Counseling services can benefit many people for many different reasons. Evidence-based therapies are treatment for anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxiety disorder, health anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. Therapists can also offer tools to manage mental stress, career counseling, mediation for family conflict, support for chronic illness, positive youth development, and guidance toward self-awareness and fulfillment. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Portage, MI may offer more than surrounding rural communities, but finding the right therapist can be challenging, even in a city. One reason for this is that within the mental health field there are a number of evidence-based practices and approaches. There may be limited licensed professional counselors in the specific approach you need. Or the nearest appropriate practitioner may not be taking new patients. That’s where online therapy can help. 

BetterHelp is an online platform that offers access to a number of Portage-based online practitioners who specialize in a broad range of therapeutic approaches, and experience working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with the therapist that best meets your needs. And because a strong therapeutic alliance can be essential to success, if you need to change therapists you can do so at no additional cost. 

Online therapy is also a convenient solution for busy professionals, overwhelmed parents, and swamped students from nearby Western Michigan University. Online sessions fit easily into any schedule, and with video chat, phone, and text messaging options you can meet with your therapist from the comfort of your own home or office. 

If you’ve been thinking about seeking therapy for any reason, contact BetterHelp to get started. Or you can check out the list of Portage online-based therapists below for more information. 

This is Chelsea Kemper's avatar and link to their profile

Chelsea Kemper

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepression
12 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in my home state of Michigan. I earned my MSW from Indiana University School of Social Work in 2007. I am a military spouse and my family’s frequent moves have given me great opportunities to work in a variety of clinical settings with all age groups. I have worked as a therapist helping children and teens regulate big emotions and cope with traumas, led group therapy with adults in transition from hospital psychiatric care, provided assessment and care to wounded soldiers, and worked in a private practice group doing individual therapy addressing parenting issues, adjustments, grief, anxiety, and depression. I have had training in many different treatment modalities, but I typically use Solution-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness techniques. Each person is different, so I will always work with you to develop the best course of action. My objective, as a therapist, is to create a safe space, void of judgment, where anyone can feel comfortable working on their goals to achieve the outcomes that they desire. Additionally, I have a certificate of TeleMental Health training.

Get started View profile
This is Julie Ruiz's avatar and link to their profile

Julie Ruiz

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am a counselor in Michigan with over 20 years experience as an LPC . I have over 20 years experience in counseling and therapeutic relations encompassing academics, in-patient mental health, business/workforce training, recreational and social services settings. Focus areas include managing stress, navigating life transitions, life skills, motivation and goal setting and self-esteem, relationship issues, interpersonal conflict, blended families, grief and loss, workplace stress, career success, career decision-making, work-life balance, mental health and health and wellness, search for meaning and fulfillment, blended families, multicultural relationships, anxiety and stress management, and the therapeutic use of animals and nature for healing . I many years of specialized experience in career and employment counseling and extensive resume building experience, and coaching through employment and employability issues. My background encompasses helping people of diverse backgrounds, age range, religions, and cultures. My style is compassionate, calm, understanding, and joyful and incorporates a holistic, solution focused approach that is both intuitive and logical. Clients find me very calming, understanding and non-judgmental, honest, and perceptive. I believe that every human being is unique and beautiful and I have great respect for each individual, and expression of their authentic self. I have great caring and regard for people and love helping individuals find their worth, strengths and gifts as I see these as keys in empowering people. I believe in an individual and their ability to heal, transcend their situation, overcome challenges and succeed in finding personal growth and happiness. I believe in the innate ability for a person to change their maladaptive thoughts and patterns, solve problems and achieve integration in mind, body and spirit. I value investing in people, relationships, and environments and by being an active contributor with positive impact, giving and receiving love, forgiveness, compassion, joy and humor. I have found that viewing issues from a troubleshooting mindset can be helpful in generating options. I am very practical, innovative and solution focused in my approach and problem-solving strategies. Thank you for taking time to read my profile. I would consider it an honor to partner with you at this time and help make positive change in your life. I am looking forward to connecting with you soon.

Get started View profile
This is Maureen Smith's avatar and link to their profile

Maureen Smith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): MA, MS, LPC
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

Hi! I’m Maureen and I love being a Counselor! My style of service is calm and comfortable talk therapy. I believe in mutual respect, being real, showing compassion, and having unconditional positive regard for everyone. I strive to develop a strong and healthy working relationship with my client. I am a counselor and instructor in the Counseling and Student Development division at a Community College that I’ve been with for over 18 years. I previously worked for the Head Start and Early Head Start Programs for almost 25 years. I get to work with so many interesting people from teenagers through older adults on a regular basis! I have a Master of Arts in Counseling degree and a Master of Science in Human Services degree with a specialization in Social Work and Community Services, and a Post-Graduate Certification in Diversity Studies. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I am proud to be a nerd, as defined by the Urban Dictionary: Nerd An individual who: 1. Enjoys learning 2. Does not adhere to social norms I have three grown offspring, four perfect grandkids and my own little herd of wiener dogs. I enjoy mass quantities of Disney and superhero movies whenever I’m able to hide away in my Batcave for a little while. I look forward to meeting you!

