Individual Therapy in Portland, Maine
Evidence-based therapy for children, teens and young adults
Therapy that helps young people feel better and do better
At Beacon Light Psychological Services, we provide warm, research-based therapy for children, teens and young adults in Portland, Maine. Therapy helps young people understand their thoughts and feelings, build practical skills, and handle life's challenges with more confidence.
Every treatment plan is tailored to the person in front of us. For younger children especially, parents are an important part of the process, so you'll always know what we're working on and how to help at home.
Concerns we help with
These are some of the concerns we commonly treat. Many people come to therapy with challenges that don't fit neatly into one category, and that's okay. We're happy to talk through what's going on.
Anxiety
Worry, fear or avoidance that gets in the way of school, friendships or family life.
OCD and related concerns
Unwanted thoughts, urges or repetitive behaviors that are hard to control.
Mood and emotions
Sadness, irritability or big feelings that are hard to manage.
School and life transitions
Stress that comes with growing up, changes at home and big next steps.
How we work
We use therapies with strong research support and adapt them to each person's age, needs and goals.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Our primary approach. CBT helps young people see how thoughts, feelings and actions connect, and builds practical skills for coping, problem-solving and managing emotions.
Exposure and response prevention
A specialized form of CBT for OCD and anxiety. With support, young people gradually face fears in small steps and learn they can handle them without avoidance or rituals.
Acceptance and commitment therapy
ACT helps people make room for difficult thoughts and feelings while moving toward what matters most to them.
We may also draw on motivational interviewing, strength-based techniques, and guidance for parents and caregivers. Therapy is always individualized, and no two treatment plans are the same.
What to expect
Free 15-minute call
Talk with Dr. Ametti about what's going on and whether therapy could help. If it's a good fit, we'll schedule your intake and send consent forms to sign online.
Intake session
A 50- to 90-minute meeting, usually in person at our Portland office, to gather information about current concerns and answer your questions about therapy.
Weekly sessions
50-minute sessions that are structured but supportive. We encourage starting with 4 to 6 weekly sessions in a row to build momentum, then we can talk about moving to every other week as things improve.
Meet your therapist
Merelise Ametti, PhD, MPH
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Ametti trained at the University of Vermont and UCLA and has worked with children, teens and families in clinics, hospitals, schools and pediatric offices. A native Mainer, she works closely with parents, schools and other providers so care feels coordinated and supportive.
Read Dr. Ametti's full bio →Common questions about therapy
How do I know if my child needs therapy?
If worries, moods or behaviors are getting in the way of school, friendships, sleep or family life, or have lasted for several weeks, therapy may help. If you're unsure, a free 15-minute call is a good place to start.
Will I be involved in my child's therapy?
Yes. For younger children, parents are often involved in sessions and learn strategies to use at home. For teens and young adults, we balance privacy with keeping parents informed in ways that support progress.
How long does therapy take?
It depends on the concern and goals. We encourage starting with 4 to 6 weekly sessions in a row to build momentum, then we can talk about moving to every other week. We'll review progress together along the way.
Do you take insurance?
We're a private-pay practice and don't bill insurance directly. We provide a monthly superbill you can submit for possible out-of-network reimbursement, and HSA and FSA cards are welcome. See our rates and reimbursement guide.
What's the difference between therapy and an evaluation?
An evaluation answers questions about how someone learns, thinks and feels, and ends with a diagnosis (if appropriate) and recommendations. Therapy is ongoing support to build skills and make changes. Some families start with an evaluation and then begin therapy.
Ready to take the first step?
Book a free 15-minute call with Dr. Ametti to talk about what's going on and whether therapy could help.