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.

This is David Wolthausen's avatar and link to their profile

David Wolthausen

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA, LMHC, SUDP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

My name is Dave Wolthausen, I am 54 years old, and have 26 years old counseling experience. I have extensive Alcohol and Drug related counseling experience, and have mainly focused on Mental Health counseling over the last 10 years. My approach to therapy, is client Centered, with unconditional positive regard for my clients. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, which includes Mindfulness, Emotional regulation, Distress Tolerance, and Interpersonal Effectiveness skills. I believe therapy to be a process, not a one time event. It is important that there is a good match between therapist and client, so the client can get the most out of their therapy. Goal setting and bonding happen in the first couple of sessions. I know when therapy begins, it works best when the client and therapist spend some time together, building rapport. Rapport is very important in therapeutic relationship, and it's that feeling being connected, tends to lend itself to honesty, truth, and mutual respect. Goal setting happens in the first couple of sessions. When the client is able to set some small goals, they tend to make the best progress, and are open to new ideas, and new coping skills. When the Client applies those new skills to their lives, change will occur. I will look forward to helping any and all new clients I am working with, and with devote my knowledge and skills to help them better their lives, in whatever way they see fit. I often use metaphors to help clients understand the messages I am trying to get across. Metaphorically speaking, in the therapeutic process, the Client is the driver, I myself, am the navigator, I help the client navigate their life, in order to reach their desired destination. I hope to be working with you soon!

Get started View profile
This is Harold "Lanny" Monson's avatar and link to their profile

Harold "Lanny" Monson

Offering therapy in WA
License: MS, LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesAnger managementSelf esteem
25 years of experience

I am a Marriage and Family Therapist. I've had a lot of diverse life experience and never get tired of the complexity of people and their relationships with each other. A lot of my work has been with persons who have suffered sexual and physical trauma. I've worked with those who struggle with substance abuse. I've visited many cultures and immersed myself in some to gain better understanding of homelessness and some of the unique challenges persons of color face. Despite the differences between people, it's interesting how many unsung heroes there are, and how rarely they realize it. I've worked with ADHD, OCD and autistic spectrum issues. I have a lot of empathy and compassion for people, especially those who feel somewhat powerless. I've always been interested in what motivates people's behavior. I have a lot of empathy for those who are down-trodden. I've been fervently involved in seeking openness and respect in society. I've worked hard to protect children in abusive situations. I've worked to intervene on behalf of and to protect people of color and LGBTQ+ people who have been unfairly treated. I've worked with groups to reach out more effectively to underserved populations. I worked on a secured Military Base with a civilian and military population as Family Advocacy Program Manager. I worked for 15 years with inmates of correctional facilities as a professional therapist volunteer. I worked for 10 years with men and women as a professional therapist with substance abuse issues. For the same amount of time I worked with domestic violence offenders and survivors. I worked for three years with survivors of sexual assault. I worked for five years with men with sexual assault offenses. I have a Bachelor of Science from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. Later in life, I graduated with an MS in Family and Human Development from Utah State University in Logan, Utah. In 2004 I graduated with a Post-Master's Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy from Saint Mary's University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. I became licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist, and then later became certified as an approved supervisor with the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy where I am a clinical fellow. In the 1980's as I did volunteer work for the Women and Children in Crisis Center in Provo Utah, I developed a theory I called, "Displaced Power." I use that theory to help people who feel powerless. It has seemed to me that almost anyone who comes to therapy for almost any reason feels some powerlessness. I like to help people make a shift from what I call "displaced power" toward "the power within." I help them regain or gain a sense of control over their own lives. This process has been very helpful to me personally, and many clients have complimented me on my ability to give them greater hope and a sense of their sense of being able to take more effective control of their lives. "The Power Within" is the name of my private practice.

Get started View profile
This is Melanie Dente's avatar and link to their profile

Melanie Dente

Offering therapy in WA
License: LPCC-S,EMDR Consultant in Training
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Ohio to independently practice counseling, and I have training in three different evidence based therapies; EMDR, CBT, and DBT. I have a lengthy history of working with survivors of trauma, and I am able to help clients manage symptoms of anxiety, challenge and test the accuracy of thoughts that maybe causing problems; and help with managing emotions and improving communication. Throughout the course of my counseling sessions, I challenge clients to identify their professional and personal supporters and to not engage in unsafe behaviors. I encourage the clients I work with to learn skills to “fill their toolboxes” with skills so that they can improve their ability to independently manage symptoms and the overcome obstacles they face in life. It is hard work to make changes in your life through counseling and I will challenge you to reach your potential. I will also help you to celebrate your successes when they occur. And they will occur. I look forward to working with you.

