In 1792, Captain Robert Gray landed in the Grays Harbor area and declared it as Bullfinch Harbor. However, several years later, another captain, George Vancouver renamed the area after Robert Gray, and it is now the County of Grays Harbor, which is where the City of Ocean Shores is located. By 1969, Ocean Shores was considered the “Richest Little City” with a valuation of $35,000,000.

No matter how much money you have, we all know that money cannot buy happiness. If you are feeling down and cannot seem to shake the feeling, talking to someone is important. Sometimes you may need an impartial professional to listen and you can find some of the best therapists and counselors in Washington right here in the Ocean Shores area.

This is Stephanie Pattison's avatar and link to their profile

Stephanie Pattison

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC,CDBT
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
12 years of experience

Hello! I am a licensed mental health counselor and nationally certified DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) therapist. I have over 10 years experience working with individuals with a variety of concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma/abuse, relationship issues, out of control emotions and behaviors (including addictions), and life transitions. I believe in taking a warm, authentic approach to counseling and have been told that I have a gift for helping people feel comfortable and at ease. I utilize a variety of approaches in my work including solution focused, strength based, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral modalities. I often work with clients to find a balance between acceptance and change in their lives, and to help them recognize their individual strengths as well as potential areas for growth. In our work together you can expect a genuine connection, which includes compassionate listening, loving honesty and sometimes a little humor. If you think we might be a good match, please contact me and together we can begin the process of helping you feel more happy, satisfied and at peace with your life!

Get started View profile
This is Cornell Anderson's avatar and link to their profile

Cornell Anderson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LMHC,Cornell W Anderson
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsParenting issuesDepression
12 years of experience

My name is Cornell Anderson. I have a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Brandman University. I'm a licensed Mental Health Counselor with additional training as a Chemical Dependency Professional. I utilize an eclectic approach to support client's individual needs using cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, structural family therapy, client-centered, and motivational interviewing. I have experience working with children and adults struggling with mood instability, substance use, challenging irrational beliefs, negative self-talk, low self-esteem, anxiety, history of sexual trauma, and identity development. Client-Centered Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 10

Get started View profile
This is Tara Brown's avatar and link to their profile

Tara Brown

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
8 years of experience

I am licensed in the state of Washington with 8 years of professional work experience with both teens and adults. I have experience in helping clients with a wide range of concerns from stress and anxiety to coping with addictions, overcoming the impact of trauma and abuse, as well as working to improve 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 the fear of judgment. Some of the modalities that I may utilize are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical and Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational interviewing (MI), Compassion focused Therapy (CFT), Eye-movement and Desensitization Therapy (EMDR), and others that may seem appropriate to meet your therapy needs. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Jane Mata's avatar and link to their profile

Jane Mata

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesEating disordersBipolar disorderDepression
20 years of experience

I am licensed in Oklahoma with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, eating disorders, & bipolar disorder. 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.

Get started View profile
This is Tui Lindsey's avatar and link to their profile

Tui Lindsey

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseDepressionCoping with life changesCompassion fatigue
21 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 21 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, & coping with life changes. 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 appreciate the step you are taking to make a better life for yourself.

Get started View profile
This is Kevin Hoops's avatar and link to their profile

Kevin Hoops

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Relationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesSelf esteemCoping with life changes
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Arizona and Washington with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, trauma and abuse, intimacy related issues, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe that you are the expert of your life 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 healthy or positive change. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.

Get started View profile
This is Dr. Christina Gonzalez's avatar and link to their profile

Dr. Christina Gonzalez

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Counselor License Type(s): EdD,LMHC,NCC
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseIntimacy-related issuesDepression
20 years of experience

Hello there-- you made it! Thank you for taking the first step in contacting me! I am a bilingual and bicultural Licensed Mental Health Counselor licensed in Florida with over 15 years of experience working as a psychotherapist. I have worked around the world- in Mexico, in the US, in Germany, in Japan, and in US, and worked in a wide variety of settings, including extensive work in community mental health, substance abuse/addictions, child welfare, and with military and veteran populations. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including couples/relationship issues, anxiety, depression, immigration-related issues, abuse and trauma, divorce and separation, and grief and loss, among other things. I have also worked extensively with the Marine Corps in the area of force preservation and suicide prevention, and have worked with other branches of the service as well, both in the US and OCONUS. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating anyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. I honestly believe we can work together to find solutions for almost any problem and that we can emerge from challenges stronger, and even more resilient. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, mindfulness training, and other techniques. I also have incorporated many things I have learned in my travels and interactions with psychology in other cultures and countries into my extensive training. I will tailor our interactions and treatment to help you meet your goals and work collaboratively with you every step along the way. 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!

Get started View profile
This is Ian Schroeder's avatar and link to their profile

Ian Schroeder

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Counselor License Type(s): MS, LPC, NCC, CCTP,MAC, CADC III
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsLGBTTrauma and abuseAnger management
11 years of experience

My pronouns are he/him. My approach to counseling is as a partner to walk with someone towards a place of healing. I utilize a trauma informed, person centered approach to help others realize their potential and work closely with them, on the path of their choosing, to help them achieve their goals. I find that it is vital to the counseling relationship that we honor the unique experiences of all individuals and recognize the strengths that have brought them this far. I have personal experience with addiction and recovery that I believe enhances my ability to connect with others who are struggling. I specialize in working with individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQUIA2S+ community, those who are experiencing issues related to addiction, those who have experienced varying degrees of trauma, and those seeking gender affirming counseling and support. My primary therapeutic approaches are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I understand that treatment is not "one-size fits all" and believe that in order to achieve long lasting change we must develop a plan of care together.

Get started View profile
This is Lorie Boyd's avatar and link to their profile

Lorie Boyd

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseParenting issuesDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in New York with more than 22 years of professional work experience. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that are challenging you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Let's go on the journey together.

Get started View profile
This is Marcia Tharp's avatar and link to their profile

Marcia Tharp

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Ocean Shores
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefDepressionCoping with life changes
17 years of experience

I am licensed in Montana with 15 years of professional work experience. My clinical experience includes work with all ages and in multiple settings. I believe the answers we seek to the problems in our life are within each of us. My therapeutic process is to accompany you in your journey of discovery, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, Relaxation, and Narrative Therapy approaches. My therapeutic style is to meet you where you are and using my eclectic approach, help to illuminate choices and opportunities. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy takes courage. Good job for getting started!

Get started View profile

How to find a therapist for counseling in Ocean Shores

Finding the best therapist close by in Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores. 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 Ocean Shores, 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores, elsewhere in Grays Harbor, 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Ocean Shores, 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 98569 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 Ocean Shores counselor?

Before seeing your Ocean Shores 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. Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores, 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.

Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores, 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 Ocean Shores 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 Ocean Shores.

Below are some of the zip codes served by BetterHelp therapists in Ocean Shores:

98569

Popular cities near Ocean Shores, WA

Find the right therapist for your needs
Match with a qualified therapist