Photo of Roberta S Paulsen, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Roberta S Paulsen
Counselor, MA, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lakewood, WA 98499
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and a lover of souls. I work with people of all ages and different cultures. My goal is to meet you right where you're at, establish a trusted relationship, and join with you to help you survive and thrive through life's challenges, and to give you the tools to make the positive changes you are seeking. My clients range from abused women and children to law enforcement and wounded warriors; individuals, families, and couples. As a volunteer first responder chaplain, I am acquainted with grief, trauma, and loss, and am honored and humbled to help people through the worst times of their lives.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Therapist and a lover of souls. I work with people of all ages and different cultures. My goal is to meet you right where you're at, establish a trusted relationship, and join with you to help you survive and thrive through life's challenges, and to give you the tools to make the positive changes you are seeking. My clients range from abused women and children to law enforcement and wounded warriors; individuals, families, and couples. As a volunteer first responder chaplain, I am acquainted with grief, trauma, and loss, and am honored and humbled to help people through the worst times of their lives.
(253) 242-6979 View (253) 242-6979

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Perceful, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Stephanie Perceful
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
I believe that the relationship to our self is the most important relationship that we will ever have. A bond with a therapist who witnesses and understands us in a nonjudgmental way can be a wonderful ally in improving that relationship and making positive changes in our lives. Trauma, attachment issues, toxic families of origin, oppression, grief, and ancestral/family patterns are just some just some examples that can cause suffering that motivates someone to start therapy. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mood disorders that make it difficult to function in life.
I believe that the relationship to our self is the most important relationship that we will ever have. A bond with a therapist who witnesses and understands us in a nonjudgmental way can be a wonderful ally in improving that relationship and making positive changes in our lives. Trauma, attachment issues, toxic families of origin, oppression, grief, and ancestral/family patterns are just some just some examples that can cause suffering that motivates someone to start therapy. I have experience working with clients with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, PTSD, and other mood disorders that make it difficult to function in life.
(253) 242-8557 View (253) 242-8557
Photo of Karee Powers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Karee Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98406  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, combat trauma, sexual trauma and grief, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are struggling through difficult life situations. My hope is that my clients will begin to emerge from the experience with strength, insight and a sense of empowerment to address the next challenge with grace. Using a strengths-based approach, I employ concepts of cognitive therapy and mindfulness to increase self-awareness and choice within life's challenges. I also use EMDR, an evidence-based approach, to help release the impact of past experiences on current emotions, thoughts and behaviors including traumatic events and childhood trauma.
I have extensive experience working with complex trauma, combat trauma, sexual trauma and grief, depression, and anxiety.
I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are struggling through difficult life situations. My hope is that my clients will begin to emerge from the experience with strength, insight and a sense of empowerment to address the next challenge with grace. Using a strengths-based approach, I employ concepts of cognitive therapy and mindfulness to increase self-awareness and choice within life's challenges. I also use EMDR, an evidence-based approach, to help release the impact of past experiences on current emotions, thoughts and behaviors including traumatic events and childhood trauma.
(206) 899-4897 View (206) 899-4897
Photo of Tracey Hunt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Tracey Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Federal Way, WA 98023
She is a parenting expert and a Clinical Supervisor and has lead groups in Bereavment, AIDS, CD tx, PSTD, Anxiety, and Eating Disorders.
Tracey's calling is to comfort the hurting, to heal the broken hearted, and help people find peace........ Therapy is a powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; strengthen relationships; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict. Together we will work on modifying negative thinking and self destructive behaviors, build self esteem and better thoughts; enhance intimacy, foster self discovery; and help to improve one's overall quality of life experiences.
She is a parenting expert and a Clinical Supervisor and has lead groups in Bereavment, AIDS, CD tx, PSTD, Anxiety, and Eating Disorders.
Tracey's calling is to comfort the hurting, to heal the broken hearted, and help people find peace........ Therapy is a powerful experience of growth and change. I work with individuals, couples, families, and teenagers to successfully reduce stress, anxiety, and depression; strengthen relationships; resolve grief, past traumas, and internal conflict. Together we will work on modifying negative thinking and self destructive behaviors, build self esteem and better thoughts; enhance intimacy, foster self discovery; and help to improve one's overall quality of life experiences.
(253) 292-6201 View (253) 292-6201
Photo of Andrea Tuliao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Andrea Tuliao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
(253) 465-4502 View (253) 465-4502
Photo of Katie Bradrick, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Katie Bradrick
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents but also treat children, young adults, and their families. I am experienced with a variety of struggles that children, adolescents and young adults encounter including Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Anger management, Parenting, Communication/Conflict resolution, Family relationship issues, Social skills, Self Esteem and Self harming behaviors. I have found that counseling is such a unique experience for each person. It can be the one place where you find the support, encouragement, insight and empowerment to make the changes needed to begin living the kind of life you truly desire.
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents but also treat children, young adults, and their families. I am experienced with a variety of struggles that children, adolescents and young adults encounter including Depression, Mood Disorders, ADHD, Trauma, Anxiety, Behavioral issues, Anger management, Parenting, Communication/Conflict resolution, Family relationship issues, Social skills, Self Esteem and Self harming behaviors. I have found that counseling is such a unique experience for each person. It can be the one place where you find the support, encouragement, insight and empowerment to make the changes needed to begin living the kind of life you truly desire.
(253) 693-2897 x306 View (253) 693-2897 x306
Photo of Twin Lakes Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Twin Lakes Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023
