Body Image Therapists in North End, Tacoma, WA

Photo of Kirsten Devlin, Marriage & Family Therapist, Kirsten Devlin, MA, LMFT
Kirsten Devlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, Kirsten Devlin, MA, LMFT
North End, Tacoma, WA 98407
For real... I love working with people experiencing relationship problems, depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences that are holding them back. Why? Because I see those things get better everyday and that's awesome. Deeper connection, peace, fulfillment, creating a life you love, all possible. Counseling can make an enormous difference when facing adversity. It awakens courage and enhances wisdom, allowing more ease and intimacy. I am nurturing as well as direct, trusting in your ability to change. I want to work with people who are ready to roll up there sleeves, break painful patterns, and begin healing.
For real... I love working with people experiencing relationship problems, depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences that are holding them back. Why? Because I see those things get better everyday and that's awesome. Deeper connection, peace, fulfillment, creating a life you love, all possible. Counseling can make an enormous difference when facing adversity. It awakens courage and enhances wisdom, allowing more ease and intimacy. I am nurturing as well as direct, trusting in your ability to change. I want to work with people who are ready to roll up there sleeves, break painful patterns, and begin healing.
(253) 400-3169 View (253) 400-3169
Photo of Kelsey Schank, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Kelsey Schank
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
North End, Tacoma, WA 98402
Therapy is a place to feel heard, validated and offer growth and change to your life.  I am here to support your needs whether you are looking as an individual, couple or family. Every person holds a unique story and experiences; it is my goal to work collaboratively with you to achieve personal goals and growth throughout the therapy experience. I work with teens, adults, couples and families and bring a systemic focus on each individual’s needs in session. Traditional and non-traditional families are welcome.
Therapy is a place to feel heard, validated and offer growth and change to your life.  I am here to support your needs whether you are looking as an individual, couple or family. Every person holds a unique story and experiences; it is my goal to work collaboratively with you to achieve personal goals and growth throughout the therapy experience. I work with teens, adults, couples and families and bring a systemic focus on each individual’s needs in session. Traditional and non-traditional families are welcome.
(253) 676-9397 View (253) 676-9397
Photo of Dr. Gwendolyn S Barnhart, Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, EdD
Dr. Gwendolyn S Barnhart
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, EdD
Serves Area
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I bring a wealth of experience and dedication to my practice, working with individuals across the lifespan. My background includes supporting individuals with autism, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and serious mental illness. Additionally, I am equipped to provide therapy, psychological assessments, and diagnostic services tailored to meet the unique needs of my clients. My comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive the support and guidance they need. My commitment is to foster a compassionate and understanding environment where clients feel empowered and valued.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, I bring a wealth of experience and dedication to my practice, working with individuals across the lifespan. My background includes supporting individuals with autism, developmental and intellectual disabilities, and serious mental illness. Additionally, I am equipped to provide therapy, psychological assessments, and diagnostic services tailored to meet the unique needs of my clients. My comprehensive approach ensures that clients receive the support and guidance they need. My commitment is to foster a compassionate and understanding environment where clients feel empowered and valued.
(253) 465-2110 View (253) 465-2110
Photo of Nerissa Whitlock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Nerissa Whitlock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Serves Area
I am deeply familiar with the frustration, pain, and fatigue of not knowing where one belongs, who they are, and the terrifying overwhelm of what it might mean to build a relationship with your authentic self. There have been times when I was lost & unsure of where to go for help or if I was worthy of it. I want to create spaces for others that allows time to orientate, to be vulnerable, and have to space to try something new. I often support those with anxiety, who feel stuck, aren’t sure who they are or what they’re ‘supposed’ to do, who are questioning who they are or how all of their big feelings can fit into this word.
I am deeply familiar with the frustration, pain, and fatigue of not knowing where one belongs, who they are, and the terrifying overwhelm of what it might mean to build a relationship with your authentic self. There have been times when I was lost & unsure of where to go for help or if I was worthy of it. I want to create spaces for others that allows time to orientate, to be vulnerable, and have to space to try something new. I often support those with anxiety, who feel stuck, aren’t sure who they are or what they’re ‘supposed’ to do, who are questioning who they are or how all of their big feelings can fit into this word.
