Life can bruise you with its constant challenges, disappointments, and losses. You think constantly about your problems without ever finding any solutions. Your emotions run from sadness to anxiety to anger. You feel unable to get through each day. Problems come from both your environment and your own mind.

Portage is the hometown of Earl Abell, who was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. When life’s problems tackle you, facing the next play seems unimaginable. You don’t know how to improve your mental wellbeing. Talk to a counselor in the Portage area for a brand-new playbook.

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Psychologist Gillian Van Dien providing different types of therapy in Portage

Gillian Van Dien

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 4237-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I bring 17 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, holistic care that honors each person's unique journey. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and trauma, with a deep commitment to helping clients develop self-love and self-compassion, improve communication, and navigate life transitions. My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to overcome problematic patterns, build resilience, and reconnect with their sense of purpose. I have extensive expertise in supporting adults and teenagers learning to manage stress and anxiety and resolve depression, women working through personal and cultural issues, young adults, and individuals experiencing midlife challenges. My practice creates a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past experiences, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and relating. I approach therapy as a collaborative process, believing that every individual has the inner resources to grow and transform. Whether you're struggling with social anxiety, workplace stress, relationship dynamics, or personal identity challenges, I'm here to walk alongside you with understanding and professional guidance.

Psychologist Jessica Benash providing different types of therapy in Portage

Jessica Benash

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 7979-123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
18 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical social worker in Wisconsin with over 18 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked in residential treatment, day treatment and outpatient therapy. I am also an adjunct professor and teach in the Social Work department. My years of experience include working with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, caregivers for people living with chronic pain/illness, survivor's of those that have lost loved ones to suicide and ADHD. I also have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma and/or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines using a client centered solution focused therapy along with cognitive- behavioral therapy that challenges negative thoughts and meeting the client where they are at in the moment. I like to focus on what the client needs and find strengths in their own lives that can help them to find ways to meet their goals. Through my life and work experience I am here to support the client anyway I can. It takes courage to seek out change. I really believe that having a positive client-therapist relationship is an essential piece to the puzzle that will help make the change process easier. Thank you and I look forward to working with you! Jessie

Psychologist Timothy Newlin providing different types of therapy in Portage

Timothy Newlin

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 476 - 125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with over 40 years of professional mental health therapy experience in helping clients with relationship issues, as well as depression, anxiety and family conflicts, and much more. I work with a wide range of clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. A very important first step is establishing a trusting relationship, so that experiences can be shared freely. Taking that first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Dr. Melissa Mielke-Metzger providing different types of therapy in Portage

Dr. Melissa Mielke-Metzger

Clinician
License Type(s): WI Psychologist 3589 - 57, IL Psychologist 071.021026
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionADHD
12 years offering treatment

I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Wisconsin, and school psychologist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, adjustment, autism, and ADHD etc.

Psychologist Linda Skoug providing different types of therapy in Portage

Linda Skoug

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 2551-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
13 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I have over 20 years of experience. I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on compassionate, trauma-informed care that addresses a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, and personal growth. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations, particularly focusing on young adults, older adults, and individuals processing trauma, attachment issues, and life transitions. My therapeutic style emphasizes creating a safe, affirming space where clients can explore their experiences, heal from past wounds, and develop stronger, more authentic connections with themselves and others. My expertise spans multiple areas, including stress management, intimacy-related concerns, social anxiety, and supporting individuals through significant life changes like divorce, midlife transitions, and personal identity exploration. I am committed to walking alongside my clients, offering empathetic guidance and evidence-based strategies that empower personal transformation and emotional resilience.

Psychologist Megan Kilps providing different types of therapy in Portage

Megan Kilps

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 2918-123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Wisconsin. I have experience providing therapy to individuals and families related to chronic medical issues, grief and loss, family systems, relationship and parenting, and end-of-life. My therapeutic approach is based on whole health and self-exploration, with the clients input at the forefront. I believe in the capacity of each individual to work through their own personal struggles, with support and skills provided during therapy. I believe in fostering a collaborative relationship in order to meet the individual goals identified during the therapeutic process.

