A smiling woman with wavy hair sitting on a floral patterned chair, wearing a white shirt and dark jeans, in front of a plain wall.

Embrace uncertainty with resilience

Therapy for children, adolescents, & adults

Photo of Dr. Van Sant

Hi, I’m Dr. Portia Van Sant.

I’m a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of the Center for CBT & Therapeutic Healing. I believe people are experts in their lived experiences and emotional difficulties. I support my clients in becoming their own ‘therapist’ by teaching recognition and restructuring of unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. In therapy, I help clients gradually confront their fears and gain their confidence back.

A sign that says "Difficult roads lead to beautiful destinations"

You deserve a chance to heal.

I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help with:

  • Worries that are difficult to control

  • Unwanted thoughts that are challenging to get rid of

  • Repetitive behaviors that you feel like you need to do in order to reduce anxiety

  • Avoidance of feared situations (i.e. public speaking, doctors appointments, driving, new social settings, etc.)

We will work together to make a therapeutic plan that feels right for you.

My Specialties

  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

    Intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors that get in the way of you enjoying your life

  • Anxiety Disorders

    Worries about relationships, money, school, and work that feel difficult to control

  • Emetophobia

    A fear of vomiting that prevents you from doing things you usually enjoy, like trying new foods, hanging out with friends, and exercising

A stack of smooth stones

Live a life aligned with your values.

Worrying can take us out of the present and distract us from the parts of our lives that matter.

I help clients overcome their fears and work toward a life that feels meaningful.

FAQs

My Professional Background

An award badge for the Love Awards 2026, with an orange background and white text, including a yellow banner at the bottom that reads '2026 WINNER'.

Main Line Parent Love Award 2026 Winner- Mental Health Champion

APIT Portia Van Sant ID badge with mobility number 20923, expiration date February 4, 2027, granted by the PSYPACT Commission, featuring a QR code.

PSYPACT- Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology

Join the waitlist

If you are ready to take the next step in your healing journey, please
contact our practice to be added to the waitlist for October, 2026.