Twin Lakes Counseling provides individual, couple, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in the South Sound community. We are a group of marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors who offer quality, affordable mental health services for a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, pre- and post-natal work, and relationship conflict. We have clinicians trained in play therapy, the Gottman method, TF-CBT, psychodynamic work, and more. Located in Federal Way with easy access to Northeast Tacoma, our neighborhood counseling center makes finding the help you need simple and accessible.
Twin Lakes Counseling provides individual, couple, and family therapy to children, adolescents, and adults in the South Sound community. We are a group of marriage and family therapists and mental health counselors who offer quality, affordable mental health services for a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, pre- and post-natal work, and relationship conflict. We have clinicians trained in play therapy, the Gottman method, TF-CBT, psychodynamic work, and more. Located in Federal Way with easy access to Northeast Tacoma, our neighborhood counseling center makes finding the help you need simple and accessible.
(206) 966-6383 View (206) 966-6383
Photo of Michelle Baker, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Michelle Baker
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
(253) 527-7789 View (253) 527-7789
Photo of The Salish Sea Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakewood, WA
The Salish Sea Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
(253) 655-2757 View (253) 655-2757
Photo of Robin L Pellerin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lakewood, WA
Robin L Pellerin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, LMHCA, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98433
If you're struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to help you process these challenging emotions and offer a path forward.
When life gets messy, we can feel lost and disconnected not only from others but from ourselves. Are you struggling with a loss in your life? A family member or friend? A divorce? A relationship? Or yourself? As a certified grief professional, mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist associate, and first responder therapist, I have spent 5 years supporting military members, their families, and veterans who are working through one of life's most challenging journey's and the complex emotions that accompany them. My hope is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to process these emotions.
If you're struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, communication, parenting, trauma, or life transitions, I am here to help you process these challenging emotions and offer a path forward.
When life gets messy, we can feel lost and disconnected not only from others but from ourselves. Are you struggling with a loss in your life? A family member or friend? A divorce? A relationship? Or yourself? As a certified grief professional, mental health counselor associate, marriage and family therapist associate, and first responder therapist, I have spent 5 years supporting military members, their families, and veterans who are working through one of life's most challenging journey's and the complex emotions that accompany them. My hope is to provide a safe, respectful, and nonjudgmental space to process these emotions.
(253) 733-1216 View (253) 733-1216
Photo of Danielle Christianson, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Danielle Christianson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372  (Online Only)
I serve adults and some adolescents (ages 13-17), who may fall into one of the following categories: a brain experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, the bereaved/grieving, first- responders & their families, and marriage-in-crisis. The primary modality of therapy I utilize is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have found this to be highly useful in treating depression, anxiety, certain types of traumas, and other significant life stressors. Additionally, I work with clients of faith and also provide psycho-education regarding boundaries. I'd be honored to help support you in optimal brain health! There is HOPE.
I serve adults and some adolescents (ages 13-17), who may fall into one of the following categories: a brain experiencing depressed mood, anxiety, trauma, the bereaved/grieving, first- responders & their families, and marriage-in-crisis. The primary modality of therapy I utilize is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and have found this to be highly useful in treating depression, anxiety, certain types of traumas, and other significant life stressors. Additionally, I work with clients of faith and also provide psycho-education regarding boundaries. I'd be honored to help support you in optimal brain health! There is HOPE.
(855) 845-9545 View (855) 845-9545
Photo of Michelle Van Aken, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Michelle Van Aken
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
As a compassionate and attuned therapist, my mission is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore and transform the challenges you face. Together, we will unlock the power of your brain's natural healing abilities, leading you towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. I am a dedicated and empathic therapist with a passion for helping navigate emotional landscapes. With specialized training in Brainspotting, a cutting-edge approach in trauma and stress resolution, as well as other modalities, I offer you a unique therapeutic experience tailored to your specific needs.
As a compassionate and attuned therapist, my mission is to provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore and transform the challenges you face. Together, we will unlock the power of your brain's natural healing abilities, leading you towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. I am a dedicated and empathic therapist with a passion for helping navigate emotional landscapes. With specialized training in Brainspotting, a cutting-edge approach in trauma and stress resolution, as well as other modalities, I offer you a unique therapeutic experience tailored to your specific needs.
(619) 536-1534 View (619) 536-1534
Photo of HorizonView Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Lakewood, WA
HorizonView Health
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Counseling is a brave and wonderful step and finding a positive therapeutic relationship without judgement is necessary for change and growth. Our counselors believe in a client centered, strength-based approach. They have training and experience in several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused treatment and are experienced in the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of trauma.
Counseling is a brave and wonderful step and finding a positive therapeutic relationship without judgement is necessary for change and growth. Our counselors believe in a client centered, strength-based approach. They have training and experience in several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused treatment and are experienced in the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of trauma.
(253) 331-2547 View (253) 331-2547
Photo of Sierra Osmers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lakewood, WA
Sierra Osmers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98401
My purpose is to help individuals, couples, and families overcome adversity in their lives and relationships. I use a solution-focused approach to understand each person’s unique set of values, and direction. Together, we will strengthen and heal your relationships with yourself, and the people important to you. We will find meaning out of your past experiences, and use this to create a change for your future. To identify what is truly important to you.
My purpose is to help individuals, couples, and families overcome adversity in their lives and relationships. I use a solution-focused approach to understand each person’s unique set of values, and direction. Together, we will strengthen and heal your relationships with yourself, and the people important to you. We will find meaning out of your past experiences, and use this to create a change for your future. To identify what is truly important to you.
