Lake Forest Park is one of the most beautiful small cities in the country, as it was planned with natural landmarks in mind. The picturesque landscape and lush parks are a comfort to its residents. But sometimes, even in the midst of peaceful nature, you might feel feelings of despair or turmoil.

Depression, stress or anxiety can attack anyone at any time and in any place. If you are struggling with inner turmoil, help is available. Counselors in the Lake Forest Park area are available now to offer you support and guidance. Do not fight your battles alone. Contact a therapist today.

This is Dr. Hillary Schaefer's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Hillary Schaefer

Offering therapy in WA
License: PhD,LCP
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changesADHD
12 years of experience

Whether this is your first session or 100th, searching for a new therapist can feel overwhelming or daunting. Picking a person you trust to hear your struggles from a picture and a paragraph is no small thing! Here’s a little bit more about me to help guide your decision. PLEASE NOTE: currently all my evening slots are full. I do apologize, these times go fast! My current available hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 pm EST. My background: I am a licensed clinical psychologist with experience working with clients of diverse backgrounds. I earned my doctorate in 2013 from the University of Virginia and have worked in clinic, hospital, university, and military settings. Previously, I saw clients at and directed a clinic for families and children, and I also have more general experience across age groups and areas of concern. I feel comfortable helping you with stress and anxiety, depression and self-esteem, trauma, motivation, parenting issues, relationship concerns, LGBTQ+ issues, Veteran or military issues, and can provide support for medical difficulties of your own or in those you love. I’m excited to step into an online platform and continue to help clients see their strengths. My practice: I aim to create an environment where you feel understood and supported, but also leave with practical tools that you can use immediately. I strive for transparency and collaboration, and want us to work together to find pathways to your goals. My approach is anchored in sound science and best practices, with plenty of wiggle room to adjust to who you are as a person and what works best for you. No matter what, I believe that there is a better, happier version of your life and I’d be privileged to help you find it.

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Anna Sharpe

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LMHC,LPC
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
16 years of experience

I’m a licensed counselor in Washington state with 15 years of experience helping people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, relationship problems and general life challenges. My therapy style is warm, accepting and respectful. I honor each client’s right and ability to make their own choices and decisions, and see my role as a helper and guide. My approach combines humanistic, client-centered, cognitive behavioral, trauma-informed and mindfulness therapy. I also have been trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Family Systems Therapy. Reaching out to a counselor is never easy, so if you’ve taken this first step, then you’re off to a great start! I look forward to meeting you and helping you achieve your goals!

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Dr. Susan Rahman

Offering therapy in WA
License: Ph.D.,Ph.D.
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseGriefDepression
30 years of experience

I have worked in Washington state as a licensed psychologist since 1998. I have worked with clients that are experiencing a wide range of issues from depression, anxiety, low self esteem, post traumatic stress disorder, relationship issues, aging and life transitions. My work experience includes working with active duty soldiers and family members, incarcerated women and chronically mentally ill individuals and their families. Having over five years experience working with active duty soldiers, I am interested in providing treatment for military personnel with trauma related to PTSD and moral injury. My specialty includes working with individuals experiencing undue or extreme influence including those in cults, domestic violence or coercive relationships and catfishing. The treatment approach involves the following. Based upon a clinical history, strengths and problem areas are identified and goals are set with the client. Relevant strategies are utilized and progress towards goals is assessed with the client. My therapeutic style is interactive, treating the client with respect, and providing a safe and secure environment to do therapeutic work. This work involves increasing self-awareness, self-acceptance and skills for self-care and empowerment. Therapeutic interventions are based upon theoretical approaches including psychodynamic, developmental attachment theory, cognitive behavioral treatment, cognitive processing, trauma treatment modalities, mindfulness, self-care and client centered therapies.

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ArinNaia Olson

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA LMHC
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am a mental health counselor licensed in Washington with over 7 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients with an array of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, self esteem and parenting problems. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My therapy style is peaceful, warm, and caring. I believe in treating anyone with kindness, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in labels or one size fits all. My approach combines Mindfulness holistic, mind body and spirit along with cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, and somatic trauma informed care. I will treat each individual with a specialized attentiveness to their unique set of needs and presenting issues that they bring to therapy. Together we will collaborate on a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I have found the therapeutic relationship to be the first and most important part for creating a pathway that empowers my client’s highest potential for growth and healing. It takes brave heart to seek a healing path and we are not alone on this journey. I am here to assist, guide, and empower you towards your deepest hearts quest for true lasting change and happiness. I look forward to meeting and working with you!

