Cory Nelson, LPC

Cory Nelson is a licensed professional counselor (LPC) practicing in South Dakota with 25 years of experience. He focuses on helping people facing stress, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance concerns. Cory aims to make starting therapy less intimidating and to walk alongside people through change.

Cory uses straightforward conversation to help clients set goals and find practical steps forward. He balances a client-centered stance with cognitive behavioral techniques to identify unhelpful thinking and build new coping skills. Sessions tend to focus on what matters most now and on skills people can use between meetings.

He has worked with a wide range of concerns including sleep problems, anger, self-esteem, parenting challenges, career stress, ADHD, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, phobias, and co-occurring conditions. He also brings experience addressing first responder and veteran issues and compassion fatigue for people in helping roles.

Cory describes his role as collaborative. He listens, offers feedback, and helps people choose strategies that fit their life. He prioritizes respect and compassion while supporting practical change.

People who prefer clear, skills-based work alongside warm, supportive listening often find his approach helpful. Cory accepts English-speaking clients and can work with people located in South Dakota and beyond, including international clients who wish to connect.

Practical approaches for online therapy and skill building

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, focuses on the link between thoughts, feelings, and actions. It helps people identify unhelpful thinking patterns and practice new behaviors to reduce anxiety, panic attacks, mood symptoms, and phobias. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes being heard and respected. The therapist offers active listening and empathy while clients guide what matters most and set personal goals.

Choosing the right approach is a collaborative process. Cory will talk with each person about their needs, goals, and preferences, then recommend ways of working together. He combines listening with skill-building so the plan can change as progress is made.

Online formats include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging to fit different days and routines. Video is useful for full sessions that mirror in-person meetings. Phone sessions can work when bandwidth is limited or when someone needs a simpler check-in. Chat and messaging allow shorter check-ins, written reflections, or ongoing support between longer sessions. These options make it easier to fit therapy around work, school, or caregiving responsibilities.