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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Nina Foster

Offering therapy in WA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hi there! Let me first congratulate you on taking the first steps to a better you! Whether this is your first time working with a counselor or you have in the past it’s always the perfect time to focus on you! You have what it takes but we all need that extra support and safe space. My background includes working with teens in residential settings as well as in the community with individuals and families. I graduated with a Masters in Counseling from University of Texas at San Antonio. I then worked in the correctional setting as a counselor and managed Mental Health Services where I worked in this setting for a total of 8 years. I truly enjoyed working with clients in this underserved population. I then continued my career in my current Director role for a non profit agency that provides Mental Health Services in residential for youth and young adults, outpatient setting and day treatment programs. In my role I miss the one on one aspect in working directly with clients which is why I look forward to assisting you get to a better place! I pride myself on providing a safe place free of judgment and criticism while focusing on respect, empathy, and genuineness. I meet you where you are at while giving a client centered and solution focused approach creating a safe environment for you. I look forward to working with you!

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Nora Church

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA in Clinical Psychology ,Specialization in Grief Therapy
Bipolar disorderCoping with life changesCoachingCompassion fatigueADHD
10 years of experience

Hello I am licenced professional counselor in Portland, OR with 20+ years of experience doing counseling and case management. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including parenting problems, grief and addiction. I also helpd many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My speciality is working with children and families doing grief therapy. While in graduate school, I received a specialization in grief therapy. I have had work experience with children receiving various school based or more day treatment types of mental health treatment. I have worked with parents in various type of situation a well, foster care, adoption, and parenting a child with a disability. My counseling approach is to listen closely to your personal story and provide you with a safe space to feel heard and understood. I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I believe in treating everyone with respect. My goal is to move at the pace you are comfortable with. Welcome to this journey of insight into yourself, one of the best gifts you can give yourself, I am excited to assist you in exploring how you can make your life more fullfilling.

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Kayann Foster

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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.

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Julie Adams

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation. I have worked with a variety of diagnosis, and 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 look forward to joining you on your journey. I have learned a lot from my native American roots. I enjoy kayaking, boogey boarding and finding fossils. I like sports and really enjoy swimming. I have worked in the schools, psychiatric hospitals and high risk homes, while in private practice. I have worked as a child specialist in the collaborative law setting . I look forward to meeting with you. Keep in mind that I do not work with addiction or couples.

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Sharon Gentry

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
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, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. My goal is to provide a safe, nurturing space for you to feel heard. We will work together to create realistic goals toward positive change. 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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Sunny Nielsen

Offering therapy in WA
License: CMHC, SSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

Hello! My name is Sunny and I am a Mentalh Health Counselor who has been licensed in Utah for 12 years. I have worked as a social worker for 18 years in settings such as Utah Department of Human Services, Hospital setting and currently in a school setting. I have done individual counseling for 7 years in the school setting and now through telehealth with teens and adults. I like to see my clients succeed and assist them in making goals. I work with clients doing cognitive behavioral, mindfulness and motivational therapy. I work with clients on self esteem and maintaining their mental health well after counseling. I encourage clients to journal and to communicate with others. I understand how difficult it is to make the decision to do counseling and I commend anyone who is seeking help. I am a very easy going person to talk with. I look forward to talking to you and getting to know you and assist with your mental health. My sessions are 45 minutes and occasionally go over if needed. I try not to go to long after since I have other clients counting on their appointments. I understand when life happens and you need to cancel or forget an appointment. Just let me know ASAP so I can make plans around the missed appointment. If you are a no show, I will stay online for about 10 minutes and then I will likely log off to do other things. If you have questions about this you can certainly ask me!

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Kathleen Scheibner

Offering therapy in WA
LGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
26 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. 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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Michelle Rowlett

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyGriefDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
23 years of experience

We all need a little help, and sometimes getting started is the hardest part. I am here to align with you and create an open and safe space to help support you in your goals. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, complex medical issues, adjustment to illness, coping with grief and loss, depression, & coping with life changes. I am a licensed clinical social worker (LICSW) in the State of Washington and received my Master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Washington. I have been in the healthcare field since 2000 as a front-line worker, supervisor, and educator. My style includes active listening, empowerment, motivational interviewing, strength-based focus, and cognitive behavioral theory. I believe in starting from a place of compassion and genuine interaction. Whatever your reason for seeking support, I would be honored to walk with you on your journey.

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This is Sandra "Sandy" Heilman's avatar and link to their profile

Sandra "Sandy" Heilman

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTSelf esteemDepressionADHD
30 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 30 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. 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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Ashley Oakes

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, bipolar disorder, & 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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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 98121 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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