In general, when finding a therapist, Seattle WA can have different options available. Many people understand the importance of clinical mental health counseling, and appreciate the fact that there are more therapists available there than in many other cities. However, even with the abundance of WA therapists it’s not always going to be easy to find the right therapist for you. Different mental health challenges often require different specializations. You may be looking for someone with extensive training in eating disorders, or a psychologist with a doctoral degree in gender identity or cultural identity. It’s not a given that the therapist you need is going to be in an area of the city that's easy to travel to for you. 

That’s why an online therapy platform like BetterHelp can be an effective solution. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed therapists with specialties in everything from solution focused therapy to trauma informed therapy for victims of systemic oppression. In addition, online therapy can help ensure that you achieve the level of therapeutic alliance necessary for your therapy to be successful. If at any time you don’t feel that you don’t have a true rapport with your therapist, you can switch at no additional cost. Another benefit of online therapy is that sessions can be far easier to fit into a busy schedule. With video chat, phone, or text sessions, you can participate in therapy from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office. 

With everything going on in life, it can feel overwhelming to take that first step in starting the therapeutic process. BetterHelp offers a convenient starting point toward the path of self-discovery and healing through therapy. Simply fill out an online questionnaire to get matched with a therapist who meets your goals and needs.

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Cathy Nau

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
29 years of experience

With Open Heart I Wish Greetings to All, I pride myself on meeting clients "where they are at" by initially providing much needed support and relief. Following is one of my favorite quote's - "One CAN walk over the highest mountain one step at a time." I assist you in defining your "goal" and taking your "first small step." I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington with over 25 years of experience in the psychocounseling field and as a life coach. I have successfully helped clients navigate such issues as depression, stress, anxiety, grief and loss (to include the loss of a pet), eating disorders (to include weight loss surgery and management), trauma, ADD and ADHD and coping with life changes. In addition my work has taken me throughout the US and overseas providing Military and Family Life Counseling. I appreciate that every client is unique. To that end, I approach each of you with warmth, caring, and support. I have used many proven therapeutic techniques over the years such as Positive Psychology, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and more to assist you to reach your desired goals. I thoroughly enjoy working with any age of client - from teens through adults with any orientation. Thanks ahead of time for choosing me. I honor your courage and empower you every "small step" of the way toward your goals and beyond.

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Sarah Ross

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sarah and I have been a licensed mental health counselor since 2003. I have also held many titles such as a certified thanatologist (grief and loss), clinical supervisor, and clinic director. I have worked in many settings besides private practice, including community mental health settings where I often worked with the chronically mentally ill, drug court where I worked together with substance use counselors to help people with addiction, and marital counseling centers where I taught communication skills to couples. I have treated clients who have struggled with depression, anxiety, relationship, and/or family issues, phase of life issues, grief and loss, and I have worked with many adult children of alcoholics and the challenge of low self esteem. Asking for help takes a lot of courage, and you should be proud of yourself getting to this point of choosing the right counselor for yourself. I strive to be a safe place for my clients, that they know that they are never judged, only given positive regard and encouragement. I am an interactive therapist, often looking for those "blind spots" my clients can't see are not in their best interest, and bringing them to light so my client can have those"light bulb" moments of new insight into themselves. I often remind my clients in the beginning that change in therapy is not a "drive through" fix, and it takes a commitment from both the client and the counselor to achieve the goals, outcomes, and change the client is wanting. My approach is very eclectic, learning with years of experience, that different clients learn in different ways. I tend towards the cognitive behavioral, Adlerian, (feelings create thoughts, thoughts create beliefs, and beliefs create belief systems) and psycho-dynamic approaches. I am flexible in my approaches knowing that some clients need a more coaching kind of approach with lots of cheer leading, while others need a more nurturing and gentle approach. I look forward to building a therapeutic alliance and relationship with you !