(360) 295-9739 View (360) 295-9739
Photo of Jenn Parretta, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST, ATR-P, ABS
Jenn Parretta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST, ATR-P, ABS
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting New Clients! - If you are ready to connect with your deepest desires and live more authentically, you’re in the right place. Working at the unique intersection of mental health, sexuality, and creativity, I help individuals break through the barriers holding them back. Together, we’ll work to clarify your needs, build thriving relationships, and unlock your genuine passions. In my practice, you’ll find a safe, affirming space to enhance communication, cultivate confidence, and unapologetically prioritize your pleasure and well-being.
Accepting New Clients! - If you are ready to connect with your deepest desires and live more authentically, you’re in the right place. Working at the unique intersection of mental health, sexuality, and creativity, I help individuals break through the barriers holding them back. Together, we’ll work to clarify your needs, build thriving relationships, and unlock your genuine passions. In my practice, you’ll find a safe, affirming space to enhance communication, cultivate confidence, and unapologetically prioritize your pleasure and well-being.
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Photo of Clara Rosebrock, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Clara Rosebrock
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Accepting new clients now. Honoring what makes us human guides my approach to counseling. I am passionate about co-creating spaces for openness and authenticity to support my clients in their learning and healing. I see counseling as a collaborative relationship that constantly evolves throughout our time together. Through moments of conversation, silence, humor, and playfulness, we will explore what meaningful growth looks like for you.
Accepting new clients now. Honoring what makes us human guides my approach to counseling. I am passionate about co-creating spaces for openness and authenticity to support my clients in their learning and healing. I see counseling as a collaborative relationship that constantly evolves throughout our time together. Through moments of conversation, silence, humor, and playfulness, we will explore what meaningful growth looks like for you.
(206) 895-2927 View (206) 895-2927
Photo of Sonia Simranjit Kaur Chavez, Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Sonia Simranjit Kaur Chavez
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a therapist for young adults (Gen Z-ers, I’m talking to you) and folx who want to “figure out life” and have a space to process and reconnect with themselves. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s not always something that's encouraged, depending on your background. If you’re feeling uncertain or hesitant, you're not alone—it’s completely okay to take things at your own pace. Whether trying to figure out your place in the world or improve your relationships, now might be the time to connect with someone who can help. Continue reading to learn how working with a therapist might be your best decision.
I am a therapist for young adults (Gen Z-ers, I’m talking to you) and folx who want to “figure out life” and have a space to process and reconnect with themselves. Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s not always something that's encouraged, depending on your background. If you’re feeling uncertain or hesitant, you're not alone—it’s completely okay to take things at your own pace. Whether trying to figure out your place in the world or improve your relationships, now might be the time to connect with someone who can help. Continue reading to learn how working with a therapist might be your best decision.
(253) 447-5927 View (253) 447-5927
Photo of Shelly Donovan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Shelly Donovan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
10 Endorsed
Serves Area
When anxiety, depression or relationship stress starts shaping your days, it can feel like you are always bracing for the next thing. Anxiety can look like constant what if thoughts, replaying conversations and feeling on edge. Depression can show up as a lack of motivation, numbness and just going through the motions while feeling defeated inside. In relationships, it can show up as feeling stuck in repeat conflict or growing distance, where one reaches for closeness and the other pulls back. Whether the stress is inside you, between you, or both, you want steadier emotions, clearer communication, and repair that holds up.
When anxiety, depression or relationship stress starts shaping your days, it can feel like you are always bracing for the next thing. Anxiety can look like constant what if thoughts, replaying conversations and feeling on edge. Depression can show up as a lack of motivation, numbness and just going through the motions while feeling defeated inside. In relationships, it can show up as feeling stuck in repeat conflict or growing distance, where one reaches for closeness and the other pulls back. Whether the stress is inside you, between you, or both, you want steadier emotions, clearer communication, and repair that holds up.
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Photo of Rachelle Dudley, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Rachelle Dudley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are living in challenging times. If you are struggling, it means you are human. Know that asking for help is a strength. My therapy is collaborative, client-centered, strength-based with a commitment to anti-oppression. I work from an attachment perspective that is emotionally focused. As a family therapist, I believe your family of origin influences the dynamics in your relationships and patterns of behavior. I believe connection is important in your healing. Thus, I work to create a safe therapeutic environment where growth can flourish. I bring my full self to my work – my optimism, my directness, my persistence, my humor.
