Living on an island seems like it would be paradise, right? Well, no matter where you live, you are always going to have problems because nobody’s life is perfect. In fact, you can even become afflicted with a mental illness like an anxiety disorder out of the blue for no obvious reasons. The counselors in Mercer Island are unsure of the exact cause but they know how to treat it. 

Anxiety disorders can be recognized by constant and severe stress, insomnia, confusion, inability to concentrate, heart palpitations, and irritability. If you or someone you know is having any of these or similar symptoms, talk to one of the Mercer Island counselors today. 

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Angela (Angie) LeMay

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC
Family conflictsEating disordersSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

My name is Angie LeMay, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been practicing since 2002 in many different settings, some of which include community mental health centers, boys ranch settings, group homes, and private practice. My degree is in Marriage and Family Therapy from Seattle Pacific University, but I have a passion for individuals outside the marriage and family therapy circle as well. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages. I have worked with many populations and enjoy each and every new journey a client invites me on. I have experience in working with individuals that suffer with depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, fitness and wellness, self-harm behavior, grief and loss, death, personality and mood disorders, ADHD, identity issues, physical/emotional/psychological abuse, addiction, and many more. I enjoy sitting with my clients and letting them guide their treatment and success. My goal is to help my clients identify their strengths within themselves and guiding them as a change agent to discovering their best self in hopes to create their own stories of success.

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Tawnya Wright

Offering therapy in WA
License: MEd, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
21 years of experience

Hi there! My name is Tawnya (pronounced Tonya. I have 20+ years of experience working with children and families in conflict. I do a lot of work with divorcing families in high conflict. I teach a co-parenting BootCamp. I have worked over twenty years with children of abuse and neglect. I do a lot of work with parents who are struggling with the behaviors of their kiddos. I also do a lot of one on one work with people who need to work on historical trauma. I have worked as the Director of Psychological Health for the Army National Guard and am familiar with military families and struggles. I use several different methods, but believe that the everyone is different and getting to know you is most important. Hopefully after a few appointments we will have established a connection and will be able to move mountains together. I love my job and feel honored to be able to meet new people and develop new skills together. Please know that when you are choosing your therapist, you need to feel like you "fit". This means that after a few sessions, if it does not flow nicely, it may not be the right "fit". I will help you advocate for you and build a strong bridge to your future.

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Jamie Pillers

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

Hello, my name is Jamie Pillers. I received my undergraduate degree from Texas A&M Central Texas in Social Work. I then completed the advanced standing program at Eastern Washington University; I received my Master's Degree in Social Work. My professional experience includes 1)Child Protective Service (CPS) in Texas working to preserve families. 2) Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) working in the Social Work and Behavioral Health Service department providing case management and brief therapy to Veterans. 3) Community Mental Health Agency- providing long-term therapy and case management services. I believe that therapy is a combination of therapeutic modalities, as everyone is different, and not one therapy fits everyone. Sometimes, it is a little bit of this therapy and a little bit of that therapy. My therapy style is supportive, informative, educational, and, when necessary direct. I believe in treating everyone with respect and walking alongside you through your journey.

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Rachel Richards

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

Hello, I'm Rachel Richards a licensed therapist in Washington state. Thank you for taking the time to learn more about me and the therapy process. My commitment to providing therapy comes from a deep appreciation for the innate humanness and capacity for healing contained in each individual. I have over 25 years of experience in the field of mental health and have served in many roles helping others of many different ages and backgrounds to become the best version of themselves. It is an honor for me to help each and every client and my experience and personal commitment to authenticity, honesty and compassion assist me in serving the many needs of clients with flexibility and expertise. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards 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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Tarin Bickford

Offering therapy in WA
License: LISW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
3 years of experience

Thanks for taking the time to read my profile! My name is Tarin Bickford and I've been a clinical social worker for more than two decades. In that time, I've worked with children and adults dealing with a wide-variety of issues such as trauma, addiction, mental health concerns, intimate partner violence, PTSD and child abuse (as well as many other life-altering issues). My approach to therapy is multi-faceted and I incorporate many modalities into my work (although I primarily use cognitive behavioral, acceptance and commitment and solution-focused therapy). Life can be so challenging and I commend you for taking the first step toward a better future. Engaging in the therapeutic process opens windows and doors you didn't even realize were closed. Together we can work on anything that is troubling you so that you can enjoy life to the fullest. I want to help you become the best version of yourself and will do this by fostering a therapeutic relationship built on mutual respect, trust and an abundance of kindness. You deserve to be safe, happy and well-treated. Let's work together to turn your life into exactly what you want it to be.

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Betsy Comingore

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

For the past 8 years, I have enjoyed my work as a licensed counselor in North Carolina. In our time together, I want to hear from you and explore your wish. What would be different if you felt less depressed or more self-confident? What if you found a place for your anxiety so that it didn't rule your life? 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. Getting started can be the hardest part so keep going- you are being kind to yourself in getting the support you need.

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Elsa Willis

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

I am licensed in Washington and Idaho, with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, motivation, self-esteem, and confidence, & depression. It takes much courage and strength to seek counseling. I believe that the path to healing and wellness is an empowering process of growth. My goal is to assist clients on their personal journey of self-discovery by treating each person as a unique individual. I am passionate about supporting my clients by providing a service that is professional, confidential, empathic, nonjudgmental, and safe. I use an integrative approach that is infused with mindfulness practices.

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Dr. Brandi Cihlar

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in several states across the country with 17 years of professional work experience. I have so much experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, depression, and much more. 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. Sometimes therapy can be a process of throwing out your “stuff” on the table and we both sift through it for patterns and insights. Sometimes it’s an experience where a third party takes a look at your life and helps you see things you just can’t see. I use a multitude of approaches depending on what you need and are looking for, and I love helping people figure things out and learning more about themselves. 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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Dr. Alicia Fahr

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
17 years of experience

I am a licensed professional counselor in Virginia and Arizona with 17 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients manage chronic illness and chronic pain, trauma and abuse, grief and loss, post-partum anxiety and depression, women's issues, aging issues, loneliness, phobias, career changes, and lack of purpose or direction in life. I practice Existentialism, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Positive Psychology, Rogerian Counseling, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychosocial Theory, and Adlerian Therapy, in my counseling sessions depending upon the client’s needs, goals, and personality. 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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Gina Gross

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

How to find counseling in Mercer Island

Finding the best therapist close by in Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island. 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 Mercer Island, 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island, 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 Mercer Island area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island, 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 98040 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island 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 Mercer Island, 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.

Mercer Island 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 PinterestLinkedInInstagramTwitter, 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 Mercer Island.

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

98040

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