Life can bring you down. Be it a mental problem like depression or anxiety, or a sudden change in your life, you can fall down and feel like you can’t get back up. Just know that you can do it, and one person who can help you is a counselor based in Portland. 

Portland’s motto is “I will rise again!” If you go to counseling, follow their advice, and work hard, you can rise above anything life throws at you. Talk to someone to see what you can do to rise to the top.

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Tami Labul

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW, MSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Hi, I'm Tami a Clinical Social Worker licensed in Maine and Idaho, with over 20 years of experience in the field. My pronouns are she/her. As a therapist in a local mental health practice, I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, grief and loss. I have experience working with men, women and teens. I am comfortable and experienced in working with clients of all different faiths and cultures and am an LGBTQ affirming therapist. My work as a Certified Trauma Professional has given me a great deal of experience working with people recovering from physical or emotional trauma and abuse. I have a particular interest and expertise in working with individuals struggling with anxiety and self esteem issues. My counseling style is supportive and I believe in strengths based treatment which includes respect, no judgement, and meeting an individual where they are. My approach combines many different treatment methods and strategies, all tailored to meet your specific needs and comfort. I believe you will find me to be an empathetic listener who is ready and willing to join with you in addressing the issues that you want to tackle. We will uncover old and new healthy coping skills and put new "tools in your toolbox". I am available for phone or video sessions by appointment and take care to respond to messages regularly. I typically log in to read and respond twice a day, five days a week. My usual days off are Saturdays and Sundays, as well as any major holidays. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am a firm believer in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and if you are ready to begin, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Shannon LaTray

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCPC,MPA,
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoaching
8 years of experience

My name is Shannon LaTray and I am a licensed clinical counseling professional in the states of Montana, Utah, Maine, the District of Columbia, Arizona, Oregon, New Jersey, and Massachusetts. I have experience working therapeutically with youth, teens, adults, and families concerning mental health and addiction issues. Additionally, I am a Certified Gracious Space Trainer and an Alumni of the 2022 Class of Leadership Montana. Over the last 20 years, I have worked with various multidisciplinary teams including financial and service quality teams; mental health and addiction treatment teams; and medical, educational, and rehabilitation teams. I have worked with various entities across the state of Montana including the Board of Visitors & Disability Rights of Montana; Center for Medicaid Services, CARF Accreditation auditors and the Quality Assurance Division; CFSD, DOA, DOC, DOL, and Vocational Rehabilitation; Crisis Response Teams (CRT), Montana SOARS and PLUK; and the State of Montana Ombudsman’s office. Additionally, I spent 7 years as the Service Quality Ambassador for Glacier Bank, working directly with employees on self-care, teamwork practices, personal & professional development, & developing community relationships. I have a diverse background of educational knowledge and professional experience working across the behavioral health field. I hold the following professional licenses and certifications: A Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Graduate Certificate in Addiction Counseling, a Graduate Certificate in Native American Studies, and have held a national certification in Rehabilitation Counseling and as a Crisis Response therapist. I have a Masters degree in Rehabilitation and Mental Health, a Masters in Public Administration, and a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Development. Furthermore, I have a solid foundation of business operations and a clinical understanding surrounding both mental health and addictions following state and federal regulations.

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Heather Hilton

Offering therapy in ME
License: LMHC MA CAGS
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor who has been providing counseling services for 8 years but I have been in the mental health field for 16. Most of my experience has been working with adults diagnosed with major mental illness. I have also worked with people with legal backgrounds. My counseling style is warm and client focused. I believe that our therapeutic rapport is the foundation for any work we are able to accomplish together. I am looking forward to helping you reach your goals in therapy.

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Laura Baxter

Offering therapy in ME
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuse
7 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed professional counselor, now licensed in Maine!, but stationed in Connecticut. My license extends to states and locations with reciprocity agreements, and I work with people around the world. I specialize in a whole-person approach and highly personalized sessions that build trust and create goals that are within your reach. We consider body, mind and spiritual matters from all angles. I use a dual approach: strategies to use right away (“solutions focused”) to alleviate symptoms, and strategies to work on for long-term healing. Some theories or strategies of counseling I may use include: psychotherapy, Adlerian, person-centered, motivational interviewing, evidence based behavioral therapy and cognitive therapy. I am easy to talk to, offer a judge-free, unconditional positive regard for your struggles and where you are in your journey. Are you looking to find peace and joy? Even the most difficult situations have options. I'm here to help guide you in a positive direction. Professional Degrees: Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling 2016; Master of English and Master of Business 2003 and 1989; Undergraduate Programs and Degrees: The University of Connecticut, Babson College, Boston Museum School of Fine Art, Columbia University’s RW Workshop Program. Other training: Certified Assistive Technology Professional. Teacher/coach to high school staff and students, Corporate and retail training and leadership, equine management and training, fine art training, and choral & instrumental training -- all of which help enrich my abilities as a counselor in our active awareness sessions. I look forward to meeting you soon! Laura

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Christine Reid

Offering therapy in ME
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepressionADHD
28 years of experience

I am a Vermont and Maine licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 25 years of experience working as a therapist, supervisor and program manager in community mental health and outpatient settings. I have worked with individuals, children and families with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, self-esteem issues, OCD and ADHD. I have also helped many individuals and teens who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive, balancing humor and tasks in a way to create a safe space for you to explore, heal and grow. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines client-centered, solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapy approaches, which essentially means that my focus is on you as an individual and I will adjust my treatment methods and plan in order to meet your unique and specific needs. Our sessions are for you and I want to make sure that you are able to get the most out of them that you can by learning and partnering with you on your journey to wellness. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change by reaching out for help. I know that is not always easy to do. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Susan Rair Krug

