As a licensed therapist in Washington, I bring 18 years of dedicated experience supporting individuals through complex emotional landscapes. My practice centers on helping clients navigate challenging life transitions, mental health concerns, and personal growth. I specialize in addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship dynamics with a compassionate, client-centered approach.
My therapeutic work focuses on empowering individuals to develop deeper self-understanding, improve communication skills, and build resilience. I have extensive expertise in supporting women through various life stages, including pregnancy, parenting challenges, and personal transitions. My approach honors each client's unique journey, creating a supportive environment where healing and personal growth can flourish.
I am committed to helping clients work through difficult emotions like guilt, shame, and isolation, and supporting those experiencing social anxiety, panic attacks, and attachment challenges. My goal is to provide thoughtful, affirming guidance that helps you reconnect with your inner strength and move toward more fulfilling life experiences.
Additional areas of focus: Abandonment, Attachment issues, Body image, Caregiver issues and stress, Communication problems, Control issues, Divorce and separation, Guilt and shame, Impulsivity, Isolation / loneliness, Mood disorders, Panic disorder and panic attacks, Post-traumatic stress, Pregnancy and childbirth, Self-love, Social anxiety and phobia, Women's issues
Clinical approaches: Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy
WA LMHC LH61374861
These quotes represent just a few of the many positive reviews that we have received for Shirley Barnes. We don't pay anyone to provide their review and they are all made voluntarily. Some people's experience receiving therapy with BetterHelp might be different.
She pays attention and provides good feedback.
Written on Jun 20, 2026 after therapy with Shirley for 1 year on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and coping with life changes
Very knowledgeable and easy to talk to.
Written on May 26, 2026 after therapy with Shirley for 2 weeks on issues concerning grief, and coping with life changes
Respectful but direct in a good way very insightful as well
Written on Mar 26, 2026 after therapy with Shirley for 2 weeks on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, coping with life changes, and adhd
I have never had a therapist patiently wait the way she does for me to lead the conversation. She understands that listening and understanding is all you need sometimes! I highly recommend Shirley
Written on Oct 06, 2025 after therapy with Shirley for 4 months on issues concerning depression, stress, anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, grief, self esteem, anger management, coping with life changes, and compassion fatigue
Shirley Barnes is a nice and soft spoken therapist. She listens and understands, giving me some ideas/strategies to help with my challenges. I really appreciate her session of being able to talk to someone and feel supported. Thank you Shirley and looking forward to our next session.
Written on Sep 20, 2025 after therapy with Shirley for 2 weeks on issues concerning stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and coaching
This therapist has been a great help to me. She is patient and understanding and offered relevant resources. She has been a good match for my needs.
Written on May 28, 2025 after therapy with Shirley for 3 months on issues concerning stress, anxiety, grief, and coping with life changes