Portland is known for being a unique, creative, sustainably-minded city. While Portland may be a place where you’re encouraged to be yourself, it can be challenging to know what that means. If you need help dealing with confusing life experiences or are struggling with a negative belief about yourself or your future, talking to a therapist Portland OR can help.

Finding a skilled therapist with available appointments to fit your busy schedule can be challenging. BetterHelp can make the process of finding the right therapist more streamlined and convenient. All of the therapists on BetterHelp are licensed and have completed at least a master’s degree. You won’t find a licensed professional counselor associate trying to satisfy their full licensure requirements by getting clinical hours on the platform. 

BetterHelp therapists have experience and awareness of working with the BIPOC community and using an integrative approach to create a nurturing environment. Therapy can help you whether you need help with emotional expression, family conflict, feeling stuck in your life, and more. If you’re looking for a strengths based approach to therapy, connect with a Portland-based therapist to get started.

 

This is Dr. Brenda Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Brenda Davis

Offering therapy in OR
License: LCSW,DSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker in California, Kentucky, Idaho, and Oregon with over 30 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, work conflicts, and day to day problem solving. My therapy style is strength based. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral considering the person in their environment. Often what is needed is a safe place to be heard. 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 change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Amanda Nelsen's avatar and link to their profile

Amanda Nelsen

Offering therapy in OR
License: CMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

Hi, I am a licensed therapist in Utah, Oregon, and New Mexico. I have over 15 years of experience, and I LOVE being a therapist! It's amazing to be a part of others changing and improving their lives. Of course I work with a wide range of clients – depression, anxiety, addiction, and grief/loss are primary emphases. I also have extensive experience with relationship issues and parenting problems. I focus on person-centered therapy – using unconditional positive regard, emotional support, and a variety of specialized therapeutic techniques. I want to give you a place where you feel safe and understood, so we can focus on setting goals, improving, and healing. I provide live CHAT sessions only - if you are looking for phone/video sessions, I am not the therapist for you. You can also send me messages as often as you want! I have session availability on Wednesdays and occasionally on Fridays. If it seems like we'd be a good fit, send me a message and we can get started right away!

This is Alysia Khendek's avatar and link to their profile

Alysia Khendek

Offering therapy in OR
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a licensed therapist licensed in Oregon with over 3 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, women's health issues, postpartum depression, and grief and loss. I strive to help individuals live in a way that inspires deeper fulfillment and balance by harnessing their natural ability to cope with stress and emotional pain. My therapeutic style incorporates calm, patient focused, goal directed, short term, solution focused interventions. I prioritize creating a space for an individual to safely experiment with new ways of being. An individual will gain confidence by identifying and replacing counterproductive coping strategies, by bringing awareness to their current experiences, they will have the support to live more fully and more authentically. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

This is Tamara Hicks's avatar and link to their profile

Tamara Hicks

Offering therapy in OR
License: LCMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficulties
7 years of experience

My name is "Ms. Tam" or "Ms. Hicks" and I am here to help. I am a licensed mental health professional and I will be able to partner with you on this journey. I am pleased you have selected me, Tamara Hicks as your therapist. This disclosure will inform you about my background and counseling practice to ensure that you understand our professional relationship. I graduated from North Carolina Central University in May 1996 with dual degrees, a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. I obtained my Master’s in Science degree in Mental Health Counseling from Capella University in September 2014. In 2015, I tested and passed the NBCC National Board of Counselors Certification exam. I also have met and continue to engage in the required CEU’s – continuing education units required to maintain full licensure in NC and Oregon. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome obstacles that prevent them from enjoying healthy lives. My motto is: Therapy is a journey, and you are in the drivers’ seat, and I am in the passenger seat (shotgun!). My counseling approach is a very eclectic style and encompasses person-centered therapy, family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy and as of recent, training in EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I may pull from other theories and incorporate various techniques depending on the specific needs of the client. On occasion, I may suggest that you read books, take some tests, or interact with some worksheet assignments and journaling. Change is seldom quick and easy; therefore, your consistent and ongoing effort will be necessary.

This is David Sprouse's avatar and link to their profile

David Sprouse

Offering therapy in OR
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Hawaii, Oregon, Oklahoma and Alabama with 5+ years of professional licensed counseling-specific work experience in addition to 20+ years of healthcare experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse, ADHD, career stressors, medical stressors and many more. I have several years of experiencve working with addictions, including previously directing a Medication Assisted Treatment center of over 500 clients, including methadone, suboxone and more. 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. My casual, yet still professional style often helps clients relax and share openly.

This is Suzanne Landsverk's avatar and link to their profile

Suzanne Landsverk

Offering therapy in OR
Coping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in North Dakota with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with life changes. I believe everyone has a story and I am interested in learning yours. During our visits we will discuss what you want to talk about. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Kathleen Barnes's avatar and link to their profile

Kathleen Barnes

Offering therapy in OR
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseBipolar disorderDepression
6 years of experience

Hi, my name is Kathleen and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Texas, Arizona, Oregon and Florida telehealth. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD. I believe in providing the hope and support for change to empowerment individuals and couples using strengths based and recovery-based models. My experience is in teaching skills that you can use for better communication, expressing your wants and needs and meeting your full potential. I believe that life can throw us challenges that may require us to seek therapeutic help for better clarity and support in order to recover a life where we feel fulfilled and back in control of our lives. I am passionate about helping individuals in those difficult times to find the answers and gain their strength back. I look forward to working together with you.

This is Leah Chambers's avatar and link to their profile

Leah Chambers

Offering therapy in OR
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon and Washington with 6 years of clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, attachments, depression, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, and 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. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

This is Wendy Jones's avatar and link to their profile

Wendy Jones

Offering therapy in OR
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with 23 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

This is Eoin Bastable's avatar and link to their profile

Eoin Bastable

Offering therapy in OR
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with 20+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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!

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 Multnomah, or in the greater state of Oregon.

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 Oregon 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 Oregon 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, Oregon 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 OR, 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 97211 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, Oregon 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 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 Portland.

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

97201, 97202, 97203, 97204, 97205, 97206, 97207, 97208, 97209, 97210, 97211, 97212, 97213, 97214, 97215, 97216, 97217, 97218, 97219, 97220, 97221, 97227, 97228, 97229, 97230, 97232, 97233, 97236, 97238, 97239, 97240, 97242, 97250, 97251, 97252, 97253, 97254, 97256, 97258, 97266, 97280, 97282, 97283, 97286, 97290, 97291, 97292, 97293, 97294, 97296

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist