Working with a therapist can help you manage many life challenges. Whether you need to alleviate symptoms of mental health disorders, work through the psychological effects of sexual abuse or other trauma, or improve low self-esteem, clinical mental health counseling may be beneficial.

Professionals in the mental health field complete years of specialized training, during which they learn about various aspects of providing effective treatment, like clinical assessments and the importance of unconditional positive regard for their clients. A therapist will work with you to understand your unique challenges and create a treatment plan to help you meet your goals.

If you’re looking for a therapist in Portsmouth, VA, consider an online therapy platform like BetterHelp. With BetterHelp, you can attend sessions from the comfort of your home at a time that works for your schedule. Plus, you can change providers anytime for no additional fee until you find the right fit. Whether you want to work with a certified substance abuse counselor, psychologist, or social worker, BetterHelp can make therapy more accessible, flexible, and convenient. 

If you need help managing symptoms of anxiety disorders or bipolar disorder, coping with the stress of family conflict, or learning how to achieve personal growth, connect with a Portsmouth-based therapist below to learn more.

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Dr. Pamela Kayanan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): PhD, LPC, LMFT
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
25 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I have been a licensed mental health counselor in the state of Virginia for the past 25 years. I am licensed in Professional Counseling; Marriage and Family Counseling and Addictions. I have a PhD in Counseling and Education. My primary focus and experience is working with Anxiety and Depression especially with those who have suffered trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am also focused on addition of all kinds to include: substance abuse, drug addition, workaholism, alcoholism, and addiction to exercise. I have worked with adolescents, their families, and adults with addiction and dual disorders for the past 25 years. Working with parents dealing with addiction in their teenagers is also one of my expertise. I wrote a book, "Teenland: A Parent's Guide to Navigating the World of Adolescence" (which can be gotten through me directly) which helps parents parent adolescents. Addictions I have worked with included alcohol, illicit substances, and medication abuse. I have also worked with professionals (doctors, nurses, CEOs, police officers, etc.) who were dealing with work addiction (aka workaholic) and their family members . I have helped those with PTSD through a program headquartered in Las Vegas called "Ponies North." This program is for veterans who are suffering with PTSD and other mood disorders. In addition to PTSD I have worked extensively with those with anxiety disorders to include Social Anxiety Disorder, Body Dysmorphia,and General Anxiety Disorder. My approaches includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered, Solution Focused therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Neuro Linguistic Programing . Change is possible no matter how old you are or what the issues are. I can help guide you to whatever changes you decide you want. Our work is a partnership. I am an expert on change and you are the expert on you.

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Sara Duckery

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementSelf esteem
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 15 years of experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults and families. I work a great deal with adolescents and young adults dealing with anxiety, learning issues, depression, ADHD, OCD, self-esteem, anger issues and experience working with military families. I have a Master's Degree from the University of Maryland-Baltimore in Social Work. I completed internships in the school system and hospital system working with children with complex medical needs. I currently am a school social worker in the Washington, DC area. I use a variety of therapy techniques helping my clients reach their goals that are set in a collaborative process. I strongly believe that it is a team approach in helping my client's achieve success in their treatment. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I strive on being honest with my clients and providing a safe environment to express their needs and feelings. My integrative approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and solutions-focused approach. I will also ask for you open feedback about how you feel our sessions and goals are progressing. I have training in EMDR, TF-CBT and sand tray therapy. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, body combat and boot camp classes, searching for new instant pot recipes and traveling. It is hard to ask for help and you have taken the first step in doing so, so that is one step towards achieving your goals. I am here to support you in your journey to happiness. I look forward to working with you!

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Dr. Edythe Bouldin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC,PhD
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
7 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello!!! Are you looking to experience therapy and have fun at the same time. If so, you have found the right therapist as I love humor and I am down to earth. My history of mental health counseling includes over 10 years of working with individuals and from many diverse backgrounds and I earned a PhD in human services with a concentration on family interventions and family studies. I am a therapist who provides a comfortable, safe environment where you can trust me to maintain professional boundaries, and support you with making healthy decisions as you move forward in life. My specialties are grief and bereavement and I am certified in trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, as well as a certified Grief Counselor. I am open and excited to work with diverse populations and I am empathetic and a great listener here to support you on your journey. I work with individuals who struggle with feelings of anxiety and sadness and we can work on strategies together to help you to address the root causes of your difficulties and assist you with feeling better and with moving forward.

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Hazel Jacobs

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LISW-CP
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hazel Jacobs, LCSW, LISW-CP graduated from Norfolk State University where she obtained both her BSW and MSW. Mrs. Jacobs proudly worked with the United States government to provide clinical services to our country’s service members, veterans, and their families. Mrs. Jacobs employs a wealth of experience from her years of servicing a multitude of populations, including but not limited to; individuals, families, children, and groups. Mrs. Jacobs has supported our military service members and their families all across the world. She has enthusiastically provided services in Japan and Italy, ensuring that our troops and their loved ones would have the experienced support no matter where they are on the globe. Mrs. Jacobs has an integrative approach to practice and is a firm believer of meeting people where they are in life. As everyone has traveled different roads and no two stories are the same, she pulls from a multitude of evidence based practices and utilizes a holistic approach to treatment. She believes that building a rapport is a crucial element toward restoration and empowerment; and that everyone possesses the requisite tools to enrich their lives and restore their bonds.

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Monica Weems

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

Hello! My name is Monica and I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Virginia. I have over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession. I have worked in a variety of settings to include, residential, outpatient, career, and addictions counseling. Although I have experience working with a wide variety of clients with a broad spectrum of clinical issues I have the most experience working with women who struggle with depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), family/relationship concerns, life transitions, and substance abuse issues. I am a graduate of Capella University in Minneapolis, MN. I have a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I provide a client-focused, culturally competent approach to counseling with a primary treatment modality grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT's primary focus is on thinking patterns. Simply stated, I believe we can manage our emotions and behaviors, by changing the way we think about our situations. I would describe my style as warm and supportive, yet, strong and direct. I am ready to assist you overcome any obstacle life sets before you.

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Reginald Haynes

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemDepression
22 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am a licensed clinical social worker in the state of Virginia. I have been practicing for over 20 years with various populations to include persons with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, adjustment disorder, etc. I have worked with individuals, couples and families. My clients consisted of veterans, active duty military , cisgenders and members of the LGBT community. In private practice as well as in hospitals, I was able to establish a rapport quickly with clients, and they obtained goals of the treatment plans expeditiously. I look forward to working with a diverse group of individuals. My approach is eclectic to include CBT, Gottman, motivational interviewing, solution focused , etc.

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Chrystal Cook

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
AddictionsGriefCoping with life changes
4 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of therapy work experience, and 13 years of social work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, & coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can be intimidating; I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dr. Tayla Rhine

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Vesna Hart

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
5 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Virginia with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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. I will do so with care and compassion, focusing on your needs and growth. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Korenee Walthour

Clinical therapist offering therapy in VA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionADHD
15 years of experience as a mental health therapist

I am licensed in Florida, North Carolina and Virginia with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Portsmouth

Finding the best therapist close by in Portsmouth 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 in Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Portsmouth, 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. 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 to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Portsmouth region and in the state of Virginia. 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 Portsmouth 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 therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers 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 Portsmouth area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find Portsmouth therapists, have in mind what type of therapy 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 Portsmouth, elsewhere in Portsmouth (city), or in the greater state of Virginia.

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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Portsmouth due to a higher cost of living. 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 Portsmouth may not take health insurance, some in the state of Virginia 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 Virginia you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). If you're looking for a therapist, Cincinnati offers a variety of professionals who can help with your mental health needs at a price you can afford.

How is a licensed therapist on this Portsmouth online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Portsmouth, Virginia 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. They 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, they 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 Portsmouth 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 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 therapist, including the therapists in Portsmouth 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 lead by a therapist in Portsmouth 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. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified Portsmouth 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.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This type of therapy is provided by therapists who are professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Therapists use behavior therapy techniques 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 - Therapists engage clients in talk therapy to explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - Therapists offer counseling to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Therapists specialize in anxiety disorders, offering strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Therapists provide tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Therapists experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Therapists provide support and guidance to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use attachment therapy 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 Portsmouth therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Portsmouth?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Portsmouth 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 are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth 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 VA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles 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 23707 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. 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 Portsmouth counselor?

Before seeing your Portsmouth therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy 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, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They 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 in Portsmouth.

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 therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice from a therapist. A Portsmouth 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 through therapy with a Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, Virginia 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.

Portsmouth has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy 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 Portsmouth, Virginia

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of 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:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Portsmouth.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Portsmouth:

23701, 23702, 23703, 23704, 23705, 23707, 23708, 23709

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