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. 

Psychologist Erin McDaid providing different types of therapy in Portage

Erin McDaid

Clinician
License Type(s): LMSW,LCSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefBipolar disorderDepression
8 years offering treatment

Hi, I am Erin McDaid. I have been working for over eight years as a clinical therapist with adults, older adults, and older adolescents. I use a goal-oriented therapy style, focusing on areas of strength or need that are determined by the client. My style is no-nonsense and direct. I use a wide variety of skills and techniques including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness therapy, narrative therapy, and motivational interviewing. I often assign homework for clients to complete between therapy sessions (however, I try not to make it complex or overwhelming). I do not believe in stereotyping, labeling, or stigmatizing people. I welcome working with people of all faiths, genders, sexual orientations, political affiliations, and ethnicities. At an initial interview clients should expect to discuss with me their background (how they grew up, what they have done since high school, any relationship status), their current symptoms, any drug or alcohol use or history, any legal history, and their hopes for what they will get from therapy. During this discussion I will work to clarify any questions that occur to me and to reassure the client that both the client and I are understanding the client’s needs and history. We will also discuss what the specific issues are that brought you to therapy. Be ready to be open and forthcoming. Clients may leave their initial session with a simple homework assignment that will begin to move them forward with their treatment.

Psychologist Anicia Battles providing different types of therapy in Portage

Anicia Battles

Clinician
License Type(s): IMH-E Infant Mental Health Specialist,CEIM Certified Educator of Infant Massage,LMSW Licensed Master Social Work
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
9 years offering treatment

You are deserving and you are important. I am a Mental Health Therapist specializing in supporting women and families with young children. I have provided Infant Mental Health Therapy to families of birth to 7 year olds since 2014. While early parenthood is my specialization, I have supported clients of all walks of life. I've worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, and a range of life stressors from interpersonal relationships, emotional regulation and coping skill development, and more. I am genuinely dedicated to guiding individuals toward a healthier mental space. My expertise spans various areas, including anxiety, depression, interpersonal relationships issues, family issues, adjustment issues, attachment and bonding, parenting challenges, postpartum depression and perinatal mood disorders, and more. Creating a warm and secure space is at the core of my therapeutic style. I employ a strength-based treatment approach with respect, compassion, and sensitivity to address challenging issues. My unwavering passion for assisting individuals from diverse backgrounds remains a driving force in my work, and I am steadfast in making a positive impact in the lives of those I have the privilege to serve. I collaborate with you to meet you where you are. I thank you for reviewing my profile and for considering me to meet your needs.

Psychologist Charlotte Beachem providing different types of therapy in Portage

Charlotte Beachem

Clinician
License Type(s): LMSW
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
23 years offering treatment

Hello, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Michigan with over 20 years’ experience as a psychotherapist. My therapeutic model focuses on restoring hope, promoting growth, and building upon the strengths of the client. My goal as a therapist is to provide support and practical feedback to help with those unresolved past and current concerns/problems while gaining more confidence, courage, and satisfaction out of life. Through counseling I am dedicated to help clients find their own inner strength and resolve life difficult journeys, so that life is enjoyed to its fullest. Growth comes from facing our problems and overcoming them. I provide therapy with an integrative approach that has its foundations in behaviorism, utilizing models such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. Although therapy can become uncomfortable, I vow to create an open and safe environment where issues, thoughts, and feelings can be shared without fear. It is not always what happens to us that impacts us but rather how we respond to learning to make better choices. Looking forward to working with you. SPECIALTY: • Stress, Anxiety • Addictions • Depression Also experienced in: Trauma and abuse, Grief, Anger management, Self-esteem, Coping with life changes, LGBT, Codependency, Dependent Personality, Drug and Alcohol Addiction, Relationship issues, Emptiness, Family of Origin Issues Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 25

Psychologist Lorraine Bennett providing different types of therapy in Portage

Lorraine Bennett

Clinician
License Type(s): TLLP, LPC
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years offering treatment

