She really listens to me and gives me alternatives to the ways I respond to stressors in my life. It is really personal and does not feel like on size fits all. I always leave our sessions feeling better. She also has great insight into what is going on in my life. She asks me if there is a thing in my past that is contributing to how I feel today. So we get to the root of the cause.

Dave, verified client of Rica

See what other clients say
geometry-shapes iconLife Transition, Addiction, Women’s Issues, Self Esteem, Infidelity, Career Counseling, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma / PTSD
Online in Washington
4 years in practice
Ages served: 11-65+
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Accepted insurance & self-pay

Rica accepts 12 insurers
Optum Serve
United Healthcare | Optum
United Healthcare | Optum - Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
United Healthcare | Optum Medicare Advantage
Adventist Health Associates | Employee Health Plan
Adventist Health Associates | Non-Employee Health Plan
JP Farley Corporation
Multi Plan PHCS
Quest Behavioral Health
Tricare West
UMR
Uprise EAP
SELF-PAY COSTS
Out-of-pocket session costs for clients who don’t have insurance or aren’t covered by their insurance for mental health services.
$200
first session
$170
subsequent sessions
About Provider

About Rica

Rica Puazo is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Registered Art Therapist (LPC, RAT) who holds more than 4 years of experience working in residential treatment facilities and inpatient acute care with children, adolescents, young adults, college students, young professionals, adults, and geriatrics. She has experience working with individuals diagnosed with ADHD, bipolar disorder and mood disorders, schizophrenia, conduct disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, substance abuse, intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and neurocognitive disorders such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. Rica also has experience working with families, couples, the LGBTQIA+ community, and individuals with disabilities.

She received her Master’s degree in Counseling and Art Therapy from Adler School of Professional Psychology and her Bachelor's in Psychology from Baylor University. Rica’s approach to therapy is adapting the different theories, applying appropriate intervention, and finding the right tools and support for the client’s therapeutic goals. 

As an Art Therapist, Rica encourages exploring the art process to help individuals visualize inner struggles as well as encourage self-expression. Rica believes in building confidence in oneself to overcome and accept personal struggles. Work with her to start building self-confidence, happiness, and healthier relationships.

What clients say

What clients say

These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.

I like the flexibility of scheduling my appointments and I enjoy my therapist

Braeden, verified client of Rica

She really listens to me and gives me alternatives to the ways I respond to stressors in my life. It is really personal and does not feel like on size fits all. I always leave our ....

Dave, verified client of Rica

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Get to know Rica

Why did you decide to become a counselor?

To help and be an ally for mental health.

What’s one thing you wish all clients knew?

The keys to unlocking all the doors for self-improvement and healing lies within you.

Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?

I have met some wonderful clinicians at Thriveworks and Telehealth is such a wonderful platform to cross the barrier of distance and time.

What inspires you?

Positivity. Creativity. Kindness. Transparency. Nature.

What can clients expect in their first session with you?

First sessions are the hardest and I want to create a safe place for my clients to share their history, challenges in life and set goals for treatment.

What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?

Define a purpose and set goals.

What do you do for fun/on your time off?

Art (creating or exploring), Travelling, Being with Friends and Family.

What’s one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?

My heart.

Read more
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Other areas of focus

SpecialitiesLife Transition, Addiction, Women’s Issues, Self Esteem, Infidelity, Career Counseling, Behavioral Issues, Anger Management, Bipolar Disorder, Trauma / PTSD, Coping Skills, Relationships, Grief, Anxiety, Depression, Stress / Mental Stress / Work Stress
ApproachesAdlerian, Family Systems, Mindfulness-Based Therapy (MBCT), Motivational Interviewing, Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Any / Eclectic, Play Therapy, Relational
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Education and training

Years in practice
4 years
Graduating institute
Adler School of Professional Psychology
Graduating degree
Master's in Counseling and Art Therapy
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Additional details

Languages spoken by this provider
TagalogEnglish
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NPI number1023621786
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State of practiceWA
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License number77831
Practice location

Practice information

Book your first session

Individual Counseling
Rica is available for Video visits.
Want help booking? 
Existing client? and rebook
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Rica Puazo's profile image

Rica Puazo

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)she/her