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Couples Therapy in University Place, Tacoma & Gig Harbor, WA
My name is Alicia Barrett, LMFTA
If you and your partner keep having the same argument, or things have gone quiet and distant, couples therapy can help you understand what's happening between you and find your way back to each other.
I'm Alicia Barrett, LMFTA, a marriage and family therapist. I see couples in person in University Place and online anywhere in Washington State, and I'm accepting new clients.
Credential Number -MFTA.MG.61633114
How couples therapy with me works
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the Gottman Method (I'm Gottman Level 2 trained therapist) and mindfulness-based practices. In plain terms, we slow down your recurring conflict, look at the emotions underneath it (often fear, loneliness, or feeling unimportant), and practice new ways of responding to each other.
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Free 15-minute consultation. We talk about what's going on and whether we're a good fit.
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Intake session. A 50-minute first session that includes a couples assessment and workbook.
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Ongoing sessions. Weekly 50-minute sessions (90-minute sessions are available if the schedule allows).
Who couples therapy is for
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Couples stuck in a repeating cycle of conflict, criticism, or withdrawal
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Partners who feel more like roommates than a team
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Couples navigating a major transition: a move, a new baby, career change, loss, or an affair
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Engaged couples who want a strong start (see premarital therapy)
I'm not the right fit for couples with active substance use or domestic violence. I'm glad to refer you to clinicians who are.
Fees, insurance, and scheduling
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Intake session (50 min): $250
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Ongoing session (50 min): $200
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Extended session (90 min): $275
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A limited number of reduced-fee sessions are available; ask during your consultation.
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I'm a private-pay practice and can provide a superbill you can submit to your insurer for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Reimbursement depends on your plan.
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Office: 3560 Bridgeport Way, University Place, WA 98335. Phone: 253-234-5373.
About your therapist
MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, Pacific Lutheran University. Clinical experience at the PLU Couples and Family Therapy Center and Integrated Therapy Services Northwest. Certified yoga and meditation teacher. In practice for 3 years, Supervised by Quantas Ginn. Also listed on Psychology Today and the Gottman Referral Network.
Couples Therapy FAQ
How does couples therapy work?
Couples therapy is a series of regular sessions where both partners meet with a therapist to understand their conflict patterns and practice new ways of connecting. In my practice, we start with a free 15-minute consultation, then a 50-minute intake with an assessment, then weekly sessions.
How do we know if we need couples therapy?
Common signs include having the same fight repeatedly, avoiding hard conversations, feeling lonely together, or one or both of you feeling criticized or shut out. You don't have to be on the brink of divorce. Many couples come in to strengthen what's working.
What is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)?
EFT is a structured approach to couples therapy based on attachment, the idea that we all need to feel emotionally safe and connected with our partner. It helps couples spot the negative cycle they get caught in and replace it with more open, responsive communication.
What is the Gottman Method?
The Gottman Method is a research-based approach that uses an assessment of your relationship to build friendship, manage conflict, and create shared meaning. I use it alongside EFT.
How much does couples therapy cost?
My intake session is $250, and ongoing 50-minute sessions are $200. Reduced-fee spots are limited and can be discussed at your free consultation.
Do you offer online couples therapy in Washington?
Yes. I offer couples therapy by secure, HIPAA-compliant video anywhere in Washington State, as well as in person in University Place. (Family sessions are in person only.)
Do you take insurance?
I'm private pay, but I can provide a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement. Check with your insurer about your out-of-network benefits.
How many sessions will we need?
It depends on your goals and what's going on in the relationship. We'll talk about expectations at the start and check in on progress regularly.
Do you work with couples dealing with addiction or abuse?
No. I don't see couples with active drug use or domestic violence, but I can connect you with clinicians who do.
What if one of us is hesitant about therapy?
That's very common. The free consultation is a low-pressure way to ask questions, and I make sure both partners feel heard from the first session.
Book a free 15-minute consultation
If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call Pierce County Crisis Line 1-800-576-7764, or go to your nearest emergency room.