Get started View profile
This is Leon Boyetta Givens's avatar and link to their profile

Leon Boyetta Givens

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsAnger managementDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Jason Mills's avatar and link to their profile

Jason Mills

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Valerie Engel's avatar and link to their profile

Valerie Engel

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsSleeping disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

My focus as your therapist is to listen deeply, and remind you of your strengths and inner wisdom. I can assist you with creating strategies, skill building to move through the challenges you are experiencing, to improve relationships, improve communication skills, challenge negative thinking patterns. I provide a safe place to talk about what is troubling you. I use a variety of therapeutic methods that include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), assessment of work and life balance, and mindfulness techniques. I am certified in HeartMath® for stress management, and Trauma Sensitive HeartMath®, helping clients reduce stress symptoms to regain their sense of control and self-mastery. My counseling background started with addiction and recovery counseling in 2007, and in 2017 added mental health therapy. My work experience includes co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, career difficulties, adapting to life changes, codependency, divorce and separation, family of origin issues, family problems, forgiveness, isolation/loneliness, addiction, life purpose, women's issues, aging, sleep challenges and work/life balance. I am licensed in Colorado and Washington State

Get started View profile
This is Christopher Jackson's avatar and link to their profile

Christopher Jackson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTIntimacy-related issuesDepressionCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & 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!

Get started View profile
This is Benjamin Wayburn's avatar and link to their profile

Benjamin Wayburn

Offering therapy in WA
License: MS.,,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

The issues I work with in therapy are mind-body issues. I do not have a mental illness approach. What is good for the body is good for the brain and vice versa. My openness and inclusivity influence my approach to therapy. I do not judge. I accept. I am more interested in your uniqueness than your diagnosis and I expect a full recovery in treatment. I specialize in the spectrum of Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety treatments, and Trauma. I offer natural and behavioral treatments that have been shown through research to perform as well as, better than, and/or improve anti-depressants. Research has shown that the fit between counselor and client is one of the most significant contributors to a person's success in therapy. I cant guarantee that I will be the best fit. I can say that I am not afraid to go wherever counseling takes us. Please reach out and we will work together to raise the quality of life

Get started View profile
This is Robert Sherman's avatar and link to their profile

Robert Sherman

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
23 years of experience

Greetings. Thanks for checking in. I am licensed in Oregon, Idaho and Washington with 23 years of professional, clinical work experience. I have experience in helping clients cope better with stress, anxiety, trauma, abuse and neglect, grief and loss, and depression. I have specialty working with trauma and assisting adoption reunions. I am a Registered Clinical Supervisor for Idaho and a Substance Use Disorder Professional in all 3 states. I have extensive experience providing EAP services. I also have a Clinical Private Practice serving Idaho, Oregon and Washington state accessed via my Psychology Today webpage under my name. I do NOT provide youth and family counseling, evaluations of any kind for court purposes including custody or fitness to work. I do NOT allow no shows. Late cancellations, less than 24 hours are discouraged and only allowed under special circumstances. *All sessions are scheduled on a first come, first served basis.* I DO provide brief and long-term psychotherapy services to individual adults over the age of 18 years old. I also provide professional consultation regarding mental health topics in the primary care setting to Physicians and Allied Medical Professionals. I DO work with all Clients to create an open and safe environment, where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment or shame. There's a sign over the door: "all feelings are welcome here." My therapy style is intentional, direct and purposeful. I hold high expectations for progress. I have a person-centered, trauma informed, clinical practice stance. My Betterhelp Clients show remarkable progress in a short amount of time which is inspiring! The work here is very satisfying. Thank you.

Get started View profile
This is Mary Dallman's avatar and link to their profile

Mary Dallman

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsGriefEating disordersCareer difficultiesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in California, South Dakota and Washington with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & career difficulties. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile

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 98139 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

Popular cities near Seattle, WA

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist