Starting therapy can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of various mental health conditions, like complex PTSD or depression, or learn new coping skills to handle the challenges of the world. However, transportation issues, financial concerns, and scheduling conflicts can make finding support at an independent practice or counseling center challenging. Online therapy can make attending sessions more convenient. If you’re looking for a therapist in Federal Way, WA, consider an online platform like BetterHelp.

When you work collaboratively with a provider online, you can learn healthier ways to cope with any struggle. BetterHelp providers are committed to helping their clients by providing resources and using various therapeutic techniques to support them through their unique challenges.

If you are looking for individual counseling in the Federal Way or Des Moines area, contact one of the therapists below to get started. You can also read reviews from clients who love working with their providers online to learn more about the benefits of teletherapy.

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Heidi Martin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyGriefIntimacy-related issuesCoping with life changesCoaching
12 years of experience

Hi my name is Heidi and I am a licensed mental health counselor in Florida, Massachusetts, and Washington State, as well as a board certified coach. I have over 10 years of experience, primarily working in private practice Please note I am currently only taking clients within Massachusetts. People come to therapy because they want to feel better. It may be relationship problems, anxiety/depression, work related concerns, etc., but whatever the reason, they want to feel better and do better. In my experience, most people want a greater understanding of themselves and their situation. Making life work and feeling more comfortable with themselves is the goal. I focus on altering self-defeating behaviors and beliefs, helping my clients to gain perspective with a focus on improving the quality of their lives. Among the many tools that promote growth and well being, I utilize insight and mindfulness to help achieve client goals. The people I work with tend to be bright and high functioning yet they sense something is missing. My job includes, among other things. noticing hidden themes and repetitive patterns. Many people treat others better than they treat themselves and usually are much harder on themselves than others, which causes untold pain. I have a lot of admiration for people who embark on a therapeutic journey, it takes courage to seek a more fulfilling life but as serious as I take my work, I also conduct therapy in a relaxed manner where laughter and collaboration is encouraged. I look forward to working with you!

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Pamela (Pam) Skon

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Counselor License Type(s): MSW,LICSW
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseSelf esteemBipolar disorderDepression
12 years of experience

Welcome to Better Help! Making the choice to seek counseling is a difficult one and I am happy that you decided to reach out. Counseling can help you to build a more fulfilling and happier life. There are a variety of approaches in counseling and I will work with you to find the one that works best for you. My counseling style is warm and interactive and combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic counseling styles. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. Sometimes it takes talking to someone else to help you find your true potential, we all have strengths within ourselves. I earned my Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in counseling in 2009 and hold a license in the State of Minnesota as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, self-esteem concerns, addictions, and career challenges. I also have helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. 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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Mehjabeen Aubol

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Counselor License Type(s): MS,LPC, LMHC
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
9 years of experience

Hello! My name is Mehjabeen (Mehj) Aubol. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Washington, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania, and a National Certified Counselor located in Pennsylvania. I have a Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling and have about 9 years of experience working as a mental health counselor. I grew up immersed in more than one culture. I consider myself to have a strong cross-cultural understanding, and can relate to individuals who come from multiple cultures and backgrounds. My approach to counseling is always to get to know the individual first, understand their goals for counseling, and work with them as a team to help them get to where they desire to be in their life. I am always open to feedback and willing to try new methods or approaches that best fit the needs of each individual I work with, as every individual is unique! I have significant experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, PTSD, family conflict, self-esteem issues, and Autism. My primary approach and training is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. As I mentioned, I can modify my approach for each individual I work with. My favorite part of being a counselor is getting to know each and every individual. The most satisfying part of this job is seeing people attain their goals and noticing change in their lives.

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Rochelle Moore

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuse
3 years of experience

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 10 years of experience in behavioral health, counseling and serving others. I have worked with clients who have a variety of life challenges, including navigating diagnosis that impact the family system, careers and overall wellbeing. My approach to counseling is deeply client-centered. I believe in active and engaged listening, creating space and honoring your pain through validation. I also believe in co-creating a variety of creative solutions to work on and through the problems you might be facing. I am looking forward to weaving a new story with you. And not just a story that will reshape your present but one that will be a treatment plan and guide for your future to come. I look forward to working with you and together we can arrive in a better place!

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Sandra Zion

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Counselor License Type(s): M.A.
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
21 years of experience

I am licensed behavioral health therapist with 21 years experience. I live in a small town in Washington state. I am 68 years old and chose to postpone my career in counseling until after my five children were older. Currently, I do not counsel men. My interest is helping women with their challenges at all stages of life. My approach to life is Christian based. I have experience with parenting issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship stressors, abuse and PTSD. I believe people need to be able to tell their own story to someone willing to listen, care and understand their unique experiences and challenges. My clinical approach combines client- centered therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-based and family systems therapy. I look forward to hearing your story.

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Melissa Pagarigan

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Counselor License Type(s): LCSW
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCompassion fatigue
7 years of experience

I am a licensed clinical social worker and have been a practicing clinician for 4 years. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial issues, and ADHD. I have also provided services to individuals who have experienced physical, sexual and emotional trauma. I take a personal approach to my counseling. I believe in taking a personal approach and building a strong relationship with clients in order to assist them through the storm. I utilize a cognitive behavioral, humanistic and strengths based counseling approach. Each therapeutic approach is personalized to the clients needs. It takes strength to get help when needed. The first step is always the most difficult. If you are ready to to take that leap, I am here to help and empower you. I look forward to working with you.

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Katie Evans

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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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Daniella Fernandez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a marriage and family therapist licensed in Washington with over 13 years of counseling experience. I have worked with individuals, couples, and families on a wide range of issues, including stress and anxiety, depression, self-esteem, major life changes and adjustments, grief and loss, guilt and shame, coping with substance abuse, relationship issues, & parenting challenges. I strive to support each client on their journey toward self-discovery and personal growth by providing a safe, supportive, and collaborative counseling environment. I place great value on personal choice, individuality, and respect in the counseling relationship and believe that clients are the experts of their own experience. My role is to support each client in finding their own path toward balance and wellness and offer guidance and clinical reflections along the way. My therapeutic approach is attachment-based, emotion-focused, and person-centered. Reaching out for help is the first step in the journey toward becoming a happier and healthier you. If you are ready to take that step, I am here to support you. I look forward to working with you!

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Natalia Jaramillo

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
5 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 5 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

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Mary Newbill

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Federal Way
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteem
40 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, & coping with grief and loss. I also have experience working with motivation, self esteem, and confidence. 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!

How to find a therapist for counseling in Federal Way

Finding the best therapist close by in Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way. 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 Federal Way, 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way, elsewhere in King, 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Federal Way, 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 98093 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 Federal Way counselor?

Before seeing your Federal Way 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. Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way, 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.

Federal Way 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 Federal Way, Washington

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 Federal Way 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 Federal Way.

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

98001, 98003, 98023, 98063, 98093

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