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.

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Jaime Devins

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

Welcome to my practice, I am excited to partner with you as you take the brave step in seeking help. Many struggle with one or many concerns like isolation, depression, anxiety, attention, identity, change of life, toxic stress, grief, trauma, relationships, work, and/or family issues. Do you feel alone and overwhelmed in these issues? I offer a compassionate and validating space in which to help you take a look at these issues in an empowering way. I specialize in using creativity, art, mind-body strategies, and self-empowerment within relationships. I received my Master's of Social Work from the University of Southern Maine and am an independently licensed Clinical Social Worker in the states of Maine and Massachusetts. I also have a background in art and have worked extensively over the last 10 years serving children, teens, adults, and elders in various settings including schools, day treatment and outpatient treatment settings, and in clients' homes and communities in a variety of roles. I have experience in mindfulness, attachment, trauma, family therapy, relationship issues, behavioral therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and I recently completed my ACEP Level II Energy Psychology training. From your first appointment, we will take an in-depth look at your concerns in a holistic way. Problems often pave the way to dynamic solutions. From there, we will create a plan together to address issues affecting your quality of life while building on strengths and connections. Part of this is identifying internal blocks to moving towards healing. We will explore helpful ways to establish boundaries with others, increase communication, increase peace and joy in your life, and help you get in-tune with yourself and your needs in ways that serve you. Based on your preference, I offer opportunities for using creative expression and techniques from Energy Psychology, an evidenced based modality that is effective in helping a wide variety of issues. I look forward to meeting you!

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Rosemary Lough

Offering therapy in ME
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSleeping disordersDepression
20 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker practicing in the New England area for over twenty five years. I have worked with individuals primarily with acute mental illness and trauma. In addition, I have a significant amount of experience working with families and individuals who have experienced cognitive impairment, physical disabilities and medical problems. Dealing with issues of grief and loss, often accompanying mental and physical problems, has made me very sensitive to other’s needs. I have always had a passion for caring and helping others and now bring years of experience to my work. I hope to continue to to work with people, as they face life’s challenges and transitions, coping with the anxiety and depression, that often accompanies change. My therapeutic model is strengths based, often using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT). In addition, I utilize Person-Centered Therapy ((PCT) coupled with mindfulness techniques. Recognizing the unique individual differences, the therapeutic process will be determined collaboratively and what approach is best suited for the individual. My sincere, empathetic and engaging personality has worked well for me in relationship building and facilitating the process of growth and wellness. I am goal oriented and encourage clients to set their individual objectives and together we work towards achieving them. I am eager to be part of your life’s journey and together we will achieve fulfillment and joy that you are striving for.

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Lauren Isen Spencer

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW,Certified clinical supervisor
AddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
20 years of experience

In my 20+ years of being a social worker I have worked with a wide variety of people and their experiences. I have worked with people of all ages, as individuals, groups, families and couples. I feel that having worked with such a wide variety of people that I can deliver a treatment plan tailored to your needs. I believe that my passion to help people is easily seen in each and every therapy session. While working through your situation it is my goal to let you know that you are not alone and I am here to help. I look forward to working with you. Lauren Spencer LCSW

