Last edited 02/21/2026
Identifies As
She / Her / Hers
Get To Know Me
What would be important for someone to know about working with you?
I create a non-judgmental, collaborative environment where you feel heard and respected. I've walked through both professional and personal challenges, including my own recovery journey of 35 years. This gives me a deep understanding of what it takes to create lasting change. I'm direct but compassionate, practical but hopeful. I'll challenge you when needed and support you always.
What does a first session with you look like?
The first session is about building a foundation. We'll handle the necessary paperwork first, then I'll ask about what's happening in your life and what you're hoping counseling can help with. I want to understand not just the problem, but you as a person, such as, your strengths, your challenges, and what matters most to you. We'll talk about goals and how we might work together. Most importantly, you'll get a feel for my approach and whether it's a good fit for you.
What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?
Clients can expect to leave sessions with practical tools they can use right away, greater clarity about their situation, and a sense of hope that change is possible. We'll work together to identify patterns that aren't serving you, develop healthier coping strategies, and build on the strengths you already have. Progress looks different for everyone, but my goal is always to help you move forward; whether that's healing relationships, breaking free from addiction, or simply feeling more at peace with yourself.
Location
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Specialties
Specializes in
Loss/GriefCodependencyDrug addiction & abuseSubstance abuseTrauma
General Expertise
Work StressRelationship IssuesLoss/GriefSelf-EsteemAddictionAdoption & foster careAttachment issuesCodependencyDrug addiction & abusePremarital counselingSpirituality & religion based issuesStressSubstance abuseWomen's issuesAlcohol addiction & abuse
Treatment Approaches
Mindfulness PracticesEye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)Family Systems TherapyNarrative TherapyMotivational InterviewingAttachment-Based TherapyMarriage and Family TherapyRational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT)Structural Family Therapy
Clientele
Types of Therapy
Couples CounselingIndividual TherapyGroup Therapy
Serves Ages
ParentsYoung Adults (18-24)Adults (25-65)Seniors (65+)
Languages
English
Insurance & Fees
Insurances Accepted
AetnaAnthemBlue Cross Blue ShieldCignaCarelon Behavioral HealthQuest Behavioral Health
Cash Pay Rates/Out-of-Pocket
| First Session: | $200 |
| Couples Counseling: | $165 |
| Individual Therapy: | $150 |
| Group Therapy: | $40 |
Professional Background
LicensureTennessee, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, 791
Training/CertificationsCertification as Master Addiction Counselor, EMDR I & II (HAP), Trauma Conference: The Body Keeps the Score - Trauma Healing, EMDR with Sexual Assault Victims, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Court and Probation Addiction Training, Addiction Severity Index Refresher, Addiction Professional Conference, Utilizing Motivational Interviewing Techniques to Encourage Client Change
Education
Creighton University, Master of Education, Secondary Education, 2024 — Licensed theology educator with classroom experience teaching middle and high school students. Brings understanding of adolescent development, faith-based perspectives, and educational approaches to counseling practice.
National Louis University, Counselor Education and Supervision, 2020 — Holds doctorate (Ed.D.) in Counselor Education and Supervision with dissertation on counselor ethics. Committed to the highest standards of ethical practice, confidentiality, and client-centered care.
Johnson University, Master of Arts, Marriage & Family Therapy / Professional Counseling, 2004 — M.A. in Marriage and Family Therapy/Professional Counseling with specialized training in faith-integrated therapeutic approaches. Respectful of diverse spiritual perspectives and comfortable incorporating faith into treatment when desired by clients.
Johnson University, Bachelor of Arts, Bible & Counseling, 2001 — B.A. in Bible & Counseling, graduated Magna Cum Laude. Foundational training in biblical studies and counseling principles, providing a strong ethical and spiritual framework for therapeutic practice.
Work HistoryProfessional Experience
I bring over two decades of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges. My journey in the counseling field has been diverse and rewarding, allowing me to develop expertise in several important areas.
Substance abuse treatment has been a cornerstone of my work. I've spent years helping individuals and families affected by addiction, providing comprehensive assessments, treatment planning, and ongoing recovery support. I understand that addiction impacts not just the individual, but entire family systems, and I work with both clients and their loved ones to support lasting change.
I've owned and operated two private counseling practices where I specialized in court-ordered assessments and substance abuse treatment. Working with the legal system taught me how to provide thorough, professional evaluations while maintaining a compassionate, non-judgmental approach with clients who may be facing difficult circumstances. Many people come to counseling through the court system feeling uncertain or defensive—I work to create a safe environment where real change can happen.
Early in my career, I worked extensively with children and adolescents in both residential and community settings. This experience taught me how to connect with young people facing behavioral challenges, family difficulties, and emotional struggles. I've worked with youth in crisis situations, helping them develop healthier coping skills and stronger relationships with their families.
My work with couples and families has been another significant focus throughout my career. I've had the privilege of walking alongside couples through difficult seasons; whether dealing with communication breakdowns, trust issues, or simply feeling disconnected. I understand that every relationship has its own unique story, and I work to create a safe space where both partners feel heard and valued.
Throughout my career, I've also provided clinical supervision and training to other counselors. Teaching and mentoring upcoming professionals has deepened my own understanding of ethical practice and effective therapeutic techniques. Most recently, I've combined my counseling background with education, teaching middle school students; an experience that has kept me connected to the challenges facing today's youth and families.
Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, grief, life transitions, or substance use concerns, I bring a compassionate, non-judgmental approach informed by years of real-world experience helping people find their way forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s not uncommon to have questions before starting therapy.
Tamara Tarver, LMFT, has answered a few of the questions they receive most often from new clients.
Is Tamara Tarver accepting new clients?
Yes, Tamara Tarver is accepting new clients for online therapy in Tennessee.
Does Tamara Tarver accept insurance?
Yes, Tamara Tarver accepts insurance, including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Carelon Behavioral Health, Cigna and Quest Behavioral Health.
What types of therapy does Tamara Tarver offer?
Tamara Tarver offers therapy for couples, groups and individuals.
Does Tamara Tarver offer in-person appointments?
No, but people in Tennessee can book Tamara Tarver for virtual appointments (teletherapy).
Does Tamara Tarver offer online therapy?
Yes, Tamara Tarver offers online therapy via video sessions and phone sessions to people in Tennessee.
How quickly can I see Tamara Tarver?
Tamara Tarver typically can speak with new clients within 48 hours. You can see their current general office hours and request an appointment on their profile page.
What languages does Tamara Tarver speak?
Tamara Tarver conducts therapy sessions in English.
Can I book an appointment with Tamara Tarver online?
Yes, you can easily book an appointment with Tamara Tarver online using ChoosingTherapy.com’s directory.