He is the best.
David Nilsen, LCSW
Experienced mental health professional
Provides online counseling through BetterHelp
At a glance
David is an experienced, licensed Mental Health Professional who specializes in affordable online therapy offered through our partner, BetterHelp.
- 4.5 stars
- Clients are very satisfied with David. View 7 reviews
- Speaks English
- Offers Telehealth visits
- Licensed in Illinois and South Dakota
Recent reviews
He’s kind and patient.
More about David
- 5 years' experience
- Male
- LCSW, CSW-PIP
Welcome,
Requesting help is a huge first step. Here is a little bit about me.
I served my country in the Army for 20 years, and was able to see much of the world during my service. During my tour of duty, I was able to stop smoking 3 packs of cigarettes, while simultaneously kicking my habit of drinking 12 cans of beer daily. 26 years later, I live a sober and cigarette free life. I currently live 30 miles away from the Crazy Horse Monument.
I received a bachelor’s degree in 2005, physical education and health. I subsequently worked as an addictions counselor for 5 years. Wanting more from life, I returned to school and received my master’s degree in Social Work in 2014. Currently, I work at the VA helping with veterans with PTSD, addictions, anxiety, depression.
I have been trained in several evidence-based approaches: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Motivational interviewing (MI). We will develop a treatment plan together in a learning style that best suits you.
Specialties
Addictions
Trauma and abuse
Self esteem
Bipolar disorder
Depression
LGBT
Anger management
Coaching
Drug and alcohol addiction
Guilt and shame
Veteran and Armed Forces Issues
Panic disorder and panic attacks
Post-traumatic stress
Treatment Approaches
- Client-Centered Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Mindfulness Therapy
- Motivational Interviewing
- Solution-Focused Therapy
- Trauma-Focused Therapy
Licenses
David Nilsen's National Provider Identifier (NPI) is 1114326998.
- LCSW · Illinois · 149023208 · Expires November 2025
- CSW-PIP · South Dakota · 6232 · Expires December 2025
About online counseling
- Affordable.
- Pay a low flat fee.
- Convenient.
- Do it at your own time and at your own pace. Communicate whenever you feel it's needed.
- Available now.
- There is no waiting list and no calls to make. Simply fill out a short questionnaire and send your first message.
Online counseling, also known as teletherapy, is a method of delivering mental health services through digital means such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging platforms. It can be an ideal option for individuals who have difficulty accessing traditional therapy due to geographical distance, time constraints, or personal preferences like privacy and comfort. Many people find it easier to open up from the familiarity of their own space.
Teletherapy has been found to be highly effective, with studies showing that it can produce similar outcomes to in-person therapy, particularly for issues like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The flexibility and accessibility it offers make it a valuable alternative to conventional therapy settings.
Reviews for David Nilsen
All reviews have been submitted by clients after seeing the provider.
Overall rating:
He is the best.
He’s kind and patient.
David ability to put word on some of my "behaviors" or "habit" make it so much more easier to understand what I'm experiencing and try to work on it or be more "aware" of what's happening. I really enjoy the conversation we have and how he manage to destabilized me when I'm maybe not expecting it but still needing it.
During my short time with David I am gaining confidence to help me set boundaries and follow through with them. He listens with respect and empathy. He also provides me ways to empower myself. I look forward to my sessions and look forward to continuing to work with him in therapy.
Cancelled and never rescheduled. Says he had to have surgery but why was available to make appointments?
David is awesome!
First chat with David, i wish id chose him sooner.
Frequently asked questions
Does David Nilsen offer telehealth visits?
Yes. David Nilsen works with clients by exchanging messages, chatting live, speaking over the phone, or video conferencing based on what works for the client at that particular time.
What language(s) does David Nilsen speak?
David Nilsen speaks English.
How many years of experience does David Nilsen have?
David Nilsen has 5 years of experience.
Where is David Nilsen licensed to practice?
David Nilsen is licensed to practice in Illinois and South Dakota.
Does David Nilsen accept clients outside of the United States?
Yes, David Nilsen accepts clients outside of the United States.
Is online therapy as effective as in-person therapy?
Numerous studies support the effectiveness of online platforms in facilitating life changes. For instance, research published by JMIR Publications, conducted by teams from the University of Berkeley, UCSF, and SF General Hospital, found that "users of BetterHelp experienced significantly reduced depression symptom severity after engaging with the platform."
What treatment approaches does David Nilsen offer?
David Nilsen offers clients Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy.
How can I communicate with David Nilsen?
David Nilsen can be engaged in any one of four ways: (1) Exchanging messages, (2) chatting live, (3) speaking over the phone, or (4) video conferencing. You can use different ways at different times as you wish, based on your needs, availability, and convenience.
How do I get started with David Nilsen?
Just tap the CHAT NOW button or tap here: A new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.
Mental health conditions are real, common, and treatable.
And recovery is possible.
When you tap CHAT NOW a new window will open and you'll be directed to a simple form that will help start the conversation. Please note: It can take up to a few days to be matched to a therapist.