Therapists in South Portland, ME

Currently accepting couples! It takes real courage to ask for help and prioritize your wellbeing! Maybe you are realizing a need to look back and heal from old wounds, or maybe you’re hoping to transform your life and move into new ways of being. Healing and transformation are both possible, and I’m here to support you in these endeavors. I aim to give space to the parts of you that are wanting to break through while also acknowledging the parts of you that may fear or push against this change (with compassion!). I support couples in rebuilding friendship, practicing healthy communication, and increasing a sense of agency.
Currently accepting couples! It takes real courage to ask for help and prioritize your wellbeing! Maybe you are realizing a need to look back and heal from old wounds, or maybe you’re hoping to transform your life and move into new ways of being. Healing and transformation are both possible, and I’m here to support you in these endeavors. I aim to give space to the parts of you that are wanting to break through while also acknowledging the parts of you that may fear or push against this change (with compassion!). I support couples in rebuilding friendship, practicing healthy communication, and increasing a sense of agency.

We try to take care of ourselves, connect with supportive people, and make good decisions - but being alive can be overwhelming at times - losses of health, loved ones, our sense of balance. When this happens it may bring up older unresolved issues or we may feel depressed or anxious. Sometimes it helps to just slow things down and look at what's going on with curiosity rather than judgment. It might be time to take a step back to look at what your goals are, what obstructs you enjoying your life more and getting satisfaction from your relationships - to look at creating new meaning from your experiences.
We try to take care of ourselves, connect with supportive people, and make good decisions - but being alive can be overwhelming at times - losses of health, loved ones, our sense of balance. When this happens it may bring up older unresolved issues or we may feel depressed or anxious. Sometimes it helps to just slow things down and look at what's going on with curiosity rather than judgment. It might be time to take a step back to look at what your goals are, what obstructs you enjoying your life more and getting satisfaction from your relationships - to look at creating new meaning from your experiences.

Hello and welcome! My name is Holly Carletti, LCPC. I believe that every individual needs a space in which to be ‘heard.’ With all of the noise, distractions and overstimulation in the world around us, it’s easy to feel unnoticed and unimportant. Being that we are all unique and important, we deserve to have the opportunity to grow and thrive in our own lives, in our own way. Three words that describe my style are: attentive, respectful, and compassionate. I feel passionate about building a strong therapeutic alliance and helping to empower the client toward autonomy.
Hello and welcome! My name is Holly Carletti, LCPC. I believe that every individual needs a space in which to be ‘heard.’ With all of the noise, distractions and overstimulation in the world around us, it’s easy to feel unnoticed and unimportant. Being that we are all unique and important, we deserve to have the opportunity to grow and thrive in our own lives, in our own way. Three words that describe my style are: attentive, respectful, and compassionate. I feel passionate about building a strong therapeutic alliance and helping to empower the client toward autonomy.

My name is Dhara Shah and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Maine. I work with clients statewide in Maine via telehealth As a licensed clinician, I conduct assessments to determine the course of treatment for the individual (such as individual therapy, couples therapy, or family therapy).
My name is Dhara Shah and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor based in Maine. I work with clients statewide in Maine via telehealth As a licensed clinician, I conduct assessments to determine the course of treatment for the individual (such as individual therapy, couples therapy, or family therapy).

I help individuals who may be struggling with a wide variety of life concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, career dynamics, trauma, or who are simply seeking to live more in alignment with their authentic selves. I am particularly passionate about supporting women and the unique challenges they face. I offer a warm, judgement-free space, away from the noise of the outside world, where we can work through what is keeping you stuck together and channel your inner strength towards meeting your goals.
I help individuals who may be struggling with a wide variety of life concerns, including anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship difficulties, career dynamics, trauma, or who are simply seeking to live more in alignment with their authentic selves. I am particularly passionate about supporting women and the unique challenges they face. I offer a warm, judgement-free space, away from the noise of the outside world, where we can work through what is keeping you stuck together and channel your inner strength towards meeting your goals.

