Finding peace of mind can be difficult, especially when life throws challenges at you. A counselor based in Tacoma can help you by providing guidance and giving you the strength you need to defeat any challenge that comes your way. 

Tacoma is known for being the city of railroads and harbors. No matter what train or ship you take in life, you want to make sure your destination is reached. A counselor can help you with any storms or stops along the way. 

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Kelley Sullivan

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW, LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGrief
19 years of experience

Hi Everybody ! BH is terrific and I am so pleased that you have found the courage to ask for help here :) I am a Clinician licensed in the States of Texas and Washington with over 18 years of experience. I work in private practice with individuals and couples who are struggling with a broad range of concerns, including anxiety-related disorders, clinical depression, PTSD as well as Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. I also have extensive experience working with children and their families. I have broad experience with a large variety of populations, including Veterans and Trauma survivors. Since I worked as a medical social worker for a significant number of years - I have also worked with women and men struggling with cancer and chronic pain - as well as the rare diseases: infantile nephropathic cystinosis, intermediate cystinosis and non- nephropathic cystinosis. I have experience with Huntington's disease as well. Additionally, I enjoy helping clients who suffer with infertility-related problems. This was a personal journey close to my heart that also led me to want to help women who are struggling to have a baby and those who have suffered a miscarriage or a stillbirth. My counseling approach is warm and interactive. My clinical approach consists of multiple theoretical backgrounds. A few include : humanistic, dialectical behavior counseling, mindfulness, acceptance therapy, cognitive-behavioral counseling and counseling aimed at helping those to resolve trauma. The only time that I would incorporate psychoanalytic counseling would be to help the client to understand how the past could be contributing to her or his present circumstances. I do not consider stigmatizing labels to be beneficial in the helping process. When I am not working in the field of counseling - I work at my fundraising business to help women get their lives put back together following assault or domestic violence. I also volunteer for an organization that helps to stop domestic minor sex-trafficking. It takes determination to seek a more rewarding and happier life. If you are ready to take steps toward change then I will be with you to support and to empower you ! I am pleased that you are here at Betterhelp.

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Amanda Mott

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker who graduated from the University of Denver in 2007. Since graduating I have worked in a variety of settings with a wide range of clients from children to adults. I have helped people with numerous issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and anxiety. I have special training in counseling those who have been through traumatic experiences both in school and in trainings since. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic and client centered techniques. More importantly, I believe in therapy being a collaborative process and I will work with you to provide the help that you need. My goal is to make this the most useful space for you as possible. I have always believed that it is the strong who seek to change and I look forward to supporting you through this process!

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Jeanette Fischer

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
AddictionsGriefAnger management
3 years of experience

Hi! I am an Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based out of Washington State. Life can be hard and messy! We have all experienced unexpected difficulties and loss; whether it be the death of a loved one, the loss of a job or a significant relationship or some other challenge that has been hard to navigate on our own. I have worked with both justice impacted and non-justice impacted individuals challenged by depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss as well as drug and alcohol addiction. My approach is a a person centered strengths based solution focused approach drawing heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I approach therapy uniquely and as an opportunity to find the lessons and strengths in the difficulties we all face. I am laid back and believe there is therapeutic value in humor, mindfulness, and finding gratitude in the small things. I wholeheartedly believe you are the expert of your story and that you have the aptitude that will assist you in achieving greatness! Reaching out for help can be intimidating and overwhelming. I want to commend you on taking the first step to sign up for therapy! Most of my appointments are on Sunday’s with some availability on Saturday’s as well as weekday evenings. I am excited to begin working with you. Together, we can identify your goals and make plans for you to achieve them.

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Anthony Kliment

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteem
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Martha Witkowski

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LPCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
11 years of experience

Multiculturally aware, bilingual, independently licensed mental health therapist who understands that compassion and relationship building are at the core of the healing process. I am a trauma-informed, dialectical, and person-centered clinician who believes in both practical and deeply, emotionally based healing processes. I am a graduate of John Carroll University and have 9 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have worked with clients in various community mental health settings with problems ranging from situational life stress to severe mental illness. Some special interests include: PTSD and trauma related disorders, anxiety disorders, life transitions, parenting issues, existential issues, couples counseling and personality disorders. I have also completed multiple research projects focusing on anxiety and the efficacy of different treatment modalities. I possess the skills, expertise and compassion to help individuals with a wide range of issues or concerns. I take a person-centered approach, where I work on building a strong therapeutic relationship with each client in order to help them reach their greatest potential and work towards reaching their goals. I believe that connection and relationship are the two foundations to personal growth. The strength of the relationship is based on my ability to maintain a non-judgmental, trusting and validating environment for the client while encouraging growth. My techniques include an integrative approach, combining multiple techniques, with an emphasis on Mindfulness-based techniques and DBT skills.

