Find a Therapist in Gig Harbor, WA

Glenda Dematty, MS, NCC, LMHC, MHP, CCTS-I, welcomes individuals to her practice at Alder Wellness & Counseling, PLLC. Named after the alder tree, known for its strength and balance, the office embodies the essence of grounding that is essential for emotional well-being. Glenda understands that achieving balance in life is crucial for overall health, which intertwines mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. Her work focuses on helping clients navigate the effects of stress, trauma, and PTSD, whether stemming from recent events or long-standing issues. Glenda employs a personalized and holistic approach to counseling, integrating a variety of therapies such as Compassion Focused, Trauma Focused, and EMDR. With specialized training in addiction and trauma, she is committed to empowering adults to identify their strengths and develop effective coping strategies. Glenda’s practice is inclusive and affirming, ensuring a supportive environment for individuals of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and relationship models as they work towards their personal goals and a balanced life.

Jenny Dooley is a dedicated counselor and mental health professional holding an MEd and LMHC, with over 30 years of experience in providing exceptional counseling services to women and small groups in recovery. Her areas of special interest include trauma and betrayal, grief, spiritual growth, and life transitions. Jenny has worked with women in cross-cultural settings, demonstrating a profound sensitivity to the cultural, spiritual, and family backgrounds of her clients. She is passionate about exploring the unique experiences of each individual she works with, and she strives to empower her clients in uncovering and developing their strengths as they navigate their personal challenges. Through her trauma-focused, attachment-based, and person-centered approaches, Jenny offers a supportive environment to facilitate healing and growth.

Eric Dooley, a compassionate and experienced psychologist, is dedicated to assisting adults through difficult phases in their lives. He provides a respectful and warm environment that encourages open dialogue about challenging personal issues. With a strong belief in the power of human resilience, Eric serves as a trusted partner for those seeking support and guidance. His expertise encompasses individual and marriage counseling, focusing on complex topics like addiction, trauma and PTSD, and sexuality. As a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT), he recognizes the growing prevalence of compulsive behaviors, often exacerbated by technology. Eric approaches therapy through a blend of attachment-based, integrative, family systems, cognitive behavioral, and psychodynamic modalities, believing that addressing the underlying issues is crucial for breaking destructive cycles. He is committed to collaborating with clients to help them uncover and understand their emotional pain, ultimately guiding them toward healing and empowerment.

Spencer Erwin is a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, who specializes in guiding individuals, couples, and families toward profound self-discovery and personal growth. He works with a diverse clientele, including preteens, children aged 6 to 10, teens, adults, and elders, focusing on issues such as marital and premarital concerns, family conflict, and life transitions. With a holistic approach that emphasizes the mind, body, and spirit connection, Spencer believes that each client possesses the innate answers and capabilities necessary to become their best selves. He incorporates a variety of innovative and experiential modalities, including walking, hiking, jogging, and paddle boarding, offering clients the unique opportunity to engage in therapy in nature and through movement. While he provides traditional office sessions at Connection Therapy Center, his practice is rooted in a belief that therapy should be personalized; Spencer prioritizes establishing genuine relationships with his clients to collaboratively determine the most effective approach to achieve their goals. His extensive therapeutic toolkit includes culturally sensitive practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Therapy, and many more, ensuring a comprehensive and individualized therapeutic experience.

Sheryl Eva Adams, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), is dedicated to guiding her clients on their journey from the present to their desired future. She cultivates a nurturing and emotionally safe environment, especially for those navigating life transitions, grief, and loss. Her clients learn to understand and effectively manage anxiety, stress, challenging life transitions, relationship dynamics, sleep disturbances, and troubling thoughts. Through her supportive approach, they also identify their inherent gifts, talents, and strengths while developing attainable goals. A graduate of the University of Washington School of Social Work, Sheryl specializes in Child and Family issues across various life stages—from pregnancy and early parenthood to career changes, serious illness, and aging. Utilizing a strengths-based perspective, she effectively helps her clients establish and monitor health goals, reduce the risk of postpartum depression, and combat feelings of sadness and anxiety. Her therapeutic modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and meditation, enriched by her specialized training and experience in Perinatal Mood Disorders, PTSD, Infant Massage, and Geriatric Mental Health.

Sarah Farrell, MSW, LICSW, is a dedicated clinical social worker and therapist who understands the daunting journey many begin when seeking help. She recognizes that scrolling through profiles to find the right therapist can feel overwhelming. Individuals often look for a compassionate professional with whom they can share their story—the hidden narratives that linger in the back of the mind and may feel too challenging to confront. Sarah knows the importance of these stories and contributes to the therapeutic process by creating a safe and welcoming space for exploration. She empathizes with feelings of apprehension that might arise, whether it’s the fear of silence or connecting with someone new. With her expertise in trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, and life transitions, Sarah’s approach to therapy incorporates various modalities such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Trauma-Focused methods, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy among others. Sarah believes in the strength and resilience of her clients, and her commitment to empowering them shines through her work. Together, she and her clients navigate past experiences to foster personal growth and a fulfilling future.

