About Us

Art of Awareness: Therapists in South Portland, Maine

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Our Mission: Cultivating Emotional and Mental Healing in Maine

At Art of Awareness in South Portland, Maine, our mission is to foster a space in which emotional and mental healing can flourish. Here, individuals from all walks of life can find a safe, inclusive environment that nurtures growth and recovery no matter where they are in their journey.



We’re dedicated to encouraging empowerment and resilience through our therapeutic mental health support services, ensuring that our center remains a place of hope and healing in every corner of our community.

History: Evolving from a Home to a Holistic Healing Agency

We started as a small, cooperative practice focused on providing deeply personalized care. As the needs of our community in Maine grew, so did our facilities and services, evolving into the current, expansive agency model that continues to prioritize a client-first approach.

Our transition from a cozy residential setting to a full-fledged wellness center in South Portland has allowed us to broaden our impact while staying true to our roots of personalized, compassionate care. Today, we offer a variety of therapeutic modalities, including evidence-based and creative holistic approaches, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness practices, and more.

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How Therapy Works at Art of Awareness

We operate on an agency model that prioritizes pairing clients with the best therapeutic fit for their needs and experiences. By working closely with one therapist who truly understands your journey, we aim for a personalized approach to healing. This model allows for a deeper connection and a more consistent therapeutic experience, empowering you to achieve your mental health goals in a supportive, understanding environment.



Art of Awareness clinicians are psychotherapists who continue to enhance their craft through individual and peer supervision, as well as continuing education opportunities. We are committed to providing effective treatment options that meet the current standards of the field.

Clinical Staff

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Bobby Bennett

LMSW-CC

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Bobby received a Bachelor’s in Fine Arts from Maine College of Art and Design and his Masters of Social Work degree from the University of New England with a certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice and Training in Aging, Diversity. Bobby incorporates elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) in his work with clients. He has professional experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, complicated grief, youth impacted by incarceration, and folks living with terminal illness.

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Brad Clark

LMSW-CC

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Brad received his Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern Maine. He is a military veteran who approaches individual and couples therapy from an integrative perspective, with the goal of helping clients gain insight and make behavioral changes. Brad brings a wealth of evidence-based therapeutic skills that include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy (DBT) methods to help clients understand themselves, learn healthy coping strategies, and change behaviors. He helps clients examine and address patterns in thoughts and behaviors with the goal of improved functioning and living healthier, deeper, and more satisfying lives.

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Kiley Fine

LCPC-C

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Kiley received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina and her Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Adams State University. Kiley has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in private practice and community settings. She practices with clients to create a collaborative and safe environment where the client is the expert in their healing. She practices with a mindfulness-based approach and incorporates elements of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Polyvagal Theory, and awareness of the mind-body connection. Areas of interest and experience include: life transitions, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, disordered eating, and body image concerns.

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Julie Hews

LCPC-C

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Julie attended the University of New England for her undergraduate degree with a concentration in wellness, public health, and community service. She received her masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Adams State University in Colorado with a dedication to understanding addictions and generational trauma in today’s challenging world. Julie was instantly drawn to the holistic vision of self-care, safety, balance, and creative healing found at the Art of Awareness Wellness Center. As a Master Naturalist with an extensive love and background in art, yoga, and horticultural therapy, she is committed to helping clients of all ages find their unique path to stress-reduction, health, and healing. Julie is a Nationally Certified Counselor with experience in Psychological First Aid (PFA) and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT). Utilizing Person-Centered, evidence-based treatment modalities, Julie integrates elements of Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Therapy through Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness approaches for children, adolescents, and adults.

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Lexi Hunt

LCPC-C

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Lexi attended the University of Southern Maine for her undergraduate degree where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a concentration in Holistic Health. Lexi received her Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Southern New Hampshire University. She is also credentialed as a National Certified Counselor from the NBCC. Lexi has extensive experience supporting neurodivergent clients, specifically children and adolescents and their families, both in residential and outpatient settings. Lexi’s background also includes trauma-informed care and supporting families around challenging behaviors. As a therapist, Lexi believes in the power of the therapeutic relationship along with an environment that honors safety, understanding, and acceptance. Utilizing client-centered and strength-based foundations, she supports client’s in gaining greater insight and confidence to build resilience and skills to improve quality of life. Elements of Psychotherapy, Experiential Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness are often utilized depending on the client’s goals and needs.

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Joan Leaman

LCSW, LADC

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Joan received her Bachelor of Arts degree in social work from the University of Southern Maine, and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of New England. Additionally, she studied concepts of spirituality and forgiveness, and self-forgiveness to assist in the healing process at the Chaplaincy Institute of Maine (ChIME).  Her approach is strengths-based, relational, and trauma sensitive. She draws from several therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.  She is also a Level II trained EMDR therapist. Joan specializes in helping people heal from loss, addiction, and trauma as well as navigating life transitions—from selecting educational paths to retirement planning.  Joan has experience working with teenagers through adults, both male and female, in community and residential/institutional settings.

