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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Skyler Dorsey

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC ,MSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

Hi! My name is Skyler Dorsey and I am a licensed mental health therapist in the States of Washington and Oregon. I have been working in the field of social work for over 20 years and mental health for over 10 years. I received my master's degree in social work in 2006 from Eastern Washington University. I have experience with depression, anxiety, trauma, and life transitions. I primarily use cognitive behavioral and strengths based therapeutic methods to help people identify what isn't working in their lives and how to make changes that will lead to greater life satisfaction. I began as a part-time therapist with Betterhelp in August of 2018 and transitioned to make it my full-time job in December of 2019. Together, we can work to help move you along the path to happiness and contentment. I look forward to working with you!

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Mary "Jane" Poulson

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

Hello and welcome. My name is Mary "Jane" Poulson and I go by "Jane". Thank you for reviewing my profile. I know how difficult it can be to reach out for help and even more challenging to find a therapist who feels comfortable enough to trust and share our problems, conflicts, or emotional pain with. I am here to provide support, assist you with processing and offer tools to help you manage and possibly resolve some of life's challenges. I have more than 25 years of post-graduate experience in the behavioral health field working with adolescents and adults specializing in the treatment of anxiety, depression, and trauma while being compassionate and respectful. I am a graduate of Gonzaga University with a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology and I completed my undergraduate program in Psychology at the University of Oregon. I have been a Washington State Licensed Mental Health Counselor (#LH00005937) since 2001, a Children’s Mental Health Specialist since 2000 and a National Certified Counselor (#43150) since 1995. My therapy style is down to earth and interactive providing counseling as a facilitator and educator. My approaches include, but are not limited to, Client-Centered, Solution-Focused, evidenced-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and teaching mindfulness skills to decrease and manage symptoms while providing a supportive, safe therapeutic environment. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual. I am also experienced working with grief and loss, post-partum depression, other mood disorders, LGBTQ focus, attention problems, chronic pain, communication and relationship problems, job stress or other life issues. It takes courage to ask for help, so if you think I could be a good match please reach out and we'll work together to improve the quality of your life. I look forward to meeting you. Be well. Jane Poulson, MA, LMHC, LPC, NCC

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Jennifer Wolman

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMFT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
13 years of experience

I am honored to be a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington state and have a private practice, Beacon of Light Family Counseling in Yakima WA. I have over 12 years of experience working with children as young as 7 years old. I enjoy working with adolescents, couples, individuals and families. In 1999 I received my Bachelor of Arts at the University of Washington in Psychology and in 2002 I received my Master of Arts degree from Antioch University, Seattle in Couple and Family Therapy. My practice has evolved over time towards more evidence-bases approaches such as, Cognitive Behavioral and Solution Focused Therapy. These orientations best serve trauma, depression, anxiety and behavioral issues, co-parenting, blending families, marital and familial conflicts, life transitions and grief/loss. I use a client centered approach in therapy in which I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental and empathic environment for my client. You are beginning what I hope will be a meaningful counseling experience. I have a passion and desire to bring hope to those who are hurting. Again, may I welcome you and be of service to you on your journey towards growth and healing.

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Shardae Collins

Offering therapy in WA
License: MHP,MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, Washington, Nevada, and Massachusetts. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals and families with various needs in the field of education, health, and social services. For the last 5 years, I've worked with individuals and families across the life span as a Clinical Social Worker providing therapeutic case management, individual therapy, and family therapy. In my role as Clinical Social Worker, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues such as: childhood abuse and trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, attachment issues, racism and discriminations, and workplace issues. I hold a Master of Arts degree in the field of Social Welfare with an emphasis on mental health from the University of California Los Angeles. I also hold a Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with an emphasis on inequalities and diversities from California State University of Los Angeles. I have held numerous positions as an adjunct professor of sociology, senior research assistant, and as a Clinical Social worker. I believe that your lived experiences as well as your environment has an impact on your well-being. My therapeutic approach explores and observes your environment and lived experience to better understand your strengths, needs, and hope for the future. I utilize the person-in-environment approach to better assist you in achieving your goals. I believe that you have the power to heal yourself. I view my role in this therapeutic relationship as a guide. I guide you into discovering and tapping into your own human potential. I believe that healing comes from within, and sometimes people must be reminded of their own strength and resilience. My approach is one that is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma informed, strength-based, individualized, and client-centered. I use an array of therapeutic modalities such as exposure relapse prevention therapies, behavioral activation therapy , mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment theory, psychodynamic, solution focused therapy, CBT, and DBT to awaken one’s healing power. On this platform I offer brief solution focused therapy. Therapy can be hard and sometimes scary. I get it, I am here to support you on this journey. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.