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Kimberly Hanson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

Life is an incredible journey, yet full of unexpected twists and turns. We all get stuck at times. That’s where I come in. With a background in strength-based, cognitive-behavioral therapy and years of life coaching and career counseling, I’ve helped many clients not only manage confusing or hard seasons of life, but thrive. Change can (and does) often bring stress, anxiety, loss of purpose and a flurry of other problems. I truly believe that these can be the perfect opportunities for growth and something new and beautiful. I am licensed in Washington state with 10 years of professional work experience. Through my own side business, I have had experience working as an executive and professional coach. I’ve also worked for 8+ years at a local college with students, young adults, mid-age and retirees, as they contemplated career change, life purpose and other stressful/confusing life events. I approach counseling by truly listening, showing compassion and encouragement while exploring your thoughts/actions that are keeping you stuck. I believe you are the expert at your life. My goal is to explore the barriers and help you make movement to where you need to be. Personally, I am a wife, sister, daughter, friend and homeschool mom of 3. I am a Christian and enjoy discussing your concerns from a Christian perspective. I would love to partner with you as you explore your life, struggle areas and barriers and I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Melissa Maynes

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMFT-LF60143370,LMHC- LH60088360,SUDP CP60013965
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
15 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor, licensed marriage and family therapist and substance use disorder professional in the State of Washington with over 15 years of experience. I have worked primarily for the military so I am very familiar with the military culture and lifestyle. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, midlife/existential crisis, divorce, career changes and parenting struggles. My therapy style is open, nonjudgmental, interactive and I seek to empower clients. I specialize in CBT, motivational interviewing but I also incorporate family systems theory. I believe you're the expert in your own life and I am just here to help you along the path that would make you the better version of yourself. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. This is your therapy and your time. Building a strong therapeutic relationship where you can be comfortable, open and honest is first and foremost. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. The fact that you're reading this is the first step in healing and growing. I commend you for taking the next steps to seek help to be the best version of yourself! I look forward to working with you!

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Karee Bohman

Offering therapy in WA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with experience working with people struggling with their mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, and a history of physical and emotional trauma. I also have provided support to those struggling with substance abuse. I have additional experience working in a skilled nursing facility, long term care settings, and residential settings. Through this, I have provided support to individuals with chronic medical diagnoses, brain injury, and dementia. Along with supporting these individuals, I have also provided support to family, friends, and caregivers for these individuals. As a social worker, I believe in a person-centered approach and collaborating with my clients to meet their goals. I am very open-minded and want my clients to feel comfortable sharing what they are struggling with, without fear of judgment. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. Sometimes we can be our own worse enemy with reaching our goals and need help. I am here to support you to achieve your goals and find a more meaningful life. I look forward to working with you.

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Melissa Cooper

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigueADHD
16 years of experience

I am licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Florida with 15 years of professional work experience. I started as a School Counselor mostly working with middle and high school students and their parents and have transitioned to mental health. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Teresa Dye

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Alicia Cooper

Offering therapy in WA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesParenting issuesSelf esteem
8 years of experience

Biography: Welcome to a space where your story matters. I'm Alicia, a dedicated and compassionate therapist licensed in Washington, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. With 8 years of professional experience in the mental health field, I've been privileged to guide individuals through their unique paths of growth and healing. Professional Background: My journey in mental health has equipped me with a deep understanding and expertise in a diverse range of areas. I specialize in addressing relationship issues, family conflicts, intimacy-related challenges, and parenting complexities. Additionally, I have significant experience in helping clients navigate the complexities of addiction and substance abuse issues, as well as managing and overcoming depression and anxiety. These experiences have honed my ability to offer tailored support, understanding the intricacies of each individual's struggle. My Approach: I firmly believe that you are the expert of your own life. Inside you, there lies a wealth of strengths and insights that are key to overcoming the obstacles you face. My role is to illuminate these inner resources, empowering you to write the next chapter of your story with confidence and hope. In our sessions, we'll collaborate to understand the unique contexts of your experiences. Together, we'll develop strategies that not only address your immediate concerns but also foster long-term resilience and fulfillment. Why Therapy? Reaching out for help is a courageous first step towards a more satisfying and happier life. Whether you're navigating the complexities of relationships, grappling with family dynamics, seeking deeper intimacy, facing the challenges of addiction and substance abuse, or managing the symptoms of depression and anxiety, your journey is important. My Commitment to You: In our therapeutic relationship, you'll find a supportive ally. I am here to walk alongside you, offering support, insight, and encouragement as you navigate your path to well-being. Your Path to Healing: Ready to embark on this journey? I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's discover together how your unique story and strengths can lead to a life that's not only more manageable but also more joyful and fulfilling.