I work with every age- because managing difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviors is a human experience. Having difficult times is a human experience. I teach parents how to help their children regulate their feeling manage difficult behaviors. My work focuses on the mind and the heart; I focus on reducing unnecessary suffering by learning how to explore the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that created the suffering. I help you overcome life obstacles while respecting your soul's journey. My goal is to pass my skills and knowledge onto parents, adults and children, so you don't need me anymore. I work late afternoons and evenings.
I work with every age- because managing difficult thoughts, feelings and behaviors is a human experience. Having difficult times is a human experience. I teach parents how to help their children regulate their feeling manage difficult behaviors. My work focuses on the mind and the heart; I focus on reducing unnecessary suffering by learning how to explore the thoughts, feelings and behaviors that created the suffering. I help you overcome life obstacles while respecting your soul's journey. My goal is to pass my skills and knowledge onto parents, adults and children, so you don't need me anymore. I work late afternoons and evenings.

Specialized advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, stress, historical trauma, and the grief that accompanies trauma. Healing is possible with evidence-based techniques. I offer a supportive environment for you to improve the relationship with yourself and with others. Send an email or leave a voicemail message and receive a response within 24-hours. Please ask about my sliding-scale based on income.
Specialized advanced training in the treatment of anxiety, stress, historical trauma, and the grief that accompanies trauma. Healing is possible with evidence-based techniques. I offer a supportive environment for you to improve the relationship with yourself and with others. Send an email or leave a voicemail message and receive a response within 24-hours. Please ask about my sliding-scale based on income.

Donnielle Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-cc
2 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
Not accepting new clients
I support women who feel overwhelmed and struggle with feeling “not good enough” after trauma. I work with women healing from sexual trauma, racial trauma, and betrayals by those we’re meant to trust. I have a special interest in working with clients who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and/or LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse folks. I believe that you are the expert of your life and I recognize the need for client-specific approaches to healing trauma. I will support you in developing the ability to regulate your nervous system, reconnect with your body, feel safe and present, and experience improved relationships.
I support women who feel overwhelmed and struggle with feeling “not good enough” after trauma. I work with women healing from sexual trauma, racial trauma, and betrayals by those we’re meant to trust. I have a special interest in working with clients who identify as Black, Indigenous, and People of Color and/or LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse folks. I believe that you are the expert of your life and I recognize the need for client-specific approaches to healing trauma. I will support you in developing the ability to regulate your nervous system, reconnect with your body, feel safe and present, and experience improved relationships.

Powers of the Healing Arts Therapy and Training
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCS
South Portland, ME 04106
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that healing the wounds of the past is the key to moving forward and having a happy and successful life. I focus on integrating the emotional, physical, cognitive and spiritual health of each person with compassionate and individualized care. I have 27 years of experience in the Social Work field and have developed a therapeutic style that is characterized by empathy, approachability, transparency and non-judgment.
I believe that healing the wounds of the past is the key to moving forward and having a happy and successful life. I focus on integrating the emotional, physical, cognitive and spiritual health of each person with compassionate and individualized care. I have 27 years of experience in the Social Work field and have developed a therapeutic style that is characterized by empathy, approachability, transparency and non-judgment.

Rita McPhillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
South Portland, ME 04116
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Perhaps you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, strained relationships or loneliness. Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Are your loved one's behaviors becoming highly stressful for you? Normal transitions may be relocating, retirement, new job, and more. Life is full of stressors! If any of these things ring true, you are not alone. I would like to help you find renewed strength, a sense of calm, and confidence in your ability to move toward a life in which you find meaning and purpose.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming. Perhaps you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, strained relationships or loneliness. Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Are your loved one's behaviors becoming highly stressful for you? Normal transitions may be relocating, retirement, new job, and more. Life is full of stressors! If any of these things ring true, you are not alone. I would like to help you find renewed strength, a sense of calm, and confidence in your ability to move toward a life in which you find meaning and purpose.