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Stella Breytman

Offering therapy in WA
License: MSW,LCSW,LICSW
Relationship issuesGriefIntimacy-related issuesBipolar disorderDepression
5 years of experience

SPECIALIZING IN BIPOLAR, SEXUAL ISSUES, AND RELATIONSHIP ISSUES Stella Breytman graduated from the University of New England with a Master’s degree in Social Work. Since then, she has worked with adults, adolescents, and children treating a wide range of challenges including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief & loss, trauma, domestic abuse, family/couples & relationship issues, sexual issues, and spiritual exploration. Stella has worked in a supervisory role guiding other clinicians and feels comfortable seeing other therapists for treatment or supervision. Stella earned an associate’s degree in Mental Health and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. During her undergraduate program, she received extensive training on domestic abuse and trauma. Additionally, Stella is a certified AASECT sex therapist. Through her private practice, Stella offers online therapy in the state of New York, Massachusetts, Florida, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington and Ohio, focusing on helping adult individuals, couples and relationships with a wide range of challenges including but not limited to; bipolar, intimacy & communication, and sexual health concerns. Stella helps her clients by empowering them to take control of their life, helping them to better understand themselves and what drives their behavior, teaching them skills to manage their emotions and challenges in a healthy way, improving their negative thinking patterns through objective exploration, allowing them to safely explore their past and present challenges or traumas, providing them with resources to use outside of therapy, providing tools to improve and maintain healthy relationships. Stella believes that every human experience is different and everyone deserves a healing process that supports them best. Through an eclectic approach, Stella combines various forms of therapy to create a treatment plan that is customized for the individual needs of her clients. Stella has unconditional positive regard for each and every one of her clients & families. Her policy of acceptance, a strong sense of empathy, and patience in her practice creates a safe space for her clients to heal and improve their mental health. Stella’s dedication to her clients is evident in the way she presents to each session ready to listen, support and help.

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Monique Jordan

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCoaching
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for Washington State. I have 20 years of professional work experience. I provide therapy for clients who experience stress, anxiety, and relationship issues. I also support clients coping with grief and loss. I enjoysupporting clients who desire motivation, indreased self esteem, confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. We all know that the first step toward seeking a more fulfilling life takes courage. I am here to support you through your unique challenges.

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Kayla Sterling

Offering therapy in WA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
9 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker licensed in the state of Wyoming and in the process of becoming licensed in Ohio as well. I have nearly 8 years of experience providing therapy in a community mental health setting. I have experience treating clients across the age spectrum from young children to the elderly. I also have a wide range of experience treating multiple diagnoses and presenting problems. I have experience in treating PTSD, Generalized Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, Bipolar, Personalty Disorders, and much more. I have experience in providing substance abuse treatment, individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy, and play therapy. I am trained in EMDR and have specific training in providing EMDR via tele-health. I have extensive experience in trauma treatment and have a passion for this particular area of therapy. My therapy style is warm and inviting. I’m a firm believer in using a client centered and eclectic approach during the therapeutic process. Each person, situation, and presenting problem is unique so therefore I believe in providing tailor made therapeutic interventions specifically designed for each client. As a therapist I always treat each client with unconditional positive regard and acceptance. It takes bravery and courage to be vulnerable in sharing our stories with a therapist. There is tremendous strength in being vulnerable. If you are ready to take that step and move forward with your own healing journey I am here to support you. I look forward to working with you!

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Sherry Bashaw

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
31 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 31 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Courtenay Hall

Offering therapy in WA
License: MSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Albany State University and I am licensed in the states of Florida And North Carolina. I am experienced in treating a variety of mental health issues and disorders affecting individuals, families, and couples. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, parenting, family and relationship issues, trauma, grief and loss, low self-esteem, life cycle transitions, anger management, chronic pain and disease, and substance abuse. Therapy is an avenue to address the challenges in life that sometimes seem unmanageable. My goal is to provide a safe, therapeutic environment, where clients can share their innermost struggles and challenges without feeling judged or criticized. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship, based on genuine acceptance and unconditional positive regard, can be the pathway for change to occur. I am an eclectic therapist. I selectively apply techniques from a variety of approaches to best fit the needs of each client. My approach includes cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, psychodynamic, narrative & trauma-informed care. I tailor each treatment plan to meet each client’s unique and specific needs. I value the importance of empathy, respect, and self-determination. I hope to empower the individuals I work with the understanding, tools, and strategies to make significant, enduring personal changes. I consider it an honor to work with each client and I look forward to working with you.

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How to find counseling in Tacoma

Finding the best therapist close by in Tacoma 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 Tacoma. 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 Tacoma, 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma, 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 Tacoma area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma, 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 98408 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma, 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.

Tacoma 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 Tacoma.

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

98401, 98402, 98403, 98404, 98405, 98406, 98407, 98408, 98409, 98411, 98412, 98413, 98415, 98416, 98417, 98418, 98419, 98421, 98422, 98444, 98448, 98465, 98471, 98481, 98490

Popular cities near Tacoma, WA

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