Offering therapy in ME
License: OH - MSW,LISW,LICDC ,NH-MSW, LICSW, MLADC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

Hello! Thank you for taking time to view my profile. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. If you are browsing this website you may be seeking support to manage your mental health or substance use disorder. You may be interested in learning more about yourself. You may just need a place to sit and talk to guide you in understanding your own story. I will assist you in identifying problem areas while guiding you to use your strengths. Areas of expertise, I am a licensed independent social worker( LISW) and a license independent chemical dependency counselor(LICDC) in Ohio. Additionally , I hold the same licenses in the state of New Hampshire; (LICSW & MLADC). I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy modality which teaches you about your thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how to alter these to achieve the results you are working towards. I am available to "meet" with you through a secure, confidential Telehealth program. My goal is to work together to achieve your identified goals through broad discussion and skill building which is consistent with your learning preferences.

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Sharlene Swainamer

Offering therapy in ME
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Life is a journey with so many unexpected twists and turns. As we travel through each day, it allows us to make choices either to live in the moment or get caught in the cycle of worry. I have 33 years of experience working with children and families @ the most vulnerable points in their lives. I have experience in grief and loss issues and am able to guide you as you go through the stages of grief. I pride myself in having patience, being able to carefully listen to empower individuals, couples, and families to be the best that they can possible be. I have an extensive background in Child protection, Guardianships of you ng and old, the Juvenile Court system, and the impact that it can have on family systems. I have worked closely with families, lawyers, schools, medical professionals, and social service providers in a collaborative manner to achieve the best possible outcome for my clients and their families. I take great pride in being able to empower my clients to set realistic goals so that they can navigate their course to achieve their goals. I am committed to helping you break down your worries and identify your perceptions, and possible your unknown fears. I will help you to become more aware of your strengths, your areas of weakness, and to develop a plan that allows you to grow personally using various techniques to help you to slow down, live in the moment, and trust the process of your journey. My commitment to you and your family system is sincere and respectful. I value family systems and believe that with awareness comes change. I believe that whether couples stay together or grow apart that they have a responsibility to one another to be kind, and respectful to themselves, each other, and their family. We will use techniques that will allow you to dig deeper into your biggest fears and your highest hopes and dreams. We may be laughing in one session and crying or on the verge of tears in another. I will be with you in every step of your journey. Women's empowerment Trauma and abuse Grief and Loss Intimacy-related issues Anger management Coping with life changes Compassion fatigue

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Erica Velarde

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Illinois and Maine with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have had the privilege of working with a variety of different populations across the lifespan. A large portion of my career has been working with clients that are experiencing complex emotional challenges. I use a variety of activities and learning opportunities to enhance my clients understanding of their mental health and treatment options. I have a passion for understanding Neuropsychology and Integrative Health in an effort to treat the whole person. I have experience in helping clients with who have encountered or are coping with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also enjoy working on parenting issues and being a support to people navigating the roller coaster of mother/ fatherhood. I work alongside my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Elizabeth Stivers

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I specialize in working with adolescents, adults and families and have been offering dynamic clinical services since 2001. I am a licensed clinical social worker in the States of Tennessee and Maine and a member of the National Association of Social Workers. I received my undergraduate degree in psychology at The University of Texas at Austin and my master’s degree in social work at The University of Chicago. I am committed to offering compassionate and professional services to everyone who comes to me seeking assistance. I have worked with individuals and families in a variety of settings (in homes, community centers, hospitals, residential placements, outpatient clinics, and private practice) and facing a multitude of issues. Some of these issues include: • Grief and loss • Depression/Anxiety • School difficulties • Family or sibling conflict • Blended families • Pre and post adoption adjustments • Foster care challenges • Children with chronic or critical illness The families that I see benefit from my broad perspective of an entire family system as well as my meticulous attention to the individual needs of each family member. In my work with clients I teach healthy communication skills, empower individuals to make desired changes in their lives, enhance individuals’ understanding of the mental and emotional processes influencing their interpersonal dynamics, and assist those coping with the stresses of everyday life changes.

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Summer-Leigh Post

Offering therapy in ME
License: LPCMH,LMSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am a professional Mental Health Counselor with my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor as well as a Licensed Master’s Social Worker. I am a National Certified Counselor, certified in Adolescent Community Reinforcement Approach, and I have had training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing as well as Neurofeedback. I utilize a client-centered approach while counseling individuals, couples, and families who are coping with severe persistent mental illness, depression, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, substance use, and any other presenting issues that may be struggling with. I incorporate mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral, and a family systems approach to assist individuals, couples and families with meeting their goals so they can create the lives that they desire.

How to find counseling in Portland

Finding the best therapist close by in Portland can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Portland. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Portland, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Portland or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Portland area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Portland, elsewhere in Cumberland, or in the greater state of Maine.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Portland area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Portland therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Portland due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Portland may not take health insurance, some in the state of Maine may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Maine you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Portland, Maine working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Portland above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Portland helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Portland therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Portland therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Portland therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in ME, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 04103 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Portland counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Portland licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Portland, Maine can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Portland has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Portland.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Portland:

04019, 04101, 04102, 04103, 04104, 04108, 04109, 04112, 04122, 04123, 04124

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