Counseling and Therapy Services in Portsmouth, NH
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
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
AYC Portsmouth is accepting new clients now!
Ever found yourself thinking, "No one gave me an instruction manual on how to do this" or perhaps you have wondered, "Why do I feel like this?" You don't have to answer these questions alone. At AYC, we offer a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can work through these thoughts as well as acknowledge and combat negative core beliefs. Our 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 firmly believe that the therapeutic alliance, that rapport between a client and a clinician, 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 of therapeutic guidance with us!​
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Modalities and areas of interest include:
• EMDR for Trauma Treatment
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Chronic Suicidality
• Self Compassion
• Pain Reprocessing Therapy
• Grief Therapy (including pet loss)
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​​Education
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University of New Hampshire, 2018​
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New Hampshire LICSW: 2446
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Maine CPC: LC24424
Shawnna Frost, Pre-Licensed 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.
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Modalities and areas of interest include:
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Attachment-Based Therapy
• Anger Management
• Person Centered
• Solution-Focused Therapy
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Education:
• Thomas College - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Concentration in Forensics
2023.
• Merrimack College - Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling 2025
• Pre-license Number: 1945
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Kelsey Brandon, Pre-Licensed 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.
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Modalities and areas of interest include:
• Emotionally-Focused Therapy for Couples and Families
• Brief Solution-Focused Therapy for couples and families
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Narrative Therapy
• Parent Coaching for Caregivers of Children with significant behavioral or emotional Needs
Education:
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University of New Hampshire, MS, Marriage and Family Therapy, August 2025
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Pre-license Number: 1968
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 a Clinician, 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!
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Modalities and areas of interest include:
• Person Centered
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Internal Family Services (IFS)
• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
• Self Compassion
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Trauma
• Eating Disorders
• Anxiety/Depression
• Bipolar Disorder
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Education:
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University of Maine Orono: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, December 2023
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Merrimack College: Masters of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, May 2026
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Pre-license Number:
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Gianna Cormier, Intern
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Healing and growth often begin in a space where you feel heard, respected, and understood. As humans, we carry many layers, some visible and others more hidden. I strive to create a supportive, nonjudgmental environment where you can explore those parts of yourself and gain a deeper understanding of your inner world. Beginning therapy can feel vulnerable, and having a safe, compassionate space can make all the difference.
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Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and self-doubt can feel overwhelming, especially when they begin to shape how you view yourself. While these experiences can be painful, they do not define who you are. Therapy offers an affirming space to explore limiting beliefs, reconnect with your strengths, and foster growth at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
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My approach is integrative and flexible, meeting you where you are in your journey. Together, we can build a space where you feel seen, supported, and empowered as you move toward healing and personal growth. I am currently accepting new clients and would be honored to walk alongside you through this process.
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Modalities and areas of interest include:
• Psychodynamic Therapy
• Humanistic and Existential Psychotherapy
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Internal Family Systems (IFS)
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Person Centered
• Somatic Therapy
• Chronic Suicidality
• Grief Therapy
• Trauma Therapy
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​ Education:
• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Merrimack
• Pre-license Number:
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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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​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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Modalities and areas of interest include:
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Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
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Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
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Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
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Anxiety/Depression
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
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Self-esteem issues
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Education:
• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Merrimack
• Pre-license Number:
Noelle Bisesti, Intern
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Many people seek therapy when something in life no longer feels manageable or fulfilling. You may be struggling with relationship dynamics, work stress, anxiety, life transitions, illnesses, low self-esteem, or just feeling overwhelmed by difficult emotions. Whatever challenges you are facing, I strive to provide a warm, nonjudgmental, and supportive space where we can work collaboratively toward greater balance, fulfillment, and emotional well-being.
As a counseling intern pursuing my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Merrimack College, I use a client-centered, integrative approach tailored to your goals. Using CBT, DBT, and ACT, I help clients understand emotions, build coping skills, and explore meaningful change, while honoring that the choice to make a change is always your decision.
Therapy is not about making life’s challenges disappear overnight, but you do not have to navigate them alone. My goal is to support, guide, and empower you as you move through difficult experiences and create a life that feels more authentic and fulfilling.​
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Modalities and areas of interest include:
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
• Relationship Dynamics
• Grief Therapy
• Terminal Illness
• Anxiety and Depression
• Sexual addiction/Sex Related Topics
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​​Education
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University of Massachusetts Lowell: Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology 2024​
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Merrimack College: Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Expected Graduation: May 2027
Services Offered at Our Portsmouth, NH Office
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Individual Therapy
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Anxiety Therapy
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Depression Therapy
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Trauma Therapy
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Medication Management (telehealth Only)
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
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OCD/ERP Therapy
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Family Therapy
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.
