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

Contact us

If you are ready to take the next step in your healing journey, please
contact our practice to set up a free consultation.