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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Marisa Schaff

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW,SUDP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
10 years of experience

Hi! My name is Marisa, I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I started working as a Substance Abuse Counselor in 2010 with Adolescents and discovered that mental health often intersected. I decided to attend graduate school at the University of Denver for my Master's in Social Work with a concentration in Family Systems and the Animal-Assisted Social Work Certificate. While at DU I completed three classes in the Psychology Department focused on Military culture and treatment. While in my second year of graduate school, I started a two year Post- Graduate Program at the Denver Family Institute for training and education for Marriage and Family Therapy. I graduated from that program in February 2019. I have worked in a wide array of jobs from Drug Court to Pregnant and Postpartum Women in residential treatment. I have worked with wide range of concerns including, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, relationship issues, communication, family conflict, addiction and trauma. My counseling style is strength based with interjections of humor and fun when appropriate. I often hear counseling described as being painful but I believe that the process should also consist of positivity, learning and growth. My approach is person-centered and combines techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused, EMDR and Narrative Therapy. I will tailor my approach based on best fit for your goals. I believe that you are the expert in your life and I am here to assist you in any way possible to overcome challenges. I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals! I currently offer evening and some weekend appointments.

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Malikah Duncan

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMFT,CDP-T
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Washington state with over 17 years of experience. I have worked along side clients in various settings; telehealth, private practice, community mental health clinics, hospitals, military bases, detention centers and schools. I have worked with clients with a wide range of socio economic backgrounds and concerns including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, parenting problems, school/career challenges and life transitions . I also helped many people who have experienced trauma or abuse including domestic violence. I have been recognized for my strengths of interpersonal skills, assessment and diagnosis, as well as, my professional writing and organizational skills. I have worked extensively with people of color, young adults, families/couples and have acted as a liaison for these client's in their communities. I devote my time and energy to my clients with no hesitation and have been appreciated for going above and beyond my general work duties. I have received awards for being a team player and for my exceptional crisis management techniques. My therapy style is personable and flexible. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My expertise is in Trauma Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I am also certified in Skills for Psychological Recovery (SPR) and Motivational Interviewing. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards change. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support and empower you. I look forward to working with you!

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Darlene Stuber

Offering therapy in WA
License: MS,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
19 years of experience

I am a licensed Mental Health counselor in the state of Washington. I have had a private practice for 19 years and have been involved in an agency for 15 years where I worked with children, adolescents and families. I am a compassionate, respectful, and an understanding person. I connect with others in a positive manner and I have a good sense of humor. I am creative, I formally owned a cake and flower shop, I paint and teach art classes. My creativity is part of my therapy. I often involve clients in art therapy. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, self esteem, bi-polar, ADHD, parenting support and other mental health issues. My approach is often Cognitive Behavior therapy, Narrative therapy and de-escalation. I am a directive but respectful counselor who can see the strength in people and attempt to help the client see them. I have worked intensely with high risk clients who have been suicidal or were involved with legal issues. Counseling can be hard at times. It takes a strong person to ask for support. I want to be your support and help guide you to a healthy place.

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Rose Malcolm

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
6 years of experience

Ms. Malcolm is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington. She graduated Summa cum Laude with her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Akron in May of 2013. Ms. Malcolm pursued her Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at John Carroll University and graduated in May of 2016. Upon graduation she worked in Cleveland at the Crisis Unit, which was a 15-bed facility to further stabilize clients upon their release from a hospital psych ward. After leaving the crisis unit, she worked in Medina County in a Community Mental Health agency. Ms. Malcolm moved to Toledo, Oh where she furthered her education at the University of Toledo. While residing in Toledo, she worked in a private practice and provided social emotional program development and counseling within a k-12 school setting. In April of 2021, Ms. Malcolm moved to Washington and has been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor. Ms. Malcolm has been working in the counseling field for the last 7 years. She has gained experience in the following areas; crisis situations, trauma, alcohol and drug treatment, couples counseling, family counseling, in a school setting and women’s issues. Her clientele is currently broad, but she specializes in treating couples, women, children and teenagers and Military families.