View
Photo of Stefanie Hauer, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lakewood, WA
Stefanie Hauer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I believe that each person has a unique story and I stay curious as to what that is. I am Level 2 trained in EMDR and Level 2 trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy. I trust in the power of attunement to my clients; by creating a safe space for clients to be heard and able to express their stories, powerful changes can occur. I love being able to dig deeper into the layers of client's experiences and help them understand the patterns. I use empathy and curiosity to attune to what is being said and also what is not being said. I have a solution-focused lens and work towards relationship repair through compassion.
I believe that each person has a unique story and I stay curious as to what that is. I am Level 2 trained in EMDR and Level 2 trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy. I trust in the power of attunement to my clients; by creating a safe space for clients to be heard and able to express their stories, powerful changes can occur. I love being able to dig deeper into the layers of client's experiences and help them understand the patterns. I use empathy and curiosity to attune to what is being said and also what is not being said. I have a solution-focused lens and work towards relationship repair through compassion.
(253) 367-4348 View (253) 367-4348
Photo of Issy Kleiman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Issy Kleiman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98401
Hi there! My name is Israella, but you can call me Issy. I know how crucial finding the right therapist is for your mental health journey. I want to recognize how hard it can be to take the first step. I'm so proud of you. My mission is to provide vital support to couples, families, and individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking top-tier mental health care in Washington. I empower my clients to gain profound insights into their strengths and weaknesses while developing effective coping mechanisms and communication skills. However, life often presents us with unexpected challenges, leaving us feeling unprepared.
Hi there! My name is Israella, but you can call me Issy. I know how crucial finding the right therapist is for your mental health journey. I want to recognize how hard it can be to take the first step. I'm so proud of you. My mission is to provide vital support to couples, families, and individuals of all ages and backgrounds seeking top-tier mental health care in Washington. I empower my clients to gain profound insights into their strengths and weaknesses while developing effective coping mechanisms and communication skills. However, life often presents us with unexpected challenges, leaving us feeling unprepared.
(206) 745-4691 View (206) 745-4691
Shawna Surface
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98499
Accepting new patients. Shawna is attending Grand Canyon Arizona University where she will obtain her masters in Counseling. She is taking courses to work with children and families. She enjoys working with the family system and is personable and easy to talk to. She has lots of experience ranging from care giver to case worker in the field of counseling and is a great asset to our group practice.
Accepting new patients. Shawna is attending Grand Canyon Arizona University where she will obtain her masters in Counseling. She is taking courses to work with children and families. She enjoys working with the family system and is personable and easy to talk to. She has lots of experience ranging from care giver to case worker in the field of counseling and is a great asset to our group practice.
(253) 465-2685 View (253) 465-2685
Photo of Christel Wilder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lakewood, WA
Christel Wilder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98402
Are you tired of the same argument, different day? Each argument results in one person shutting down, the other person feeling alone, and both partners feeling misunderstood and hurt. Things don't have to be this way. I assist couples in developing safety and vulnerability to strengthen the relationship bond and learn how to talk about the complex issues of the relationship. Many of us never learned how to have our emotional needs met, or how to respond to someone's emotional needs. It can feel like speaking a foreign language.
Are you tired of the same argument, different day? Each argument results in one person shutting down, the other person feeling alone, and both partners feeling misunderstood and hurt. Things don't have to be this way. I assist couples in developing safety and vulnerability to strengthen the relationship bond and learn how to talk about the complex issues of the relationship. Many of us never learned how to have our emotional needs met, or how to respond to someone's emotional needs. It can feel like speaking a foreign language.
(253) 893-6058 View (253) 893-6058
Photo of Kimberly Inez Pierce, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Kimberly Inez Pierce
Counselor, LMHC, LMFT, PLLC
Verified Verified
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Waitlist for new clients
Life is difficult (M. Scott Peck). I remember reading that in his book and thought yes, it is! And sometimes we don’t have the tools to manage the difficult times or move through and beyond them. That is why I became a therapist because life is difficult and sometimes, we need support and help to move forward. My goal is to establish a safe environment where adults and children can take the time to process difficulties in life. Through this process you will find your strengths, develop new ways of coping and discover new insights. I enjoy working with both children and adults in a variety of areas, including childhood and adult tra
Life is difficult (M. Scott Peck). I remember reading that in his book and thought yes, it is! And sometimes we don’t have the tools to manage the difficult times or move through and beyond them. That is why I became a therapist because life is difficult and sometimes, we need support and help to move forward. My goal is to establish a safe environment where adults and children can take the time to process difficulties in life. Through this process you will find your strengths, develop new ways of coping and discover new insights. I enjoy working with both children and adults in a variety of areas, including childhood and adult tra
(253) 367-3610 View (253) 367-3610
Photo of Liz Brenneman, Counselor in Lakewood, WA
Liz Brenneman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tacoma, WA 98407
I work with individuals, couples, and families. Counseling is an art form.... the art of listening, the ability to create visual understanding of deeply embedded meaning regarded as truth vs. constructions. Healing begins when a client feels safe enough to deconstruct and replace maladaptive beliefs and behaviors. Integrating new perspectives and a fresh understanding of old stories is a means to sustainable change - a gift of self acceptance. As a therapeutic guide, I believe that each of us is the best source of our own healing....I am there to facilitate what is already true and wise in each client.
I work with individuals, couples, and families. Counseling is an art form.... the art of listening, the ability to create visual understanding of deeply embedded meaning regarded as truth vs. constructions. Healing begins when a client feels safe enough to deconstruct and replace maladaptive beliefs and behaviors. Integrating new perspectives and a fresh understanding of old stories is a means to sustainable change - a gift of self acceptance. As a therapeutic guide, I believe that each of us is the best source of our own healing....I am there to facilitate what is already true and wise in each client.
(206) 866-6321 View (206) 866-6321
Anxiety Therapists