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Marissa Geraci

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemCareer difficulties
9 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jack Otterstrom

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepression
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona, Idaho, Oregon and Washington with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, sleeping disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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How to find counseling in Seattle

Finding the best therapist close by in Seattle can feel challenging, but know that once you narrow your search for a counselor serving your area, you can find a therapist in your city that is accepting new clients and fits your goals. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage, family issues, or other emotional challenges, feel proud that you have begun your search to find the mental health care services that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing.

Understanding the type of therapy you'd like to search for is crucial before finding a therapist or psychologist in Seattle. Perhaps you're interested in narrowing your search for a psychotherapist that can offer psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of therapy can offer various benefits and address or treat different disorders. If you're still unsure or are new to counseling in Seattle, feel free to contact the provider via email to find out which methods they practice.

It is also important to understand that mental health professionals in the United States are accredited to provide care, helping individuals and couples, with a variety of licenses. These include licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), and clinical psychologist or doctor of psychology (PsyD). Regardless of their licensure, they are trained to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

Mental health professionals working through their own in- person therapy practice in Seattle or online may assist clients in improving healthy relationships, communication skills, working through life transitions, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, or change in negative thinking patterns. They may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain. Verified providers can provide licensed marriage and couples therapy, tailor to individual needs, and create a therapeutic relationship as a National Certified Counselor.

There are all kinds of therapists working with clients today across the United States and in the greater Seattle area in different types of therapy, including:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search and find therapists, have in mind what type of therapy you'd like your provider to be most experienced with and choose an experienced provider with a practice located near you in the city of Seattle, elsewhere in King, or in the greater state of Washington.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Seattle area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Seattle therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Seattle due to a higher cost of living. The price also depends on the type of provider you are looking for. See the following average prices for various mental health providers without insurance:

  • Counseling with a psychiatrist: $150-$500
  • Counseling with therapists: $100-300
  • Therapy with a psychologist: $100

While many psychologists in Seattle may not take health insurance, some in the state of Washington may work on a sliding scale, meaning they'll factor in your income and charge what you can afford per session. With BetterHelp or clinicians throughout the state of Washington you can expect significantly more affordable options, with sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks).

How is a licensed therapist on this online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Seattle, Washington working on BetterHelp are licensed, trained, experienced, and accredited as a doctor of psychology (PhD / PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed clinical social worker (LCSW / LICSW), or licensed professional counselors (LPC). All of these psychology clinicians have a Masters Degree or a Doctorate Degree in their field of psychology sciences, and follow the APA Code of Ethics. They have been qualified and certified by their state's professional board after successfully completing the necessary education, exams, training and practice with a patient, and extensive experience in a healthcare clinic or treatment centers, in order to become a mental health provider. While their lived experience, expertise, careers, and background vary, they all possess at least 3 years and 1,000 hours of hands-on experience with adult and sometimes teen patients, and have the necessary therapist credentials to provide a safe space for long lasting emotional healing in therapy. 

Please note BetterHelp does not offer or provide care from psychiatrists to prescribe a drug as treatment, or perform psychological assessments.

How does working with a counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, and more. An online mental health professional, including the therapists in Seattle above, can work with young adults, children, adolescents, and adults virtually as an accredited licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) or licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT). You do not have to commute to a an office as a psychotherapy client.

