While Bali is known as a peaceful paradise, its mental health reality tells a different story. According to data from the Indonesian National Police’s Criminal Information Center, Bali recorded a suicide rate of 3.07 per 100,000 people in 2023, the highest in Indonesia.
Behind its beautiful beaches, rising emotional distress and cultural adjustment challenges affect both locals and the growing expat community. As more foreigners settle in Bali seeking balance, the need for the best therapists in Bali is greater than ever.
Online therapy services prove to be a game-changer in this regard. Read on to discover Bali’s top professionals who specialize in expat and local mental health.
1. Trevor Brown
Trevor Brown is a US-trained Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who founded The Other Therapy in 2020. He holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Naropa University and has the LPC certification from Colorado.
Trevor’s background as a digital nomad and intercultural partner inspired him to serve expats, remote workers, and digital nomads in Bali. He helps clients with anxiety, depression, relationship, and intimacy issues, all common in expats.
Being the best therapist in Bali, he uses evidence-based techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing, to help his clients. Trevor even offers ISTDP therapy to assist clients in overcoming the patterns causing repeated mental issues.
2. Yulia Craine
Dr. Yulia Craine is the founder of Psychology Bali. She earned her Ph.D. in Counselling Psychology (University of Hertfordshire) and has been practicing since 2007. Accredited by the Australian Psychological Society, Yulia has worked in Russia and Australia’s public health systems before providing therapy services in Bali. She treats a wide range of issues, such as addiction, obsessive tendencies, and relationship problems, for both individuals and couples. Yulia uses evidence-based therapies, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and psychosynthesis.
3. Beth Howsely
Dr. Beth Howsely is a clinical psychologist from Perth, specializing in addiction and trauma recovery. She holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and has worked in both private practice and non-profit rehab settings. Moreover, Beth has treated children and adults with a range of difficulties, including trauma, abuse, and attachment issues. At The Lighthouse Bali, she serves as a consulting psychologist and group facilitator in addiction programs. Beth uses numerous methods, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (especially for trauma), to help clients get over their mental block.
4. Kartika Alexandra
Kartika Alexandra is a Bali-based integrative hypnotherapist and trauma specialist with over a decade of experience. Having an academic background in psychology, she founded Maja Healing, a premier therapy center in Bali. Kartika works with high-performing clients (entrepreneurs, professionals, parents) seeking personal transformation.
She specializes in subconscious mind hypnotherapy and created the trauma-informed HHHypnosis method. On top of that, her practice majorly focuses on nervous system regulation, deep trauma release, and emotional well-being.
5. Véronique Faletto
Dr. Véronique Faletto is a bilingual clinical psychologist providing her services at The Lighthouse Bali. She earned her Master’s in Clinical Intercultural Psychopathology in France and later practiced in Canada. Moreover, Véronique is trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy for trauma.
She has treated veterans and first responders facing PTSD, anxiety, and substance abuse problems. Her specialty is trauma recovery, as she understands that “what happened to you” shapes current struggles.
6. Dr. I Gusti Rai Putra Wiguna
Being one of the best therapists in Bali, Dr. Rai is a co-founder of Bali Psychiatrist Clinic. As a specialist in psychiatry, he has held leadership roles in Indonesia’s psychiatric associations. Plus, he co-founded community mental health initiatives in Bali, including psychosocial rehab for schizophrenia and peer support groups.
Dr. Wiguna is widely regarded for treating addictions, as he addresses severe mental illnesses with an advanced approach. Other than that, his expertise spans addiction, mood disorders, and chronic mental conditions.
7. Indah Hutauruk
Indah Hutauruk is a clinical psychologist with dual Master’s degrees, including one in Clinical Health Psychology from Leiden University. She is skilled in comprehensive psychological assessment and personalized therapy for all ages. Moreover, Indah is trained in various modalities, including CBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Psychodynamic Therapy.
On top of that, she is especially passionate about addiction recovery, helping addicts and alcoholics rebuild self-esteem. Indah also works with children and adults on issues like body image, eating disorders, and sexual difficulties.
8. Leah
As a UK-trained clinical therapist, Leah is regarded as one of the top therapists in Bali. She holds a CPCAB qualification and a National Diploma in Relationship Counselling. In addition, she has completed advanced training at the Gottman Institute for couples therapy.
Her personal journey, which includes surviving childhood trauma, loss, and anxiety, fuels her compassionate approach. Leah helps clients with anxiety and grief, using an individualized mix of talk therapy and somatic techniques.
9. Amy Montagu
Dr. Amy Montagu is a clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist from New Zealand. She works with adults and the elderly to provide therapy services in Bali. Surprisingly, Amy holds three university degrees and over 9 years of training in psychology and clinical psychology.
In New Zealand, she worked with children on the autism spectrum and with seniors in a hospital setting. Her therapeutic toolkit is diverse, as she uses CBT, schema therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies.
10. Laura Widyanto
Dr. Laura Widyanto is a British Chartered Psychologist and trained counsellor, now practicing in Bali. Being a certified hypnotherapist and graduate of the HHHypnosis program, Laura spent over 25 years in London’s public health sector before relocating. She offers therapy in English and Indonesian, focusing on trauma recovery for adults.
Moreover, Laura addresses parental stress, emotional regulation, and the general well-being of her clients. Her approach is unique, as she blends conscious talk therapy with subconscious techniques like hypnotherapy.
Conclusion
Bali has many highly qualified therapists serving both locals and over 100K expats on the island. The professionals above, from Trevor Brown to Laura, each bring unique expertise. However, our top pick is Trevor Brown of The Other Therapy, thanks to his specialized focus on expats and evidence-based methods.
We also highlight The Other Therapy as an excellent resource, since it offers online access to experienced counselors worldwide. Ultimately, the best therapist is the one who understands your story, but these 10 practitioners are among the best therapists in Bali.
How do I find a good therapist in Bali?
You can take help from reputable clinics and platforms like The Other Therapy, which specialize in expat and local mental health. On such platforms, check the credentials of the therapist in Bali and see if they offer a complimentary intro call.
Who is the best therapist in Bali?
No single therapist is “best” for everyone, as it depends on your needs. Many Bali providers have strong reputations. For expats, Trevor Brown (The Other Therapy) and his team are highly regarded. He offers ISTDP therapy services that help clients in Bali overcome the root cause of their mental health issues.
How can I tell if a therapist is good?
A good therapist will be licensed, trained, and use evidence-based treatments. Look for qualifications (PhD, LPC, APS, or BPS accreditation) and ask about their approach. Most importantly, trust your own comfort, as you should feel heard and respected. Good therapists create a nonjudgmental space and help you reach clear goals over time.
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