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Amelia Jensen

Offering therapy in ME
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Seeking additional clients from ARIZONA Welcome to my Therapy Room. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working in Mental Health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including refugees, geriatric, chronic mental illness, relationship issues, and trauma. I have had special training in diagnosing Adults on the Autism Spectrum using the ADOS 2. My therapy style is person centered and solution focused. I believe you already have answers within you but may need someone to shine a flashlight on parts that may be hidden or buried. I will tailor our dialogue to meet your unique and specific needs. I am an introvert and will be more of a listener and guider. My style is not as interactive and upbeat as compared to an extroverted therapist. I am straightforward and go straight to the work in most cases, rather than spending lengthy time on small talk. I am part of the LGBTQ+ community. I came to this country as a refugee in the 1980s and am a survivor of trauma. Age is important to clients so I will disclose I am in the 40 to 45 age range. My hobbies, include hiking, board games, reading, drinking tea and playing with cats. Betterhelp does not allow us to diagnose people. In some cases diagnoses may not be helpful, as they can tend to place people into self defeating pattern. If medications are required such as in the cases of Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia, diagnoses and medications can certainly be helpful to obtain prior to attending therapy. A little explanation on how I use different therapies: Somatic- helping you locate the feeling in the body and describing it based on a feeling meditation that originates from Eastern philosophies (this is a common technique used by therapists in recent years) CBT- working on thought distortions. Specifically, I like to teach a session on 13 common thought distortions and help you identify how they show up for you. ACT- working on seeing things can be both this way and that way, it's not black and white. We add the word "and" rather than "or" to your view of the world. AEDP- exploring how anxiety is really a cover for other emotions such as disappointment, rage, fear etc. Compassionate Inquiry- identifying how the emotional flashbacks (aka triggers) you are experiencing now are related to things that took place in the past. Awareness leads to initiation and we work on no longer letting these patterns take control of your life. Therapist self disclosure with personal stories that relate to yours is necessary. (this goes against some older styles where therapists didn't self-disclose) Motivational Interviewing- looking at how your goals don't match your current behaviors. Regular talk therapy and venting is great too- it helps me reflect back your patterns to you. For instance if you say a certain phrase frequently I will point this out to you. Poetry- I enjoy mixing in poetry when it pertains to certain issues and especially if you are a writer/poet. Shadow Work- exploring your unconscious patterns and stored memories and how they affect your way of thinking. Please take advantage of the journal feature. If you share it with me I may comment and we can discuss highlights during our sessions. I am ok with you having to multitask/snack/cook/text as long as you are dressed appropriately and engage in therapy. While we try our best to have a professional setting, sometimes working from home entails apartment noises, and a less than perfect setting. I may eat a snack or use my standing desk and exercise my feet for health reasons. If you are here for relationship struggles I will ask you and your significant other to take the Gottman Relationship Checkup which will cost $39 per couple. It will give us a comprehensive map of areas to focus on. My sessions are 30 to 45 minutes. We can see how the session is flowing and the stopping point will occur naturally for each session. However the minimum is 30 minutes. I can't accept less than that due to financial reasons. I look forward to meeting you!

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Kelley Prescott

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW
Self esteemADHD
23 years of experience

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 approach is centered on helping individuals work through their difficulties to learn more about themselves and the way they interact with others. We can work together in whatever way is most comfortable for you. I am available via video sessions, phone, and/or text. I am mostly available in the late afternoon/evenings, but I check messages at least twice during each weekday. Deciding to engage in therapy and finding a counselor you feel a connection with can be overwhelming; but if you are ready to take that step, I would be happy to work with you at your own pace and tailor your time to your specific needs.

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Nina Powell

Offering therapy in ME
License: LCSW, ACHP-SW,MSW
GriefCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
31 years of experience

Thank you for taking the time in reading my profile. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has an Advanced Certification in Hospice and Palliative Care. I also have a Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. Over the years, I have worked with domestic violence victims as well as individuals diagnosed with all types of disabilities helping them cope with their illness and manage life stressors. For the past 29 years , my focus has been working closely with adults, children and families diagnosed with cancer and supporting them through counseling and linking them with relevant resources as they progress through treatment. This includes counseling with caregivers, how to help and support their children, self image, loss of control issues, and compassion fatigue for the caregiver. My work has also focused on end of life care and how to help the patient and their family at this precious time. I have also provide intensive bereavement counseling services to grievers who have lost their loved ones to unanticipated tragedies and helped them to process and move forward in their grief healing journey. I hope that I can use my years of experience to assist you as you process and move towards healing. It would be a pleasure to help you in this journey.

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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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Kary Goodman

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesSelf esteem
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Maine with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbt-related issues, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment 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 a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Felicia Bates

Offering therapy in ME
Family conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Indiana, Maine and New Jersey with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with family conflicts, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dawn Blake

Offering therapy in ME
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Maine with 3 years of clinical work experience, 13 years total in the mental health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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.

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How to find counseling in South Portland

Finding the best therapist close by in South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South Portland area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed South 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 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: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 South 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 04116 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 South 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 South 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 South 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.

South 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 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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