, individuals, couples and groups with a special interest in adolescents and young adults. We use a variety of tools to address anxiety, depression, behavior and relationship issues. Let's begin your journey to healing for a better life!
I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, dissociation, trauma and abuse, PTSD, religious/spiritual trauma, sex work/trafficking and eating issues. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients with specialized training for supporting transgender clients as well as cult recovery/religious deconstruction. My therapy style is warm, interactive and person centered. I believe everyone has the ability to find healing. It takes courage to reach out and ask for support. That courage will serve you well as you work towards feeling better. I'm here to support you in your process of healing.
I have worked with clients with a variety of concerns including anxiety, dissociation, trauma and abuse, PTSD, religious/spiritual trauma, sex work/trafficking and eating issues. I have a special interest in working with LGBTQIA+ clients with specialized training for supporting transgender clients as well as cult recovery/religious deconstruction. My therapy style is warm, interactive and person centered. I believe everyone has the ability to find healing. It takes courage to reach out and ask for support. That courage will serve you well as you work towards feeling better. I'm here to support you in your process of healing.
I love helping people reach their full potential and providing support to them along the way! I provide a holistic and non-judgemental approach to clients to help them feel safe, heard, and validated. Together we will discover what works best for you and create reachable goals. I work with all personal, relational, sexual, and psychological issues. Through one-on-one therapy, I am committed and dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. As for couples therapy, we will work through difficult relationship dynamics and conflicts while we strengthen communication and intimacy!
I love helping people reach their full potential and providing support to them along the way! I provide a holistic and non-judgemental approach to clients to help them feel safe, heard, and validated. Together we will discover what works best for you and create reachable goals. I work with all personal, relational, sexual, and psychological issues. Through one-on-one therapy, I am committed and dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. As for couples therapy, we will work through difficult relationship dynamics and conflicts while we strengthen communication and intimacy!
At Sunstone Counseling, we are a team of dedicated professionals who believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life. We specialize in providing professional counseling services to help individuals, couples, and families cope with mental health and behavioral issues. Our team consists of licensed counselors and supervisees with years of experience in the field, who are committed to providing compassionate care. Accessibility to mental health care is critical– we have offices in Yankton, Vermillion, Sioux Falls, and Madison SD to support the growing need in these communities.
At Sunstone Counseling, we are a team of dedicated professionals who believe that everyone deserves to live a fulfilling life. We specialize in providing professional counseling services to help individuals, couples, and families cope with mental health and behavioral issues. Our team consists of licensed counselors and supervisees with years of experience in the field, who are committed to providing compassionate care. Accessibility to mental health care is critical– we have offices in Yankton, Vermillion, Sioux Falls, and Madison SD to support the growing need in these communities.
Kristina Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MH, QMHP, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Do you ever find yourself thinking, “Something feels off—why am I feeling this way?” Do you experience moments of overwhelm, tension, or fear of not being good enough? You don’t have to face those feelings alone. My goal is to help you ease your anxiety and find relief from depression by creating a safe, supportive space where you can reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and work toward clarity, healing, and lasting change.
My role as your therapist is to help you gain the knowledge, the skills, and resources within yourself and your environment to reach contentment as you define it.
Do you ever find yourself thinking, “Something feels off—why am I feeling this way?” Do you experience moments of overwhelm, tension, or fear of not being good enough? You don’t have to face those feelings alone. My goal is to help you ease your anxiety and find relief from depression by creating a safe, supportive space where you can reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll explore your concerns and work toward clarity, healing, and lasting change.
My role as your therapist is to help you gain the knowledge, the skills, and resources within yourself and your environment to reach contentment as you define it.
Life is a journey, not a destination.We need strength & resiliency during that journey. We all occasionally stumble and face pitfalls. I am an experienced and intuitive mental health professional, who will help you heal during the times of emotional distress and life crises. My training and professional experience focus on helping clients during the time of transition.I have been successful in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Chronic pain. I include therapeutic hypnosis Do not face your struggles alone. Help is within reach. You will know after your first visit, if you made the right choice.
