Have you been having nightmares or flashbacks of something that you were subjected to such as abuse, a natural disaster, or terror attack? Sometimes, people who have been affected by a devastating situation are unable to get over it no matter how long ago it happened. This is called post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD and needs to be treated by a South Portland therapist. 

In 1944, South Portland was the site of a tragedy where 19 people were killed and 20 injured when an Army pilot lost control of his jet and crashed into a trailer park. Some of the victims and witnesses suffered from PTSD. In South Portland, there are many devoted therapists who are trained to treat PTSD and other mental conditions.

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 16

Anna M. Ruggirello LPC CGC Hello and Welcome! I am a licensed professional counselor and certified grief counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals and families. I have worked in a variety of settings helping my patients, and I put my clients first! I believe in providing passionate care. I am warm and compassionate. I am here to encourage you if you are facing a depressive chapter in your life. I will encourage you and treat you with care and concern. Respect is important to me, and I will make ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 25

I am a LCSW of 25+ years with experience working with seniors, individuals with depression/anxiety, grief counseling and individuals undergoing dialysis. I use the modality that brings the greatest results in a positive, non-threatening way. Connection is important between the therapist and the client and my experience has given me the opportunity to make great connections. I have always wanted to be a social worker and was able to complete my Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Adelphi University and my Master's degree in Social Work from Columbia University b...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

Hello and Welcome. My name is Barbara Barzilai, and I am Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor licensed with over 25 years of experience. Throughout my years of providing professional counseling, I have worked with individuals, teenagers, families and couples. My counseling focus addresses issues of depression, anxiety, sexual, physical and emotional abuse and trauma, eating disorders, drug and alcohol addition issues, teenager and adolescent counseling, couples counseling, and family relationship issues. My counseling style has been described as being ...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Depression
Years of Experience: 20

Hello, my name is Kelley Machado, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Connecticut. You may wonder what does Licensed Clinical Social Worker mean, what does that allow me to do? As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I have the unique opportunity to help people work through various points in their lives. In the years I have been a social worker I have worked with various populations of people from many socioeconomic, cultural, and racial backgrounds as well as people with various presenting concerns. I began my career working in the mental health system, th...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Parenting issues
Years of Experience: 10

Moriah completed her Bachelor's Degree in Family and Child Sciences with a minor in Psychology and Developmental Disabilities; and her Master’s Degree in Social Work. Moriah is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over a decade of clinical work in therapeutic settings with experience working with individuals with trauma, dysfunction, family structure, behavior issues, health issues, anxiety, adjustment, self-esteem, attention problems, parent/child relationship, anger, and stress management. Moriah uses a blend of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational, sol...

Specialties: Self esteem, ADHD
Years of Experience: 23

Hello and welcome to BetterHelp! I’d like to acknowledge the important first step you have made in seeking a more fulfilling, balanced, and happier life. Finding the right therapist for yourself is the next important step; therefore, I’d like to provide you with information about myself so you can decide if my experience and style are the right fit for you. I received a Masters in Social Work degree in 1999 from Louisiana State University and I have been a licensed clinical social worker for more than 20 years. My therapy style is warm and interactive, and my app...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 13

I am licensed in Maine with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & anger management. 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!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 15

I am a clinical social worker licensed in Illinois and California with over 15 years of experience counseling and life coaching. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, stress, anger issues, career challenges, grief, and many other challenging issues. I have also helped many people who have experienced diverse types of traumas. My therapy style is warm and compassionate, but direct and honest. Interactive and empathetic. I will give you an opportunity to be transparent while providing safety a...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Anger management, Depression
Years of Experience: 12

My passion in life is to sincerely help others heal and grow with kindness, understanding, respect, compassion and empathy. I want others to become the best possible versions of themselves and to live meaningful lives. I believe that meeting individuals where they are is imperative to their recovery. I have been involved in Community Mental Health since 2008. I received my first License to practice Social Work in Kentucky/West Virginia, in 2015. I have been practicing Social Work in Louisiana since 2018. I have worked with a variety of populations, but I am specia...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Parenting issues, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 15

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 f...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Family conflicts, Coping with life changes, Compassion fatigue
Years of Experience: 10

I am licensed in South Carolina and Maine with 9 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & coping with life changes. I also have experience working with compassion fatigue. 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!