My goal as a therapist is to empower individuals to overcome life’s challenges through compassionate and evidence-based counseling, fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. My goal is to help you transform your life through therapy that is tailored to your unique needs, helping you achieve your fullest potential. If you were to wake up tomorrow and your current circumstances were no longer impacting your life, what would your world look like?
My goal as a therapist is to empower individuals to overcome life’s challenges through compassionate and evidence-based counseling, fostering personal growth and emotional well-being. My goal is to help you transform your life through therapy that is tailored to your unique needs, helping you achieve your fullest potential. If you were to wake up tomorrow and your current circumstances were no longer impacting your life, what would your world look like?

These days, it's common to feel exhausted, stressed and worried about the future. Maybe you've been carrying the mental load and shouldering all of the things for so long that you've stopped even considering that life could be different—that joy, fulfillment and connection are within reach... maybe you need just a little guidance and support. Perhaps you're recovering from a heartbreak or entering into a new life stage, and have a sense that there could be an easier way to navigate the loss or uncertainty, you're facing.
These days, it's common to feel exhausted, stressed and worried about the future. Maybe you've been carrying the mental load and shouldering all of the things for so long that you've stopped even considering that life could be different—that joy, fulfillment and connection are within reach... maybe you need just a little guidance and support. Perhaps you're recovering from a heartbreak or entering into a new life stage, and have a sense that there could be an easier way to navigate the loss or uncertainty, you're facing.

Emily received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky in 2005. She practices from an attachment and mindfulness based perspective, honoring the mind-body connection, and works with individuals of all ages. She has received training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Theraplay, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children (MATCH), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), somatic interventions and is a level II trained EMDR therapist. Her previous work includes working in home based, residential, psychiatric hospital and outpatient settings.
Emily received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky in 2005. She practices from an attachment and mindfulness based perspective, honoring the mind-body connection, and works with individuals of all ages. She has received training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Theraplay, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children (MATCH), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), somatic interventions and is a level II trained EMDR therapist. Her previous work includes working in home based, residential, psychiatric hospital and outpatient settings.
I am a clinical psychologist who works with adults in individual psychotherapy. While my work is informed by various psychological theories (psychodynamic, attachment, and cognitive behavioral), my approach is practical and collaborative and tailored to the specific needs of each person.
I am a clinical psychologist who works with adults in individual psychotherapy. While my work is informed by various psychological theories (psychodynamic, attachment, and cognitive behavioral), my approach is practical and collaborative and tailored to the specific needs of each person.

Are you seeking a space to see change or growth in yourself, your relationships, your parenting? A place for your child/adolescent to work through the emotional waves of transitions, relationships, traumatic experiences, worries and to build confidence and success? A space to come together as parents to support your child(ren) in navigating the complicated world? Join me and together we will build a path forward using evidenced-based therapy models (CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused-CBT) in combination with empathy and creativity. Unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns are changeable, and I am here to help you realize this truth.
Are you seeking a space to see change or growth in yourself, your relationships, your parenting? A place for your child/adolescent to work through the emotional waves of transitions, relationships, traumatic experiences, worries and to build confidence and success? A space to come together as parents to support your child(ren) in navigating the complicated world? Join me and together we will build a path forward using evidenced-based therapy models (CBT, DBT, Trauma-Focused-CBT) in combination with empathy and creativity. Unhelpful thinking and behavior patterns are changeable, and I am here to help you realize this truth.

Michelle Donovan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 2014. Michelle believes that when the stress of our complex world becomes overwhelming, therapy can be a great avenue to seek balance. She has worked with children and adolescents over the past eight years to help them find solutions and manage their lives successfully. It takes courage to engage with the therapeutic process and Michelle will provide a supportive, safe, and confidential space to explore challenges. She values being collaborative in this process and honoring everyone's own life story.
Michelle Donovan is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine who has been practicing since 2014. Michelle believes that when the stress of our complex world becomes overwhelming, therapy can be a great avenue to seek balance. She has worked with children and adolescents over the past eight years to help them find solutions and manage their lives successfully. It takes courage to engage with the therapeutic process and Michelle will provide a supportive, safe, and confidential space to explore challenges. She values being collaborative in this process and honoring everyone's own life story.

