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 Teri Nielsen's avatar and link to their profile

Teri Nielsen

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC,LPC
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesParenting issues
35 years of experience

A FORWARD-THINKING, EXPERIENCED THERAPIST Licensed Mental Health Therapist with 35 years of in-patient and out-patient clinical experience working with adults, adolescents, children, and families. Specializes in working with relationships, complex trauma (childhood trauma within families), PTSD, anxiety, stress disorders, addiction recovery, blended family issues, extended family issues, and spiritual crisis. I lived and worked in Seattle for 28 years and in 2016 moved to southern Utah for the landscapes and the red rocks I love. I have a deep respect for personal struggles. I also have great confidence in the therapeutic process based on the transformations I've witnessed in the lives of the men, women, and young people with whom I've been privileged to work. Many of my clients are high-functioning, corporate professionals, first responders, healthcare professionals, therapists themselves, or people who have been in therapy before but seek a more integrative approach. I also work with people new to therapy who are seeking to build a more solid foundation for their emotional health. The heart of what I do is create the space for clients to address the issues that are keeping them from moving forward in life. My style is active and direct. I'm trained in trauma-informed and evidence-based approaches. I'm a Jungian and experiential therapist and use Rational Emotive and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapies. I've taught the MBSR, Jon Kabat-Zinn's 'Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction' course and integrate elements as it can be extremely effective in working with anxiety as well as targeting the very roots of addictive behaviors. As a therapist I draw not only on my education, but also on my life experiences as a woman, a daughter, a sister, a wife, and a mother. I am by nature interested in the world around me and continue to educate myself both formally and informally. In 1993, I began to practice Vipassana Meditation, a simple form of sitting/walking meditation. This continues to support me personally and has informed my work over the years. Thoughts are powerful. They shape our lives, impact our health, and play an important role in our ability to be creative. Thoughts impact the choices we make throughout our lives and can help us respond with resiliency when life challenges us. I advocate living life with compassion. Change is hard. Most of us resist change for fear of what's unknown in the future. I understand it takes courage to reach out for help. If you wish to work with me, bring your grit, your honesty, but most importantly a strong commitment to yourself. I'm here to help.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Mary Moran's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Mary Moran

Offering therapy in WA
License: PhD,MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker licensed in the state of Washington. In my career, I have mostly worked in mental health and substance use/abuse treatment. I received a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Missouri, a Masters in Social Work from the University of Georgia, and Ph.D. from the University of Utah. Additionally, I have worked as a clinical supervisor for social workers and mental health counselors for 12+ years. I have recently studied trauma-informed therapy experiences. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, reality, structural family therapy, spiritually-centered and solution focused interventions. My training is in family systems and feminist theory in psychotherapy. Our work will be collaborative, meaning you and I will work together to establish your goals and work toward achieving them. I believe in a person-in-the-environment perspective. We will explore your internal thoughts and feelings, and also the impact of your environment on your health and wellness.

Get started View profile
This is Susan St Vrain's avatar and link to their profile

Susan St Vrain

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionADHD
28 years of experience

I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State with over 28 years of professional experience helping clients to find balance in times of stress, anxiety, and change. My background and training includes Trauma Informed Therapy for adults and youth. My expertise includes but is not limited to the following areas; Anxiety, Depression, loss and grief, life transitions , Traumatic Brain Injury, ADD and ADHD both men and women, Somatics and therapeutic yoga , My approach is client centered, holistic, and transformational . I use a mindful and body centered approach. Your work with me will be a creative, collaborative and solution focused. My extensive background providing therapy and psychoeducation in Therapeutic Yoga, Somatics, Mindfulness/Meditation and Movement Therapy provides a body mind approach for clients interested in expanding self care and healing from abuse and neglect. I believe that you are the expert. The journey is collaborative. Therapy offers an opportunity to find a more balanced and fulfilling way of relating to yourself and your world. I am committed to you to create an open, safe and warm therapeutic environment without judgment that is growth oriented . Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I hope to meet with you soon!

Get started View profile
This is Julie Adams's avatar and link to their profile

Julie Adams

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 26 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation. I have worked with a variety of diagnosis, and 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I look forward to joining you on your journey. I have learned a lot from my native American roots. I enjoy kayaking, boogey boarding and finding fossils. I like sports and really enjoy swimming. I have worked in the schools, psychiatric hospitals and high risk homes, while in private practice. I have worked as a child specialist in the collaborative law setting . I look forward to meeting with you. Keep in mind that I do not work with addiction or couples.

Get started View profile
This is Henrietta Opoku's avatar and link to their profile

Henrietta Opoku

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesADHD
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Ohio with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & 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. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Shaunte Johnson's avatar and link to their profile

Shaunte Johnson

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCMHC,LCAS
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
7 years of experience

Shaunte Johnson is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Clinical Addictions and Specialist with a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Rehabilitation Counseling from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. Shaunte has a genuine passion for supporting adults and young adults in conjunction with their families. She has years of experience working with diverse populations in a variety of settings, including mental health agencies and private practice. Shaunte uses a strengths-based, client-centered, and a cognitive behavioral approach to aid adults and young adults in overcoming their challenges and fully realizing their own potential. She is truly invested in her clients and their healing. Shaunte is in awe of the transformation that occurs. In her spare time, you can find her shopping, reading a good book, trying out new restaurants, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Get started View profile
This is Elizabeth Lerandeau Hillman's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Lerandeau Hillman

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 11 years of professional work experience. I have worked in both inpatient and clinic settings with individuals across the life span. In the last several years I have focused on postpartum issues, helping pregnant/parenting individuals navigate this major life event. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & coping with life changes. I specialize in women’s issues and am certified in treating perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Tina Resneck's avatar and link to their profile

Tina Resneck

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Gregg von Fempe's avatar and link to their profile

Gregg von Fempe

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington and California with 25 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & 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. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Nicole Markealli's avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Markealli

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

Get started View profile

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 98139 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

Popular cities near Seattle, WA

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist