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Counseling and Therapy Services in Portsmouth, NH

Therapy Team Portsmouth New Hampshire

At Authentically You Counseling in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, we provide compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for individuals, couples, and families.

 

Our Portsmouth office offers a wide range of counseling services, including treatment for anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Whether you’re seeking in-person therapy in Portsmouth or secure telehealth sessions, our licensed clinicians are here to help you find relief, build resilience, and move toward the life you want to live.

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Located on the Seacoast of NH, our Portsmouth counseling location serves clients from Portsmouth, Dover, Exeter, Hampton, and surrounding towns.

 

We are currently accepting new clients and offer flexible scheduling to meet your needs. Learn about our staff below.

Meet Our Staff at The Portsmouth NH Office

Jayme Sullivan, LICSW -  Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Jayme Sullivan, LICSW

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

AYC is accepting new clients now! Ever think "No one gave me a manual on how to do this" or perhaps wondering, "Why do I feel like this?" I offer a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can work through these thoughts as well as acknowledge and combat negative core beliefs. My goal is to create a space where individuals can explore what is holding them back from living the life they desire.


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and obtained my MSW from UNH in 2018. I specialize in providing therapy to adults who experience symptoms associated with anxiety, depression, OCD, suicidal ideation, chronic pain, medical trauma, and other mental health challenges.


I firmly believe that the therapeutic alliance, the rapport between a client and me, plays a crucial role in the success of therapy. If you are ready to begin your journey towards creating the life you want to live, please contact Authentically You Counseling for an intake and start that journey with therapeutic guidance from me!​

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  • University of New Hampshire, 2018​

  • License Info: LICSW (2446)

Shawnna Frost, Pre-License Clinician - CBT, ACT, and DBT

Shawnna Frost, Pre-License Clinician

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

What if those harsh, sudden waves of anxiety or panic aren't random but your mind's way of asking for help? You’re navigating a tough season, maybe a recent breakup, a shift in identity, or symptoms of depression, anxiety, and frustration that just won’t let up. You're tired of feeling reactive or emotionally flooded. You crave strategies that help you feel more present and intentional. I offer an empathetic ear and understand that you want to feel emotionally balanced, more in control, and supported by someone who can help you see the big picture while working through the hard stuff.

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My work integrates solution-focused therapy, CBT, ACT, and DBT to help you shift patterns, understand your emotions, and build a stronger sense of self. Don’t know how to talk about your feelings? We can work together to measure change. I specialize in low self-esteem, mood concerns, anxiety, and anger, offering structure and genuine connection throughout.

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Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but you're not alone. This process is about honoring your story, reconnecting with your values, and creating change at your own pace. If you’re seeking a therapist who will listen deeply, challenge gently, and celebrate your growth, I’m here for you.

 

  • Merrimack College, August 2025

Kelsey Brandon, Pre-License Clinician

Kelsey Brandon, Pre-License Clinician

Pronouns: Any/All

Is your relationship changing? Is parenting your child challenging in ways that you didn’t expect? All of us play many roles every day: parent, caregiver, child, spouse, partner, employee, student, and so many more. No matter how many roles and relationships you have to navigate, you deserve a place to give those relationships the time, energy, and support that they deserve. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am opening to working with individual children and adults, as well as families and partnerships of all structures. Whether you are about to become a parent for the first time, are considering parenthood, struggling to parent a child with complex needs, are about to begin a new marriage, have ended a relationship, or find yourself any of the dozens of relationship and role changes that life throws our way, there is a place for you here. 

 

I combine several therapeutic traditions and modalities to find an integrative approach that works best for you. When working with individuals, I am drawn to  Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Narrative Therapy. When working with couples and families, I rely on the traditions of Feminist Structural Family Therapy and Emotionally-Focused Therapy, as well as the concrete behavioral techniques of Trust-Based Relational Intervention for parents and children. When working with children, I collaborate with parents and caregivers to help the whole family achieve their goals. 

 

The name “Marriage and Family Therapist” can be misleading; you don’t have to be married or have a family in the traditional sense to benefit from counseling that is structural and relational in nature. No matter what kind of relationships you have, are trying to build or re-built, or what kind of relationships you have ended, there is space here for you.

 

  • University of New Hampshire, MS, Marriage and Family Therapy, August 2025

Kirsten Rancourt - neurodivergent counseling Portsmouth NH

Kristen Rancourt, Intern

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

If you’re navigating life as a neurodivergent person – maybe you have autism, ADHD, or just feel like your brain works differently – Your experience is real, valid, and meaningful. You deserve support that meets you where you truly are, not where the world expects you to be. I’m interested in working with individuals who are struggling with eating disorders, OCD, phobias, & trauma – often invisible challenges that can feel exhausting, isolating, or even shameful. If you’re caught in patterns that feel hard to explain to others, or stuck in a cycle that seems impossible to break, I see you. You’re not alone, there is a way through.

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As an intern, obtaining my Master's in Counseling at Merrimack, I bring an integrative, flexible approach to therapy. That means I don’t rely on just one method – I use a combination of evidence-based tools like DBT, CBT, and mindfulness, all guided by curiosity, collaboration, and respect for your unique story. Let's figure out what feels right for you.

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Therapy with me isn’t about fixing you – it’s about understanding you, supporting your growth, and helping you build the life you want. Whether it’s managing anxiety or unlearning harmful patterns, I offer compassionate, personalized care. "One size doesn't fit all." You’ve already taken a big first step. Reach out to begin your unique therapeutic journey!

 

  • Merrimack College, Expected Graduation Date: May 2026

Gianna Cormier - self-esteem counseling Portsmouth NH

Gianna Cormier, Intern

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

Therapy is a collaborative, compassionate process grounded in curiosity and respect. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can explore challenges, gain insight, and grow. I’ve worked with older adults and families at Elliot Neurocognitive Services, supporting those facing Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. My research on healthcare literacy and counseling those coping with chemotherapy-induced alopecia has strengthened my commitment to holistic, mind-body care.

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I understand that anxiety, low self-esteem, and self-doubt can feel overwhelming but they don’t have to define you. I’m especially interested in how self-esteem and limiting beliefs impact personal growth, and I strive to offer an affirming space to help you reconnect with your strengths and potential.

 

My approach is integrative and I incorporate elements of DBT, IFS, and CBT, always tailored to your unique needs. My clinical interests include trauma, identity development, anxiety, and life transitions. I’m dedicated to helping you feel seen, supported, and empowered on your healing journey.

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  • Merrimack College, Expected Graduation Date: August 2026

Lauren Dawe - CBT and DBT interventions Portsmouth NH

Lauren Dawe, Intern

Pronouns: She/Her/Hers

I truly believe in the therapeutic process and in your ability to come to therapy as honest, vulnerable, and ready to seek change. Together we can work towards developing a therapeutic process that is catered to you and your goals. I can assist you in managing intrusive thoughts, how to cope with feelings of anxiety, or mindfulness techniques to manage stress. You can do hard things. You will learn to sit in discomfort in order to become comfortable.

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As an intern, I am building my clinical skills and finding my own personal style. I utilize CBT and DBT interventions to help you understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. I have special interest in treating those struggling with OCD, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.

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I take a client-centered approach to therapy, meaning, that our work together will allow you to uncover a clearer perception of yourself in an empathetic and accepting space. I applaud you for taking this first step and inquiring about coming to therapy.

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  • Merrimack College, Expected Graduation Date: August 2026

Services Offered at Our Portsmouth, NH Office

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Authentically You Portsmouth NH
Office Location And Service Area

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Our Portsmouth, NH counseling office proudly serves individuals, couples, and families throughout the Seacoast region and surrounding communities in New Hampshire, Maine, and northern Massachusetts. Many clients choose our Portsmouth location because they are looking for compassionate, affirming, and evidence-based mental health care in a welcoming and supportive environment.

