Looking for a therapist? Bellingham, WA boasts a small-but-growing community of therapists—and with BetterHelp, you can expand your search beyond Whatcom County and connect with clinicians across Washington State.

BetterHelp is an online therapy platform that networks with a diverse array of mental health professionals, including licensed psychologists (PsyD), licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT), licensed mental health counselors (LMHC), and licensed independent clinical social workers (LICSW). 

Whether you’re struggling with a mental illness like depression or anxiety, a behavioral health concern like an addiction or eating disorder, or the emotional difficulties that can accompany hardships like divorce and identity issues, talk therapy can help. 

Using evidence-based therapeutic approaches, your therapist can help you work through your past, worries, and pre-existing beliefs to identify actionable strategies for positive and lasting change. BetterHelp therapists are trained and equipped to provide effective therapy in a virtual environment, meaning you can get the mental health care you deserve from the comfort of home—or anywhere with an internet connection. 

BetterHelp allows you to attend virtual therapy sessions with a licensed mental health professional, and with bonus features like weekly group therapy, in-platform journaling and therapy homework, and educational webinars, you can make progress faster and get the most out of your mental health investment. 

Online therapy can help bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. With BetterHelp, you can find the joy and wellbeing you’ve been searching for. Join millions today—get started with a quick mental health assessment.

This is Jennifer Mellum's avatar and link to their profile

Jennifer Mellum

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC
Trauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
5 years of experience

During these trying times, it can be especially helpful to talk to someone if you are feeling stressed, anxious, lonely or depressed. We have all been experiencing various aftereffects of COVID-19. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards seeking change! From a humanistic, mindful, client-centered approach I will help you address concerns which may be causing deeper unconscious patterning. My therapy style is integrative and inspired by your desire to release what no longer is serving you. Compassion-Focused Training • Attachment Bonding Expertise • Intergenerational Trauma Healing • Self-Love & Self-Care • Family Integration and Pattern Resolving I am here to make sure you feel as comfortable as possible when we begin our journey together. I look forward to working with you.

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Deborah Osborn

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issues
25 years of experience

Thankyou for reading my profile. It is difficult to convey my work in few paragraphs. I have been counseling since 1998 when I completed my first master's degree in Counseling. I later earned a second masters in Clinical Social Work. I understand that change is not easy and I know that no single approach to change works for everyone. With this in mind, I am willing to draw upon a number of modalities. I use techniques from mindfulness and gratitude along with traditional Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Reality Therapy to develop a plan of growth. I am always in partnership, working alongside the client and family as we move towards health. I believe that the client is the authority or expert with regard to their goals and needs. I follow the client's lead in developing those goals while offering my expertise in creating a successful plan. I also believe that focusing on a whole person strength-based relationship contributes to a solid base of trust and acceptance. With this solid therapeutic relationship established, the client can feel safe to be authentic and vulnerable.

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Emily Meyers

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience

I am licensed in MO and WA with 17 years of professional work experience. I have expertise in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, parenting issues, motivation, goal-setting, self-esteem, and confidence. I also have experience working with autism and neuro-divergence. I believe in body/mind work and that the nervous system is key to healing past trauma as well as other goals such as weight loss and overall health. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will meet you where you are and help you reach your goals and healing. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Tarin Bickford

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Counselor License Type(s): LISW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 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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Dr. Norman Mar

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseDepressionCoaching
44 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 44 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & depression. 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 sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Annika St John

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietyGriefCoping with life changes
4 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with depression, stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, end of life issues & coping with life changes. I use a relational and strengths based approach to treatment. 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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This is Elizabeth Miles's avatar and link to their profile

Elizabeth Miles

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Idaho, Washington and Oregon with 16 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. 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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This is JoDee Keller's avatar and link to their profile

JoDee Keller

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
16 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 16 years of professional work experience in Illinois and Washington. My professional experience has been largely in schools, working with children, youth, and parents/caregivers. I also have worked in behavioral health with adults with chronic mental illness. Additionally, I have worked with college students of all ages. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & coping with life changes. I believe in clients' capacity for change and for knowing what they need and when they are ready to make changes. In support of this, I believe in focused, short-term, problem-solving approaches such as CBT, solution-focused, and motivational interviewing. I believe that it is also important to understand the context - change is easier with the support of others. It is important to recognize structural sources of life challenges as well - sexism, racism, heterosexism, classism, etc. 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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This is Carlton Hemphill's avatar and link to their profile