I am a native of Detroit, Michigan. I migrated to Grand Rapids to attend Aquinas College, where I earned my bachelors degree in Sociology. I have been instrumental in various agencies and community-based programs, promoting self-awareness, personal independence, and resilience by teaching psycho-educational groups in the Inner City of Grand Rapids, Michigan. I am also the founder of Celebrate Life Foundation, LLC, and CEO of Life Without Flaws, LLC. I began Celebrate Life Foundation, a non-profit organization, in 2005 to raise awareness about practical ways to create an exemplary constitution for good health and to live a life worth celebrating. With education and life experiences, I understand the fundamental quality of taking a comprehensive approach to life challenges by integrating and addressing spiritual, physical, and mental health issues from a holistic perspective. I currently work in my private practice, Life Without Flaws, where I continue that work in the community through therapy and consulting services providing the support people need to thrive. My path of development continues to fuel my passion for personal growth in all aspects of life for all people.

Psychologist Grace Mallett providing different types of therapy in Portage

Grace Mallett

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsSelf esteemCoping with life changes
19 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Michigan with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients dealing and resolving issues relating to stress, anxiety, family conflicts, lacking motivation, low self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with individuals coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Virginia Vary providing different types of therapy in Portage

Virginia Vary

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseGrief
35 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Michigan with 35 years of professional counseling experience. My experience includes helping clients with LBGT-related issues. Assisting adults who have experienced trauma and abuse, & or those coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. 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 your life journey

Psychologist Stacey Sharp providing different types of therapy in Portage

Stacey Sharp

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorderDepression
14 years offering treatment

Hello! Let me tell you a little bit about myself. I am licensed in Michigan with 14 years of professional work experience in both public & private practice. I have loads of experience helping individuals from diverse backgrounds cope with addictions, trauma and abuse, parenting issues, & bipolar disorder. I am a Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor in Michigan. 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. I have been formally educated in a variety of therapeutic techniques to provide you with tools for your toolbox along the way. I look forward to working with you & sharing time together.

Psychologist Lillian Nunez providing different types of therapy in Portage

Lillian Nunez

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
30 years offering treatment

I am licensed by the State of Michigan and have over 30 years of professional experience.I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. I have been a foster parent, as well as trained other foster parents, so I have a great deal of experience working with both children and adults who may be needing some assistance with this issue. I enjoy the challenge of helping parents who are experiencing the difficulties of raising children, especially teenagers. have experience in working with clients who are autistic, both children and adults. 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.

Psychologist Stephanie ​B​a​l​d​w​i​n​ McGowan providing different types of therapy in Portage

Stephanie ​B​a​l​d​w​i​n​ McGowan

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsAnger managementSelf esteemDepression
22 years offering treatment

I am licensed in Michigan with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, anger management, & 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. 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.

Psychologist Emma Smith providing different types of therapy in Portage

Emma Smith

Clinician
Mental Wellness Specialties: Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
4 years offering treatment

Hi, I'm Emma. I am licensed in Michigan with 4 years of professional work experience. I value holistic healing and authenticity. My practice is rooted in relationship-based counseling, and I dig deep in order to connect with the real you. I am not a “smile and nod” therapist. I believe that therapy should be challenging, and I’m here to partner with you in your journey toward positive growth.

Find a therapist serving clients in Michigan

What types of therapists are available to clients in Portage?

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist. Be sure to narrow your search for therapists in Portage that can offer psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), therapeutic talk therapy, group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy depending on your needs.

Licensed therapists & mental health professionals available through BetterHelp's online platform

Mental health therapists in Portage available through BetterHelp are accredited as psychologists to help individuals and couples. Portage therapists' credentials can include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinician or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, Portage therapists are trained in any type of therapy in the Portage region and in the state of Michigan.

How can a therapist help you destress, manage your emotions, and guide you towards the life you want?

Therapists in Portage can help clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples challenges, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family life, or change in negative thinking patterns. A therapist in Portage may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. 

Is it better to find a mental health counselor or therapist in Portage offering online therapy or in person?

Studies show online therapy can be just as effective as in-person counseling. Online therapy with licensed counselors is often more affordable, with BetterHelp pricing ranging from $65-$100 weekly, while in person therapy can cost up to $200 per session.

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