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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Robert Peterson

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
30 years of experience

ABOUT ME Hello! I am Robert Peterson, MSW, LICSW. I am a licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker living in the state of Washington. For most of my career, I have worked in international settings with children and adolescents where cultural displacement/adjustment/shock, dislocation from family and friends, isolation and stress are common challenges. The skills I have developed are applicable to youth experiencing trauma, divorce, death of a parent or any other crisis that taxes normal scoping skills. In addition helping children and adolescents adjust to new situations and expectations through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy, I work to develop Resilience; the ability to adapt to difficult situations through cognitive restructuring and skill building. SPECIALTIES Cultural Adaptation Interpersonal Relationships Stress Management Conflict Resolution Personal Growth Depression and Anxiety Panic Attacks Parenting and Family Issues Trauma Diversity Family & relationship problems Academic problems Also experienced in: ADHD , Academic Issues, Career Planning, College Admissions. Social Adjustment Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy, Crisis Planning and Management.

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Dr. Lindsay Ghannam

Offering therapy in WA
License: EDD,LMHC,MA
Stress, AnxietySleeping disordersParenting issuesDepressionCoaching
14 years of experience

Hi and Welcome to my site, it is nice to meet you and I am so glad that you've decided to reach out for help. I look forward to working with you! :) Bio Dr. Lindsay Ghannam, Ed.D., M.A., LMHC, is a holistic mental health coach and counselor whose compassion, drive and intuition have all earned her the reputation as a service-centered leader. As an advocate of positive change, she is on a lifelong mission to empower women to embrace their infinite potential through the power of natural remedies, from herbalism and healthy eating to spirituality. Ultimately, her vision is to heal their anxiety or depression by helping them pave their way to calm, conscious clarity and all-encompassing serenity. Throughout the course of a decade, Lindsay has gained extensive hands-on experience in the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders. Lindsay is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and holding a Doctorate in Counseling, she has worked as a Crisis Intervention Specialist, Research Analyst, Addictions Specialist and in private practice. Dr. Ghannam holds additional credentials as a certified body-mind coach and certified domestic violence counselor. Above all else, she has experienced and overcome the hardship of anxiety first-hand, which enables her to deeply empathize with each valued client. When she isn’t guiding her clients to total-life transformation, Lindsay enjoys living life as mindfully and soulfully as possible. She especially loves making tea and cooking nutritious meals, and even hosts a radio show on natural solutions for anxiety. Most importantly, she cherishes quality time spent with her three children who are ages 3, 6, and 15.

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Esther John

Offering therapy in WA
Trauma and abuseEating disordersDepression
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with eating disorders & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming those 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. I am a Rogerian therapist, so the focus is on YOU in our sessions. I have exercises to help you feel more relaxed and optimistic. I look forward to meeting you!

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Jamie Clark

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Jennifer Schweinhard

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 15 years of professional work experience in community mental health and private practice. I graduated with a Master's of Psychology in Marriage and Family Therapy from Chapman University in 2005. I have experience in supporting clients through situational issues as well as developing strategies to manage chronic challenges. I earned designation as a Child Mental Health Specialist and provided clinical supervision to provisional licensees, interns, and senior clinicians before moving to private practice. We will collaborate to develop a treatment plan that meets your unique needs, builds on your existing strengths, and reaches your goals. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment to allow for growth that may be uncomfortable at times. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am excited that you have taken that step to a healthier life!

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Susan Gallagher

Offering therapy in WA
GriefAnger managementSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 9 years of professional work experience post-licensure. I have experience in helping clients with coping with grief and loss, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. 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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Dawn Shelley Wann

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
8 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Missouri with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping, adults, adolescents, and teenagers with stress and anxiety, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, & anger management. 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. I have experience with Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person Centered, Client Centered, and many more therapeutic genres. I am also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. 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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Nicole Wright

Offering therapy in WA
GriefIntimacy-related issuesCareer difficultiesDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I have spent my career supporting people confronting various life challenges. Participating in grassroots politics for social justice and providing case management in the criminal justice system, introduced me to the underserved. This was the catalyst for pursuing an education in clinical social work. During graduate school, I interned for a government housing agency, and provided individual therapy and psychoeducational classes at a Veterans Affairs hospital. After graduation, I spent several years providing individual and group therapy in an inpatient facility that simultaneously addressed chemical dependency and mental health complications. I also had the privilege of being a medical social worker for a local hospital. I was stationed at a primary care clinic where I collaborated with patients, their families and providers, to achieve health care goals. I met patients at doctor appointments, visited their homes, and assisted in their discharge planning from hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. This gave me insight into the impact of poor physical health on emotional wellbeing, the importance of autonomy in end of life care, and the reality of caregiver burnout. With in these various community mental health roles, it became clear that regardless of which disenfranchised population was facing social injustice, or the specific hardship a person was enduring, there was a common theme. People want to be heard. They want to be valued. Twenty years in the helping field taught me that without the basic tenant of dignity, no technique or therapeutic approach will make a difference. And I can assure you that you ARE worthy of dignity. You are also worthy of love, honor, trust, and respect. I know this may be hard to believe. And as trauma and grief start to accumulate, positive self regard can be replaced with criticism. Feelings of hopelessness and shame become overwhelming. Joy disappears, self-care is nonexistent, and isolation is preferred. Despair and loss of community may lead to addictive behaviors and even thoughts of dying. The time to process past hurts is now. You can create and nurture healthy relationships, increase self-esteem, interact with others more meaningfully, and learn to trust your voice. You have the ability and authority to rewrite your narrative. Choosing therapy takes grit and determination. You have these traits! And you are not alone. It is an honor to accompany you during this sometimes difficult, but tremendously rewarding journey. I am committed to providing an accepting and encouraging space to allow you to heal. Regardless of your religion, sexual orientation, or lifestyle preferences, you can be yourself with me.

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Ashley Usita

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping children, adolescents and adults with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Tiffani Sullivan

Offering therapy in WA
License: M.S.,LPC
Stress, Anxiety
5 years of experience

Hello and welcome. Thank you for taking the time to learn a little bit about me. I am a licensed professional counselor licensed in Texas with over 5 years of experience as a counselor. I have worked with a very diverse population of clients with various types of concerns to include depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, substance use disorders, family and marital problems, and career and educational difficulties. My counseling style is completely client centered and focused. I believe in building a supportive therapeutic relationship that will aid you in following your path toward change. My approach includes finding the best counseling style for you, and may include cognitive-behavioral, solution focused, motivational interviewing, and rational-emotive behavioral therapy. Determining the best approach for you as an individual will be my goal. I am so glad you have decided to reach out for help to address your concerns and am happy to be working with you on this journey of change. I look forward to working with you.

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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 98103 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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