

In Saint Paul, Headway's network of 237 providers supports individuals navigating alcohol addiction, drug dependence, and behavioral addictions using harm reduction, 12-step facilitation, and mindfulness-based relapse prevention. Most clients save 75% on sessions through insurance coverage, with some paying as low as $0 per session.
With 165+ reviews and a 4.96 rating on Zocdoc, I have specialized in advanced medication management for complex, treatment-resistant conditions. I utilize a neurobiological approach that focuses on frontal lobe/executive functioning, nervous system dysregulation, and neurotransmitter systems to diagnose and treat various concerns - ADHD/executive dysfunction, OCD, trauma/C-PTSD, high-masking autism, personality profiles, and cases where standard medication treatments have failed. While I specialize in clinical complexity, I bring that same deep, careful attention to treating anxiety, depression, and clients starting medication for the first time.
Hello, I’m Dr. Stella Essien, Welcome!
As a dual board-certified Nurse Practitioner (FNP & PMHNP), I have a passion for compassionate, equitable, and accessible mental health care practice that brings evidence-based, person-centered services to individuals and families across Minnesota.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, or addiction recovery, depression, or stress, I am here to support your path forward with warmth, professionalism, and purpose.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a Master's degree in Social Work. I have specialized training in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health, Permanency and Adoption, and have dedicated my career to supporting children, families, and caregivers through life's challenges.
Over the past two decades, I have worked in a variety of settings, including child protection, foster care and adoption services, early intervention programs, family home visiting, and community mental health. These experiences have given me a deep understanding of the complex systems that impact children and families, as well as the resilience and strengths they bring to the healing process.
My areas of expertise include early childhood mental health, parenting support, foster care and adoption-related concerns, attachment and relationship challenges, trauma, family transitions, and helping caregivers navigate developmental and behavioral concerns. I am passionate about partnering with families to build on their strengths, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful, lasting change.
I am empathetic, compassionate and listen actively to my patients.
Choosing a therapist is a personal decision, and I believe you deserve someone who will meet you with compassion, curiosity, and respect. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe to be yourself—without judgment—and where we can work together to better understand the challenges you're facing and the strengths you already possess.
I hold a master's degree in Addictions and Rehabilitation Counseling and am a license professional clinical counselor in the Minnesota. Before becoming a therapist, I earned my medical degree in Mexico, an experience that deepened my appreciation for the connection between emotional and physical well-being.
Hello, my name is Betsy Walter MSW, LICSW.
I use a relational approach to working with adolescence. I am easy to talk to and like to listen.
Welcome. I’m glad you’re here.
Reaching out for support can feel overwhelming. I aim to create a safe, collaborative, and grounded space from the beginning. I meet clients where they are and move at a pace that feels manageable and respectful.
I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families experiencing anxiety, trauma, addiction, and relationship challenges. I also specialize in complex and developmental trauma.
I support clients in integrating their spiritual and cultural values into therapy when desired and clinically appropriate. I was born in New Orleans and bring a culturally informed perspective shaped by my Latina, Indigenous, Christian, and Sephardic Jewish backgrounds.
I became a therapist because I have a deep commitment to helping people recognize and build their own strengths, especially during periods of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. I understand that seeking support takes courage, and I work to create a space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported throughout the process.
I earned a Master of Social Work (MSW) and PhD from Tulane University, as well as a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Tulane University’s School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Louisiana and Texas, and a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) in Minnesota. I also hold a Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC), Licensed Prevention Professional (LPP), and Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP).


Headway makes it easier to find support for overcoming addiction — from finding the right provider, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.
Finding addiction therapists in Saint Paul starts with knowing what kind of support fits your needs. Addiction care can include support for alcohol use, drug use, compulsive behaviors, relapse prevention, and the mental health concerns that may occur alongside substance use. As you compare therapists, look for experience with approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy for substance use, harm reduction, or coordination with medication-assisted care. Some people may also work with a psychiatrist or other prescriber as part of their care team.
Saint Paul has a range of local therapy options, and virtual appointments can expand your search beyond offices near your home, work, or school. Recovery can take different paths, so it helps to find a therapist who describes their approach in clear, nonjudgmental terms and has experience with harm reduction, abstinence-based support, or both. Before booking, read therapist bios for details about addiction specialties, appointment availability, session structure, and whether a free phone consultation is offered.
Addiction counseling in Saint Paul can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before your first appointment. Headway helps you compare addiction therapists who are accepting new patients, review their profiles, verify your insurance, see estimated out-of-pocket costs, and book directly when you’re ready.
If you or someone you know is experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms — especially from alcohol or benzodiazepines — talk to a medical provider or seek emergency care before starting outpatient therapy. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction or substance use and is in a crisis, immediately reach out to:
* 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — call or text 988 * SAMHSA National Helpline — 1-800-662-HELP (4357), free, confidential, 24/7 * Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741
If you're already taking psychiatric medication and considering switching providers, talk to your current prescriber before changing or stopping any medication — most psychiatric medications shouldn't be stopped abruptly. Anyone experiencing thoughts of self-harm or in acute crisis should call 988 or go to the nearest emergency department rather than wait for an outpatient appointment.
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