Therapists for Teens in Portage, IN
Lawrence A Viers
Psychologist, PhD, FAGPA, HSPP, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I am a psychologist with more than 30 years experience with adolescent and adult populations.
I am known for my direct manner and skill building emphasis. I believe in human potential and orient myself toward teaching people how to manage their lives rather than assuming the role of managing their life for them. My principal professional affiliation is with the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) of which I am a Fellow. I have found that group psychotherapy provides an effective avenue for personal change and skills consolidation, especially for people who struggle with relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents, marital cases and individuals with long term mood disorders.
I am a psychologist with more than 30 years experience with adolescent and adult populations.
I am known for my direct manner and skill building emphasis. I believe in human potential and orient myself toward teaching people how to manage their lives rather than assuming the role of managing their life for them. My principal professional affiliation is with the American Group Psychotherapy Association (AGPA) of which I am a Fellow. I have found that group psychotherapy provides an effective avenue for personal change and skills consolidation, especially for people who struggle with relationships. I enjoy working with adolescents, marital cases and individuals with long term mood disorders.
Sarah Wagner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A, ASDCS
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
My goal is to connect with families and provide support through education, parent training, conflict management, and navigating through ADHD, autism, and anxiety. Raising children who have communication, developmental, and cognitive differences can impact their schooling, friendships, and family life. As your child’s therapist, I use a collaborative approach between child or teen, parents, siblings, pediatrician, and school.
My goal is to connect with families and provide support through education, parent training, conflict management, and navigating through ADHD, autism, and anxiety. Raising children who have communication, developmental, and cognitive differences can impact their schooling, friendships, and family life. As your child’s therapist, I use a collaborative approach between child or teen, parents, siblings, pediatrician, and school.
Carl Hufford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As your therapist I will help you reach your goals by building and empowering you to overcome obstacles while gaining the confidence and knowledge to build on for a stronger future. My hope is to encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and assist you in building skills along the way that are supportive of your individualized needs. I offer a safe and comfortable environment free from judgment and welcoming for all individuals.
As your therapist I will help you reach your goals by building and empowering you to overcome obstacles while gaining the confidence and knowledge to build on for a stronger future. My hope is to encourage and support you as you work toward your goals and assist you in building skills along the way that are supportive of your individualized needs. I offer a safe and comfortable environment free from judgment and welcoming for all individuals.
Tiffany Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
I have over 15 years of social service and clinical experience. I have had the honor of serving at risk children and their families in Chicago and Northwest Indiana in a variety of capacities. Every clinical intervention I utilize is evidence based, and tailor made to fit each consumer. Some interventions included play and art inspired therapy, Trauma Informed CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. I also offer Wellness options including Holistic Psychotherapy,Mindfulness and Meditation practice, Restorative, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
Tiffany L Green-Mikell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CIMHP, RYT-250
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
Imagine that tonight as you sleep a miracle occurs in your life. A magical thing happed that completing solved every problem or barrier you are currently experiencing. What is the first thing you will notice? So, Instead of focusing exclusively on how insoluble your problems are, and how difficult life is because of it ,lets switch attention to what will happen after the problem is dealt with. Lets focus on your desired outcome. Let me help you process what feeling symptom free from anxiety, depression, and stinking thinking feelings like. Lets shift energy towards what we can create and control.
David W. Parks
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
We at Parks Associates are dedicated to serving our client's psychological health needs. We provide services for children, adolescents, and adults. Therapy is available for individuals, couples, and families. We work towards a healthier community. Most of our services are covered by Medicaid or other insurance plans. Payment plans available when necessary.
We at Parks Associates are dedicated to serving our client's psychological health needs. We provide services for children, adolescents, and adults. Therapy is available for individuals, couples, and families. We work towards a healthier community. Most of our services are covered by Medicaid or other insurance plans. Payment plans available when necessary.
Susan Lloyd-Merrick
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368 (Online Only)
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist and I earned my Psy.D. from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2008. My graduate training focused on the treatment of health and trauma, and to this day, I remain passionate about helping others work through the emotional and interpersonal effects of psychological trauma, depression, anxiety and loss. It takes strength and courage to come to therapy and I respect and supprort each client, never forgetting how difficult that first step can often be.
I’m a licensed clinical psychologist and I earned my Psy.D. from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2008. My graduate training focused on the treatment of health and trauma, and to this day, I remain passionate about helping others work through the emotional and interpersonal effects of psychological trauma, depression, anxiety and loss. It takes strength and courage to come to therapy and I respect and supprort each client, never forgetting how difficult that first step can often be.
Thania Hernandez
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling stuck due to painful emotions and life stressors? It is easy to become lost in pain, but I assure you there is a way out! With therapy, it is possible to find the peace, love, and joy you long for. I can support you through this challenging time by providing a comfortable and accepting space for you to process challenging emotions and hurtful situations, while I teach techniques that can help to improve management of stressors while decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger.
