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.

This is Amber Russell's avatar and link to their profile

Amber Russell

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
12 years of experience

I am an individual and family counselor with over a decade of experience of helping others get "unstuck" and finding relief in symptoms related to trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief. I utilize a client- centered, solution-focused approach - meaning we do not spend a lot of time talking about the past unless it is relevant to what is impacting today and we always move at the pace that is right for you. My style is warm and empathic, mixed with light humor. I understand that for some people the use of humor may not be wanted in treatment, but for others, it may be the only way they are able to attend therapy without the fear of being traumatized again. I have provided treatment to veterans, military families, victims of abuse, and loss. I also have helped those who feel isolated in their communities. Just the fact you are here looking for help is a huge step in finding the relief you need. If this seems like a good fit for you, please reach out. I look forward to assisting you!

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Jennifer McCann

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
22 years of experience

Hello, my name is Jennifer McCann. My pronouns are She/Her/Hers. I am an LCSW mental health counselor with over 21 years of experience. I am fluent in American Sign Language and offer therapy services in ASL. I have experience working with D/deaf, Hard of Hearing, Hearing and Deaf Blind people. I also work with adults who have Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. My approach to therapy combines strengths based client-centered counseling with additional modalities of motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral counseling. I provide psychotherapy and counseling services for individuals seeking help with managing day-to-day stressors, sudden life changes, crisis, trauma , intimacy issues, anxiety and communication issues. I believe that people are truly doing the best they can and when they are supported change comes about from their own strengths. The rapport between a therapist and client is key to the work of therapy. The best therapeutic work is done when warmth, laughter, tears, grief and anger are all welcomed as part of learning and growth. We will work together to set a plan for your treatment that is individualized to your needs as we build that rapport. Thank you for looking at my profile and I look forward to working with you.

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Audrey Shaw

Offering therapy in ME
License: MS,LCPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical professional counselor licensed in Maine with over 9 years of experience. I obtained my B .S. in Psychology from the University of Southern Maine and a M.S. in Counseling from Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, TN. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, mood disorders, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, person-centered, solution-focused, strengths-based, and rational-emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and 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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This is L. Jenae Macnaughton's avatar and link to their profile

L. Jenae Macnaughton

Offering therapy in ME
License: MA, MBA, LPC
AddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Life happens; the effects of loss vary; and the impacts of stress/trauma are more ‘normal’ than most people realize. You are not alone; your struggles are real; and your mental wellness is and should be treated with as much vigor as your need for food and shelter. It is natural for our bodies to want to heal themselves; and our human strength and natural behavior is to adapt and evolve. We develop negative coping skills as we adapt to stress/trauma, grief/loss, major life changes/transitions, chronic illness/pain, identity struggles, and relationship conflicts. As these behaviors can be learned through our abilities to adapt and evolve, so can they be unlearned through behavioral health and strengthening (aka counseling). I am a Certified Advanced Grief Counseling Specialist (CAGCS), a Certified Family Trauma Professional (CFTP), Certified in Brainspotting (BSP-C), and formally trained by the IFS Institute in Internal Family Systems (IFS) work (and will continue my journey to certification). I am independently licensed in AK, AR, ME, OR, SD, UT, and WA; and a Child Mental Health Specialist in WA. In addition to the specialties mentioned above, I also have experience and expertise in serving individuals struggling with addiction, chronic and/or terminal illness, adolescents, persons identifying as queer or LGBTQIA2S+, First Responders, Veterans, Government Personnel, Alaskan Native / Native American (AN/NA), and individuals struggling with high conflict situations. With over 23 years in the behavioral health field, I use my clients’ strengths to find natural healing, unique to their needs. I work with clients who may be struggling with trauma and loss/grief. During our initial sessions, we will delve deeply into the issues at hand, and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a gradual lifting of symptoms within the first few sessions and sustained improvement thereafter. I consider myself a Solution-Focused Therapist (SFT), meaning we focus on finding the strengths and solutions you already have within yourself (often a re-discovery process). I often use techniques such as strengths-based talk therapy, Brainspotting (learn more at www.brainspotting.com), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Psychoeducation; it all depends on your comfort level with each method.

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Brittini Cusson

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker in Maine and New Hampshire with 8 years of professional work experience working with children, adolescence, teens and adults. I have experience ranging from helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, anger management, depression, grief and the grieving process, motivation and self-esteem, gender identity struggles & more. During the day time I am a high school social worker, and by night I work to help the growing demand for mental health support. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment through any means of communication, 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 that change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. #MentalHealthMatters #StopTheStigma #EverythingIsFigureoutable #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay

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This is Jo Ann McClure's avatar and link to their profile

Jo Ann McClure

Offering therapy in ME
License: MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesCompassion fatigue
12 years of experience

Hi. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor licensed in WI, and have been a therapist since 2007, when I earned my Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Mount Mary University. I have experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including grief and loss, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, work/life balance, women's issues, and life changes. I've also helped many people who have experienced trauma or abuse. My counseling style is warm, genuine and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My person-centered approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness and solution focused counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to look into counseling, congrats on taking a huge step toward a more fulfilling and happy life. If you are ready, I'm here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Patricia Major

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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.

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This is Lauren Scogin's avatar and link to their profile

Lauren Scogin

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years experience supporting people through life transitions. I have 5 years experience as a nursing home administrator, gaining unique skills in organizational management and leadership in healthcare. I am licensed in Maine and Vermont, recently transitioning from the New England Seacoast to the Green Mountains. I support clients through various life changes, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & executive and professional coaching. I have extensive skills supporting elders and their families as they navigate health related challenges, grief and adjustment issues. I have experience supporting those navigating relationships, coping with family struggles and divorce, pregnancy loss and improving self esteem. I have a holistic perspective and genuinely believe that clients have the answers within to live their most successful life. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started.

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Wendy Smith

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Maine with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Laurie Spataro's avatar and link to their profile

Laurie Spataro

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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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 04019 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 Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, 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

Popular cities near Portland, ME

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