Rita Porter
Experienced, compassionate therapy for life transitions and healing
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About
Rita Porter, LCPC, is a licensed therapist in Illinois with 32 years of experience supporting people through complicated emotional and life transitions. She helps clients navigate stress and anxiety, depression, grief, trauma and abuse, and the strain that can come with major changes, while also addressing patterns that keep people stuck such as addictive behaviors, codependency, and difficulties with self-esteem.
Her work is grounded in a compassionate, steady presence that makes room for each person’s unique story. Rita is especially attentive to the realities of women’s experiences, midlife transitions, and the ways family systems and relationships can shape coping, communication, and personal growth. She also supports concerns such as parenting challenges, anger, ADHD-related struggles, career stress, blended family dynamics, divorce and separation, and caregiver stress, including aging and geriatric issues.
Rita takes a collaborative and respectful approach, tailoring therapy to the client’s needs, goals, and pace. With empathy and professional experience, she helps clients explore what is hurting, strengthen resilience, and build self-compassion, with the aim of turning difficult seasons into opportunities for meaningful growth and improved well-being.
Her work is grounded in a compassionate, steady presence that makes room for each person’s unique story. Rita is especially attentive to the realities of women’s experiences, midlife transitions, and the ways family systems and relationships can shape coping, communication, and personal growth. She also supports concerns such as parenting challenges, anger, ADHD-related struggles, career stress, blended family dynamics, divorce and separation, and caregiver stress, including aging and geriatric issues.
Rita takes a collaborative and respectful approach, tailoring therapy to the client’s needs, goals, and pace. With empathy and professional experience, she helps clients explore what is hurting, strengthen resilience, and build self-compassion, with the aim of turning difficult seasons into opportunities for meaningful growth and improved well-being.
- Location:
- Illinois, United States
- Years Experience:
- 32
- Gender:
- Female
- Languages Spoken:
- English
- Therapist of Color:
- No
- Communication Options:
- Phone • Video • Live Chat • Messaging
Specialties
Primary area of focus:Stress, Anxiety, Addictions, Self esteem, Depression, Coping with life changes
Other areas of experience: Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Parenting issues, Anger management, Career difficulties, ADHD, Blended family issues, Codependency, Communication problems, Control issues, Divorce and separation, Family of origin issues, Fatherhood issues, Forgiveness, Immigration issues, Isolation / loneliness, Life purpose, Midlife crisis, Mood disorders, Postpartum depression, Self-love
Credentials & Verification
- Credentials: IL LCPC 180.002881
- NPI Number: 1144423906
- License: LCPC (Illinois)
Therapeutic Approaches That Translate Well to Online Care
Rita Porter draws from evidence-informed approaches that can support clients working through anxiety, depression, relationship stress, addictive patterns, and major life changes.Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) focuses on noticing unhelpful thought patterns and the behaviors that follow them, then practicing more balanced ways of thinking and responding. It is often useful when stress, worry, low mood, or self-criticism starts to take over daily life. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) builds skills for handling difficult thoughts and feelings while reconnecting with personal values. Rather than getting stuck in a fight with emotions, clients practice making room for what shows up and taking steps toward what matters. Client-Centered Therapy emphasizes empathy, respect, and a strong working relationship, giving clients space to explore their story and build self-compassion at a pace that feels manageable.
Finding the right approach is part of therapy. Rita works collaboratively with each client to understand goals, preferences, and what has or has not helped before, then adjusts the focus over time to fit the client’s needs.
Online therapy can make consistent support more accessible. Sessions can happen through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, or text-based messaging, offering flexibility for busy schedules, caregiving responsibilities, or times when leaving home feels like too much.
How much experience does Rita Porter have?
Rita Porter has 32 years of experience as a therapist, supporting clients through concerns such as anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship challenges, and major life transitions.
Is Rita Porter a licensed therapist?
Yes. Rita Porter is a licensed therapist and holds the credential LCPC, which stands for Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Her license is IL LCPC 180.002881.
In which languages does Rita Porter provide therapy?
Rita Porter provides therapy in English.
Where is Rita Porter located?
Rita Porter is located in Illinois.
How can I work with Rita Porter as my therapist?
Rita Porter offers online therapy options that can include video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. This variety can make it easier to choose a format that fits your schedule and comfort level.
Does Rita Porter work with international clients?
No. Rita Porter does not currently work with international clients.
How much does therapy with Rita Porter cost?
The cost of therapy can vary depending on factors such as your location and the therapist's availability. Sessions are billed through a subscription that can be canceled at any time, for any reason. For current details, click the "Start Therapy" button on this page.
How can I get started with therapy?
Getting started is quick and straightforward. Click the "Start Therapy" button and complete a short questionnaire that helps match you with your therapist. Depending on availability, you can then schedule your first session, which may take place by phone, video call, live chat, or in-app messaging.