Daniel Figueira is a compassionate counselor, dedicated to empowering individuals to realize their potential and navigate life's challenges. With a passion for helping others, he supports clients in becoming better versions of themselves—be it as a person, spouse, partner, parent, or friend. Daniel understands that everyone faces personal struggles, and he strives to be a steadfast ally through both good and difficult times. He prioritizes building strong connections with his clients, believing that laughter can serve as a powerful bridge that transcends barriers. Throughout the therapeutic process, he seeks moments to foster connection, enabling clients to overcome obstacles and thrive independently. With experience across various life situations—including marital challenges, motivation issues, anxiety, and autism—Daniel approaches counseling with humility and dedication. His work is fueled by a deep passion for assisting individuals and families in their quests for growth and healing. He looks forward to being a supportive presence in the journeys of those he serves.

Mali Hawkins is a dedicated Marriage & Family Therapist with advanced qualifications including a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and certifications such as PMH-C. She understands the complexities of the human experience, particularly during challenging times, such as transitions, anxiety, or losses that can feel overwhelming. Mali deeply believes in the power of connection and the importance of companionship on the journey to healing, and she values the relationships her clients seek to foster. In her practice, she welcomes individuals of all ages, including children, teens, and adults, offering a diverse range of therapeutic modalities such as Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Play Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy. Her goal is to create a nurturing environment where clients can explore their vulnerabilities, confront challenging aspects of their lives, and develop effective strategies to manage anxiety, relationship issues, and postpartum challenges. Whether clients are seeking brief solutions or in-depth ongoing support, Mali is eager to connect with them and help guide them towards clarity and healing on their paths.

Amanda Hightower is a Clinical Social Worker and therapist, dedicated to walking alongside individuals as they navigate life’s challenges and pursue meaningful personal growth. She specializes in working with adults and couples seeking to build healthy coping skills, overcome shame, and find empowerment after trauma. With extensive experience in addressing complex trauma, sexual violence, and human trafficking, Amanda also supports individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and codependency. Couples looking to enhance their relationship dynamic will find her guidance invaluable. Amanda is committed to creating a non-judgmental and safe space for her clients to process trauma and other life challenges. She takes the time to understand each client's strengths, needs, and cultural background, working at their pace to build trust and safety. Together, Amanda collaborates with her clients on the issues that matter most to them, utilizing various therapeutic modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma-Focused therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

Erin Hohol, MA, LMHC, is a compassionate counselor who focuses on the strengths of her clients to assist them in finding effective solutions. She emphasizes addressing both short-term challenges and fostering long-term psychological well-being. Erin believes that the more her clients share about their feelings, the more effectively she can support them in resolving their personal issues. She is dedicated to ensuring that every individual is met with acceptance, respect, compassion, and understanding, recognizing that all children can succeed in academics, extracurricular activities, and social interactions. Erin understands that each client contributes unique experiences, strengths, and resources that are invaluable for personal growth and change. She is committed to helping clients of all ages, including children aged 5 and older, teens, adults, couples, and families. Utilizing a non-directive experiential play therapy approach with children, Erin provides a safe space for them to express themselves through play, which serves as a powerful medium for storytelling in a non-threatening manner.

Jim Jackson is a compassionate Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, specializing in supporting adults and elders in navigating life’s challenges. With a focus on dual diagnosis, mood disorders, and life transitions, he offers a safe and welcoming space for individuals to explore their feelings and experiences. Jim's expertise encompasses a variety of therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), ensuring that he tailors his techniques to meet the unique needs of each client. He is dedicated to fostering a culturally sensitive environment, where everyone feels valued and understood. With a strength-based and solution-focused approach, Jim empowers individuals to uncover their resilience and navigate their journeys toward healing and growth.

Annaliese Jacobsson is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist, specializing in supporting individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and the aftermath of trauma. She understands that life can often feel overwhelming, filled with memories or nightmares from difficult events that are hard to escape. Her expertise lies in helping those who feel stuck, irritable, or alone to find a path toward healing and empowerment. Annaliese has a deep appreciation for diverse cultural backgrounds and is adept at assisting clients who experience culture-related stress. She believes that true healing begins with knowing that one is genuinely cared for and has the freedom to be themselves. Tailoring her sessions to meet the unique needs and goals of each individual or family, she employs a variety of therapeutic modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and EMDR, among others. Annaliese is committed to fostering a safe space for clients to explore their struggles and can help create a personalized plan to encourage a sense of aliveness and empowerment in their lives.

Walter Jason Garre is a compassionate counselor with a wealth of experience in facilitating communication among partners and family members. As an LMHC contracted with Summit Health Management, he brings a unique blend of therapeutic techniques, including Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, and the renowned Gottman Method. Walter is particularly skilled in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate marital and premarital challenges, family conflicts, and relationship issues. In his practice, he employs innovative methods, such as using role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons, which offer a safe and creative outlet for families, children, and teens to explore therapeutic scenarios. In addition to this engaging approach, he leads a weekly social skills group for teens, fostering community and growth. Walter's dedication to enhancing communication skills is evident through his tailored interventions, which include targeted homework assignments aimed at improving conflict resolution strategies within family dynamics. His goal is to create a supportive environment where clients can thrive, connecting deeply with one another and fostering healthier relationships.