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Carri McCrary

Offering therapy in WA
License: MA,LPC
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
13 years of experience

I am a thoughtful counselor with best practices at the heart of all my patient encounters. I have over a decade of experience working with groups and individuals who present with a variety of issues, including trauma, substance use, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems. I graduated from Pacific University with a Master of Arts in counseling psychology as well as from The University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Arts in psychology. I utilize evidence base practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I use mindfulness techniques as a supplemental practice for interested patients as well. I am an easy listener who is interested in getting to know each patient and learn what their personal goals are and how I might help them. My therapeutic approach is human centered and unconditionally positive.

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Lisa Smith

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseDepression
7 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress anxiety, coping with addictions, lgbtqia related 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 seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Mitch Artman

Offering therapy in WA
License: LCSW,MA
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseCoping with life changes
14 years of experience

I became a therapist to help people suffer less and grow more. I believe that therapy is a journey and that just as you wish to move past your pain, your pain has a meaning. Our goal is not to get you back to who you were before your issues began, but to integrate the lessons life is offering you through this challenging time. I've worked in private practice, a mental health jail, a high-needs public clinic and in people's homes; I've exposed myself to a variety of human challenges and triumphs. Over a decade of practice, I've learned to have space for people's processes, to be a safe space as a container, to remain grounded in my listening and to be authentic in my practice. I often use a spiritual approach in treatment -- not of any religion, but in the sense that a deeper, more meaningful and integrated you seeks to come forth. This approach has been fruitful for people of all beliefs, including atheists. I believe your life has a meaning, and that you are it. I only do teletherapy via video - no messaging or phone calls. I also need to know the basics of your case and your needs before agreeing to beginning treatment, even if the algorithm matches us. This is to ensure I am a good clinical fit for you, and can responsibly and compassionately support you in therapy. Finally, I write about therapy at https://medium.com/@myartman and https://medium.com/@myartman/membership Thank you. Mitch

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This is Wendy Katz's avatar and link to their profile

Wendy Katz

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
20 years of experience

I am licensed clinical social worker in Washington with 20 years of professional work experience helping clients with grief and loss, stress and anxiety, relationship issues, depression, & coping with life changes. I work with clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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This is Dr. Kasey Grass's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Kasey Grass

Offering therapy in WA
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
13 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 13 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, 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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This is Raven Mosley's avatar and link to their profile

Raven Mosley

Offering therapy in WA
AddictionsLGBTSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCompassion fatigue
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Oregon with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, lgbtq+ related issues, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & career difficulties. 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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How to find counseling in Lake Forest Park

Finding the best therapist close by in Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park. 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 Lake Forest Park, 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park, elsewhere in King, or in the greater state of Washington.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Some other commonly asked questions on therapy with a licensed counselor and BetterHelp serving the Lake Forest Park area can be found below:

How does the cost of in-person counseling compare to the cost of BetterHelp with a licensed Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park, 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 98155 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park 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 Lake Forest Park, 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.

Lake Forest Park has many clinicians who practice person or client-centered individual therapy in-person and through online therapy to assist clients in their healing journey. If you opt into online therapy, you might also be able to meet with providers all over the United States and change therapists easily at any time. Many people struggling with anxiety and depression, substance abuse, body image issues, and more find therapists that are a good fit for them, feel supported, and gain further insight into their lives through internet-based therapy.

Do therapists judge you in therapy sessions?

The boundaries between you and a therapist are in place to help you and them regarding ethical concerns. Mental health professionals are held by ethical standards through the American Psychological Association (APA) and are not allowed to judge or harm their clients. If you are concerned about sharing details about yourself, feel free to withhold personal information. Their job in the therapeutic relationship is to create a safe place, help you gain a deeper understanding of your mental health, and support you. You might consider changing counselors if you don't feel safe or respected.

Stay up to date with the leading online counseling platform

To stay up to date with BetterHelp's initiatives through their social channels, you can follow them on Pinterest, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. For mental health tips, check out the BetterHelp YouTube channel.

Take some time today to learn more about the team of therapists at BetterHelp to understand the services available to you clearly. If you are new to therapy or have any questions about the services and terms, please reach out through the contact page or send an email to contact@betterhelp.com.

If you’re ready to sign up for online therapy, consider signing up with a platform like BetterHelp and get matched within 24 to 48 hours.

If you are experiencing a crisis or emergency, don't use this site's online services. If you are in life-threatening danger, call 911. If you require support for a crisis, reach out to the hotlines below:

A woman meets with a therapist online in her home city of Lake Forest Park.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Lake Forest Park:

98155

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