Do you find yourself feeling stuck due to painful emotions and life stressors? It is easy to become lost in pain, but I assure you there is a way out! With therapy, it is possible to find the peace, love, and joy you long for. I can support you through this challenging time by providing a comfortable and accepting space for you to process challenging emotions and hurtful situations, while I teach techniques that can help to improve management of stressors while decreasing feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger.
Kristy E Hite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
We all have the courage within to make positive changes in our life. Let your strength guide you to taking back the life you deserve. My passion is driven by helping others realize their full potential. Identifying your strengths and using them to conquer life's curveballs is a powerful and fulfilling adventure.
We all have the courage within to make positive changes in our life. Let your strength guide you to taking back the life you deserve. My passion is driven by helping others realize their full potential. Identifying your strengths and using them to conquer life's curveballs is a powerful and fulfilling adventure.
Rebecca J Whited
Counselor, LMHC, MSEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
My ideal client is a child, person, or family who is ready for change. Due to my play therapy training, it is also important for the client to be willing to participate in hands on activities in addition to traditional talk therapy.
Jennifer Reilly
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LLC
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
I am currently not taking clients after 2:30pm. I have been working with individuals, couples, children and families as a therapist since 2002. With a welcoming approach, I am able to offer fresh insights that can improve your relationships and behavior. I am able to help identify patterns, generate solutions, and minimize shame.
I am currently not taking clients after 2:30pm. I have been working with individuals, couples, children and families as a therapist since 2002. With a welcoming approach, I am able to offer fresh insights that can improve your relationships and behavior. I am able to help identify patterns, generate solutions, and minimize shame.
Blair A'hearn
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
You are here because you need help. You want a counselor who will listen to you with concern, engage with you, help you uncover your deep wounds and express the pain they have left in you. I will be that counselor for you. I will help you find your inner goodness and strength, challenge you when necessary, and always encourage and support you. I will help you recover the healthy, happy you, your true self. I will give you tools and guide you in using them. I will dedicate every bit of wisdom, knowledge and experience I have toward your healing and wholeness.
You are here because you need help. You want a counselor who will listen to you with concern, engage with you, help you uncover your deep wounds and express the pain they have left in you. I will be that counselor for you. I will help you find your inner goodness and strength, challenge you when necessary, and always encourage and support you. I will help you recover the healthy, happy you, your true self. I will give you tools and guide you in using them. I will dedicate every bit of wisdom, knowledge and experience I have toward your healing and wholeness.
Karen V Sutherland
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
I have over 20 years of practice with clients experiencing problems with blended families, LGBTQ+ relationships, intergenerational issues, self-esteem and personal growth, conflict management, couples communication and intimacy concerns, divorce, parental coaching, addiction and recovery, and the management of grief and loss. I have a special focus on working with LGBTQ+ clients. I work with clients who have been experiencing emotional issues (depression, anxiety, compulsion) and trouble coping with life transitions.
I have over 20 years of practice with clients experiencing problems with blended families, LGBTQ+ relationships, intergenerational issues, self-esteem and personal growth, conflict management, couples communication and intimacy concerns, divorce, parental coaching, addiction and recovery, and the management of grief and loss. I have a special focus on working with LGBTQ+ clients. I work with clients who have been experiencing emotional issues (depression, anxiety, compulsion) and trouble coping with life transitions.
Nicole Krueger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
My passion is to help guide children, adolescents and adults during times of hopelessness and fear. I believe that your past does not determine your future. My practice emphasizes providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions proven to be effective and is facilitated in a safe, caring, confidential and non-judgmental environment. Over a decade of experience in mental health has embraced my passion in helping adolescents and adults heal. I have extensive training treating clients who experience a variety of distressing symptoms related to; PTSD/Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Divorce-Related Issues, Stress and Anger Management, Codependency and many more.
My passion is to help guide children, adolescents and adults during times of hopelessness and fear. I believe that your past does not determine your future. My practice emphasizes providing evidence-based therapeutic interventions proven to be effective and is facilitated in a safe, caring, confidential and non-judgmental environment. Over a decade of experience in mental health has embraced my passion in helping adolescents and adults heal. I have extensive training treating clients who experience a variety of distressing symptoms related to; PTSD/Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bi-Polar Disorder, Grief and Loss, Divorce-Related Issues, Stress and Anger Management, Codependency and many more.
Shannon Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
Let's face it - communication is key. At work, with your kids and of course with your current or former partner. For over a decade, Shannon Johnson has helped families, couples and individuals get "unstuck." And learning to communicate effectively has been a key element. Her primary goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable and at ease in each and every session.
Let's face it - communication is key. At work, with your kids and of course with your current or former partner. For over a decade, Shannon Johnson has helped families, couples and individuals get "unstuck." And learning to communicate effectively has been a key element. Her primary goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable and at ease in each and every session.
S. Paige Maddex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
Stephanie "Paige" Maddex is a licensed clinical social worker and mother of 4 who lives Chesterton, IN. Paige began her career in the public school system as a school social worker and began her own practice in 2017. As a therapist, Paige is passionate about helping people understand themselves and identify their goals. She understands that trauma can keep people "stuck" and that working through pain can be freeing. In therapy, Paige helps clients work towards work/life balance, wellness goals and to develop healthy relationships.
