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.
Hali Seaney
My name is Hali Seaney. I have my Master’s in Social Work from Michigan State University. Over the years I have gained much experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, the effects of abuse and neglect, brain education/development, and family issues. I have worked with individuals of all ages and different walks of life. My counseling approach is warm and welcoming. I strive to help individuals feel specially cared for and understood. I know it can be difficult and uncomfortable at times to begin counseling and telling your story, so I meet people where they are at and go at their own pace. I look forward to meeting you!
Emily Mika
Thank you for visiting my site and congratulations on considering counseling! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 5 years of experience working with adults and older adults in multiple capacities. I have a Bachelor's degree in psychology, a graduate certificate in dementia/gerontology, and a Master's in Social Work with emphasis on clinical practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, end of life, adjustment, family dynamics, medical complexities, with a special focus in older adult issues including caregiving and dementia. I am passionate about helping people deal with the many transitions, expected and unexpected, that we live through. My counseling style is warm, interactive, laid-back, collaborative, and geared toward your needs. I full heartedly believe when someone is ready, counseling is the stepping stone to the other side. I am ready when you are! I consider the client/therapist relationship to be crucial and I truly care about your wellbeing. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, compassion, and empowering you to set goals you see as most important since YOU are the expert in your life. My approach combines solution focused, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and cognitive behavior therapy counseling styles. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and encourage you and provide practical coping techniques to navigate life along the way. I look forward to working with you!
Cathy Smith
Having graduated with undergrad degrees in Sociology (Criminology) and Spanish, I began working in a residential treatment home for youth with emotional and mental illnesses. My early work there, sparked my interest in psychology and counseling. After starting our family, I returned to school to earn a teaching certificate and a Masters degree in Special Education. After many years of teaching in a variety of settings; institutional, public, private and alternative education, I felt I really wanted more time to listen to and talk with my students. Because of this, I returned to the university once more to complete a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, earning licensure as a Limited License Psychologist and a Licensed Professional Counselor. Relationship is the key to effective counseling just as it is to effective teaching. Being open to learning about the life of your client; their ethnicity, culture, religion, sexual preference, work, and belief systems is important as a therapist. Knowing your own limitations is also necessary. Life is very difficult at times, especially in these times! Helping clients to live their best lives is very important work. I use a variety of methods in working with clients. My clients’ ages have ranged from four years to seventy nine years. I work with people with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, trauma, sexual and physical abuse, parenting problems, and even learning disabilities and people on the autism spectrum. Motivational interviewing, client centered work, solution focused, psychoeducational work, mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are tools that I use, based on what the client wants to achieve and their individual needs. Permeating all that I do is a strength based approach to looking at the person, always building on and utilizing their own strengths to partner with them to become healthy and happier.
Heather Sheidler
Welcome! My name is Heather Sheidler and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Michigan. I have over 13 years experience working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings including residential and outpatient/community mental health agencies. I have the most experience working with anxiety, family/relationship conflicts, life transitions, and complex trauma/abuse. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and mood/anger management. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapeutic approach incorporates several major theories of counseling, including Cognitive-Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Person Centered. I tailor my particular focus to best meet your needs. I believe that every individual possesses the strength and potential to work through life problems. I seek to help you to discover this potential and learn skills and strategies that will help you achieve your goals through empowering and providing you with conditions for personal growth. The counseling process involves a collaborative relationship between us in an open environment where you are free to share your thoughts and feelings honestly. Thus, your active participation and personal work outside of sessions are essential for counseling to be effective and help you reach your goal. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!
Michele Stewart
I am a mental health therapist licensed with a masters degree in Michigan with over 25 years of experience working as a crisis intervention and clinical social worker . I have worked with adult clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, homelessness, domestic violence, grief/loss, emotional abuse, and career challenges. My therapy style is personable ,genuine, and interactive. I believe in treating my clients and anyone with kindness, respect, and attentiveness. My therapeutic approach combines cognitive, motivational interviewing , and patient centered techniques. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels . I also involve my clients in the treatment plan with my professional recommendation and guidance. I am here to support, empower, and provide therapy to my future clients who want to live and achieve a happier and more fulling life. I will guide you along the way and provide ongoing hope and encouragement. I look forward to working with you soon.