Through BetterHelp therapy, you can partake in video, phone, or live chat therapy sessions with your licensed therapist. You can work through various symptoms, use the in app journaling feature, and receive worksheets. You'll also find support groups or group therapy lead by a therapist in Seattle helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety or depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. 

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address?

BetterHelp's verified Seattle therapists specialize and have clinical experience in a wide range of mental health issues and modalities, helping clients to feel better and improve their lives every day. See below for examples.

Specialties on BetterHelp include:

You may also be struggling with relationship problems that could be addressed in couples therapy or with a sex therapist. In that case, you may choose to work with one of BetterHelp's experienced cognitive-behavioral therapists or licensed marriage family therapists (LMFT) who work with clients in relationships. You can also try a Seattle therapy provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a therapist is the validation and active listening they can provide. Your friends and loved ones may also be available to listen, but you may feel that they may lack the skills to provide objective guidance. Counselors are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

A psychologist in your city can support you toward a healthier emotional state, regardless of your mental health, life concerns, or healing needs. While supporting individuals in developing healthier habits, another good benefit of therapy is having an understanding, safe space with a non-judgmental party who can support you through challenging experiences.

Many people have sensitive topics that they may feel ashamed to discuss with their friends or partner. A Seattle therapist can help you confront these concerns and open up through unique methods of support. There are also many types of therapy, such as art therapy, where you may find you can express yourself through creativity instead of words.

With a lot of people in WA, providers may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles above and others within BetterHelp's team, you may be able to find a psychologist within 24 to 48 hours. If you're searching to find a a nearby psychotherapist close to 98111 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site. No matter if you are seeking help in your area or beyond, online therapy can be a great option.

How should I prepare for my first therapy session with a Seattle counselor?

Before seeing your therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the therapy process. You might write a list of questions you want to ask your psychotherapist, any emotional pain you may feel, and the ways in which you hope to improve. When you attend your session, let them know if you have any concerns about therapy or feel unsure about what to talk about. They may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions. The first session will often serve as an intake to get to know you as a person and learn why you're attending therapy.

Should I find a therapist or psychologist if I feel fine? 

Some simply don't feel the need to see a psychologist. However, some people may avoid attending therapy due to stigma or preconceived notions of what therapy entails. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or condition to attend therapy. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback and advice. A Seattle licensed clinical social worker may help you gain power over your life and emotions while you navigate day-to-day experiences.

Gaining a new perspective on yourself through various therapies might allow you to improve your self-esteem, work through relationships, and gain a better sense of your mental health goals. The success you may find through therapy can be dependent on your process.

People may also attend therapy for specific motives, such as bullying, an autism diagnosis, a desire to learn mindfulness meditation, personality concerns, trouble with office workers, specific phobias, and many other principles.

Is mental health care and therapy worth it? 

Therapy is effective and has the power to change individuals' lives. Each client is at a different stage of their emotional healing journey in life, as each human can be unique in their personality, expression, skills, and goals. A psychologist can target various symptoms, experiences, and personalities to help you feel your best and put you on the path to healing. Unlike advice from a friend, family, or non-professional, a mental health professional has an understanding of various disorders like ADHD and depression with many hours of experience in treating adults in their practice. For this reason, seeing an evidence based psychologist in Seattle, Washington can be worth it. Over 41 million adults in the US attend therapy services each year, showing it's a popular option and is proven to be effective.

Seattle has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Seattle.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Seattle:

98101, 98102, 98103, 98104, 98105, 98106, 98107, 98108, 98109, 98111, 98112, 98113, 98114, 98115, 98116, 98117, 98118, 98119, 98121, 98122, 98124, 98125, 98126, 98127, 98129, 98133, 98134, 98136, 98139, 98141, 98144, 98145, 98146, 98154, 98161, 98164, 98165, 98170, 98174, 98175, 98177, 98178, 98181, 98185, 98191, 98194, 98195, 98199

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