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Mark Smith

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

Hi – I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State and a National Certified Counselor. While I have an MS in clinical psychology, I also have a BA in business administration, having managed companies for many years. It took a while but I finally got around to honoring an inner calling to become a therapist, which is a privilege and very rewarding. While I’m experienced in treating a variety of challenges, I specialize in working with anxiety and mood related conditions, grief/loss, and unresolved trauma. I also work with clients experiencing interpersonal conflict, parenting concerns, career related stressors, and stage of life angst. My counseling approach is client-centered and honors a person’s unique nature and needs. Depending on the challenges at hand, this may involve teaching coping skills that help reduce immediate symptoms; insights-based work to discover how our life experiences shape and form us; and developing behaviors that help people transition from suffering to focusing on what they find important and meaningful. Our inner drive for happiness and capacity for growth moves me. You may not feel particularly resilient right now, but do know that reaching out for help demonstrates courage and strength. I look forward to meeting and talking with you. Be assured that I’m personable by nature, engage openly and respectfully, and aim to walk alongside you on your journey!

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Melissa Clem

Offering therapy in WA
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

Hi! My name is Melissa Clem. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with 7+ years of experience working with adults and children in Community Mental Health and as a Designated Crisis Responder (DCR). I graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology and a Master’s of Science in Professional Counseling. I am a certified clinical specialist in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) that specifically helps people diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or individuals that need help dealing with trauma from their past. I have worked in several settings including a nonprofit agency, jail and juvenile hall, with law enforcement out in the community in crisis situations, hospital emergency rooms, and in a hospital detainment unit. My desire is to help you achieve your goals and overcome obstacles that prevent you from becoming the person you desire to be. I offer individualized treatment in a safe compassionate environment where you will be able to explore your hopes and dreams and make a plan to reach your goals to become the person you are meant to be. Spirituality is a huge part of healing. I believe we are created in the image of God and He wants you to understand the depth of His love for you. I invite you to talk openly and freely about your spiritual beliefs and ask for prayer at any time. Thank you for choosing me as your therapist. I look forward to working with you!

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Melissa Collins

Offering therapy in WA
License: LPC-S
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
30 years of experience

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with 30 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I specialize in counseling children, adolescents, and adult who have been victims of crime. I also work with behavioral issues, relationship issues between parents and children (RAD), adoption issues, divorce issues, issues related to parental use of drugs and alcohol, and I offer parental guidance. With adults and adolescents, I also offer counseling on addiction, depression, anxiety, divorce, and mental health concerns. I have been a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor since 2000. I use multiple trauma focused therapies including Eye-Movement Desensitization, and Reprocessing, Thought Field Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I am a Certified Mediator and I do work with immigration including: Hardship Waivers, N-648s, and U-visas. I am an immigration approved therapist and I perform psychological evaluations for immigration and for court. I also administer assessments for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and Substance abuse. I accept BCBS, Cigna, and Crime Victim's Compensation for those who qualify. I am also a Certified Hypnotist and provide hypnosis for quit smoking, weight loss, motivation, and various other mental health difficulties.

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Terrell Bragdon

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
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, family conflicts, & parenting issues. I also have experience working with depression. 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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Daniella Fernandez

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Washington with over 13 years of counseling experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families on a wide range of issues, including stress and anxiety, depression, self-esteem, major life changes and adjustments, grief and loss, guilt and shame, coping with substance abuse, relationship issues, & parenting challenges. I strive to support each client on their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth by providing a safe, supportive, and collaborative counseling environment. I place great value on personal choice, individuality, and respect in the counseling relationship and believe that clients are the experts of their own experience. My role is to support each client in finding their own path toward balance and wellness and offer guidance and clinical reflections along the way. My therapeutic approach is attachment-based, emotion-focused, and person-centered. Reaching out for help is the first step in the journey toward becoming a happier and healthier you. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support you. I look forward to working with you!

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Jessica Shook

Offering therapy in WA
Trauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 17 years of professional work experience, most of that working with individuals experiencing crisis. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. I believe that you are the expert on your life and your needs, and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. 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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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 98165 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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