Barbara Haslip
Hello…I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working as a Therapist and Medical Social Worker, with a variety of populations, such as seniors, adults, teens, couples, families, LGBT, and substance abuse groups. I have worked with client concerns regarding depression, bipolar disorder, stress and anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship issues, family issues, substance abuse, suicidal ideations, grief and loss, workplace, domestic violence, and various other mental, emotional, physical health concerns. I will make your treatment goals specific and obtainable to your treatment needs. My counseling style is open, warm, empathetic and compassionate. I will treat you with respect and dignity. My goal is being cognizant of clients needs, yet being direct and straightforward as warranted. I have successful experience in working with diverse populations and providing psychotherapy for seniors, adults, and teens. It take a great deal of courage to seek professional counseling, and even more courage to follow through. If you are ready to take the next steps to begin living a more fulfilling and empowered life, I look forward to assisting you. Clinical Approaches: Client Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness Therapy, Supportive Counseling. Specialties: Depression Stress, Anxiety Bipolar Disorder Grief and Loss Motivation Substance Abuse Relationship Issues Family Conflicts Couples Years of experience: 20
Michael Jankowski
Hello, my name is Michael Jankowski, I have over 20 years of clinical experience helping clients achieve healing and wellness. My experience also includes helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, LGBTQIA+ related issues, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. My approach to counseling and therapy is to be present where you are in your journey, so that I can walk along side you. I will help you find meaning, purpose, wholeness and healing. It's powerful and profound to be vulnerable in this time and space of life. I will create a space so that you can feel fully supported and accepted. It is my mission to help guide and empower your wellness. Now is the time to put yourself first. You have made it this far because you are strong enough! I look forward to working together through your journey towards wellness.
Michelle Bartnik
I am licensed in Michigan with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Denise Mosby-Lewis
I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Kapree Jones
Welcome, I would like to commend you for making the first step in seeking support and change. Give yourself a pat on the back. It took much courage to get this far. As a licensed professional counselor, certified in working with Diverse populations, I empower, support, and provide guidance to groups and individuals to help them overcome personal obstacles through teletherapy. I will use a variety of theories and interventions to facilitate in helping you heal and achieve your personal goals. I have worked with adults, teens, and children in helping identify behaviors and thought patterns that interfere with meeting their goals. I work with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, ADHD, defiance, trauma, co-parenting, relationship issues, behavioral issues, transition issues, attachment issues, and grief. As a therapist in Michigan for the past 6 years; I understand everyone’s journey is different. Allow me to walk with you as we explore the different ways to achieve treatment goals based on the changes that you’d like to make in your life. The practice is dynamic and impactful. You are not alone; We are in this together! Your growth is important to me.
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 49002 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:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 (and press 1) or text 838255. For support for the deaf and hard of hearing community, please use your preferred relay service or dial 711 then 1-800-273-8255.
- Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQ Lifeline): (866)488-7386
- SAMHSA National Helpline (Substance Use): (800)662-4357
- National Eating Disorder Association Helpline:1-800-931-2237 (M-Th: 9 AM-9 PM EST, Fri 9 AM - 5 PM EST)
- Child Help Hotline: Call 1-800-422-4453 or use the online chat feature
- National Anti-Hazing Hotline for young adults, adolescents, and adults: 1-888-NOT-HAZE (1-888-668-4293)
- Physician Crisis Support Line: Contact 1-888-409-0141 if you are a first responder or medical provider experiencing crises related to Covid-19
- Sexual Assault Hotline: Call RAINN at 1-800-656-4673
Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Portage:
49002, 49024, 49081