We are living in challenging times. If you are struggling, it means you are human. Know that asking for help is a strength. My therapy is collaborative, client-centered, strength-based with a commitment to anti-oppression. I work from an attachment perspective that is emotionally focused. As a family therapist, I believe your family of origin influences the dynamics in your relationships and patterns of behavior. I believe connection is important in your healing. Thus, I work to create a safe therapeutic environment where growth can flourish. I bring my full self to my work – my optimism, my directness, my persistence, my humor.
(360) 284-1139 View (360) 284-1139
Photo of Amber Dawn Toler - Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Sadler-Bridges Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Serves Area
We are accepting new clients! Greetings, my name is Amber and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Work Associate (LICSWA) supervised by Stefan Music. I find deep meaning in hearing the stories of those I work with - honoring their unique worldviews and identifying the areas of life where they wish to reclaim personal power. Due to my social work background, I use a system's approach to understand the individual. I use various evidence-based practices to assist you in building confidence and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Together, we co-create a plan tailored to meet your specific goals so that you can thrive!
We are accepting new clients! Greetings, my name is Amber and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Work Associate (LICSWA) supervised by Stefan Music. I find deep meaning in hearing the stories of those I work with - honoring their unique worldviews and identifying the areas of life where they wish to reclaim personal power. Due to my social work background, I use a system's approach to understand the individual. I use various evidence-based practices to assist you in building confidence and resilience in the face of life's challenges. Together, we co-create a plan tailored to meet your specific goals so that you can thrive!
(425) 532-3320 View (425) 532-3320
Photo of Melanie Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Melanie Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Men are often taught to carry pain alone and taught that asking for help is weakness. But therapy isn’t about weakness—it’s about growth, clarity, and finding your inner strength. I specialize in supporting men who are ready to break through the silence and expectations that can surround masculinity. Whether you're navigating stress, relationship struggles, anger, identity, fatherhood, trauma, or life transitions, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s really going on. The result can mean being more emotionally regulated, better management of stress, healing from trauma, and connecting more fully with loved ones.
Men are often taught to carry pain alone and taught that asking for help is weakness. But therapy isn’t about weakness—it’s about growth, clarity, and finding your inner strength. I specialize in supporting men who are ready to break through the silence and expectations that can surround masculinity. Whether you're navigating stress, relationship struggles, anger, identity, fatherhood, trauma, or life transitions, I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore what’s really going on. The result can mean being more emotionally regulated, better management of stress, healing from trauma, and connecting more fully with loved ones.
(206) 203-4138 View (206) 203-4138
Photo of Kendra Nicole Locke, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kendra Nicole Locke
Pre-Licensed Professional
12 Endorsed
Serves Area
You are feeling disconnected from yourself or others, doing your best but still feeling unseen or misunderstood. Maybe you carry old pain that seeps into your relationships or self-worth, leaving you wondering if you’ll ever feel at ease. You’ve reflected, read, and tried to change, yet find yourself caught in familiar loops of doubt or guilt. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, identity, or the lingering effects of trauma, therapy can help you understand your emotions, find steadier ground, and begin to reconnect with the parts of you that long to feel safe, whole, and real again.
You are feeling disconnected from yourself or others, doing your best but still feeling unseen or misunderstood. Maybe you carry old pain that seeps into your relationships or self-worth, leaving you wondering if you’ll ever feel at ease. You’ve reflected, read, and tried to change, yet find yourself caught in familiar loops of doubt or guilt. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, identity, or the lingering effects of trauma, therapy can help you understand your emotions, find steadier ground, and begin to reconnect with the parts of you that long to feel safe, whole, and real again.
(425) 585-4960 View (425) 585-4960
Photo of Robyn Hansen, Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Robyn Hansen
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Serves Area
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck while navigating stress, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, or the lasting impact of difficult experiences. They’re often looking for a space to slow down, gain clarity, and start feeling more grounded and in control of their lives. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma-related symptoms, grief, and life changes.
Many people come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally exhausted, or stuck while navigating stress, relationship challenges, grief, life transitions, or the lasting impact of difficult experiences. They’re often looking for a space to slow down, gain clarity, and start feeling more grounded and in control of their lives. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma-related symptoms, grief, and life changes.
(253) 316-8128 View (253) 316-8128
Photo of Colleen Young, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Colleen Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Serves Area
Do you consider yourself unconventional and looking for more from life? Are you wanting to push past your existing limitations and achieve a new level of growth and connection to self? Are you in midlife looking to break out of old conventions and patterns that no longer serve you but don't know where to start? Finally, are you a couple committed to your relationship and want to find ways to use the challenges you two have as a catalyst for growth, both individually and as a couple? If any of that resonates, please be in touch! I'm accepting new clients for individual, couple and embodiment-focused sessions.
