This is Sara Bolton's avatar and link to their profile

Sara Bolton

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC,CRC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsParenting issuesCareer difficulties
5 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sara and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Georgia. I have been working in the mental health field since 2010. I have worked with individuals experiencing a variety of issues including family conflict, depression and anxiety, stress-related issues, communication challenges, and self-esteem, to name a few. My background is in parent education, career counseling, and disability issues. I believe that the whole person must be addressed in order to create change and that everyone can benefit from therapy. We are always learning and creating better versions of ourselves. I would describe myself as down-to-earth and open-minded. I utilize person-centered therapeutic approaches and draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and various other modalities. I look forward to helping you set and reach your mental health goals! *Please note that all appointments are currently chat only!*

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Dr. DeAnn Simon

Offering therapy in GA
License: Ed. D,LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Georgia with over 14 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, ADHD and stress management. I have also helped many people who have experienced trauma or abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. Respect and compassion are essential for a good counseling relationship. My approach combines Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Motivational Interviewing. Everyone's experience is different and it is important to work together as a team. It takes courage to take the first steps towards a change. 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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Felicia Smith

Offering therapy in GA
License: LPC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

We are all on a journey and it is called life! The challenges and transitions of life can be difficult leaving us in undesired spaces. Sometimes we need a guide and support to help navigate these experiences. My name is Felicia Smith, LPC, NCC and I am here to assist you cultivate the life you want and deserve. I am here to assist you in building your awareness of self, finding the root cause of the obstacles you face and identify positive, beneficial and effective resolutions to aid in creating the change you desire. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Georgia. I have been providing therapy services for over 3 years and in the field of providing counseling services since 2014. Throughout the years I have been awarded the opportunity to work in an array of settings with an assortment of different populations. I have worked with adults, children and families empowering them and helping them learn to overcome personal obstacles to improve themselves, their relationships and lives. Using evidenced-based interventions I utilize an eclectic and holistic modality to meet my clients where they are and work towards achieving their goals. I believe that the therapeutic process is a collaborative effort with my client. I will work with you to foster positive change in a caring, authentic, genuine, respectful and non-judgmental way. My goal is to guide you within our partnership of enhancing your life by finding your path to your best self and improve your overall well-being. I provide a safe space for you to release your issues and work through them safely. Congratulations on taking the first step in changing your life. Your problems do not define you; Let the process begin!

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Dominique David

Offering therapy in GA
AddictionsFamily conflictsCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 6 years of professional work experience with children and adults. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, family conflicts, & career difficulties. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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. 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. My therapy style is centered around the needs of my clients and how we can work together for a healthier and more positive lifestyle. I believe in taking it one day at a time and meeting clients where they are to have to promote a better therapeutic experience

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Holly Johns

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

I am so glad you are here! That is such a big step in this next part of your journey! To help get better acquainted, here is a bit about me. My name is Holly Johns, LPC in the State of GA. I graduated from Union College in Kentucky in 2012 with my Masters in Psychology. I have 18 years of behavioral health experience, which includes working with adolescents and adults in schools, community mental health, crisis intervention in the ER, and non-profit settings. I utilize different evidence-based therapeutic techniques to help you understand, express, and cope with your emotions and behaviors. I create a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to explore, grow, and develop the tools to move forward with confidence and resilience. My therapeutic approach is collaborative to help you achieve your treatment goals. I will incorporate a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, dialectical behavioral therapy, and, if needed, trauma informed care, to assist in helping you identify how thoughts, feelings, and beliefs may influence your behaviors, as well as discuss what specific challenges you are facing in an empathetic, non-judgmental approach. My goal is to help you gain a better understanding of yourself through self-exploration and healing. I hope you know how brave you truly are by taking the step towards therapy.

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Charles Epps

Offering therapy in GA
AddictionsRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesAnger managementCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, intimacy related issues, & anger management. 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.

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Christine Penguino

Offering therapy in GA
LGBTParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Atlanta, Georgia with more than seven years of professional experience in working with clients that have included everything from play therapy with young children to grief counseling with grandparents. My most recent focus has been working with families in the LGTBQIA+ community as they process a variety of issues. My personal philosophy is to find humor in everything and live passionately. A little more about me? I’m a big nerd who loves sci fi and fantasy like Aasimov’s Foundation series (I have big opinion’s about Apple’s adaption). I go to regional Burning Man events and make art from thrift store Barbies. I love to garden, but am pretty terrible at it. I generally despise most holidays but enjoy being silly and posting memes about them. I like board games and puzzles and go to conventions. When I need to meditate and be calm I watch my tank of guppies and ghost shrimp. Back to therapy! If you’re looking for something specific; I am kink and BDSM lifestyle friendly, as well as supportive of those in ethically non-monogamous relationships such as polyamory. I also have experience dealing with intra cultural shifts such as transitioning out of conservative religious backgrounds and processing the changes in belief and subculture. I work well with folks who are working on self esteem and body positivity. I have a lot of experience working with non neurotypical folks with autism spectrum and adhd diagnoses. I also work well with issues of anxiety and depression. My approach to therapy is client goal directive, believing that you usually know where you want to go. I believe in pushing gently at the edge of my client’s comfort zone; therapy shouldn’t be painful, but it should help you move forward. To that end, I often help my clients design their own “homework” to try outside of sessions to see and measure their own progress. Didn’t do your homework? That tells us you weren’t ready, or that something was blocking you, or you weren’t motivated… therapy doesn’t have grades, just learning! If you’re still reading, I hope you’re ready to start our therapy journey together.

This is Miranda Dennis's avatar and link to their profile

Miranda Dennis

Offering therapy in GA
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Dialectical Behavioral Therapist, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and Certified PreEnrich Couples Counseling Facilitator and the owner of Oasis Clinical Counseling Services a Christian Based Mental Health Practice. I practice holistic therapy, this means I tailor your sessions to explore, challenge and to meet your social, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. I am licensed in the states of Alabama, Georgia, New York and Virginia and can only provide therapy to those who live in those states. I have 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents and their families and adults. I look forward to partner with you in this journey called life to help you build the life you find worth living.

This is Ashley Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Ashley Johnson

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 4+ years of providing therapy services and 8+ years working in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. We often may feel the pressure to appear we have it all together when deep inside we are fighting a battle within. This journey that you are on, no longer has to be walked alone. I commend you for acknowledging your pain and seeking out ways to help yourself.I welcome you into a space made just for you.

This is Joseph Mungai's avatar and link to their profile

Joseph Mungai

Offering therapy in GA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Iowa with 12 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

How to find counseling in Portal

Finding the best therapist close by in Portal 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 Portal. 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 Portal, 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 Portal 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 Portal 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 Portal, elsewhere in Bulloch, or in the greater state of Georgia.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Portal 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 Portal 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 Portal may not take health insurance, some in the state of Georgia 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 Georgia 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 Portal, Georgia 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 Portal 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 Portal 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 Portal 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 Portal 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 Portal 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 GA, 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 30450 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 Portal 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 Portal 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 Portal, Georgia 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.

Portal 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 Portal.

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

30450

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