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. 

Tacoma therapist & psychologist Dr. Hillary Schaefer providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Dr. Hillary Schaefer

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Counselor License Type(s): PhD,LCP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
12 years of experience

Whether this is your first session or 100th, searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming or daunting. Picking a person you trust to hear your struggles from a picture and a paragraph is no small thing! Here’s a little bit more about me to help guide your decision. PLEASE NOTE: currently all my evening slots are full. I do apologize, these times go fast! My current available hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm EST. My background: I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds. I earned my doctorate in 2013 from the University of Virginia and have worked in clinic, hospital, university, and military settings. Previously, I saw clients at and directed a clinic for families and children, and I also have more general experience across age groups and areas of concern. I feel comfortable helping you with stress and anxiety, depression and self-esteem, trauma, motivation, parenting issues, relationship concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, Veteran or military issues, and can provide support for medical difficulties of your own or in those you love. I’m excited to step into an online platform and continue to help clients see their strengths. My practice: I aim to create an environment where you feel understood and supported, but also leave with practical tools that you can use immediately. I strive for transparency and collaboration, and want us to work together to find pathways to your goals. My approach is anchored in sound science and best practices, with plenty of wiggle room to adjust to who you are as a person and what works best for you. No matter what, I believe that there is a better, happier version of your life and I’d be privileged to help you find it.

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Jo Laboff providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Jo Laboff

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,GMHS
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington State and a Geriatric Mental Health Specialist. My education and training is in both clinical social work and psychology. I have worked with adults of all ages as a psychotherapist, counselor, and Geriatric Care Manager. I can help individuals seeking support and guidance with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, career issues, anger management, caregiver stress and aging issues. I believe that we all do the best that we can and trust that every one of us is capable of change, which is the primary goal of therapy. I use therapeutic models that are affirming, optimistic, and effective, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, mindfulness techniques. My counseling style is laid back and supportive. I have been described as compassionate, genuine, a good listener, and with a good sense of humor. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels. I like to focus on identifying your strengths and helping you to maximize them to overcome your obstacles. I'm here to help you sort through the things that are difficult right now and offer you a safe place to be open and honest without fear of judgment. You have taken the first and most important step by reaching out for help. Each of us is unique and bring with us our own life experiences and individual factors that influence how we make our way in the world. My goal is to meet you where you are, to understand how you perceive and interpret your life experiences and to introduce you to ways of perception and reaction that lead you to a more satisfying and joyful life. I am here to encourage and empower you when you are ready. I look forward to working with you!

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Kenneth (Ken) Halvorson providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Kenneth (Ken) Halvorson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Counselor License Type(s): MSW, LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years of experience

I enjoy working with individuals and couples: helping people communicate better and learning assertiveness skills. I also work with people who are grieving. I use visualization, role playing, split chair, and conflict resolution. My goal is to teach you skills and help you develop your own skill set. I enjoy working with people in their 20's and 30's and 40's. Younger people are challenged with anxiety, PTSD, and surprisingly, the need to be perfect. Another group close to my heart are those who have been hurt and/or who struggle with forgiveness. I want to listen to you, ask questions, and hear what has worked as well as what yet hasn't worked. Feedback is very important. What have you tried, what parts were successful, and what do you still want to do? How can I help? My work experiences include: child welfare, counseling teenagers in residential treatment, working as a supervisor then family counselor in corrections (women’s treatment center), counseling in a Christian-based private practice, mental health outreach for the elderly, medical social work including ER support, kidney dialysis social work; and, in retirement couples’ classes and counseling. Ken Halvorson, MSW

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Dr. Heidi Duong providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Dr. Heidi Duong

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
3 years of experience

Have you ever felt that something was missing from your life, as though you were attempting to reach a destination; however, it could not be reached? We will be looking at ways to fill up our lives that provide feelings of purpose. Sometimes it's easy to look for the next quick fix only to discover we are right where we started. Back to square one! Together, we will discover what areas of life feel unfulfilling and identify barriers and approaches to overcome the obstacles to bring more life satisfaction and self-congruency. I provide hypnotherapy, spiritual counseling as a Kvantum Energy Facilitator and mental health therapy. Through holistic and integrative therapy, we will examine the areas of life that may feel unfulfilling and develop strategies to build more meaning and consistency. By examining our current behaviors, we can develop interventions that focus on self-direction and self-autonomy. I provide mental health counseling, energy healing strategies including fitness. By reaching out to me as your mental health counselor, various resources and tools can be discovered to build more life satisfaction and congruency. This time is your time. Let's work together to find real potential and bring more life purpose and identify strategies to conquer any negative self-doubt and address any feelings of uncertainty.

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Diana Ziegler providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Diana Ziegler

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionADHD
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Illinois, Washington and Wisconsin with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Price Cook providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Price Cook

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 28 years of professional work experience. I am comfortable in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ and gender identity issues. 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.

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Renee Lafriniere providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Renee Lafriniere

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. 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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Tacoma therapist & psychologist June West providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

June West

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
35 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 35 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Herbert 'Herb' Lemke providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Herbert 'Herb' Lemke

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in New Mexico, North Carolina and Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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.

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Tacoma therapist & psychologist Kristina Dovre providing different types of therapy in Tacoma

Kristina Dovre

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Tacoma
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Montana with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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 a therapist for 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 with therapists in Tacoma 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 Tacoma. 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 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 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma, 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 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 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 Tacoma 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. 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 Tacoma 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 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 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 Tacoma 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 Tacoma?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Tacoma 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 Tacoma 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 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 98411 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 Tacoma counselor?

Before seeing your Tacoma 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. Tacoma 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 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 with a Tacoma 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 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 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 Tacoma, Washington

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 Tacoma 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 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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