Do you consider yourself unconventional and looking for more from life? Are you wanting to push past your existing limitations and achieve a new level of growth and connection to self? Are you in midlife looking to break out of old conventions and patterns that no longer serve you but don't know where to start? Finally, are you a couple committed to your relationship and want to find ways to use the challenges you two have as a catalyst for growth, both individually and as a couple? If any of that resonates, please be in touch! I'm accepting new clients for individual, couple and embodiment-focused sessions.
(253) 900-2261 View (253) 900-2261
Photo of Kristin Mize Stocks, Counselor, MA, LMHC, CYMHS
Kristin Mize Stocks
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CYMHS
Online Only
Hi there! I'm excited to meet you! I offer individual therapy through telehealth, with the option to include any people you’d like to be part of the process. I firmly believe that everyone has the ability to grow and change, no matter their circumstances. There's nothing more rewarding than witnessing your own personal growth. My approach is gentle, direct, client-centered and creative, tailored to your unique needs. I work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, and socioeconomic situations. I’m looking forward to collaborating with you!
Hi there! I'm excited to meet you! I offer individual therapy through telehealth, with the option to include any people you’d like to be part of the process. I firmly believe that everyone has the ability to grow and change, no matter their circumstances. There's nothing more rewarding than witnessing your own personal growth. My approach is gentle, direct, client-centered and creative, tailored to your unique needs. I work with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, gender identities, and socioeconomic situations. I’m looking forward to collaborating with you!
(253) 281-4913 View (253) 281-4913
Photo of Desirae Dorsey - Weight Management Counseling Desirae Dorsey, Counselor, ARNP, PMHNP
Weight Management Counseling Desirae Dorsey
Counselor, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you miss feeling comfortable in your own body? Maybe your clothes don’t fit like they used to, your energy is low, and you feel frustrated every time you look in the mirror. You’ve tried to make changes like diets, exercise, starting fresh on Monday but nothing seems to stick. It’s not just about the weight. It’s the emotional weight too. The guilt, the shame, the stress eating, the cycle of “why can’t I just get it together?”
Do you miss feeling comfortable in your own body? Maybe your clothes don’t fit like they used to, your energy is low, and you feel frustrated every time you look in the mirror. You’ve tried to make changes like diets, exercise, starting fresh on Monday but nothing seems to stick. It’s not just about the weight. It’s the emotional weight too. The guilt, the shame, the stress eating, the cycle of “why can’t I just get it together?”
(425) 537-7619 View (425) 537-7619
Photo of Julie Stewart, Counselor, LMHC, CN, MS
Julie Stewart
Counselor, LMHC, CN, MS
Online Only
We all need compassionate connection to grow and heal, and that is especially important in therapy. I provide a connection that is warm, yet intellectual, making sure to challenge your mind and heart for growth, support, and ultimately deeper relationships. I'm a good match for recovering perfectionists, people with ADHD/autism, anxiety concerns, depression, eating disorders (including a specialization in binge eating), and those wanting support around chronic health conditions. I'm a good fit for neurodivergent folks wanting a supportive therapy environment. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
We all need compassionate connection to grow and heal, and that is especially important in therapy. I provide a connection that is warm, yet intellectual, making sure to challenge your mind and heart for growth, support, and ultimately deeper relationships. I'm a good match for recovering perfectionists, people with ADHD/autism, anxiety concerns, depression, eating disorders (including a specialization in binge eating), and those wanting support around chronic health conditions. I'm a good fit for neurodivergent folks wanting a supportive therapy environment. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(206) 339-3354 View (206) 339-3354
Photo of Jen Hutchinson, Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Jen Hutchinson
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
In accompanying you along your journey, you can expect humanity, humor, and attention to difficult conversations and experiences. Validation, building skills or insight into what you bring to the table is a priority. I have worked with people in recovery from addiction, eating disorders, and trauma as well as those coping with life stressors, anxiety/depression and other concerns. I enjoy working with young adults who are developing their identity and discovering themselves and their values. I also welcome working with those in midlife or older who are encountering new challenges with aging.