Stephanie "Paige" Maddex is a licensed clinical social worker and mother of 4 who lives Chesterton, IN. Paige began her career in the public school system as a school social worker and began her own practice in 2017. As a therapist, Paige is passionate about helping people understand themselves and identify their goals. She understands that trauma can keep people "stuck" and that working through pain can be freeing. In therapy, Paige helps clients work towards work/life balance, wellness goals and to develop healthy relationships.
Jackie Heemstra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I work with clients consisting of a wide range of ages including adults, adolescents and children. My experience includes treating clients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, ODD, OCD, trauma and many more. I provide techniques that are Evidence-Based and utilize CBT and Motivational Interviewing, to help serve clients to achieve their needs while working with their strengths. I have extensive experience; including leadership roles, providing services within the community treating individuals that have been involved with the Department of Child Services and have high complex needs.
I work with clients consisting of a wide range of ages including adults, adolescents and children. My experience includes treating clients who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, ODD, OCD, trauma and many more. I provide techniques that are Evidence-Based and utilize CBT and Motivational Interviewing, to help serve clients to achieve their needs while working with their strengths. I have extensive experience; including leadership roles, providing services within the community treating individuals that have been involved with the Department of Child Services and have high complex needs.
Kaylyn Gyden
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
I assist people in understanding and navigating the complexities of feelings and relationships and work with people experiencing unhealthy and/or difficult relationships with themselves, romantic partners, family members, and peers. Although I am experienced in all modalities, I specialize in couple and family therapy, more specifically, infidelity, communication, and intimacy building. I am effective in assisting couples and families create new meaning and tradition after experiencing an emotional disruption. Additionally, I assist individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, grief/loss, and boundary setting.
I assist people in understanding and navigating the complexities of feelings and relationships and work with people experiencing unhealthy and/or difficult relationships with themselves, romantic partners, family members, and peers. Although I am experienced in all modalities, I specialize in couple and family therapy, more specifically, infidelity, communication, and intimacy building. I am effective in assisting couples and families create new meaning and tradition after experiencing an emotional disruption. Additionally, I assist individuals struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, grief/loss, and boundary setting.
Donna P Peters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage, IN 46368
Do you feel that people in your life do not listen or hear you when you speak? Being understood is the foundation and the most important starting point on any journey towards healing. Once you feel safe and understood, we can begin trying new more effective approaches to address these problems. I have a vast breadth of experience in the mental health field, working with diverse populations from Hospital settings to Community Mental Health. I use an eclectic blend therapeutic approach that includes mindfulness, cognitive behavior, and strengths-based approach. My counseling style is supportive, caring, and compassionate.
Do you feel that people in your life do not listen or hear you when you speak? Being understood is the foundation and the most important starting point on any journey towards healing. Once you feel safe and understood, we can begin trying new more effective approaches to address these problems. I have a vast breadth of experience in the mental health field, working with diverse populations from Hospital settings to Community Mental Health. I use an eclectic blend therapeutic approach that includes mindfulness, cognitive behavior, and strengths-based approach. My counseling style is supportive, caring, and compassionate.
Jason Kniola
Counselor, LMHC, LCAC, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, IN 46368
Jason has worked alongside his clients as they deal with the complexities of life’s challenges, including attention and emotional or behavior issues in children, the struggles of identity and maturity of adolescence, and the myriad of issues facing adults, such as relationship and communication issues, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Jason has worked alongside his clients as they deal with the complexities of life’s challenges, including attention and emotional or behavior issues in children, the struggles of identity and maturity of adolescence, and the myriad of issues facing adults, such as relationship and communication issues, addiction, anxiety, and depression.
See more therapy options for Portage
Teen Therapists
What does therapy for teenagers look like?
When a therapist works with a teenager, the pair will talk about what the teen is struggling with and explore solutions, which may involve interpersonal skills, coping strategies, medication, or lifestyle changes related to sleep, diet, and exercise. Different therapists employ different modalities, but most involve a combination of conversation and skill building.
How long does therapy for teenagers generally take to work?
There’s variability in teenagers’ experiences and challenges; some may begin to improve from therapy within a few weeks while others may take several months or longer. Teens can discuss their progress with their therapist periodically to assess how they’re improving and any changes to the treatment plan that could potentially accelerate that progress.
How do you encourage a teenager to go to therapy?
It’s helpful to express your concern and love while framing therapy as an opportunity to explore a tool that could help improve their life; just like they practice baseball or dance, now they can practice their emotional skills. Give your teen control over the process where you can—maybe by weighing in on choice of therapist and signaling that therapy involves confidentiality, so a parent need not know all that is discussed in sessions.
How do you prepare teens for therapy?
You can prepare your teenager for therapy by describing what the process will look like and setting expectations for timeline, if requested. You can explain that the first session may begin with an assessment phase, that they can describe their experiences but that the therapist will ask questions too, and that it may take time to feel comfortable opening up. Ask how they’re feeling about the process and answer any questions calmly and supportively.