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In addition to serving clients in Portsmouth, we regularly work with individuals from Dover, Somersworth, Stratham, Greenland, Loudon, Hopkinton, Concord, Nashua, Laconia, Alton, Weare, Allenstown, and Jaffrey, as well as nearby communities in Maine and Massachusetts including Kittery Point, Eliot, and Newburyport.

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Our Portsmouth office provides a wide range of counseling and therapy services including anxiety therapy, depression therapy, trauma therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR therapy, neurodivergent-affirming therapy, transgender-affirmative therapy, medication management, mindfulness-based therapy, substance use counseling, and more.

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Whether you are seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional regulation, relationship challenges, stress, self-esteem, or personal growth, our team is here to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered.

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If you are searching for counseling in Portsmouth, NH or a therapist serving the greater Seacoast region, Authentically You Counseling is here to support your mental health journey.

Frequently Asked Questions​

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Do you offer counseling in Portsmouth, NH?

Yes. Authentically You Counseling provides counseling and mental health services from our Portsmouth, NH office for individuals throughout the Seacoast region and surrounding communities in New Hampshire, Maine, and northern Massachusetts.
 

What areas do you serve from your Portsmouth office?

Our Portsmouth office regularly serves clients from Portsmouth, Dover, Somersworth, Stratham, Greenland, Concord, Nashua, Loudon, Hopkinton, Laconia, Alton, Weare, Allenstown, and Jaffrey, as well as nearby communities including Kittery Point and Eliot, Maine, and Newburyport, Massachusetts.
 

What types of therapy do you provide at your Portsmouth office?

Our Portsmouth office offers a wide range of counseling and therapy services including Individual Therapy, Anxiety Therapy, Depression Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR Therapy, Substance Use Counseling, Medication Management, Neurodivergent-Affirming Therapy, Transgender-Affirmative Therapy, Anger Management, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
 

Do you offer EMDR therapy in Portsmouth, NH?

Yes. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is available at our Portsmouth office. EMDR is commonly used to help individuals process trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and difficult life experiences using an evidence-based therapeutic approach.
 

Do you provide LGBTQ+ affirming therapy?

Yes. Our clinicians are committed to providing affirming, inclusive, and supportive mental health care for LGBTQ+ individuals. We strive to create a safe and welcoming environment where clients feel respected, understood, and supported throughout the therapy process.
 

Do you offer telehealth therapy appointments?

Yes. Telehealth counseling appointments are available for many services. Virtual therapy allows clients throughout New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts to access mental health support from the comfort and privacy of home when appropriate.
 

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. Authentically You Counseling accepts a variety of insurance plans. Coverage can vary depending on your provider and policy, so we recommend contacting the office directly to verify insurance participation and discuss payment options.
 

How do I schedule an appointment in Portsmouth?

You can schedule an appointment by contacting Authentically You Counseling through the website contact form or by calling the office directly. Our team will help connect you with a therapist who is a good fit for your goals, preferences, and scheduling needs.
 

How soon can I be seen?

Appointment availability can vary depending on the clinician and type of therapy requested. In many cases, new clients may be able to schedule relatively quickly. Contacting the office directly is the best way to learn about current availability.
 

What issues do you help clients with?

Our therapists work with individuals facing a wide range of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, emotional regulation difficulties, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, relationship challenges, anger management, neurodivergent support needs, and substance use concerns.
 

What is DBT therapy and how can it help?

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based therapy approach that helps individuals improve emotional regulation, mindfulness, communication skills, and distress tolerance. DBT can be especially helpful for individuals experiencing overwhelming emotions, relationship difficulties, impulsive behaviors, anxiety, or chronic stress.
 

Is your Portsmouth office convenient for Seacoast residents?

Yes. Our Portsmouth office is conveniently located for individuals throughout the Seacoast area and surrounding communities, making it accessible for clients traveling from southern Maine, central New Hampshire, and northern Massachusetts.

Call or Email Us Today

Mental Health Counseling Therapy Team Portsmouth New Hampshire
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