In accompanying you along your journey, you can expect humanity, humor, and attention to difficult conversations and experiences. Validation, building skills or insight into what you bring to the table is a priority. I have worked with people in recovery from addiction, eating disorders, and trauma as well as those coping with life stressors, anxiety/depression and other concerns. I enjoy working with young adults who are developing their identity and discovering themselves and their values. I also welcome working with those in midlife or older who are encountering new challenges with aging.
(425) 728-2522 View (425) 728-2522
Photo of Brenna Curbow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-I
Brenna Curbow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-I
Online Only
My clients are often struggling with complex trauma, religious trauma, &/or lack of coping skills and supports necessary to deal with all the expectations put on modern day Homo sapiens. From toxic relationships, to toxic work environments, many of my clients are learning to recognize and voice their needs to themselves & others effectively. Developing self-awareness is always a focus in therapy- including but not limited to, what needs you have and how many are you meeting on your own? I often find myself teaching/coaching self-care and self-compassion with my clients, as many of us have not experienced being taught either skill.
My clients are often struggling with complex trauma, religious trauma, &/or lack of coping skills and supports necessary to deal with all the expectations put on modern day Homo sapiens. From toxic relationships, to toxic work environments, many of my clients are learning to recognize and voice their needs to themselves & others effectively. Developing self-awareness is always a focus in therapy- including but not limited to, what needs you have and how many are you meeting on your own? I often find myself teaching/coaching self-care and self-compassion with my clients, as many of us have not experienced being taught either skill.
(509) 402-2781 View (509) 402-2781
Photo of Angela Edwards, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Angela Edwards
Counselor, MA, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
“There is no standard normal. Normal is subjective. There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet.” - Matt Haig. So very often, we find ourselves facing the word "should". Who "should" I be, where in life "should" I be, what "should" I be able to do. Whether you are just learning who you are for the first time, or are in a place of transition in your life, the process can be very difficult and can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood, and in the need of support.
“There is no standard normal. Normal is subjective. There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet.” - Matt Haig. So very often, we find ourselves facing the word "should". Who "should" I be, where in life "should" I be, what "should" I be able to do. Whether you are just learning who you are for the first time, or are in a place of transition in your life, the process can be very difficult and can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood, and in the need of support.
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See more therapy options for North End, Tacoma

Body Image Therapists
How does body image affect mental health?
Poor body image can influence mental health because it can reduce self-esteem and decrease functioning in other areas of one's life. Negative body image may hinder someone's ability to perform daily tasks, including professional and social responsibilities, because they may feel self-conscious or shame surrounding their appearance; a desire to change one's body as a result of negative body image can also trigger behaviors such as extreme dieting, excessive exercise, or obsessive social media comparison. Poor body image is associated with a number of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, although many people experience negative body image even in the absence of meeting the diagnostic criteria for any mental health disorders.

What does it mean to have a positive body image?
Body image refers to how one internally perceives their appearance and internally "talks" to themself about their body. Positive body image is therefore indicative of a positive perception of one's self and positive internal self-talk that underscores one's strengths. People who have good body image often have higher self-esteem, self-worth, and self-confidence, and they also often recognize how external factors, such as social media or relationship patterns, can influence body image. While body image can change at different life stages and in response to various triggers, practicing self-acceptance and a body-positive mindset can help maintain a more stable sense of positive body image.

Is body image the same as self-esteem?
Body image and self-esteem are often related, but they are distinct concepts. Self-esteem is a broader term that can be shaped by a number of factors outside of body image, including one's functioning at school or in the workplace; it refers to one's capacity to handle various life challenges. Poor body image can be one way in which one's self-esteem is reduced. Reduced self-esteem as a result of poor body image can cause individuals to feel negative about their appearance, withdraw from social interactions, and/or rely on harmful behaviors as a coping mechanism. A "body positive" approach to body image therapy is therefore often used to encourage a more positive view of one's self and thus encourage better self-esteem.

What type of therapy is best to foster a positive body image?
The type of therapy best suited to improve body image depends on each person, as there is not a single therapy specific to body image improvement. That said, many individuals with poor body image benefit from therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness-based therapy. CBT can be used to help challenge distorted or negative thoughts about one's body, while ACT and mindfulness practices can facilitate a more positive body image through self-acceptance and identification of one's personal strengths. Regardless of treatment type, clients should look for body image therapists who encourage the development of a sense of self outside of their external appearance and help clients reduce unwanted behaviors developed as a result of poor self-esteem, such as dieting or disordered eating patterns.