— Our Story —
About Real Life Counseling.
Since 2010, we've been proudly serving communities across Washington — offering compassionate, client-centered mental health care for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
— Our Why —
Care that honors the dignity of every individual.
At Real Life Counseling, our mission is to provide compassionate, strengths-based, and client-centered mental health services that honor the dignity of every individual. We are committed to making care accessible and personalized — supporting individuals across Washington in their journey toward healing and growth.
We also foster a supportive, collaborative environment for our clinicians and interns, empowering them to develop their skills and thrive in their careers.
Our vision is to build a community where mental health care is universally accessible, stigma-free, and integrated with vital resources — creating a world where everyone has the support they need to live fulfilling, resilient lives.
Meet our teamEveryone deserves access to compassionate, professional mental health care.— Our founding belief
There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in.— Leonard Cohen
— The Story —
How RLC began.
Real Life Counseling was founded in 2010 by Joe Klemz and Justin Farrell with a clear and compassionate vision: to create a space where clinicians could build empowered, sustainable careers while helping meet the growing mental health needs of Clark County, WA. From the start, RLC set out to offer the freedom and flexibility of private practice — supported by strong administrative systems that allow clinicians to focus on what matters most: caring for their clients.
Joe began with a small group of dedicated providers and a desire to bring private-practice quality care to the broader community, complementing the work of local mental health clinics while filling in critical gaps in accessibility and approach. What started as a handful of clinicians in Clark County has now grown into a network of over 100 skilled providers serving individuals and families throughout Washington state — with multiple locations and a strong virtual presence.
As the organization grew, the ownership team expanded to include Dr. Melinda Johnson, Jason Norris, and Chris Webberley, each bringing key leadership to support RLC's continued development. Together, the ownership team shares a unified commitment: to maintain a high standard of care, invest in both clinical and operational excellence, and build a culture that prioritizes client retention, professional development, and whole-person support — for every member of our community.
— Our Values —
What we stand for.
What's cool about RLC is that it functions more like a community than just an organization. It brings together individuals united by shared purpose and a common set of values, while also celebrating the diverse passions, strengths, and approaches each person brings.
Servant Leadership
Leading by serving — putting people and purpose ahead of titles.
Humility
Knowing we don't have all the answers, and being honest about it.
Collaboration
The best work happens together — across roles, perspectives, and experience.
Transparency
Open communication with clients, clinicians, and one another.
Respect
For every person who walks through our doors and joins our team.
Be teachable, be a learner
Growth is lifelong. We approach our work with curiosity.
Make the investment
In people, relationships, and the long arc of meaningful change.
Person-centered
You are the expert on your own life. We collaborate, not prescribe.
Strengths-based
Our work focuses on what's already in you — not just what's wrong.
Excellence
High clinical standards, thoughtful supervision, and continuous improvement.
Courageous Conversations
Naming hard things — gently, honestly, in service of growth.
Unconditional Positive Regard
Every person who arrives is welcomed without judgment.
— Our Owners & Founders —
The people behind RLC.
Chris Webberley
Co-Owner & COO
Chris began with RLC in 2018 as a clinical intern and went on to serve as Director of RLCBH and President of RLC. In 2025, he joined the ownership team as Chief Operating Officer.
Melinda Johnson
Co-Owner, CCO & Intern Director
Melinda joined RLC in 2015 and now leads our internship program — partnering with over 25 institutions and training more than 90 interns nationwide.
Jason Norris
Co-Owner, CCO & ITB Director
An LMHC and Clinical Supervisor with experience since 2011, Jason brings warmth and vision to clinical supervision, strategy, and supporting new clinicians.
Joe Klemz
Founding Owner
Joe founded Real Life Counseling in 2010 with a clear vision: a space by counselors, for counselors — where clinicians could grow sustainable practices aligned with their values.
Justin Farrell
Founding Partner
As an original founder, Justin shaped RLC's early vision and growth — from the internship program to the Emergency Responder Program and our school partnerships.
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