What are the most common treatments for anxiety?

Talk therapy, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy, is the most common treatment for anxiety. Studies have shown it is equally effective as medication. Other popular forms of therapy are popular, depending on a patient’s experience. Exposure therapy, for instance, can be useful for people dealing with fears and phobias, or who have experienced traumatic events. Dialectical Behavioral Therapy may be useful for patients who need help with emotion regulation. Anxiolytic medications, like benzodiazepines, can also help with calming a person enough to focus on the skills they’ve learned, and physical exercise has been shown to help symptoms of anxiety across the board.

How long does therapy for anxiety take to work?

The amount of time needed to alleviate symptoms depends on the severity of a person’s condition. Some therapies may take 5-20 weekly sessions to show results. Anti-depressant medications typically take two to four weeks before a benefit is felt. Anti-anxiety medications are felt typically within 20-30 minutes. Medications are best used to offer a patient a better headspace in which to work on techniques learned in therapy. Exercise, improved sleep habits, and meditation are effective, but takes weeks or months to show results.

When should I seek treatment for anxiety?

Everyone feels anxious at times, but when anxiety causes disruption to your daily life, it may be time to seek help. Such disruption can be mental, physical, or both: having fear dominate your thoughts, avoiding situations or objects that bring on feelings of anxiety, or experiencing shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or panic attacks. When these symptoms are recurrent and distressing, it may be time to talk to someone.

How effective is treatment for anxiety?

Treatment for anxiety has been shown to be moderately to highly effective, according to a large body of psychology studies and analyses. For some people, treatment using CBT or exposure therapy alone is effective. Others respond best to a combination of medication and therapy.