Being young can be a challenge. You're dealing with an uncertain future and you may not know how to handle it. Stress, anxiety, and depression can keep you down. Who can help you in this situation? A counselor based in Lakewood can. 

Lakewood is named as one of the best places to live if you're a young person. However, this doesn’t prevent mental health troubles from coming their way. A counselor can help you, but you need to follow their directions. Speak to a counselor today and see what you can do. You can improve yourself and be ready for a brighter future.

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Tony Hansen

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

My primary goal as your counselor is to help you clarify your presenting problem and work towards reducing your suffering and enhance your quality of life. I primarily work with adults who are experiencing a variety of challenges including anxiety, depression, anger, chemical abuse/addiction and post-traumatic stress. I ground my counseling work in scientific, evidence-based interventions such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. My best work is accomplished when you and I feel we are working together towards a common goal while being aware of the your challenges and resources in mind, body, relationship, and environment. I greatly respect your willingness to take the first steps towards recovery and I do my utmost to help you in achieving your counseling goals.

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Esther Steen

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LMFT,MHP
Stress, AnxietyCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a fully Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington State, and an Independently Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Ohio. I provide individual therapy via telehealth. I received my Masters of Arts in Psychology, Child, Couple and Family Therapy at Antioch University in 2015. I have been providing individual and family therapy since 2013. I have also provided crisis counseling, suicide intervention and prevention from 2016-2021. I am designated as a CCTP, a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, through Evergreen Certifications as of 2023. I fully believe everyone has the answers to their life questions within themselves, and my job is simply to facilitate inner healing, connection, and growth. I draw from evidence-based, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems Theory. I work best with a client who is ready to make changes in their life and is open to a coaching type of approach. I value a stable connection first and foremost, healing can more easily occur when we feel seen, heard, and understood. I provide creative and active therapy, you won't just be taught skills you will be walked through them in session, and that includes breathwork, grounding and mindfulness skills. The client is expected to follow up with these skills in practice at home, alongside possible homework material for best results.

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Sheila Ewell

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, originally licensed in Texas, and licensed in Washington since June of 2022. I have been with Betterhelp for close to 1 1/2 years. I have seen a lot, done a lot and I've visited many places. I believe all of my experiences thus far bring a unique perspective to my counseling style. I am young at heart, non-judgmental, and easy to work with. I have a great deal of experience working with individuals affected by depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, poor self-esteem, and life change. I try to gain a deep understanding of my clients and formulate therapeutic interventions based on individualized needs. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Washington, Seattle. I immediately moved to Virginia to work on my Forensic Psychology Master’s, learning there that I had a passion for working with victims. After a few years of exploring and not being very satisfied with my career options, I moved back to Texas and pursued a Master’s in Counseling at Southern Methodist University, with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. During my practicum and internship at The Children’s Advocacy Center for Denton County, I worked with victims of domestic, sexual, and physical abuse at . I have experience in Play Therapy, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy, with both individuals and groups. I am also trained in Gottman Level I Couple's therapy. Over the last several years, I have worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, including 2 years at a Children's Advocacy Center, in a hospital setting, and leading a drug and alcohol intensive outpatient program. I also facilitated an anger management group for probationers, and I've worked with behavior-disordered children in the community. I have been a contract therapist with Betterhelp and in private practice for about 5 years.

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Genet Gebrehiwet

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC,Genet Haile Gebrehiwet
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington with over 10 years of experience working as a Counselor and Social Worker. I have worked with a diverse array of clients with presenting problems such as; depression, anxiety, life-changing events, grief and loss, relationships and blended family issues. I have worked with adults, couples, and youth in private practice, hospital, community settings, and government program settings. I provide a therapeutic approach that is supportive and collaborative. I believe in equality and treating everyone with respect and compassion. I do not believe in any form of discrimination and stigmatizing labels. My therapeutic approaches include Cognitive-Behavioral and Solution-Focused therapies. I select the most appropriate treatment based on the client's needs and therapeutic goals. Life is constantly changing. It takes desire and determination to work through changes, and towards fulfillment and happiness. I would be happy to help support you on your journey. I am excited to work with you!

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This is Deborah DeWeber's avatar and link to their profile

Deborah DeWeber

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation, self-esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Tomi Flack

Offering therapy in WA
DepressionCoping with life changes
26 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Washington and I have 26 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping clients with depression and coping with life changes. I use brief solution focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in 45 minute weekly video sessions. My sessions provide a casual safe place to discuss intimate details of your life in a non-judgmental and non-religious environment with the encouragement to feel emotions as we talk. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I am here to support you in that process.

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Christopher Jackson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Dominique Watkins

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Virginia and Michigan with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, & family conflict. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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This is Uraina Domon's avatar and link to their profile

Uraina Domon

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTRelationship issuesDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio and Washington with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, & relationship issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Istvan Feldman

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsEating disordersAnger managementBipolar disorderADHD
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, anger management, bipolar disorder, & coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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How to find counseling in Lakewood

Finding the best therapist close by in Lakewood can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Lakewood. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Lakewood, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Lakewood or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Lakewood area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Lakewood, elsewhere in Pierce, or in the greater state of Washington.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Lakewood area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lakewood therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Lakewood due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Lakewood may not take health insurance, some in the state of Washington may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Washington you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Lakewood, Washington working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Lakewood above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Lakewood helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Lakewood therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Lakewood therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Lakewood therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in WA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 98496 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Lakewood counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Lakewood licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Lakewood, Washington can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Lakewood has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Lakewood.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lakewood:

98496, 98497, 98498, 98499

Popular cities near Lakewood, WA

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