Will Mahan

Will Mahan (he/his)

Licensed Professional Counselor

LPC, NCC

I help adults navigate anxiety, depression, and life transitions with warmth, clarity, and respect for their story.

Client Status

accepting clients

Contact

404-229-6177

1020 SW Taylor St.

Suite 448

Portland, 97205

At a Glance

Me

Rate: $175

Provides free initial consultation

Practicing Since: 2006

Services

  • Individual

Insurances Accepted

  • Out of Pocket
  • Out of Network

My Ideal Client

My ideal clients are adults who feel stuck in patterns of anxiety, depression, or self-doubt and are ready for change. I especially enjoy working with gay men and LGBTQ+ individuals who want an affirming space to explore identity, relationships, and self-acceptance. I also support people navigating life transitions, career stress, or challenges with self-esteem, helping them move toward greater clarity, confidence, and emotional well-being.

My Background

I bring a diverse background blending research, human resources, and counseling. I earned a B.A.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of South Carolina (including a year at University of Leeds, UK), an M.S. in Human Resource Management from Purdue University, and an M.S. in Professional Counseling from Georgia State University, where I also served as a research assistant in Counseling & Psychological Services. Before transitioning to therapy, I spent seven years as a project manager and trainer for IBM and Fidelity Investments. My academic work includes publications on methamphetamine addiction, internet compulsivity, and bullying of sexual minority youth, and I’ve led continuing education workshops on LGBTQ+ issues in counseling. I currently hold counselor licenses in both Georgia and Oregon

My Values as a Therapist

I believe therapy should be a collaborative and affirming space where you feel seen, respected, and supported. My role is not to “fix” you, but to walk alongside you as you explore challenges, uncover strengths, and create meaningful change. I strive to provide care that is inclusive of all backgrounds and identities, with a particular commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ clients. Honesty, compassion, and curiosity guide my work—I listen deeply, offer perspective without judgment, and honor your lived experience. I value tailoring therapy to your goals, your pace, and your unique story. At the core of my practice is the belief that growth is possible when we have a safe relationship where vulnerability and authenticity are welcomed.

Techniques I Use

Specialties

  • Career Counseling External link

    I help clients explore career transitions and align work with their values, drawing on my counseling background, as well as my experience in human resources and organizational management. Using a collaborative, strengths-based approach, we identify obstacles, build decision-making skills, and create practical strategies. Whether starting a new path, seeking fulfillment, or managing work stress, I support clients in making intentional, confident career choices.

  • Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) External link

    Drawing on multiple continuing education classes and personal readings, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients identify and change unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. Drawing on evidence-based techniques, we work together to challenge negative beliefs, manage stress, and develop practical coping skills. CBT is collaborative and goal-focused, helping clients build resilience, increase self-awareness, and create lasting, positive change in daily life.

  • Mindfulness-based External link

    Drawing on years of training and my own personal practice, I use mindfulness-based approaches to help clients increase awareness, manage stress, and respond to thoughts and emotions with greater clarity. By practicing present-moment focus, clients learn to reduce rumination, improve emotional regulation, and cultivate self-compassion. Mindfulness techniques are integrated into therapy to support lasting change, greater calm, and a deeper connection with yourself.

Issues I Treat

Specialties

  • LGBTQ Issues External link

    I provide an affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients to explore identity, relationships, and the impact of minority stress. My approach is inclusive and supportive, whether you’re navigating coming out, family dynamics, or the challenges of living authentically. Therapy is centered on building resilience, self-acceptance, and a stronger connection to your values and community.

  • Depression External link

    I support clients experiencing depression by helping them untangle negative thought patterns, increase motivation, and reconnect with what brings meaning. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-based approaches, we’ll work together to challenge self-critical beliefs, build healthy routines, and strengthen coping skills so you can move toward greater balance, energy, and a renewed sense of hope.

  • Anxiety External link

    I specialize in treating anxiety using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Together we’ll identify the thought patterns and behaviors that keep anxiety going, and gradually face feared situations in a safe, supportive way. My goal is to help you build coping skills, reduce avoidance, and gain confidence in handling uncertainty and worry.

  • Codependency External link

    I help clients struggling with codependency develop healthier boundaries, improve self-esteem, and build more balanced relationships. Using evidence-based tools, we’ll explore patterns of people-pleasing, over-functioning, or difficulty saying no, and practice new ways of relating that honor both your needs and your connections with others. My goal is to support you in creating relationships that feel mutual, authentic, and sustainable.

  • Men's Issues External link

    I work with men who are seeking to better understand themselves, their emotions, and their relationships. Many struggle with pressure to “have it all together” or difficulty expressing vulnerability. In therapy, we’ll challenge unhelpful patterns, explore new ways of coping, and strengthen your ability to build authentic, supportive connections with others.

Contact Will

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