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 Nicole Ford (she/her)'s avatar and link to their profile

Nicole Ford (she/her)

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC
Trauma and abuseEating disordersSelf esteemBipolar disorderCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

My name is Nicole (she/her) and I work as a Mental Health Counselor in Washington state. I work to hold space for others in their development of mental wellness and self-discovery. I believe therapy should be strength-based and dynamic, to identify negative thinking and create new empowering narratives for healing. My method of treatment pulls from various evidence-based practices to help adults impacted by eating disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and identity crisis. I have earned my Masters in Community Counseling from Seattle University and am certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I am here to help guide your self-reflection to establish a healthy relationship with mind and body. Our work together will be a collaboration, and I strive to be conscious of cultural and spiritual values and adapt therapy to best fit each unique individual. Some interests that have been key to my wellness are enjoying the outdoors, painting, traveling, dance studios, and nurturing relationships with family and friends. I hope to empower you in incorporating self care practices as well, and will encourage self compassion exercises in our sessions. (The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook: A Proven Way to Accept Yourself, Build Inner Strength, and Thrive by Kristin Neff). The path to recovery may feel isolating and daunting; by seeking out help I applaud you for taking the first step. I look forward being a part of your journey working towards your healing and peace.

Get started View profile
This is Tanisha Davis's avatar and link to their profile

Tanisha Davis

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
GriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
10 years of experience

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Seattle, WA with over 10 years of experience working in a medical care setting with a diverse population and 3+ years of providing counseling support over a digital platform. I earned a Master of Social Work degree from University of Southern California. I work with patients and families with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, grief and relationship issues. With experience in medical Social Work I've also worked with individuals with chronic health concerns, specifically ESRD. I truly want to know and understand you, will listen to your story with heart and empathy. While validating your feelings and experiences, I am committed to treating you with respect in a warm, comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere. My counseling style is warm, interactive, holistic and supportive as the client controls the pace and focus of our work. My approach combines person centered, cognitive behavioral therapies and motivational interviewing techniques. Realizing that no two people are alike, I tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet the your unique and specific needs. I understand how important it is to identify the underlying causes of troubling issues and recognize that everyone has a unique path. I serve as a guide equipping my clients with tools, skills, and insight as they embark on a journey of recovery. Together we uncover and embrace their personal power. I would love to work with you. So, you can begin to experience meaningful growth, healing, and greater self -fulfillment. -Tanisha Davis, LICSW

Get started View profile
This is Rick George's avatar and link to their profile

Rick George

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
AddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCoaching
10 years of experience

It takes courage to ask for help and to admit that we don't have all the answers. My name is Rick and while I don't have all the answers either, I am an experienced therapist committed to helping people process their history, make sense of their experiences, understand how to change behaviors and to chart a new life path forward. We are all on a journey and need others to support us along the way. I use a cognitive behavioral approach as the foundation to treatment along with solution-focused, client-centered and psychodynamic approaches. More specifically, I am committed to ensuring my clients feel heard, understood and supported able to make informed well grounded decisions in their life. My approach is to create an environment where you can unravel your experiences, understand them in new ways, and gain new insights as a result of deeper understanding. If you feel that I may be a good fit for you, I look forward to hearing from you.

Get started View profile
This is Petra Patterson's avatar and link to their profile

Petra Patterson

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseADHD
14 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Washington state with over 13 years of experience working as a therapist and life coach. I have worked with individuals with a wide range of concerns including ADHD, opioid addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, and career challenges. I have also assisted many people who have experienced physical and emotional abuse. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating individuals with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My training, life experience, and insight offer clients a unique opportunity to transcend current problems in the service of their own growth. You can create change in your life and overcome difficult and challenging situations. Remember, seeking counseling is not a sign of weakness, but one of true courage. Counseling can empower you to thrive, not just survive. I will be here to support you on your journey. I look forward to working with you!

Get started View profile
This is Merilee Richardson's avatar and link to their profile

Merilee Richardson

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

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) based in the Pacific Northwest, Washington State specifically. My experience comes from providing direct mental health and behavioral counseling as well as medical social work in a variety of different settings over the past 20 years. I am generally available evenings and weekends. I approach therapeutic relationships with a lot of sensitivity and respect in a non-judgmental setting. Much of my clinical experience includes working with adults and the geriatric population as well as those in acute mental health crisis as well as Veterans. I also have extensive experience working with trauma, a variety of traumas, and work hard to support survivors of trauma in finding the balance they need to live their most productive genuine lives. My therapeutic approach draws from cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and a structural symptoms systems. A top priority for me during any therapeutic approach or intervention is for me to meet you where you are and for us to collaborate on your treatment so that it will work best for you as we work together to meet your goals. Whether you’re working towards enlightenment and insight or symptom relief and improved function, my hope is that we can collaborate leave work together to achieve it! It takes a tremendous amount of strength to take this first step towards working towards a more fulfilling and happier life if you’re ready to take that step I’m here to support and empower you.

Get started View profile
This is Brandi Okamoto's avatar and link to their profile

Brandi Okamoto

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsGrief
12 years of experience

Born and raised on the Big Island. I am licensed in Hawaii with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Get started View profile
This is Karee Bohman's avatar and link to their profile

Karee Bohman

Offering therapy in WA
License: MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
6 years of experience

I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with experience working with people struggling with their mental health. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, phobias, and a history of physical and emotional trauma. I also have provided support to those struggling with substance abuse. I have additional experience working in a skilled nursing facility, long term care settings, and residential settings. Through this, I have provided support to individuals with chronic medical diagnoses, brain injury, and dementia. Along with supporting these individuals, I have also provided support to family, friends, and caregivers for these individuals. As a social worker, I believe in a person-centered approach and collaborating with my clients to meet their goals. I am very open-minded and want my clients to feel comfortable sharing what they are struggling with, without fear of judgment. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. Sometimes we can be our own worse enemy with reaching our goals and need help. I am here to support you to achieve your goals and find a more meaningful life. I look forward to working with you.

Get started View profile
This is Annika St John's avatar and link to their profile

Annika St John

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, end of life issues & coping with life changes. I use a relational and strengths based approach to treatment. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Karis Ward's avatar and link to their profile

Karis Ward

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
3 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 3 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I believe that the most important part of counseling is the therapeutic relationship in which trust and respect is built. I look forward to walking with you on your journey.

Get started View profile
This is Laurie Nicol's avatar and link to their profile

Laurie Nicol

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho, Washington and Wyoming with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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 98118 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