Psychologist Richard Broach providing different types of therapy in Portage

Richard Broach

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 3576-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
25 years offering treatment

After more than 20 years in the counseling fields as a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wisconsin, my approach to collaborating with clients has a two-fold approach. First, I believe in a holistic approach. Almost every problem we experience has various pieces. Somewhat like the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle, the pieces need to be laid out and evaluated to see the relationships among them to come up with solutions. This includes the present moment, our upbringing, our current employment, our own relationships, stresses past and present, any traumatic experiences we’ve had, etc. My second approach flows from the first belief in a holistic treatment. I encourage clients to develop a SANE lifestyle. Evidenced research shows a direct link among the elements of Sleep, Activities, Nutrition, and Exercise to our physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I embody what I encourage others to do. I also believe the path to wholeness lies within each of us and through the experience of heartfelt conversations we find that power within to bring about our own healing.

Psychologist David Whiteman providing different types of therapy in Portage

David Whiteman

Clinician
License Type(s): IN LMHC 39006052A, WI LPC 2892-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I believe that you know your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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 and empower you in your growth journey.

Psychologist Jamie OConnor providing different types of therapy in Portage

Jamie OConnor

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 7680-123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
13 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. 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.

Psychologist Sonia Wiesner providing different types of therapy in Portage

Sonia Wiesner

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 10485-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
12 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, family conflicts, and workplace stress. I have extensive experience working with older adults and supporting individuals through significant life transitions, including divorce, separation, and midlife challenges. My therapeutic approach is deeply compassionate and tailored to each client's unique needs. I focus on helping people develop healthier communication patterns, overcome social anxiety, process feelings of guilt and shame, and build stronger interpersonal relationships. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a supportive environment where clients can explore difficult emotions, heal from past traumas, and develop resilience. I am particularly passionate about supporting women through various life stages, addressing attachment issues, caregiver stress, and domestic violence recovery. My goal is to empower clients to understand themselves more deeply, develop effective coping strategies, and create meaningful personal growth.

Psychologist Deborah Thoennes providing different types of therapy in Portage

Deborah Thoennes

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 5260-125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with over 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Elizabeth Johnson providing different types of therapy in Portage

Elizabeth Johnson

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 7275-123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Wisconsin with 22 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping adult clients struggling with ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD and other mood disorders. Special interest in women's issues including adult survivors of sexual, physical, emotional abuse and domestic violence. Also experienced in helping to increase self confidence and self-esteem and providing guidance in navigating life transitions. I believe in the strength and resiliency of the human spirit and consider it a privilege to empower clients to overcome personal barriers in order to live a more satisfying life. I feel that it is very important to continue to grow and challenge yourself regardless of age. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Lauren Piper providing different types of therapy in Portage

Lauren Piper

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LCSW 11487 - 123
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years offering treatment

Hi, I'm a licensed therapist in Wisconsin with three years of professional experience. I support clients navigating stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, trauma, low self-esteem, and confidence challenges. I believe you are the expert of your own story. My role is to help you tap into your strengths, gain clarity, and build the tools you need to move through life's challenges. Taking the first step toward therapy takes courage, and I'm really glad you're here.

Psychologist Katie Ross-McGinnis providing different types of therapy in Portage

Katie Ross-McGinnis

Clinician
License Type(s): WI LPC 11657 - 125
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in Wisconsin, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My clinical approach centers on helping clients address challenges like social anxiety, trauma recovery, attachment issues, and life transitions. I'm deeply committed to creating a compassionate, affirming space where individuals can explore their experiences and develop meaningful coping strategies. My therapeutic work focuses on understanding the unique intersections of personal experience, including struggles with isolation, obsessive patterns, and the impacts of past trauma. I draw from evidence-based practices to support clients dealing with diverse challenges, from addiction recovery to processing experiences of abuse and exploring identity. I believe in a collaborative approach that honors each person's individual journey. My goal is to provide supportive, non-judgmental guidance that empowers clients to build resilience, enhance self-understanding, and create positive change in their lives.

Find a Therapist Near You in Portage , Wisconsin

Finding a licensed therapist near you in Wisconsin can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

Wisconsin is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in Wisconsin, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in Wisconsin (WI). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across Wisconsin, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across Wisconsin with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in Wisconsin

When searching for a therapist near me in Wisconsin, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across Wisconsin, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across Wisconsin.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in Wisconsin want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in Wisconsin

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in Wisconsin without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in Wisconsin (WI)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in Wisconsin

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across Wisconsin, including residents in Portage.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in Wisconsin do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Portage can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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