Personal challenges come to everyone. Yet, when your emotions are too painful and your thoughts too unclear, you have no resources to overcome them. Disappointment takes over your mind, and you become ever more frustrated by daily stresses. You’ve lost interest in the activities and experiences that once excited you.

Poulsbo was the birthplace of Scott Shipley, an Olympic canoeing contender. If your canoe has sprung an emotional leak, you can’t cope with daily stress, much less unusual losses. Talk to a counselor in the Poulsbo area for a smoother float down the river of life.

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Helen Jackson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
25 years of experience

Hi, my name is Helen, and I am an accomplished Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with twenty-five years of progressively responsible experience in the field of social work. Throughout all my years of work, I have always viewed my main task as building rapport with patients and their families, while providing effective, and time sensitive appropriate counseling. I am experienced in telehealth having successfully worked from home with online counseling through Aetna for at least five years. I am excited to be providing this service once again online to assist, encourage, and support those in need of help. My extensive work history and training has allowed me to gain experience and mastery knowledge in behavioral health, mental health, social work, program planning, development and implementation. My work experience includes an active history providing all aspects of social work principles with diverse populations in varied settings. I excelled in developing close communication and excellent working relationships with individuals, numerous community leaders, and resources, establishing vital networks to ensure availability of placement, with smooth transitions upon discharge as needed. My earlier experience included work with military populace where I was responsible for investigating all assigned cases of child abuse, neglect, molestation domestic violence, and presenting my findings of either substantiated or unsubstantiated, to the Family Advocacy Program, (FAP). In other agencies I provided sensitive time-limited casework services to children and families. I have also provided marital counseling, parent-child education and casework planning as needed, in addition to referring clients for psychological/psychiatric evaluations and treatment. Additional experience was gained at the state mental health hospital, where I served as a float Psychiatric Social Worker. As a float, my services were utilized on every ward throughout the entire hospital, to include specialized units such as geriatrics, traumatic brain injury (TBI), sexual assault, and forensics, to name a few. I look forward to speaking with you!

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Alexander Johnson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Counselor License Type(s): MA, LMHC, CDP
Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseSelf esteemDepression
14 years of experience

Congratulations, you have just found BetterHelp! I truly appreciate your choice in arriving at my profile. I am a duel credentialed clinician. Originally from Chicago, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Substance Use Disorder Professional in the State of Washington. I completed my undergraduate psychology degree at the University Of San Francisco. I furthered my education by earning a Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology from Seattle University. Being in the behavioral health field since 2007 and working with a breadth of diverse populations from a range of financial backgrounds has been helpful. My overarching experience includes clinical services in the mental health, chemical dependency, and behavioral health fields with males and females ages 15 to 65+ from varying cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have worked in the clinical long-term residential treatment setting, the clinical out-patient setting, the educational arena, as well as the medical environment. I also have significant experience working with populations who possess co-occurring disorders. In addition, my experience includes working with multidisciplinary teams providing direct clinical service; intake evaluations; diagnosis; individual, group, and family psychotherapy; outreach; Psychoeducation; crisis response; and coordinating of care with DMHPs, SPD, HMC, and Swedish Medical Center’s ED. I have significant experience providing therapeutic interventions for individuals and couples experiencing stress and anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, psychosis, personality disorders, schizophrenia, dysfunctional interpersonal relationships, adjustment disorders, unhealthy family dynamics, low self esteem, and existential crisis. My aim is for the clients themselves to self report an improved state of being. I am versed in a variety of therapeutic approaches such as Person-Centered, Narrative, Dialectical, Humanistic, Existential, Cognitive Behavioral, Strength-Based, and more. My dedication to aiding my fellow human beings is lifelong. Let us begin on the path of your progress.

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Diane Graham

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,LCSW
Stress, AnxietySelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
12 years of experience

Hello! I am a Clinical Social Worker based in Spokane and am licensed in Washington and Idaho. I have been working in the counseling field for 11 years. I received my master’s degree in social work from Eastern Washington University and my bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University-Hawaii. I am originally from Hawaii and moved to Spokane for graduate school. My approach to therapy is client-centered. I enjoy helping people take steps towards living their values and achieving their goals. I have worked with clients in several areas. I am most experienced in providing career counseling. Career counseling includes work/life balance, career/vocational exploration, career transitions, workplace concerns (getting along with coworkers, bosses, etc.), and other workplace-related stress/anxiety. I draw from multiple treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). I look forward to working with you!

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Michael Friedman

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Counselor License Type(s): MA,LHMC,NCC
Trauma and abuseParenting issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
13 years of experience

It's not easy asking for help and therapy can seem pretty intimidating. It doesn't have to be, though. Sometimes, it's nice to just talk to a non-friend/relative to get a fresh re-frame, hear some "professional" advice , or just vent about your day. I've been on both sides of the couch and used these learning experiences to bring insight, humor, and a friendly approach to my work. Hi, I'm Michael I am a licensed mental health therapist with over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and adults. I have helped a wide range of clients with concerns such as depression, anxiety, parenting problems, relationship issues, trauma, domestic violence, career and life changes, and family with personality disorders. As a bonus, I also studied art therapy counseling and utilize this whenever a client is interested. As another bonus, I'm quite witty. My therapy style is interactive, engaged, and empathetic. I have a diverse background of educational trainings and combine cognitive behavior therapy with a behavioral, psychodynamic, and humanistic approach. I also promote strength-based work with a trauma-focused understanding, which means learning how to utilize your own strengths to overcome your individual challenges. My overall therapy goal is to help you see yourself in better perspective, learn new skills to aid in your growth, and feel supported in moving through life's difficulties while making the changes you want to see. I look forward to working with you!

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Cheryl Meng

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Counselor License Type(s): LICSW,CCM,Cheryl A Meng
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
18 years of experience

As an MSW, LICSW, CCM with experience in child welfare and medical social work, I am committed to excellence of service. My life experience contributes to the skills I have gained through a rich variety of educational and work settings. My therapy style is client centered, focusing on client goals and life situations. Respect and compassion are the foundation of my practice.

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Trisha Thorson

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Stress, AnxietyTrauma and abuseGriefParenting issuesDepression
15 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. 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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John Shobe

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Stress, AnxietyParenting issuesAnger managementDepressionCoping with life changes
33 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 33 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

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Gina Gross

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Stress, AnxietyLGBTFamily conflictsDepressionCoping with life changes
8 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, family conflicts, & 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 can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

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Karen Keith

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Relationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteem
10 years of experience

I am licensed in Montana and Washington with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with relationship issues, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with grief and loss. 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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Ann Morlin

Clinical therapist offering therapy in WA, Poulsbo
Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesGriefSelf esteemDepression
24 years of experience

I am licensed in Washington with 24 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, coping with grief and loss, & 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. 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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How to find a therapist for counseling in Poulsbo

Finding the best therapist close by in Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo. 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 Poulsbo, 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo, elsewhere in Kitsap, 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo online therapy platform verified?

Therapists in Poulsbo, 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo?

One of the potentially rewarding aspects of working with a Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 98370 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 Poulsbo counselor?

Before seeing your Poulsbo 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. Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo, 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.

Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo, 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 Poulsbo 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 Poulsbo.

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

98370

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