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frank aldridge

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LMHC,frank aldridge
AddictionsFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
15 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with a Masters degree in Counseling Psychology from Amberton University and a Bachelors of Science degree in Communication with a minor in Sociology from the University of Arizona in Tucson. I enjoy working with individuals and families and have experience working with issues of anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, emptiness, relationships, life transitions and others. I began my counseling career 14 years ago as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Dallas Texas where I was a therapist and family counselor at Solutions Outpatient Services. After 3 years at SOS, I took a position at Enterhealth treatment facility in Van Alstyne, Texas as one of their first primary therapists. I left Enterhealth a year later to open a private practice In Dallas. In 2010 my wife and I moved to the majestic Pacific Northwest. Currently I live in Kirkland, WA and have an 8 year old son and a pug. My approach is person centered and eclectic. I integrate and blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness, Family Systems Theory and other philosophies and techniques. Please know that I have the greatest respect for your courage. Feelings can be overwhelming and disorienting. Intense emotions can be frightening and painful. Depression robs us of the moments in life that are truly worth savoring. It is my firm belief that all emotions have value and utility, containing large veins of information if we take the time to drill down a bit. The more we can embrace and utilize the full spectrum of our experience, from joy to pain, the greater our capacity for self actualization becomes. It is my hope that we can collaborate on a journey of discovery; one that fosters awareness, clarity, acceptance, and change.

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Michaela Curtis-Joyce

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with 12 years of professional work experience.I am glad you are here and I genuinely would like to help you find the right support. I believe we all already have exactly what we need. I find it quite rewarding to team up with clients and find ways to harness their strengths. I am relationship based and balance compassion with frank communication. Let's look together and make a plan for how to realize your best self. I work with adults who are struggling with adjustment, managing emotions, or who are concerned for children in their care. I particularly enjoy working with parents/caregivers in non-traditional families including queer, trans and polyamourous.

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Rachel Jones

Offering therapy in WA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
19 years of experience

You are courageous for taking this step to better your mental health. I have been serving our community as a Licensed Professional Counselor for 18 years. I enjoy helping people overcome depression, anxiety, grief, and life changes through my eclectic approach including Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, Rational Emotive, Person Centered and Brief Focused Therapist. Through developing skills to process grief, increase mood, or navigate life changes, I find happiness as you reach your mental health goals. Outside of the office, my passions include nature walks, hiking, snorkeling, exploring new cultures, playing the piano and flute, singing, dancing, and game nights. I am best friends with my twin sister and her family. My cats, Bob and Precious, are so loved, they have their own room with a view. My undergraduate studies at Missouri Western State University included playing in the marching band as a first year music major. As part of my courses, I developed a love for other cultures and how they celebrate life through music. My second year, I took time to explore other studies and fell in love with psychology. I graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology. I went on to the University of Central Missouri were I completed my Master's of Science in Psychology. My first position as a Counselor was working with urban youth in the area of Substance Abuse. With this role, I gained a wealth of knowledge in Substance Abuse, which I applied to helping adults overcome their addictions. I went on to work in this field for 13 years. In Hawaii, I developed skills in Behavior Modification working with troubled youth , their families, and school staff. At Metropolitan Community College, I helped displaced workers develop workplace skills to re-enter the work force in a new career. I have had a private practice for 6 years helping individuals like you with grief, anxiety, and life changes. When you are ready, I am here to assist you in your journey for better mental health. Please note, the one area I am not trained in is trauma. As I am not trained in this area, my licenses prevent me from working with anyone who has had a traumatic experience, even if it is not the reason you are currently seeking therapy. Thank you for your understanding in this.

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Linda Lee

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefSelf esteem
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington , Idaho and Hawaii. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Elizabeth Miles

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho, Washington and Oregon with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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Jennifer Reed

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process!

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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 98125 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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