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Emily Priestaf

Offering therapy in WA
License: LMHC,LPC,MT-BC
Stress, AnxietyLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
10 years of experience

Hello! My name is Emily, and I’m a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in the state of Washington, a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in the state of Wisconsin, and am a board certified music therapist (MT-BC) with an M.A. in clinical mental health counseling and music therapy. If you are struggling to cope with difficult emotions or have experienced stressful life experiences, connecting with a therapist can equip you with skills and support. Additionally, working with a therapist can help you build awareness around yourself and your relationships. I care deeply about the relationship I establish with my clients. I am supportive, empathetic and nonjudgmental, bring warmth and compassion to the work and enjoy working collaboratively. My treatment approach combines person-centered, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and creative practices. You are an individual and know yourself best, so I like to be able to give options for how we can work based upon what you are hoping to focus on for goals. If you are the kind of person who needs a sounding board, I can be that for you. If you are a person who needs structure and support, we can use more CBT. If you like more of a creative approach with music, art, or other expressive avenues, we can utilize those in the therapeutic process. If all or none of those sound like they would be a good fit, I would love to hear what you need and will support you, because again, you know yourself and your needs better than anyone else. I will help you identify and meet your goals, challenge thought patterns, draw on your own strengths to problem solve and help you learn new tools to function effectively and fulfill your potential. I have a breadth of experience working with kids, teens, young adults, and adults. I look forward to hearing from you and learning about your challenges and goals for the future.

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Evelyn Herman

Offering therapy in WA
License: Wa. State LMHC, M.A. in Integrative Psychology
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
32 years of experience

Greetings! My name is Evelyn Herman, and I am happy to meet you in this way. I have a Masters Degree in Integrative Psychology (Mind-Body-Emotions-Spirit) and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State, with 32 years of counseling experience. It is important to me in our work together to always create a safe space where you are confident that whatever you need to share will be received with compassion and without judgement. I acknowledge you for the courage it takes to reach out for help when you need it , and for your willingness to do the work to resolve issues in your life that have been holding you back. I promise you that I will listen deeply to your feelings, your problems, and your challenges, and offer you tools and strategies to resolve these issues in a way that empowers you in your life. For 5 years (1985-1990), I was Co-Director of the CenteringPoint Team in Bellevue, Washington, and since then I have been in private practice as owner of the StillwatersPeace Counseling Service. I have vast experience in working with people of all ages and all circumstances, and in our fast-paced world today, I have provided support for both men and women undergoing major life changes and transitions. Therapy for me is always a great adventure of greater self-awareness, expanded clarity, enhanced self-esteem, and personal liberation, and although therapy can be hard work at times, it can also be exciting and inspiring as you open up to and discover unknown parts of yourself. My approach to therapy is very holistic, meaning that we will deal with all parts of yourself; not just your emotions, but also inaccurate or negative thought patterns and mind-sets, ways to enhance the physical health of your body, as well as what feeds your Spirit. I have found that addressing all of these (mind-body-emotions-spirit) allows for a deeper experience of healing and well-being. Mindfulness techniques can assist you to be more present in each moment and to observe your emotions with compassion, rather than be consumed by them. Cognitive Behaviorial Therapy techniques can help you identify and restructure debilitating thought patterns and limiting programmings that have undermined the peace and success in your life that you so richly deserve. For those who would enjoy a more right-brain approach to therapy, I work with imagery and visualization, meditation, breath-work, dream analysis, and the healing paradigm of the Medicine Wheel. We will work together as a team to find what approach is best for you, and so your input and feedback are essential to the process. My Specialties are working with Depression, Stress and Anxiety, Relationship Issues, Trauma and Abuse, and Grief and Loss. I have worked with hundreds of women who are recovering from sexual and/or physical/emotional abuse, whether as children or being raped as adults or in situations of domestic violence. I also have experience in working with intimacy issues, sleeping disorders, parenting issues, self-esteem, and coping with life-changes. I have always enjoyed working with people, and seeing the light go on in them, and it would be my greatest pleasure to work with you as well. I love that the BetterHelp platform allows us to connect in many different ways, so we can even connect daily if that is needed. I will be checking my messages and emails at least twice a day so I can respond to you in a timely manner. I hope to hear from you soon, and I only wish the very best for you.

