Being in a smaller city surrounded by bigger cities may be a problem, especially if you need help. Luckily, there are counselors in Bellingham ready to help you.

Bellingham is near Vancouver and Seattle, and also is known for the ease of access to recreational activities, such as the San Juan Islands, and the north cascades. It’s continuously developing, and its people are always trying to make a better name for themselves. You as a person can get better too with the help of a mental health professional that can work with you on major problems in life.

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Dr. David Sperry

Offering therapy in WA
License: Ph.D.,LMHC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepressionCoaching
4 years of experience

I consider it a sacred honor and privilege to walk with people through life difficulties, identify strengths and find solutions, all through a caring and supportive relationship. My work experience started with military service. I have 15 years’ experience teaching college psychology courses, all while helping individuals achieve life goals as a life coach. The past four years have been most satisfying career years as I transitioned to full time counseling. I earned a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology in 2009. I also have certificates in family systems dynamics, life-coaching, and I am a nationally certified diabetes coach and trained in EMDR therapy. My counseling style interweaves wellness, solution focused, acceptance and commitment, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I’ve worked extensively with individuals through various levels of mental illness, families, and couples.

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Tamara Allison

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Washington state. My counseling style is compassionate, warm and empathic. I believe that at the core of all successful therapy starts with a good therapeutic relationship. I work from a strengths base approach incorporating Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Compassion Focused Therapy tailored to meet client needs. I feel providing a safe environment is key for a person to feel comfortable to be able to tell their story. I look forward to working with you.

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Nina Foster

Offering therapy in WA
License: LPC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
12 years of experience

Hi there! Let me first congratulate you on taking the first steps to a better you! Whether this is your first time working with a counselor or you have in the past it’s always the perfect time to focus on you! You have what it takes but we all need that extra support and safe space. My background includes working with teens in residential settings as well as in the community with individuals and families. I graduated with a Masters in Counseling from University of Texas at San Antonio. I then worked in the correctional setting as a counselor and managed Mental Health Services where I worked in this setting for a total of 8 years. I truly enjoyed working with clients in this underserved population. I then continued my career in my current Director role for a non profit agency that provides Mental Health Services in residential for youth and young adults, outpatient setting and day treatment programs. In my role I miss the one on one aspect in working directly with clients which is why I look forward to assisting you get to a better place! I pride myself on providing a safe place free of judgment and criticism while focusing on respect, empathy, and genuineness. I meet you where you are at while giving a client centered and solution focused approach creating a safe environment for you. I look forward to working with you!

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Michael Friedman

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LHMC,NCC
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

It's not easy asking for help and therapy can seem pretty intimidating. It doesn't have to be, though. Sometimes, it's nice to just talk to a non-friend/relative to get a fresh re-frame, hear some "professional" advice , or just vent about your day. I've been on both sides of the couch and used these learning experiences to bring insight, humor, and a friendly approach to my work. Hi, I'm Michael I am a licensed mental health therapist with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have helped a wide range of clients with concerns such as depression, anxiety, parenting problems, relationship issues, trauma, domestic violence, career and life changes, and family with personality disorders. As a bonus, I also studied art therapy counseling and utilize this whenever a client is interested. As another bonus, I'm quite witty. My therapy style is interactive, engaged, and empathetic. I have a diverse background of educational trainings and combine cognitive behavior therapy with a behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approach. I also promote strength-based work with a trauma-focused understanding, which means learning how to utilize your own strengths to overcome your individual challenges. My overall therapy goal is to help you see yourself in better perspective, learn new skills to aid in your growth, and feel supported in moving through life's difficulties while making the changes you want to see. I look forward to working with you!

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Ryan Black

Offering therapy in WA
License: LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsDepression
7 years of experience

Hi, my name is Ryan and I have been working in mental health for 9 years. I have experience helping people with an array of problems including substance abuse, couples issues, adolescents, criminal justice, mood disorders and other life problems. I began my work in mental health after working for 10 years in health and fitness. My inspiration to enter the field of mental health developed from a desire to help others realize their ability to change and to achieve their utmost potential in psychological well-being. I am a compassionate, genuine, authentic therapist who is dedicated and committed to helping others achieve their desired outcomes. I use a multidimensional approach exploring psychological, biological and spiritual needs to assist in the healing process.

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Julie Johnson

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemDepression
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, family conflicts, parenting issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I love helping people see their strengths and encouraging them to utilize them to get through challenging times. I have experience working with both adults and teens. 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!

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Antonia Sloan

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

I am licensed in California and Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I specialize in helping children, teens, & adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, current life stressors &/or have experienced traumatic events. In my practice, I honor everyone's individual story & use client-centered approaches to support the development of self-worth, personal strengths & coping skills. I strive to create a warm, collaborative atmosphere and view it as the foundation for meaningful work with my clients. My unique approach to counseling includes traditional talk therapy with the option of adding art therapy techniques to assist my clients down the path to recovery and healing. Art therapy is a great tool in my work with children & teens. It provides both verbal & nonverbal methods of working through intense emotions & teaches ways to reorganize the thought patterns that lead to depression/anxiety, feelings of loneliness/lack of self-worth & interpersonal struggles with peers & family members. I aspire to find the best approach that will enable you to gain insights, achieve personal growth and develop happiness within your life and personal relationships. I believe that each of us has the capacity for change and look forward to assisting you in your journey.

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Dr. Kasey Grass

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

I am licensed in Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, depression, & 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. 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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Terri White

Offering therapy in WA
Relationship issues
11 years of experience

I am licensed in Georgia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues. 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.

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Ryan Trudeau

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I also have experience working with 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. 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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How to find counseling in Bellingham

Finding the best therapist close by in Bellingham 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 Bellingham. 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 Bellingham, 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham, elsewhere in Whatcom, 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 Bellingham area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham, 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 98226 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham 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 Bellingham, 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.

Bellingham 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 Bellingham.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Bellingham:

98225, 98226, 98228, 98229

Popular cities near Bellingham, WA

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