This is Heidi Benjamin's avatar and link to their profile

Heidi Benjamin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): MEd
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

Hello. My name is Heidi, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State and National Certified Counselor (NCC); I am also licensed to practice in the State of Idaho. I have Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology with over 10 years of experience working as a mental health counselor. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and intellectual challenges, among others. I enjoy working with clients from many different cultural and religious backgrounds. However, as a Christian myself, I specialize in counseling from a Biblical perspective. I accept, encourage, and welcome the exploration of all spiritual beliefs. How we think determines what we believe and what we believe determines our behavior. We will explore negative thoughts that are leading to unhealthy behaviors. As thinking changes, long-lasting behavioral change is possible. My counseling style would be considered eclectic as I use concepts from a variety of theories. Every individual is unique; thus, I do not believe in ‘one size fits all’ assembly-line counseling. Rather each individual is unique and requires an individualized cooperative therapy plan. Are you ready to be inspired to change? I am a change agent who, in tandem with you, will work to create and inspire positive change.

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Sandra Zion

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed behavioral health therapist with 21 years experience. I live in a small town in Washington state. I am 68 years old and chose to postpone my career in counseling until after my five children were older. Currently, I do not counsel men. My interest is helping women with their challenges at all stages of life. My approach to life is Christian based. I have experience with parenting issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stressors, abuse and PTSD. I believe people need to be able to tell their own story to someone willing to listen, care and understand their unique experiences and challenges. My clinical approach combines client- centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-based and family systems therapy. I look forward to hearing your story.

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Joanna Bifone

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefParenting issuesSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am committed to providing a safe, supportive and non judgmental space for clients to explore what is causing distress or pain, what may be impeding life satisfaction, as well as ways to improve relationships, build self awareness, and enhance coping skills to navigate life challenges moving forward. Everyone needs assistance at times, and I believe that therapy can provide the space and foundation to better understand ourselves, to heal, and to move forward with a more grounded sense of self. My specialties include assisting individuals who are coping with depression, anxiety, difficulties with self worth, relationship/marital issues, pregnancy/parenthood, fertility/miscarriage, adoption, young adult and life transition issues, cancer, grief and loss, as well as the chaos, upheaval and isolation associated with world events during the past few years. In addition to my clinical experience, graduate work and licensure, I have additional training in couples/marital therapy through the Gottman Institute, and have completed their Bringing Baby Home program. I am also trained in Promoting First Relationships, and hold an Infant Mental Health Certificate through the University of Washington.

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Patricia (Patty) Hines

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor with over 20 years of experience working within various community settings. I have worked with a wide range of people who have experienced difficulties with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, vocational challenges, trauma, and parenting concerns. I believe in a person-centered, compassionate, empathic counseling approach combined with cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and reality therapies. I enjoy helping people address thought patterns, increase self-awareness, and work towards developing emotional wellness to enable healing. I believe in treating each person with respect and dignity, within a safe and supportive environment. I look forward to working together with you!

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Jennifer Haney

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): Mississippi and Alabama Licensed Professional Counselor,NCC,BC-TMH
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed and experienced in providing counseling on the various challenges life throws our way. Everyone goes through times of stress, tragedy, turmoil and angst. Seeking professional advice during these times can help to ease these difficult feelings. As a therapist, I have helped individuals and couples overcome tough times in life such grief, loss, marital strain and divorce as well as other career and lifestyle transitions. My professional counseling style mirrors my personality in that I am kind, compassionate and have a heart for helping others in need. Please know I am here to help you overcome whatever difficulties or transitions you are experiencing. Collaboratively, we can help you set some personal goals, challenge your inner strengths and help you overcome these challenging times of your life.

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Feng Qiu

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
LGBTTrauma and abuseGrief
5 years of experience

Hello, my name is Feng. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Washington state. I work with individual adults in my practice. Traumatic experiences vary across a wide range for individuals, and it does not have to be something physically violent to leave trauma in our life. Trauma can be anything painful that we experienced throughout our life. Without adequate resources and appropriate support, these experiences can bring a lot of emotional suffering and damage to our quality of life. I utilize a mindfulness approach with evidence-based treatments, like EMDR, to address Trauma. I also enjoy working with LGBTQ+ and immigrant populations. It is not easy to reach out or to ask for help, and sometimes it is necessary for us to get support. Recovery is a tough journey and I will be honored to help you to start the journey. I received my Bachelor in Psychology from University of Arizona, and my Master in Counseling from Arizona State University. I have worked in group setting, community mental health agency in the past. Now, I am seeing individuals in my practice, with a focus on trauma and PTSD.

This is Rachelle Belott Filipiak's avatar and link to their profile

Rachelle Belott Filipiak

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
5 years of experience

Hello! I hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. My skill-set has been molded working in a domestic violence shelter for women, college counseling center, medium-security correctional facility for men, and providing outpatient mental health services for individuals of all ages and struggles. I take a modern, holistic, and interpersonal approach incorporating elements from different theories depending on the person and the situation. Life is hard, and triggers are unavoidable. Change is unpleasant in the short term, but can improve the quality of our lives in the long-term. The goal of therapy is to identify the obstacles and learn ways to change our thoughts and behaviors resulting in less emotional distress. My end goal is to empower people to confidently resolve their struggles independent of mental health professionals in the future once they refine their skills. I offer a safe, confidential presence and am eager to offer support and guidance on your journey. You've already done the work to survive; now let's find a way to thrive!

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Dr. Chelsea Bennett

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Trauma and abuse
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse. 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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Mary Dallman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
AddictionsGriefEating disordersCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California, South Dakota and Washington with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

This is Jill Kreimeyer's avatar and link to their profile

Jill Kreimeyer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Gig Harbor
Counselor License Type(s): LMHC,CADC,EMDR
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
6 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Iowa with over six years of experience. I have experience working in non-profit, residential, and clinical practice settings with individuals, facilitating group sessions, couples, families, as well as assisting individuals while involved in Department of Human Services and Department of Corrections who are experiencing a wide range of challenges. I have years of experience working with people who want to make a positive change in their life. I have acquired a wide range of skills, knowledge, and interventions to assist with depression, anxiety, addiction, finding purpose, trauma, grief/loss concerns, and self-esteem issues. Along with having a LMHC, I am also a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC) and have completed eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) training and was able to integrate that into practice in January 2019. I am a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental person that offers support and compassion. It takes strength and courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life, as well as take the first step towards a change. I am here to begin that journey with you through support and empowerment. I look forward to working with you.

How to find a therapist for counseling in Gig Harbor

Finding the best therapist close by in Gig Harbor 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 with therapists in Gig Harbor that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Gig Harbor. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Gig Harbor, 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Gig Harbor region and in the state of Washington. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor working through their own in-person therapy practice in Gig Harbor or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Gig Harbor therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 Gig Harbor area offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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 Gig Harbor, elsewhere in Pierce, or in the greater state of Washington. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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

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

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Gig Harbor due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 Gig Harbor 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Washington you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

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

Therapists in Gig Harbor, 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Gig Harbor psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

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

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Gig Harbor 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 Gig Harbor provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

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

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Gig Harbor 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Gig Harbor 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 Gig Harbor 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in WA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 98332 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

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

Before seeing your Gig Harbor therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Gig Harbor therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. A Gig Harbor 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 with a Gig Harbor counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 Gig Harbor, 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.

Gig Harbor has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Gig Harbor, Washington

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

Take some time today to learn more about the team of Gig Harbor 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 to customer service 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 Gig Harbor.

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

98332, 98335

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