Carlton Hemphill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietyLGBTParenting issuesADHD
11 years of experience

Hello and welcome! My name is Carlton Hemphill, a 32-year-old Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Illinois who is also board certified (NCC). I received my Masters from University in Clinical Psychology-Counseling Practice with a concentration on child and families. I have been working in the field since 2015, and practicing as an independent clinician in my own private practice since June 2023. My therapy background is in behavioral and cognitive theories, which means I focus on how our experiences and beliefs shape our behavior. I help clients understand how their environment and interpretations of life events influence their current actions and behavioral patterns. Additionally, I help clients find meaning in life through existential questions, examining fundamental aspects such as purpose and personal values to foster a sense of direction and fulfillment. I strive to create a warm, supportive environment where you are in control as I begin to learn of your unique experiences. I ask direct, thought-provoking questions to help you explore your thoughts and feelings more deeply, gathering important details that inform our work. My feedback is unbiased, aimed at helping you gain clarity and make informed decisions. This process is centered on you—your insights, your growth, and your journey. Working with me feels like a collaborative partnership where your pace and direction are always respected.

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This is Brooke Campbell's avatar and link to their profile

Brooke Campbell

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Bellingham
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issues
4 years of experience

I am a dedicated social worker licensed in Indiana with seven years of experience specializing in relationship and parenting therapy. Passionate about fostering healthy connections, I strive to create supportive environments for individuals and families. Through evidence-based interventions and a client-centered approach, I aim to empower my clients to navigate challenges, strengthen relationships, and cultivate a positive family dynamic. My commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that I stay current with the latest therapeutic techniques, allowing me to provide the highest level of care to those I serve.

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How to find a therapist for 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 with therapists in Bellingham that work best for you in order to begin your personal journey towards emotional healing with a therapist.

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 (CBT), talk therapy, provide group therapy, marriage and family therapy for individuals or couples, or couples therapy. Each type of support of this kind with BetterHelp therapists 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 for therapists. 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 able to treat individuals and couples counseling, and sometimes children, in any type of therapy in the Bellingham region and in the state of Washington. Find a therapist under any of these distinctions and know that the sessions they offer can provide a safe place to heal.

A mental health counselor 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, couples counseling, managing a mood disorder, improving coping skills, self help tips, offer life coaching, family therapy, or change in negative thinking patterns. A Bellingham therapist may also provide a safe place and validation for clients experiencing emotional pain, or that simply want a psychological assessment. Verified providers and therapists 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 offering:

  • CBT
  • DBT
  • Substance use therapy
  • Couples therapy

When you're ready to start your search keep in mind what support 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. Get matched with one of the therapists working on the BetterHelp platform today.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about therapists and mental health services

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 with a therapist compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Bellingham therapist?

The average price of an in-person therapy session in the US with most therapists is $100 to $200 per hour. These prices may be higher in Bellingham due to a higher cost of living, and a limited number of therapists taking new clients. 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 a BetterHelp therapist throughout the state of Washington you can expect significantly more affordable options, with therapists sessions ranging from $65 to $100 per week (billed every four weeks). 

How is a licensed therapist on this Bellingham 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. Therapists 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, therapists here 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 Bellingham psychiatrists to prescribe a drug or medication as treatment, or perform psychological assessments and other psychiatric services.

How does working with a professional counselor in BetterHelp online therapy sessions work?

BetterHelp clinicians and therapists treat clients online across the United States (individuals and couples) through life transitions, inner child exploration, long term depression or anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, 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 helping individuals on topics including managing life transitions, symptoms affecting sexual health, behavioral health, coping skills for anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, marriage counseling, and more. Get matched today.

What mental health issues can psychotherapy address with the help of psychologists?

BetterHelp's verified 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.