I began my clinical work with non-profit and community mental health organizations where I had the honor to work with some of the most underserved families and young adults in Los Angeles County. I am new to Maine and beyond thrilled to have the chance to bring more excellent mental heath services to the East Coast! Since opening my private practice in 2017, I have developed specific expertise in working with those struggling with ADHD (adults, adolescents and families), folks in recovery, LGBTQI+ issues, codependence, and trauma focused treatment for those affected by narcissistic abuse or narcissistic family systems.
I began my clinical work with non-profit and community mental health organizations where I had the honor to work with some of the most underserved families and young adults in Los Angeles County. I am new to Maine and beyond thrilled to have the chance to bring more excellent mental heath services to the East Coast! Since opening my private practice in 2017, I have developed specific expertise in working with those struggling with ADHD (adults, adolescents and families), folks in recovery, LGBTQI+ issues, codependence, and trauma focused treatment for those affected by narcissistic abuse or narcissistic family systems.

As a Registered Play Therapist, my approach is child/person centered, gentle, individualized, comprehensive, PLAYful and non-judgmental.. I have had experience in working with children who are anxious, aggressive or withdrawn, children of divorce, children on the autism spectrum, ADD or ADHD. My experience as a special educator include working with children with neurological disorders affecting their motor, sensory, communication, social and cognitive domains. I work closely with families to provide guidance and support and to help develop strategies and techniques to deal positively with the presenting problems in the home or educational environments.
As a Registered Play Therapist, my approach is child/person centered, gentle, individualized, comprehensive, PLAYful and non-judgmental.. I have had experience in working with children who are anxious, aggressive or withdrawn, children of divorce, children on the autism spectrum, ADD or ADHD. My experience as a special educator include working with children with neurological disorders affecting their motor, sensory, communication, social and cognitive domains. I work closely with families to provide guidance and support and to help develop strategies and techniques to deal positively with the presenting problems in the home or educational environments.

Virago Wellness is a women's counseling center in South Portland Maine (use of the word women is inclusive of gender diversity, we serve all individuals is gender-affirming ways) Our counselors build real connections with you and provide education, information, and targeted support to empower you to make the changes you need to go from feeling alone and overwhelmed to empowered and loving life.
Virago Wellness is a women's counseling center in South Portland Maine (use of the word women is inclusive of gender diversity, we serve all individuals is gender-affirming ways) Our counselors build real connections with you and provide education, information, and targeted support to empower you to make the changes you need to go from feeling alone and overwhelmed to empowered and loving life.

Kai Bry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106
Waitlist for new clients
Anxious adults stuck in patterns of worry, self-criticism, and hopelessness are a common sight in my therapy office. I find that psychotherapy can be a great tool for reducing stress, deepening self-understanding, improving relationships, and growing confidence. I work with individual adults, of all ages, trying their best to show up for themselves, their families, and communities. I also have experience supporting family members of people struggling with addiction; as well as, those looking for support maintaining their own recovery.
Anxious adults stuck in patterns of worry, self-criticism, and hopelessness are a common sight in my therapy office. I find that psychotherapy can be a great tool for reducing stress, deepening self-understanding, improving relationships, and growing confidence. I work with individual adults, of all ages, trying their best to show up for themselves, their families, and communities. I also have experience supporting family members of people struggling with addiction; as well as, those looking for support maintaining their own recovery.
See more therapy options for South Portland
Nearby Searches for South Portland
- Cape Elizabeth
- Cumberland
- Cumberland Foreside
- Falmouth
- Gorham
- Old Orchard Beach
- Portland
- Saco
- Scarborough
- Westbrook
- Windham
- Yarmouth
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in South Portland, ME
200+
Average cost per session
$145
Therapists in South Portland, ME who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
87% | Depression |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
64% | Life Transitions |
63% | Grief |
59% | Relationship Issues |
58% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
13 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
80% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
79% | Aetna |
69% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in South Portland, ME see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
83% | Female | |
16% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in South Portland?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.