Get started View profile
This is Solimar Mattei-Welch's avatar and link to their profile

Solimar Mattei-Welch

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Counselor License Type(s): LMSW
Stress, AnxietyEating disordersAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am a clinical social worker licensed in both Michigan and Florida with over 27 years experience. I specialize in clinical assessments, treatment of depressive and anxious disorders, as well as helping with life transitions. I have training in evidence based treatments that help individuals improve their quality of life and achieve their life goals. I primarily work with individual adults seeking to make a positive change using solution focused strategies and personalized treatment plans. I am open minded, LGBTQ+ friendly and bilingual in Spanish as well.

Get started View profile
This is Geri Burgess's avatar and link to their profile

Geri Burgess

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan with 19 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety. 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. Please view my profile on Psychology Today to learn more.

Get started View profile
This is Bushra Alsafari's avatar and link to their profile

Bushra Alsafari

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesDepression
8 years of experience

My name is Bushra Alsafari and I am licensed clinical therapist in Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I am also a certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor. I have a masters degree in Social Work. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, coping with addictions, depression, 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. I do focus more on mindfulness and cognitive behavioral therapy during sessions. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Get started View profile
This is Jeffrey (Jeff) England's avatar and link to their profile

Jeffrey (Jeff) England

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsParenting issuesDepression
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan and North Carolina with 32 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. As a Christian, 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.

Get started View profile
This is Samantha Garcia's avatar and link to their profile

Samantha Garcia

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Michigan. I have experience in helping clients with stressors relating to parenting children/adults with developmental disabilities and mental illness, generalized stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & parenting issues. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Nicholas Tock's avatar and link to their profile

Nicholas Tock

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
8 years of experience

What if your difficult emotions could be seen as an opportunity for growth instead of as a weakness? It’s true that suffering is universal, but with the right perspective you can learn to see that as a gift; a source of energy you can use to propel you towards your life’s goals and eventual contentment. Many seek to find happiness by changing their circumstances, but I hope to show you that if you find acceptance first the circumstances you want will come to you more naturally. I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in my clinical practice, focusing primarily on being conscious of the thoughts that drive our behavior and accepting life’s circumstances before moving on to change them. I’ll work with you at the pace you are comfortable, whether you are looking for shorter solution-focused therapy or serving as a longer-term support. My calling is working with depression and anxiety, but I’m also proficient working with addiction, grief, existential concerns, and family therapy; particularly with families who have children with behavioral concerns.

Get started View profile
This is Vicki Wright-Trimboli's avatar and link to their profile

Vicki Wright-Trimboli

Clinical therapist offering therapy in MI, Portage
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
22 years of experience

I believe that you are the expert of your story and have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. I look forward to helping you through the journey to discover them and implement sustainable strategies to lead us towards celebrating your success! Taking the first step to sign up for therapy is the most respectful and empowering thing that you can do for yourself! I am excited to walk along side you as you get closer to your goals. I have 22 years of experience in helping clients identify the need for change and process reasoning for and emotions surrounding such change, actively listen and partner together to check in, reflect, and move towards solutions at a pace that is effective and respectful to your current needs. I also have expertise is assisting individuals in navigating through change surrounding disability barriers. Nervous? It is perfectly fine to have mixed feelings about implementing change for yourself. Let's set up a time together to explore your needs and decide if we are a good fit together.

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in Portage

Finding the best therapist close by in Portage 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 with therapists in Portage that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Portage. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Portage, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Portage region and in the state of Michigan. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Portage or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Portage therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Portage area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Portage, elsewhere in Kalamazoo, or in the greater state of Michigan. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

How does the cost of in-person counseling with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Portage therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Portage due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Portage may not take health insurance, some in the state of Michigan may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Michigan you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Portage online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Portage, Michigan 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Portage psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Portage 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Portage provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Portage?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Portage 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Portage 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 Portage 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in MI, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 49081 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Portage counselor?

Before seeing your Portage therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Portage therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Portage 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 with a Portage counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Portage, Michigan 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.

Portage has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Portage, Michigan

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 Portage 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 to customer service 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 Portage.

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

49002, 49024, 49081

Popular cities near Portage, MI

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