Teletherapy for Scarborough, ME

I view as some of my most important work that which instills hope and eases emotional pain -- in particular with our youth. Anger, Addiction and the struggles of Adolescence can be addressed, and a path to a better life can be found. I work with individuals from adolescence through late adulthood, couples, and families. My areas of specialization include: Anger, Addiction, Adolescence, Family Issues, Grief and Loss, and Relationships.

Everyone is subject to facing challenges in life, some more difficult than others. It's common to need extra support during these times, it can often bring us comfort, reassurance and clarity. Remembering that we are strong, resilient and that we hold our own solutions can be empowering and provide confidence. When faced with mental health related symptoms, addictions issues or family addiction issues, it's easy to become overwhelmed and forget what we need to do to take care of ourselves. Seeking therapy is a brave and decisive way to provide self care. We are often more kind to others than we are to ourselves, prioritize you.

Laura is the owner of Coastal Counseling, LLC where she provides supportive counseling to adults, children, and families. She has extensive experience in both the outpatient setting and in the school environment treating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression/Mood Disorders, Divorce/Separation, Family Conflict, Grief and Loss, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and Trauma.

Welcome! Thank you for viewing my profile. I am available to guide you through situations including relationship problems, grief, personal or professional transitions including major life challenges, such as divorce, blending families and managing anxiety or depression. I have spent years assisting people develop healthier lives. I offer a therapeutic environment of professionalism, warmth, truth, consistency and I give homework! You and I will collaborate and develop a therapeutic plan designed just for you. I also offer Christian counseling for those that wish to integrate their faith into the counseling process.

After 35 years practicing as a clinical psychologist I have come to understand that effective treatment must be determined specifically for each client and applied in a respectful and cooperative manner. Treatment choices are made based on the uniqueness of the individual, his or her goals, and current life circumstances. They may include behavior therapy, cognitive therapy, in-depth therapy, or couples and family therapy. One treatment modality is not appropriate for all.

My practice is currently full. I have been working as a strength-based counselor for the past 24 years. Through building a therapeutic relationship, we can address stressors and concerns in your life and focus on setting goals that will decrease anxiety, and have the potential to improve the overall quality of your life. I believe in self-care and ultimately achieving a sense of pride and self-esteem. I will work with you to recognize your individual strengths, set boundaries when needed, and use communication skills to assert needs to friends, family, and co-workers.

You have taken the first brave steps to a healthier, better you. I am here to guide you through the next step on your journey towards mental wellbeing. I will help you work through any issues to become the person you really want and need to be. My practice is a safe and warm therapeutic space where we can build a collaborative, strength based relationship.

Providing pastoral counseling to individuals and couples for over 20 years within a religious context has provided a wealth of knowledge and experience since transitioning to the clinical side of counseling. This transition comes at mid-life with comprehensive experience in organizational leadership as well as spiritual formation and direction. Having been married for 25 years and having adopted 2 children, I have a passion for strengthening marriages, families and relationships.

“Life is like photography. You need the negatives to develop.” There are highs and lows in life but how you tackle each bump in the road and stay resilient is up to you. I am here to listen, support, help you achieve your goals and discover your inner potential in a non-judgmental, compassionate way.

Not accepting new clients at this time. If you are here, you are likely feeling challenged, fearful or maybe stuck right now. It takes strength and courage to reach for help; I know this isn't easy. I believe every person has the potential to grow and change and I am here to support you, not to judge you. If you are ready, I am here to help. Sometimes taking that first step can seem lonely, overwhelming or intimidating. I can help to make your journey for change less overwhelming. I will be here as a source of truth, hope, and support, while witnessing the full spectrum of your journey.

Welcome! I enjoy working with children, adults, couples and families. A main focus of my practice is grief counseling. I am certified in thanatology and have a special interest in providing support to individuals and families after traumatic loss. I also have extensive experience working with those who are seeking help for depression and anxiety or who would like to improve their capacity to cope with stress, relationships, and life transitions.

My clients are welcomed into a safe and positive environment designed to foster personal change. This process is a journey of partnership. I believe that my part in counseling is that of a guide and support for individuals seeking new ways to meet their life challenges. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness to help with achieving personal goals. Breathing techniques are basic to reducing anxiety and stress. Along with individual and couples counseling, I offer group counseling as an effective tool in the process of change. Stress reduction, improved communication skills and enhanced self awareness are the goal.

As a dually licensed therapist I specialize in both mental health therapy as well as substance abuse and affected other counseling. Although I am able to provide either form of treatment alone, it is often appropriate to combine the two as a treatment for those experiencing difficulties due to the co-occurrence of symptoms, whether they have the substance abuse issue themselves or are affected by a loved one's substance abuse.

I am a solution-focused therapist who believes that therapy with straight talk, a willingness to try new things - and a liberal dash of humor – leads to growth, healing, and more joy. Your brain isn’t broken (even if it feels that way) and you have strengths that you can use to help you feel better. We can identify your strengths and work on using them more effectively so you can tackle the sticky areas of life that are weighing you down.

In my practice I aim to meet you with care and compassion wherever you find yourself in life. Whether you are going through a major transition or carrying wounding from earlier in life, your experiences can impact how you connect with yourself and those around you. Together we will explore the best way to support you and address what may be getting in the way of deeper healing.

My best wishes to you for a Happy and Healthy New Year 2024. My practice is currently online only and currently accepting new patients. Please call or text me at 207-409-3459 if you would like to have an opportunity to discuss your interest in pursuing individual or couples counseling. In my work with others I have found many struggle with aligning their life values and goals with living a meaningful and purposeful life in areas of relationship to self and others. Being able to patiently listen to your self as well as sharing your "voice" in relationship with others is so important to this life journey. You may be stuck, not broken!

It seems everything is pulling us further apart when what we long for is to feel closer, together. Are you tired of being angry with your partner? Disappointed and feeling alone? Did a recent event cause a breech in trust? A heathy relationship should be our tether to safety, not anther source of distress. It is possible to rebuild trust, deepen intimacy, and propel your relationship into happiness, even if it is hard work.

I am client-centered, creative, and interested in a holistic approach to therapy. I work to support individuals coping with: depression, anxiety, women's issues, trauma, and relational issues. I am connected to issues faced by the LGBTQ community. As a mother and an artist, I enjoy working with other creatives and parents. I offer traditional talk therapy, and 'walk & talk' therapy in Portland, Oregon. To learn more about the way I work please visit kierstinolivercounseling.com. I believe in nature as co-therapist, and try to get outside with clients when possible. You get to design your life, I am happy to help with the process.