In life, many things seem out of reach. No matter how how hard you try, you can’t seem to reach your life goal, or you may feel like no one can help you reach your goal. A counselor based in Federal Way can help you reach your goals when external and internal factors seem to hold you back. 

Federal Way’s motto is “it’s all within reach.” That’s a good motto to live by. Everything is within reach if you can figure out how to reach it. A counselor can help you reach everything you need. Speak to one today and see how they can help.

This is Dr. Claude Ouellette's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Claude Ouellette

Offering therapy in WA
License: PhD,Psychology
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepression
30 years of experience

My name is Dr. Ouellette. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Washington State. My educational career began in Canada with a Bachelor’s in Psychology from University of Moncton (1987). This was followed by a Master of Arts in Child and Development Studies from Laurentian University (1994) in Ontario. I pursued my studies at Capella University (Minnesota) and graduated in 2011 with a PhD in Psychology. I have continued research interests in predictive validity, mental health diagnoses and trauma. My professional career began in the early nineties (1990s), and since worked in different settings such as hospital inpatient (intern in Sudbury), in Middle/High School (School Psychologist for 2 years in Quebec), rural outreach program (7 years as a Psychometrist in Ontario) and from 2007 on as a LMHC in rural outpatient clinics in Washington State. I am currently serving as a Single Bed Certification Specialist for a regional hospital. I can provide the following services: Consultation, Mental Health Diagnostic assessments and Counseling services. I work best with anxiety-based disorder, trauma, relationship issues, and depression. My preferred mode of interaction is through video contacts which unfortunately at this time can only offer on Wednesday and Saturday for telehealth work. If you decide to work with me, you will find a therapy style based on phenomenology (I like to know who the person is - their experiences), narrative therapy (what we say and how we say it) and some interpersonal skill building work (e.g., how do I not engage in power struggle in my relationships). If this is agreeable, it will be a pleasure and am looking forward in working with you!

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Cole Evers

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCoping with life changes
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 & coping with life changes. 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.

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LaVerne Adams

Offering therapy in WA
License: LPC
Family conflictsDepression
3 years of experience

My name is La'Verne Adams and I identify as a Person of Color/Black Therapist. I received my Masters of Arts degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seton Hill University in Greensburg, PA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been working in the field of Mental Health for over 25 years. I use an array of treatment approaches as I believe in Client Centered/Individualized Treatment. I believe in partnering with those who come to me for treatment as the individual knows more of what their needs are. I am currently in the Oregon area.

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Lauralie Huddleston

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & coping with life changes. 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. 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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Melissa Grossman

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyGriefEating disordersSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, eating disorders, & 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. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage, so it is important to acknowledge this step and commend yourself for getting started!

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Barbara Skelly

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemBipolar disorderDepressionCoping with life changes
36 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor located in Seattle where I received my counseling and art therapy degree from Antioch University. Before starting my private practice in Everett, Washington twenty years ago, I worked in community mental health as a Geriatric Mental Health Specialist. I treated clients living with chronic mental illness, particularly Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, and Dementia. My favorite duties of my job as a Day Treatment Coordinator were to help improve clients’ quality of life. I supervised a staff that created a community for people who might otherwise spend time alone and lonely. We also helped families cope with mental illness and find appropriate care for elderly family members. In private practice, I have worked with adults, couples, families, and teens, much of it through Employee Assistance programs. This experience allowed me to work with a wide range of client issues including anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues, workplace issues, and trauma. I have also worked with the LQBTQ community and their families. Before becoming a therapist, I was and still am a visual artist. I use creativity, and humor, to develop a sense of curiosity and acceptance in my practice. Over the years, I have accumulated a large toolbox that I use to design my treatment plans to meet the individual needs of my clients. I encourage expression therapies, including journalling and art if clients are open to that. I have also worked with several artists, motivating them and helping them remove blocks to pursue their artistic expression. Other therapeutic approaches I am experienced in include solution-focused therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt and Existential Therapy, and the Gottman relationship methods. Additionally, I have expanded my practice to include integrative medicine and nutrition for clients who prefer more holistic treatment options to learn how to live a healthy life at at any age. I truly delight in helping clients realize and achieve their true potential. My real passion is to not only treat the symptoms that cause people to seek counseling but also to help inspire and empower them to discover their best selves and find the courage to follow their dreams.

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Shannon Moseley

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Texas, Arizona, Washington, and New Mexico with 10 years of professional work experience. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating clients with respect, positive regard, cultural sensitivity, and compassion. I work to encourage self-efficacy and authenticity. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. In my practice I help clients with depression, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. If you can imagine I have a "therapeutic tool belt" with various techniques and skills that, with your feedback, we will collaboratively use to create a unique and custom therapeutic experience together. These tools are centered around a holistic approach, to include mindfulness and yoga, for those clients who would like to explore all aspects of their mental wellness. My expertise includes providing care for our nation’s military members and their families, law enforcement and their family members, as well as working with university students, and in hospital inpatient and emergency departments. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. Life isn't about just making it, but to LIVE. Let's work together to create for you a whole-hearted existence rooted in your values, dreams, and goals.

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Lawrence Watkins

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCareer difficultiesDepression
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & 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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Dr. Chelsea Bennett

Offering therapy in WA
Trauma and abuse
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse. 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.

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This is Nathira Janusson's avatar and link to their profile

Nathira Janusson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefCoping with life changes
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, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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How to find counseling in Federal Way

Finding the best therapist close by in Federal Way 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 Federal Way. 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 Federal Way, 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way, 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 Federal Way area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way, 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 98003 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way, 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.

Federal Way 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 Federal Way.

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

98001, 98003, 98023, 98063, 98093

Popular cities near Federal Way, WA

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