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Abigail Maycock

LCSW

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Abi received her Masters of Social Work degree from the University of New England along with a certificate in Applied Arts and Social Justice. She believes that everyone has the capacity to grow and heal when provided with adequate support and connection. Abi’s practice draws from a variety of therapeutic modalities with a focus on Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness and motivational enhancement techniques. Her approach to treatment is relational and client driven with an awareness of the ecosystems that affect each individual’s own path to healing and recovery. Abi practices with a trauma sensitive, culturally humble, and strength based approach. Relational cultural, feminist and humanistic theory inform her approach. She has over 10 years of experience working with youth from a variety of backgrounds and experiences. She also works as a manager at the Maine Youth Court, a restorative justice program for youth in trouble with the law and or school. Abi’s experience as a group facilitator comes from her work at Seeds of Peace, the Art Affect, and Young Women Empowered. Abi enjoys working with individuals, families, and groups of all ages and backgrounds.

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Elizabeth McCormack

LCPC-C

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Liz earned her Master of Science in Counseling with a Clinical Mental Health concentration and Family Systems expertise from the University of Southern Maine. She received her Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Smith College. Liz believes in creating a therapeutic environment where each person’s whole, authentic self is welcomed. Her approach is person-centered, relational, and systemically focused; giving weight to the impacts that culture, family legacies, and intergenerational trauma can have on individuals and families. She draws from various therapeutic modalities, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, feminist therapy, and mindfulness. In practice, this might look like supporting clients with cultivating greater self-acceptance, deepening awareness of the mind-body connection, or identifying boundaries. Liz previously worked with children and adolescents in educational settings and at a non-profit. She has clinical experience working with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, life transitions, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, neurodivergence, and relationship issues. Liz works with teens and adults of all ages.

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Joelle Powell

LMSW-CC (Clinical Client Services Specialist)

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Joelle holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Maine and brings a wealth of clinical experience working with both teens and adults. With a deep belief in the power of the therapeutic relationship, Joelle views it as the cornerstone of effective therapy, focusing on creating a safe and connective space for healing.  She believes in the inherent wisdom of each client’s body and nervous system, viewing them as central to the healing process. She is dedicated to helping clients explore and harness their own resilience and well-being.

 

Joelle’s therapeutic approach is profoundly client-centered and strengths-based, rooted in trauma-informed care and guided by Polyvagal Theory, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic awareness. Her practice is enriched by her training in EMDR, which enhances her ability to support clients through trauma with sensitivity and expertise.  Her approach to therapy is informed by relational, feminist, and humanistic theories, reflecting her commitment to cultural humility and strength-based practices.

In addition to her clinical work, Joelle is an integral member of our client services team, overseeing the intake process for all incoming clients. 

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Emily Roberson

LCSW, Clinical Supervisory Director

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Emily received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Kentucky in 2005. She practices from an attachment and mindfulness based perspective, honoring the mind-body connection, and works with individuals of all ages. She has received training in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Theraplay, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children (MATCH), Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), somatic interventions and is a level II trained EMDR therapist. Her previous work includes home and community based therapy, working in a psychiatric hospital setting, intensive outpatient treatment, private practice and working within the school system. Her current role includes providing clinical supervision to staff as well as developing training and group programming.

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Elizabeth Siviski

LCSW

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Elizabeth received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Mount Holyoke College and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern Maine. Elizabeth has worked with children, adolescents, adults, and families, in home-based, community-based, and outpatient settings as well as long-term care facilities. She works with clients to create a safe environment where they feel heard, seen, and supported without judgment. She believes in guiding clients to their own inner strengths and resources to help them build hope and resilience, using humor along the way. Areas of experience include grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and LGBTQIA+ related concerns. In her therapeutic practice, she incorporates elements of Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

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Amelya Tibbets

LMSW-CC

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Amelya received her Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation and Human Services from the University of Maine at Farmington and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maine. With a background in cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and life transitions, Amelya employs a client-centered approach, tailoring therapy to meet the unique needs of each person. Amelya’s therapeutic philosophy integrates evidence-based practices with empathy and cultural sensitivity, fostering a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.

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Tommy Waltz

LCSW (Clinical Administrative Director)

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Tommy received his Master of Social Work from the University of Southern Maine and has been practicing in the field of clinical social work for nearly 10 years. Tommy’s clinical practice is client focused, strengths-based, relational, creative and individualized. Tommy has experience working in private practice, residential, community based care and clinical case management. Tommy specializes in treating PTSD, complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, life transitions and identity work. Tommy utilizes the following modalities in clinical practice: Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Ego State Therapy and is a trained EMDR therapist. Tommy is a seasoned performing artist and incorporates elements of psychodrama into his clinical practice. This practice is best highlighted in his 2014 TEDxDirigo talk, Drama Therapy Changed My Impressions of Homelessness. Tommy has held several leadership roles within the nonprofit sector, and has served as a director/producer in the performance world throughout Greater Portland. Tommy has offered clinical consultation for three years. As a leader, Tommy is compassionate and collaborative. Tommy offers clinical supervision to staff, group facilitation, community outreach and program development.

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Lisa Wanek

LMFT,LADC

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Lisa received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University in 2010 and her Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University in 2015. Lisa has had the pleasure of working with many diverse populations including children with special needs, the LGBTQIA+ community, couples, individuals of all ages and backgrounds, youths and their families in community-based settings, and adults struggling with substance use and/or eating disorders. Lisa considers herself to be a strengths-based therapist which means that she views all of her clients as inherently resilient and capable of overcoming the many stressors they find themselves to be faced with. Lisa approaches all of her clients with unconditional positive regard and collaboration, providing them with a space to foster personal growth and improve their familial and romantic relationships. Lisa’s interventions include Narrative, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and expressive art therapies as well as mindfulness and Polyvagal Theory.

Administrative Staff

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Natalie O’Donnell

Business Operations & Practice Manager

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As the Business Operations and Practice Manager, Natalie oversees financial operations, ensures regulatory compliance, collaborates with HR, guides strategic initiatives, and manages policies and procedures. Natalie has been with Art of Awareness for over a decade, working in management, finance, administration, wellness services, and group facilitation. She has a background in Psychology, Holistic Health, Counseling, and Eco-Therapy, with experience in behavioral health and residential therapeutic centers. She is passionate about wellness decolonization, research, art, embodiment practices, organizational technology, community building, and collaborative leadership. In her free time outside of Art of Awareness, Natalie also serves as the Outreach Coordinator and Stage Manager for the International Association for the Study of Women and Mythology.

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Emily Rogan

Administrative Client Services Specialist

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Emily Rogan graduated from the University of Southern Maine with a B.A. in Media Studies in 2022. Since graduating, she has worked for organizations that focus on community building and empowering youth through the arts and mentorship. Emily is also a freelance photographer, with a strong love for film photography. She is continuously drawn to the intersection of art, storytelling, and wellness and the process of self-expression through different creative mediums. In her freetime, Emily enjoys creating of all kinds, such as cooking, knitting, writing, and more. Emily is a member of the client services team and facilitates the intake process for all incoming clients.

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Molly M. Stanley

Human Resources & Administrative Manager

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As the Human Resources & Administrative Manager at Art of Awareness, Molly oversees all HR functions, administrative systems, and office management, supporting staff and organizational efficiency. Molly conducts all administrative orientations and oversees the onboarding process for new team members, addresses confidential HR-related matters, and provides support with payroll and the client services team to ensure smooth and effective operations. Molly has been with Art of Awareness since January of 2018 and has experience in each of the respective administrative departments, which informs her approach to policy development and supporting our team. She strives to create an inclusive and supportive work environment for staff members to nurture their strengths, skills, and interests. Molly is passionate about mental health and wellness, community building, collaborative leadership, and the process of cultivating creative practices which foster healing, joy, and personal expression.

Billing Staff

Lori Moulton

Frost Hill Medical Billing Services

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Lori has served in the medical billing field for over 25 years, having been fully immersed in this work from the time she was a child surrounded by her parent’s medical billing business. As an adult, she started her own medical billing company, Frost Hill Medical, and continues to serve with the goal to continue learning and improving on the valuable experience she gained from her family’s business. She continues to receive valuable mentoring from Mid Coast Hospital’s Director of patient accounts, and strives to meet and address the concerns of all clients. In addition, Lori has a background in Occupational Therapy and believes the patient-centered philosophy she was trained in fits well with the Art of Awareness model of serving all with compassion.

On the Billing Team, Alisa Saucier and Erica Denis work alongside Lori Moulton to assist with medical billing services at Art of Awareness.

Insurance We Accept

Art of Awareness accepts many major insurance carriers, including:
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Anthem BlueCross BlueShield

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Aetna

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Community Health Options

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Cigna

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Martin's Point Tricare

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Harvard Pilgrim

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United Healthcare

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Optum United Behavioral Health

Please Note: We are not a provider with Mainecare/Medicaid and we are not currently credentialed with Medicare Advantage Third Party Plans.

Land Acknowledgement

At Art of Awareness, we acknowledge that our practice is located on the ancestral and unceded homelands of the Wabanaki Confederacy, including the Abenaki, Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Maliseet, and Mi’kmaq, the peoples of the Dawnland. These lands have been the site of fishing, hunting, and agricultural activities for thousands of years.

We are committed to supporting the self-determination of the Wabanaki people and stand in solidarity with organizations like Wabanaki REACH, which works towards education, truth-telling, and restorative justice.

We honor the elders, past, present, and future, of the Wabanaki Confederacy and strive to foster a respectful and inclusive environment that acknowledges and celebrates these Indigenous communities’ rich cultural heritage.