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Shardae Collins

Offering therapy in WA
License: MHP,MA,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
6 years of experience

I am Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the state of California, Washington, Nevada, and Massachusetts. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals and families with various needs in the field of education, health, and social services. For the last 5 years, I've worked with individuals and families across the life span as a Clinical Social Worker providing therapeutic case management, individual therapy, and family therapy. In my role as Clinical Social Worker, I have supported individuals with a wide range of issues such as: childhood abuse and trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, attachment issues, racism and discriminations, and workplace issues. I hold a Master of Arts degree in the field of Social Welfare with an emphasis on mental health from the University of California Los Angeles. I also hold a Master of Arts & Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology with an emphasis on inequalities and diversities from California State University of Los Angeles. I have held numerous positions as an adjunct professor of sociology, senior research assistant, and as a Clinical Social worker. I believe that your lived experiences as well as your environment has an impact on your well-being. My therapeutic approach explores and observes your environment and lived experience to better understand your strengths, needs, and hope for the future. I utilize the person-in-environment approach to better assist you in achieving your goals. I believe that you have the power to heal yourself. I view my role in this therapeutic relationship as a guide. I guide you into discovering and tapping into your own human potential. I believe that healing comes from within, and sometimes people must be reminded of their own strength and resilience. My approach is one that is direct, culturally relevant, sensitive, trauma informed, strength-based, individualized, and client-centered. I use an array of therapeutic modalities such as exposure relapse prevention therapies, behavioral activation therapy , mindfulness, motivational interviewing, attachment theory, psychodynamic, solution focused therapy, CBT, and DBT to awaken one’s healing power. On this platform I offer brief solution focused therapy. Therapy can be hard and sometimes scary. I get it, I am here to support you on this journey. I look forward to supporting you on your journey to healing and self-discovery.

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Dr. Nargis Mozafari

Offering therapy in WA
License: PsyD
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
10 years of experience

I am a lifelong seeker of truth, wisdom, and the arts with an innate passion for human psychology. I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and have more than 10 years of experience working in the field with a strong emphasis in health psychology, trauma-informed care, and a focus on human potential. I received my doctorate in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University in San Diego, California. My training and clinical experience covers a wide range from school-age children to older adults with various diagnosis including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma response, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, severe mental illness, chronic pain, chronic disease, and lifestyle choices. Despite my formal schooling, I always had an innate, burning desire for understanding human nature and the laws of nature that govern us. I believe in the merging of eastern and western philosophy in reaching our true human potential; and therefore, use an integrated approach in my work comprised of existentialism, client-centered, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness amongst others. I believe in the power of self-healing and that we are innately resilient. Sometimes we need guidance to awaken those aspects within ourselves. As a result, we will work on the mental blocks, self-defeating beliefs, and unhealthy patterns that have inhibited you from reaching your true potential in life.

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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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David Jespersen

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
27 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, 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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Patricia Bailey

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
4 years of experience

I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have worked with a wide age range of clients from toddlers to adults. The concerns of my client include depression, anxiety, parenting problems, and relationship problems. 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. My integrated approach to therapy combines cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, narrative therapy and an evidenced based therapy. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! I look forward to speaking with you.

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Rachelle Belott Filipiak

Offering therapy in WA
License: MS,LPC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
3 years of experience

Hello! I hold a master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Stout. My skill-set has been molded working in a domestic violence shelter for women, college counseling center, medium-security correctional facility for men, and providing outpatient mental health services for individuals of all ages and struggles. I take a modern, holistic, and interpersonal approach incorporating elements from different theories depending on the person and the situation. Life is hard, and triggers are unavoidable. Change is unpleasant in the short term, but can improve the quality of our lives in the long-term. The goal of therapy is to identify the obstacles and learn ways to change our thoughts and behaviors resulting in less emotional distress. My end goal is to empower people to confidently resolve their struggles independent of mental health professionals in the future once they refine their skills. I offer a safe, confidential presence and am eager to offer support and guidance on your journey. You've already done the work to survive; now let's find a way to thrive!

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Renee Lafriniere

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefCareer difficultiesDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Florida with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & career difficulties. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Timothy Weaver

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

I am licensed in Virginia and Washington with 14 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. 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.

How to find counseling in North Yelm

Finding the best therapist close by in North Yelm 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 North Yelm. 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 North Yelm, 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm, elsewhere in Thurston, 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 North Yelm area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm, 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 98597 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm 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 North Yelm, 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.

North Yelm 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 North Yelm.

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

98597

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