I am a psychologist who is licensed in both the states of Alabama and Georgia and I have had the opportunity to work in the field of psychology for several years. I have worked in the both university settings (as a teacher and counselor) as well as in private practice. I have also had the opportunity to travel and share my knowledge through lectures and workshops. I have the most experience in helping people who struggle with unipolar (but NOT bipolar) depression and anxiety. I also have a considerable amount of experience in working with individuals who have problems with managing stress and managing their emotions. I do not work with issues such as eating disorders, addictions, relationship problems or sexuality concerns.
My counseling style is warm, but also straightforward and honest. I consider myself to be a kind person. and I truly desire to help those who are hurting. In my work with people, I do not spend much time processing the past (i.e., childhood experiences, past trauma, etc.). I believe that true healing comes when individuals take active steps in the therapy process and focus on what they can do in their "present" situation to address their challenges. In my work with clients, I focus on helping them understand how their thoughts impact their emotions and their behavior - principles from the field of cognitive behavior therapy. I also look at the impact of lifestyle habits - diet, rest, exercise, etc. - on mental/emotional health. In addition, I sometimes utilize concepts and strategies from the area of positive psychology, which helps people identify and enhance their strengths (as opposed to merely focusing on people's weaknesses "abnormalities," so to speak).
Do you need a helping hand? I would love to be that "hand" and help you make those changes. Working with me will take commitment and will require you to not be just a "passive participant," so to speak, in your healing and recovery. If you are willing to do your part, I am here for you and would love to work with you. All it takes is that first step and you can make that step today!
Additional areas of focus: Anger management, Motivation, self esteem, and confidence, Career difficulties, Forgiveness, Mood disorders
Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy
GA Psychologist PSY001839
AL Psychologist 1971
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Dr. Magna Porterfield. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
Dr. Porterfield has been amazing! She’s punctual and a great listener. The questions she ask really get me thinking and she’s personable while remaining professional. It don’t seem like she’s just doing her job but like she actual cares. She’s gone above and beyond to help me and ensure that I stay on track even when I’m slacking. I would highly recommend her!
Written on Jun 02, 2026 after therapy with Magna for 1 month on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, intimacy-related issues, parenting issues, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd
I’ve only had three sessions so far, but my experience has been amazing. My therapist is thorough, understanding, and truly takes the time to listen. I love that she is faith-based. She not only talks me through my stressors and challenges, but she also prays for me, which brings me so much comfort. She offers alternative ways of thinking and practical solutions that I can apply in my everyday life. I leave each session feeling supported, seen, and encouraged. I’m grateful to have found her and highly recommend her to anyone looking for compassionate, effective, and faith-centered therapy.
Written on Dec 11, 2025 after therapy with Magna for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, self esteem, and career difficulties
She is an amazing therapist. I highly recommend her!
Written on Apr 01, 2025 after therapy with Magna for 1 month on issues concerning stress, anxiety, grief, sleeping disorders, self esteem, career difficulties, and adhd
Dr. Porterfield has been an amazing asset in my life since starting therapy. I appreciate her approach towards everything. She is very easy to talk to and is really good at validating how i am feeling while also correcting when needed. She is firm in her faith and knows scriptures very well. I love that everything she says to me has biblical truths behind it. I thank God for her so many times and I wish she did long term therapy so i could have her forever.
Written on Nov 19, 2024 after therapy with Magna for 2 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, eating disorders, self esteem, coping with life changes, coaching, and adhd
Amazing kind hearted, competent, caring, empathetic and sympathetic therapist. I am so happy I found her because I had to go through two other therapist to find my match. Dr. Porterfield is the best.
Written on Apr 30, 2024 after therapy with Magna for 1 month on issues concerning grief, and coping with life changes
Always fast to reply and gives great advice towards my bettering. Always enjoy our sessions and can find great help in her words and suggestions.
Written on Apr 16, 2024 after therapy with Magna for 3 months on issues concerning depression, self esteem, and adhd