Lake Tapps, WA Local Support & Community Resources

Naomi Espulgar, MSW, LSWAIC, is a dedicated Clinical Social Worker and Therapist specializing in adult therapy. She understands that the first step to healing begins with recognizing the need for support in achieving emotional and mental wellness. Naomi believes that selecting a therapist with whom clients can forge a genuine connection is crucial for effective treatment. With a non-judgmental, collaborative approach, she offers authentic validation of life’s challenges while guiding clients towards change and healing. Naomi's expertise lies in helping clients process loss, cope with anxiety, and navigate life transitions. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, she utilizes various interventions, including Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, and Strength-Based approaches, tailored to meet the diverse needs of her clients. Through culturally sensitive methods, Attachment theory, Theraplay, and the Family Systems Approach, Naomi collaborates with clients to set realistic, attainable goals that foster hope, resilience, and independence. She is committed to creating a warm, supportive environment where individuals can delve into their struggles, uncover underlying trauma, and develop healthy coping skills.

Ryan Ferguson is a skilled counselor specializing in relationship dynamics. With extensive experience in family and marital therapy, he understands the complexities that can arise in relationships. Whether clients are navigating the challenges of a decades-long partnership or embarking on a new romantic journey, Ryan provides invaluable guidance. He employs the Gottman Method of relationship counseling, a scientifically backed approach informed by comprehensive research on couples. By identifying strengths and weaknesses within relationships, Ryan helps clients to fortify their bonds through increased trust, commitment, and friendship. Since starting his career in therapy in 2009, Ryan has been dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families within various settings, including community mental health and private practice. He holds a Master's degree in Counseling from George Fox University and has served as the Clinical Supervisor at Lake Tapps Counseling, where he continues to influence and inspire those in his care.

James Niculaus is a dedicated counselor with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, skilled at assisting clients who grapple with anxiety, stress, and feelings of being overwhelmed due to changes in their work or school environments. He deeply understands the challenges associated with family transitions, such as divorce, and recognizes the toll that burnout can take on both career and family life. James employs a strength-based, client-centered, and solutions-focused approach to empower individuals to diminish their stress levels and enhance their overall quality of life. He collaborates with clients for 8 to 16 sessions through a short-term cognitive methodology aimed at helping them achieve their personal goals. With his extensive background in social work across various settings, including schools, private practices, and community hospitals, James effectively leverages the unique strengths of each client to foster resilience and promote a more balanced life.