On the shore of the Puget Sound, the city of Des Moines, Washington is sometimes confused with Des Moines, Iowa, but there is a big difference. For instance, the population in Des Moines, Iowa is about 20 times that of Des Moines, Washington and they do not have the amazing coastlines in Iowa like they do in Washington. 

In fact, the City of Des Moines, Washington is noted for its Des Moines Beach Park, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the view of the Puget Sound. Sometimes, you may not feel like going out and hanging out at the beach though, and it is times like that when you should reach out to one of the many counselors in Des Moines who are there for you when you need them. 

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LENITA MARQUEZ

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LMHC,SUDP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) licensed in Washington State with over 8 years of experience working in both private practice, community mental health, and corrections. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, domestic violence, substance use, guilt and shame, co-dependency, personality disorders, and women's issues. I find that I connect well with women clients ranging in age from 19 - 50. I have helped women from all walks of life find their power and clarity about their purpose, passion, and values. I worked with professional women, housewives, single women, and young women enrolled in college. This group was not one that I pursued intentionally in my clinical work but I realized very early on that I am uniquely experienced to empathize and support women from several walks of life! My counseling style is direct, warm and interactive. I am gifted at identifying the strengths of my clients and believe that promoting the strengths has a profound positive impact on their emotional growth and a strengthening of self-worth. I approach clients with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I do not believe in wasting my client's time. I am goal directed and solution focused. I will be open and direct about my clinical impressions in an effort to help you reach your goals and feel empowered to personal change and growth. In the process of open, honest and direct communication, it is common for my client's to find their power, purpose, and strength. It is a wonderful process to witness transformation! I utilize cognitive-behavioral, family system's theory, humanistic, positive psychology, mindfulness, and existential approaches to therapy. I am trained and certified to offer trauma therapy, substance use treatment, and family therapy, just to name a few. I am well versed on best practice approaches to the specific disorders I specializing in treating. I approach treatment planning individually keeping in mind the respective needs of my clients and feel all areas of therapy are most effective when approached as a collaborative process. If you are ready to begin working to be your best self and to embark on your journey of self-exploration, I am ready to be your guide in the process! I look forward to working with you!

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Karen Murphree

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW #1496
Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemCoping with life changes
25 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over thirty-five years of experience assisting adults and couples with challenges such as stress, depression, anxiety, self-worth, abuse/trauma, chronic and acute health concerns, grief, loss, end of life issues, and finding connections to spirituality apart from traditional organized religion. I was also a licensed practical nurse years ago and have completed a year of health coaching training. I am passionate about the food/mood connection and its bridge between physical and mental health. I have a very eclectic approach that draws from multiple modalities. I have a background in traditional psychotherapy, but prefer to come from a "whole person" strength-based approach rather than the traditional "illness-based" approach. I like to use the other senses in addition to "the mind" and might make use of music, art, movement, or even aromatherapy approaches. My approach seeks to offer genuine acceptance of who you are right now, helping you discover who you would like to be, and finding ways with you to make progress toward your goals. Edison said, "I have not failed. I have just found 10,000 ways that do not work." I would appreciate an opportunity to look with you to finding ways that DO work for you. Thank you for looking at my information. If you think we might work well together, please get in touch. If you don't feel a connection to me, there are many other very qualified persons on this site. Don't give up! Keep looking till you find someone that you think you would work well with! Someone is out there in the other profiles that would be a good match for you! I wish you the best, and applaud your courage in being willing to take a look at other options for your life if you are feeling troubled.

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Tamara Tanninen

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsFamily conflictsIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteem
34 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 34 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & intimacy related issues. 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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Kelli Wilson

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

I am licensed in Vermont, North Carolina , Washington with 18 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 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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Bethany Snipes

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changesCoaching
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, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, career difficulties, & 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.

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Diane Hilliard

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW,MSW,BSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, and life changes due to aging and medical conditions. My counseling style is supportive and interactive. I believe in treating people with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psycho-dynamic, acceptance, and mindfulness counseling. I log into BetterHelp several times each week, Monday-Friday, but I have a limited window for responses and video session. I am only available in the late afternoon, evening. If this schedule is not good for you there are many clinicians on this forum with more flexible hours. I encourage you to keep looking until you find what you need to make this an easier process for you. It takes courage to seek for a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a 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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Jennifer Brown

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I'm a licensed therapist in Missouri , Indiana, New Hampshire and Washington with over 20 years of mental health experience. I have experience working with individuals who have struggled with trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, motivation, parenting issues, stress and more. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I work to create a safe and open environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. I assist clients in gaining an understanding of their experiences, and move from surviving to thriving. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage. I'm so glad you've taken that first step!

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Tori Chandler

Offering therapy in WA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemADHD
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with over 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem, communication and confidence. I have worked with parents who have children with behavioral challenges and provided parenting education to improve the family home. 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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Melissa Mendez

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMFT
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsGriefIntimacy-related issuesDepression
11 years of experience

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Indiana. I received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University and a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Christian Theological Seminary. I have had the opportunity to work in and gain knowledge from a diverse collection of settings that include elementary, middle and high school, hospital chaplaincy department, private practice and private agency working with families in the child welfare system. Each of these settings have provided me with hands on experience working with individuals and families in crisis, as well as those who are faced with navigating some of life’s challenges such as divorce, loss, and addiction. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I love a systems approach, understanding that we do not exist in a vacuum, but rather are part of larger systems. I take a non-judgmental, warm approach to therapy and I believe in tailoring my therapy towards my clients individual needs. Together we will establish goals and design a path towards a healthier way of being. I draw from a multitude of therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solutions Focused Therapy. The first step towards seeking help is often the most difficult. I am excited that you are here and look forward to taking this journey along side you.

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Dr. Delarious Stewart

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Missouri, Texas and Virginia with 15 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 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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How to find counseling in Des Moines

Finding the best therapist close by in Des Moines 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 Des Moines. 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 Des Moines, 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines, 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 Des Moines area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines, 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 98148 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines, 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.

Des Moines 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 Des Moines.

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

98148, 98198

Popular cities near Des Moines, WA

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