In general, when finding a therapist, Seattle WA can have different options available. Many people understand the importance of clinical mental health counseling, and appreciate the fact that there are more therapists available there than in many other cities. However, even with the abundance of WA therapists it’s not always going to be easy to find the right therapist for you. Different mental health challenges often require different specializations. You may be looking for someone with extensive training in eating disorders, or a psychologist with a doctoral degree in gender identity or cultural identity. It’s not a given that the therapist you need is going to be in an area of the city that's easy to travel to for you. 

That’s why an online therapy platform like BetterHelp can be an effective solution. BetterHelp offers over 30,000 licensed therapists with specialties in everything from solution focused therapy to trauma informed therapy for victims of systemic oppression. In addition, online therapy can help ensure that you achieve the level of therapeutic alliance necessary for your therapy to be successful. If at any time you don’t feel that you don’t have a true rapport with your therapist, you can switch at no additional cost. Another benefit of online therapy is that sessions can be far easier to fit into a busy schedule. With video chat, phone, or text sessions, you can participate in therapy from the comfort and convenience of your own home or office. 

With everything going on in life, it can feel overwhelming to take that first step in starting the therapeutic process. BetterHelp offers a convenient starting point toward the path of self-discovery and healing through therapy. Simply fill out an online questionnaire to get matched with a therapist who meets your goals and needs.

This is Dr. Jennifer Gildner's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Jennifer Gildner

Offering therapy in WA
License: Ph.D.,CMPC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefSelf esteemDepression
19 years of experience

Hi there! Thanks for taking a look at my services. I am licensed to meet with people in Washington and California. I am scheduled for video/phone sessions Monday through Wednesday, check messages each weekday, and I am not scheduled to meet or check messages at weekends. If this schedule works for you, I hope you'll continue reading to get an idea about how I work with clients. Empowerment occurs when we transform intention to action. I have a collaborative yet challenging approach in my work with individual clients. Your mind is where intention moves toward action. I see it as my job to help you find answers that are already within you from a strengths-based approach. Because we are working together collaboratively, you have the freedom to express what you need from psychotherapy and I will want to spend time exploring how your cultural background impacts your presenting concerns. You're also in therapy for change and that's where my ability to challenge you comes in. I can provide a positive relationship in which you can learn about yourself and grow. Further, mindfulness is a large part of how I approach our work together, particularly as you are working toward new thoughts and behaviors with the goal of improving your life in general. If all this sounds like what you're looking for, I look forward to hearing from you!

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This is Dr. Susan Rahman's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Susan Rahman

Offering therapy in WA
License: Ph.D.,Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

I have worked in Washington state as a licensed psychologist since 1998. I have worked with clients that are experiencing a wide range of issues from depression, anxiety, low self esteem, post traumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, aging and life transitions. My work experience includes working with active duty soldiers and family members, incarcerated women and chronically mentally ill individuals and their families. Having over five years experience working with active duty soldiers, I am interested in providing treatment for military personnel with trauma related to PTSD and moral injury. My specialty includes working with individuals experiencing undue or extreme influence including those in cults, domestic violence or coercive relationships and catfishing. The treatment approach involves the following. Based upon a clinical history, strengths and problem areas are identified and goals are set with the client. Relevant strategies are utilized and progress towards goals is assessed with the client. My therapeutic style is interactive, treating the client with respect, and providing a safe and secure environment to do therapeutic work. This work involves increasing self-awareness, self-acceptance and skills for self-care and empowerment. Therapeutic interventions are based upon theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, developmental attachment theory, cognitive behavioral treatment, cognitive processing, trauma treatment modalities, mindfulness, self-care and client centered therapies.

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This is Arianna Randolph's avatar and link to their profile

Arianna Randolph

Offering therapy in WA
Coping with life changesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

You’re feeling overwhelmed by life’s many tasks. Maybe your relationships are struggling. Dealing with difficult life transitions. Looking to improve communication skills and conquer tough conversations or working your way back to putting yourself first. Sound familiar? If so, there is some work we could do together. My name is Arianna. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), with 9 years of experience in the field. My approach is client centered and goal directed. Together we will work to determine your goals and develop a plan to reach them. I believe all individuals hold the key to accessing the best version of themself and my role is to partner with you, providing a safe supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, learn new skills and experience growth. Life is made up of beginnings, middles, ends and new starts. It’s an ongoing cycle that challenges each of us with the best, worst and everything in between that life has to offer. I look forward to working with you through the starts and all that comes in the in between.

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This is Tasheena Carlson's avatar and link to their profile

Tasheena Carlson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. My approach is holistic, strength based, and person centered. I offer adult and teen therapy. I believe that when someone feels safe, growth can occur and my goal in our sessions is to meet you where you’re at and help you achieve your goals. Although we may already have the skills to create change in our lives, we often need help identifying and developing those skills, and I would love to help you develop the tools necessary to build the life you want to live and overcome challenges that might make you feel stuck. I view the counseling process as an alliance and the clients as the experts of their lives. Within the structure of the therapeutic relationship I will help you access your inner strengths and promote change. In my free time I love to hike, play in nature, paint and sing loudly in the privacy of my car. I have always had a passion for the human mind and how we all interact in this big world. I believe therapy to be both a challenging and supportive space for an individual to explore, grow and cultivate change, and I would love to provide that space for you!

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This is Shannon Trulson's avatar and link to their profile

Shannon Trulson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Minnesota and Washington with 14 years of experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, & 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. Please note when considering scheduling, I am currently only offering phone or live-chat sessions.

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This is Maria “Antoinette” Walker's avatar and link to their profile

Maria “Antoinette” Walker

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

I am licensed in Washington with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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This is Uzma Ahmad's avatar and link to their profile

Uzma Ahmad

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issues
25 years of experience

I am licensed in two states and also Nationally certified Counselor. I am licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon and Mental Health Counselor License in Washington, with 25 years of professional work experience, including teaching Psychology at the university level. My therapeutic approach is strength based. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, grief, relationship issues, parenting, conflicts, cultural & generational issues, trauma/abuse, sexual abuse and others. I work with my clients to build working relationship and create an open and safe space where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Signing up for therapy is a step towards self-care. I recognize that this step may takes courage. I am here to support & empower you in this process.

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This is Arlene Whitney's avatar and link to their profile

Arlene Whitney

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsGriefCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, coping with grief and loss, career difficulties, & 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. 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 Dr. Alicia Fahr's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Alicia Fahr

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

I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia and Arizona with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients manage chronic illness and chronic pain, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, post-partum anxiety and depression, women's issues, aging issues, loneliness, phobias, career changes, and lack of purpose or direction in life. I practice Existentialism, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Rogerian Counseling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychosocial Theory, and Adlerian Therapy, in my counseling sessions depending upon the client’s needs, goals, and personality. 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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This is Bridget Ideker's avatar and link to their profile

Bridget Ideker

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Registered Child Parent Psychotherapist in Minnesota and Washington with 10 years of clinical practice in a variety of settings. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, PTSD, PPD/A, traumatic births and disability, trouble adjusting after a big life change, and helping to process and shape impactful experiences. I've been able to facilitate healing from trauma, support navigating parenthood, inspire self expression, light motivation to make change, and witness clients embody renewed confidence. I will stay curious about your thoughts, feelings and experiences, to understand and help you. I use attunement, humor, intuition and education to guide you through a reflective and therapeutic experience.

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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 98141 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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