Our therapists specialties on BetterHelp include:

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy - This is provided by professional counselors, helping clients identify and change negative thought patterns through structured sessions.
  • Behavior therapy - Behavior therapy techniques are used to help clients modify harmful behaviors and develop healthier habits, often through the guidance of a professional counselor.
  • EMDR therapy - EMDR therapists assist clients in processing traumatic memories to alleviate emotional distress and improve overall well-being, utilizing the expertise of a professional counselor.
  • Talk therapy - Clients explore their feelings and develop strategies for dealing with various mental health issues, often guided by a professional counselor.
  • Depression - This counseling is designed to help individuals manage symptoms of depression and improve their mood and functioning, often working closely with a professional counselor.
  • Anxiety disorders - Sessions for anxiety disorders, offer strategies to manage and reduce anxiety symptoms effectively, often through counseling sessions with a professional counselor.
  • Stress - Tools and techniques to help clients cope with stress and improve their mental resilience, frequently under the supervision of a professional counselor.
  • Eating disorders - Professionals experienced in eating disorders offer specialized counseling to address unhealthy eating patterns and body image issues, with the support of a professional counselor.
  • Grief - Support and guidance are offered to clients experiencing grief, helping them navigate the stages of loss, often in collaboration with a counselor.
  • Attachment therapy - Therapists use this to help clients understand and improve their emotional bonds and relationships, often with the assistance of a counselor.
  • Relationships - Therapists work with clients to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen their connections with others, often using the skills of a counselor.
  • Children, adolescents, and teens - Therapists specializing in youth therapy address the unique mental health needs of children, adolescents, and teens, often involving a counselor in the process.
  • Addiction (substance abuse) - Therapists offer counseling for addiction, helping clients overcome substance abuse and maintain long-term recovery, often under the guidance of a counselor.
  • Divorce - Therapists support individuals through the emotional and practical challenges of ending a marriage, often working with a psychologist to provide comprehensive care.
  • Trauma or PTSD - Therapists specializing in trauma and PTSD help clients process traumatic experiences and reduce their symptoms, frequently collaborating with a psychologist.
  • Bipolar disorder - Therapists provide counseling to manage the mood swings and challenges associated with bipolar disorder, often in consultation with a psychologist.
  • Psychodynamic treatment - Therapists use psychodynamic treatment to explore unconscious processes and how they affect current behavior, often guided by psychologists.
  • Career counseling - Therapists assist clients in making informed decisions about their professional paths and resolving work-related issues, often with the help of psychologists.
  • Alcohol use disorders - Therapists offer specialized counseling to help clients manage and overcome alcohol use disorders, frequently under the supervision of psychologists.
  • OCD - Therapists provide strategies and support to manage obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms, often via psychotherapy.
  • ADHD - Therapists offer counseling to help clients with ADHD improve focus, organization, and overall functioning, often via psychotherapy.
  • Mood disorders - Therapists work with clients to stabilize and improve mood through various therapeutic approaches, frequently in psychotherapy.
  • Sex addiction
  • Complex trauma
  • Life transitions

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 provider through BetterHelp's sister platform, ReGain, which is dedicated to couples and spouses worldwide with licensed therapists. 

How do I know if online counseling is right for my family in Bellingham?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Bellingham 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 and therapists are trained to respond to various concerns, symptoms, and mental health conditions.

Therapists 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 Bellingham 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 psychotherapist.

With a lot of people in WA, therapists may be booked out with clients. Through the list of profiles or therapists 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 98229 or the surrounding zip codes, consider others available through the BetterHelp site where you can schedule a session based on your and the therapist's schedule. No matter if you are seeking help from therapists 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 Bellingham therapist, prep for your session by reading to understand the 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, you can let our therapists know if you have any concerns or feel unsure about what to talk about. Bellingham therapists here may help guide you with open-ended therapeutic questions while offering mental health services. 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 for therapy 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 it might entail. Although psychologists often support people with mental health conditions, you do not need a diagnosis or specific condition. You can discuss grief, relationship concerns, stress, or life changes and ask for general feedback. 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 with a Bellingham counselor 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 that a counselor can help with.

Is mental health care and therapy with a therapist worth it?

Therapy with a licensed counselor 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 therapist 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 sessions 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 during telehealth appointments?

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 for Bellingham, Washington

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 Bellingham 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 to customer service 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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