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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Tamara Allison

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington state. My counseling style is compassionate, warm and empathic. I believe that at the core of all successful therapy starts with a good therapeutic relationship. I work from a strengths base approach incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy tailored to meet client needs. I feel providing a safe environment is key for a person to feel comfortable to be able to tell their story. I look forward to working with you.

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Debra Hutchison

Offering therapy in WA
License: MS, PhD Candidate, CMHS
Trauma and abuseSleeping disordersParenting issues
8 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health clinician in the state of Washington with over 8 year of experience working with children, adolescents and adults. Over this time I have worked with a wide variety of issues including behavior problems, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, dissociation and psychosis however, my area of specialty include helping support individuals and families heal from acute and complex trauma as well as sexual behavior problems. I am trained and certified in a wide variety of counseling methods in order to use the method that is sure to best give you success towards meeting your goals. Some of these modalities include EMDR, CBT, CETA and more. I am a supportive yet directive in my counseling style as I know evidence shows a balance of a good therapeutic relationship and healthy reflection/challenging of beliefs will help support you to make real and lasting change in you life. You have already taken the first steps to go down the path of making improvements in your life towards positive mental health and I would be honored and privileged to be a part of your journey or health and healing.

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Elizabeth "Lisa" Burdick

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LCMHCS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsParenting issuesCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

Greetings! I am committed to providing a comfortable, culturally sensitive, non-judgmental counseling experience to anyone who may be struggling with life's challenges and demands. I utilize a client centered, cognitive behavioral approach which can be adapted to incorporate a client's spiritual and/or religious beliefs. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals who are struggling with relationships, mental health concerns, substance use, and other emotional challenges. I work with all ages but specialize in young adults. While presenting issues may include academics, anger management, sexuality, substance use, sports performance, stress, or family dynamics; I will provide a non-judgmental space in which to explore any and all related concerns. I provide respectful, culturally sensitive, and ethical care to individuals, regardless of severity of challenge or struggle. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Supervisor and a Certified Clinical Telemental Health Provider. I am also a certified School Counselor and have earned the Certificate of Evidence-Based Non-medical Counseling Strategies for Military Populations. Congratulations on the decision to reach out! I look forward to working with you.

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Zane DeWitz

Offering therapy in WA
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCoaching
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington State with 10 years of professional counseling experience. I have helped clients manage mental health, substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders (both mental health and substance use disorders occurring at the same time). I have treated many of the disorders in the DSM-5 with vast experience regarding trauma and abuse, addiction, lack of motivation, low self esteem, anxiety, and depression. I am very interested in helping clients become their best self which includes work on bettering performance, life coaching, & coping with life changes. I use a holistic approach to help clients create balance in their lives, strengthen their foundations, and move towards life goals. A major focus of my therapy style is helping people create change and sustaining healthy change. Change is a slow process and we need to be patient (you and I both). I want clients to be gentle with themselves and communicate with me. You provide the goal - I provide the support.

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Laurie Metje

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC, LH61220235
Trauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with trauma and abuse, eating disorders, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with 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. Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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David Wynn

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW
Stress, AnxietyDepressionADHD
14 years of experience

I get that sometimes life just sucks and when it happens we can feel alone, misunderstood, and stuck. It's easy to feel embarrassed by the circumstances we find ourselves in which make it even more difficult to reach out and ask for help. Kudos to you for starting out on this journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in providing both inpatient and outpatient mental health services. I enjoy helping people overcome personal challenges and to improve their quality of life. I believe people are the expert of their own lives and the role of a counselor is to help them use this expertise to overcome challenges and reach their goals. I frequently use humor and laughter in my sessions and I encourage my clients to seek out opportunities to laugh. I want people to be active in the counseling process as I believe counseling is not a spectator sport. Additionally, I enjoy working with people of diverse backgrounds, cultures, and spiritual/religious preferences. People generally tell me it doesn’t feel like therapy and meeting with me isn't as bad as they thought it would be. Primary Issues treated include: Anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I look forward to begin working with you!

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Dr. Skytina Felder-Jones

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseParenting issuesBipolar disorder
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & parenting issues. 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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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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Jeanne Kimble

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
7 years of experience

I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in Washington with 7 years of professional experience as a mental health counselor and 25 years of professional experience working with children, adults and families in private agency and government settings. I work with clients experiencing depression, stress, anxiety, and struggles with behaviors or habits that might be negatively affecting their work, their relationships or life in general. Clients are often seeking an improved ability to form or maintain relationships, a greater capacity to plan and make decisions, to navigate transitions, to increase and maintain motivation and self-esteem. Some, at the outset, only know that they would like to feel less pain. My clients are assured of a warm therapy environment where their thoughts, feelings and concerns can be shared without fear of judgment. I bring much perspective to my practice, having worked with young, middle aged and older adults from a vast range of backgrounds for many years. That said, you are utterly unique and that fact never fails to motivate me to learn and understand who you are and how to best support you toward greater health and healing. My approach to our work together involves first learning, ideally through live video sessions, a little more about your history and present concerns. After identifying the goal that is most important (to to you) to work on, we then discuss the options and employ the treatment(s) or method(s) that will best move you toward your goal.

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Bruce Engelhard

Offering therapy in WA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefParenting issuesADHD
15 years of experience

A little bit about me: I am a licensed therapist living in the mountains of Utah. Along with being a therapist, I'm a Guide and Educator. In the winter months I teach Avalanche Education and also work as a Mountain Guide taking people in what we call the "Backcountry". I love spending time in the outdoors and I have utilized this setting for many years as part of my therapy work. My private practice is called "Walk & Talk"; and my website is: walkandtalkhelp.weebly.com. I have worked with adolescents, families, and adult individuals of all ages and ethnicities for over over 10 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, addictions, grief, self worth, and ADHD. My therapy style is compassionate, empathetic and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and acceptance; and I believe that the only thing we can really change in life is our attitude and how we deal with the issues that are confronting us. It is my belief that many humans struggle with issues of self esteem in one way or the other, and yet we are all worthy of living a healthy and content life. My therapeutic approach combines many different modalities, with the key being that you the client are capable of leading your own healing path. I believe it is you the client that dictates the kind of approach needed for moving forward in your own healing process. This healing path will not have you out there on your own, and some of therapeutic processes I incorporate into my sessions utilize cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and acceptance and commitment therapy . We will work together, and our dialog will help in determining the specific treatment plan to meet your personal needs. Everyone deserves to wake up each day and look forward to what that days has to offer, and find a new sense of enjoyment within themselves and those around you. If you have a desire to bring more joy and contentment into your life, I welcome you to invite me into your journey. I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you! Bruce Engelhard LCSW

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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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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