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Trauma and abuse, Anger management, Depression, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 4

Hello, my name is Steven Kirkilas. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with Masters Degree in Social Work from University of Illinois at Chicago. For the past 10 years, I have assisted individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds in overcoming their unique struggles. I believe my role is to meet individuals where they are at, nonjudgmentally. My most passionate work is in providing trauma informed care. I am trained in EMDR therapy and enjoy using somatic therapies. I am also passionate about the benefit of mindfulness practice in managing anxiety, depressio...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Trauma and abuse, Self esteem, Depression
Years of Experience: 3

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, depressio...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Career difficulties, Depression
Years of Experience: 11

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Texas with 11 years professional work experience. I provide talk therapy and specialize in helping people who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, lgbtq-related issues and problems with interpersonal relationships. My style is best described as "eclectic," drawing from a variety of treatment modalities, and tailored to each client's specific needs. However, my primary goal with every client is to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I aim to deve...

Specialties: Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Self esteem, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes
Years of Experience: 5

I am licensed in Maine and New York with 5 years of clinical experience. I am a lover of all things weird, strange and wonderful. I unapologetically laugh loudly and cry often. I believe that everyone has the potential for healing and peace within our struggle. We can write our own stories. I specialize in stress and anxiety and in coping with bipolar disorder. 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 ...

How To Find Counseling In Your Area

Finding the right therapist close by in South Portland can feel intimidating. Once you narrow your search for a counselor near the South Portland area, you're closer to finding providers accepting new clients.

First, research what type of therapy you'd like to pursue before finding a therapist or psychologist. You might be interested in psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, marriage and family therapy, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits. If you're still unsure, consider asking your prospective counselors which methods they practice.

When you're ready to search for a counselor in South Portland, scroll through the options. Next, consider what type of therapy you'd like your counselor to be most experienced with. Finally, choose a provider located near you in the city of South Portland or elsewhere in Cumberland or the state of Maine.

Mental health professionals working through their own practice or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships and communication skills, working through life's obstacles, or changing negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a listening ear and validation. Verified South Portland counselors can provide licensed marriage and compassionate counseling, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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

How Do Costs Of Conventional Counseling Compare To BetterHelp With A South Portland Counselor?

Forbes reports that the average price of an in-person therapy session with a counselor in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in South 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 in South Portland: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists in South Portland: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist in South Portland: $100
  • Therapy with a mental health counselor in South Portland: $80

Some counselors 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 counselors serving the city of South Portland and elsewhere throughout the state of Maine you can expect significantly more affordable options, with counselor sessions ranging from $60 to $90 per week (billed every four weeks).

How Does Working With A Counselor On BetterHelp Work?

It's important to note that these counselors treat clients online. Online providers, including the US-based providers above, can work with people like you in or around South Portland virtually. You do not have to commute to a counselor's office to meet with one of these counselors.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, receive worksheets, and sign up for mental health webinars. Additionally, the BetterHelp app offers a journaling feature.

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy with a counselor. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists specializing in behavioral health and relationships. You can also try a provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. Look through the available counselors above and consider which might work for you. Professionals on BetterHelp specialize in several mental health issues and modalities. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

South Portland has many professionals who provide client-centered individual counseling in person and through online therapy. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the US. Many individuals gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy. In South Portland, therapy can be easily to use and a click away.

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 they may struggle to provide objective guidance. Counselors are also professionals trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist may support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health or life concerns. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another benefit of therapy with a licensed counselor is having a 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 South Portland counselor 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 can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With almost one million people in South Portland, ME, finding a counselor can be costly, and they may be booked out with clients. Through the list of counselors above and others through BetterHelp, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching for a nearby psychotherapist close to 04106 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 in South Portland can be a great option.

How Should I Prepare For My First Session With A South Portland Counselor? 

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading about the counseling process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist. 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 why you're attending therapy.

Should I See A Counselor 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 counselors often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend counseling. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general advice. A counselor 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 with a counselor.

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 Crying In Therapy A Breakthrough?

Crying can be a breakthrough for some individuals who struggle to express emotions. Others might find that they often cry during sessions with their counselor. Crying can be normal and healthy, so whether you cry or not may be a personal aspect of sessions.

Is Mental Health Care Worth It?

We may all be on different paths in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, counselors are trained to meet you where you're at. Counseling can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy each year, showing it's a popular option and may be often effective when working with a licensed counselor.

Do Therapists Judge You? 

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. Their job as your counselor is to support you and make you feel safe and respected. 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 to learn more about BetterHelp therapists to understand the services available to you clearly. If you have any questions, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online counseling, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched with a counselor 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:

There are all kinds of therapists in the South Portland area, including:

  • CBT in South Portland
  • DBT in South Portland
  • Substance use therapy in South Portland
  • Couples therapy in South Portland

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

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

04106, 04116

Popular Cities Near South Portland, ME

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