Life is a journey, not a destination.We need strength & resiliency during that journey. We all occasionally stumble and face pitfalls. I am an experienced and intuitive mental health professional, who will help you heal during the times of emotional distress and life crises. My training and professional experience focus on helping clients during the time of transition.I have been successful in the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Chronic pain. I include therapeutic hypnosis Do not face your struggles alone. Help is within reach. You will know after your first visit, if you made the right choice.
If you are a kiddo or a kid at heart, someone addressing sexual or gender concerns, a couple seeking support, an adult with developmental or intellectual disabilities, someone addressing spiritual concerns, and/or facing traumas associated with relational violence, my background might be a good fit for you.
Come on in - I look forward to meeting you!
If you are a kiddo or a kid at heart, someone addressing sexual or gender concerns, a couple seeking support, an adult with developmental or intellectual disabilities, someone addressing spiritual concerns, and/or facing traumas associated with relational violence, my background might be a good fit for you.
Come on in - I look forward to meeting you!
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
I’m Dr. Dean Leav. I've been featured on ABC, NBC, KCAL, and other programs as an expert psychologist. I conduct ADHD / autism / learning disability evaluations, legal / forensic evaluations for court, risk assessment (violence / sexual), cognitive / neuropsychological evaluations, diagnostic psychological evaluations, immigration evaluations, adoption evaluations, parenting / bonding assessments, drug & alcohol evaluations, fitness for duty evaluations, workers' compensation (QME/AME) evaluations, and other types of psychological evaluations / assessments.
Bienvenidos a mi página! I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I provide a warm, collaborative space where you can feel understood and supported.
Bienvenidos a mi página! I work with adults and teens navigating anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I provide a warm, collaborative space where you can feel understood and supported.
Online Therapists
Spencer Kappenman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, QMHP
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
When life feels heavy or unclear, it can be hard to know where to begin. Many people I work with carry quiet overwhelm, old wounds, or patterns that leave them feeling dimmed or disconnected. Therapy becomes a place to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the parts of you that still glow beneath the chaos. My role is to offer a steady, warm space where you can sort through what’s happening with honesty, compassion, and a pace that actually feels manageable.
When life feels heavy or unclear, it can be hard to know where to begin. Many people I work with carry quiet overwhelm, old wounds, or patterns that leave them feeling dimmed or disconnected. Therapy becomes a place to pause, breathe, and reconnect with the parts of you that still glow beneath the chaos. My role is to offer a steady, warm space where you can sort through what’s happening with honesty, compassion, and a pace that actually feels manageable.
Hi there! I'm excited for you to be finding the right counselor for you. Everyone deserves to have appropriate support and connection in their journey. I welcome individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds into a safe, supportive, and judgement-free space. Whether you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration, relationship challenges, or simply seeking greater self-understanding, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy and respect. My approach is rooted in genuine connection, curiosity, and compassion, creating a therapeutic experience where you feel truly seen and heard.
Hi there! I'm excited for you to be finding the right counselor for you. Everyone deserves to have appropriate support and connection in their journey. I welcome individuals from all walks of life and backgrounds into a safe, supportive, and judgement-free space. Whether you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration, relationship challenges, or simply seeking greater self-understanding, I am here to walk alongside you with empathy and respect. My approach is rooted in genuine connection, curiosity, and compassion, creating a therapeutic experience where you feel truly seen and heard.
See more therapy options for Yankton County
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in Yankton County, SD
10+
Average cost per session
$220
Therapists in Yankton County, SD who prioritize treating:
| 94% | Depression |
| 89% | Anxiety |
| 83% | Grief |
| 83% | Trauma and PTSD |
| 83% | Life Transitions |
| 78% | Relationship Issues |
| 78% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
14 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
| 94% | Avera Health Plans |
| 94% | Sanford Health Plan |
| 88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Therapists in Yankton County, SD see their clients
| 94% | In Person and Online | |
| 6% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
| 77% | Female | |
| 15% | Male | |
| 8% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in Yankton County?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.

