Finding a Therapist in West Seattle
Finding a Therapist in West Seattle
While West Seattle is beautiful in the summer (and sometimes the fall), the winters can feel rough and you may be dreading the dark and rainy months ahead. Or maybe you’re just relieved that the holidays are over – it can be a very stressful period for people due to family or relationship issues, or because it is a time when grief can be more pronounced. Regardless of how you feel about the changing seasons or the holidays, if you’ve been noticing that you are feeling restless or “stuck” in your life, you may have thought about getting some support. If you’re considering seeing a therapist or life coach, I want to help you find someone who is a good fit.
I want to help you find a therapist in West Seattle
I know from personal experience that finding the right person to help can be a daunting process. If this is your first time seeking professional support it can be really confusing to know how to navigate all the options. Or if you’ve tried therapy or coaching in the past and had a not-so-great experience then you may be hesitant to try it again. I get it. First, let’s start with whether therapy or coaching may be more appropriate. They both have their benefits and it really depends on your needs and what type of support you are seeking. If you’re looking to set and achieve specific goals and want someone to keep you accountable, it may be worth looking into coaching. If you’re struggling with mental health or emotional issues, or think you may have unresolved trauma, then therapy may be a better fit. It’s important to note that therapists (i.e. counselors, social workers, psychologists, etc.) are licensed professionals and have a minimum of a master’s degree and specific clinical training. In addition, therapy sessions are legally required to be confidential. Coaching on the other hand is not a regulated profession, however, some coaches are certified. These are generalizations of how each profession works so it is important to consult with the individual coach or therapist about their approach and in what ways they could help you.
Below are a few tips as you conduct your search for a therapist in West Seattle to help you:
Schedule a consult – This is my number one piece of advice. While you can often find lots of information about someone from their website, the best way to see if you click with them is to have a conversation. Most therapists and coaches offer free phone consultations and while it might feel intimidating I encourage you to take advantage of this offer. You will have the opportunity to talk about your needs and goals and ask questions. Trust your intuition – if it feels like you’re compatible, then go ahead and schedule an appointment, but if something doesn’t feel right to you then don’t be afraid to keep looking.
Seek recommendations from other people you trust – If you have a doctor, massage therapist, chiropractor, etc. that you like, ask them if they have any referrals for therapists or coaches. Or if you feel comfortable you could ask friends, family members, or colleagues if they know of anyone.
Identify your needs – Determine what specific issues or concerns you want to address in therapy or coaching. Do you need help with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, or another issue? Knowing your needs will guide your search, BUT if you just have a more general feeling of being “stuck” and aren’t exactly sure what is wrong that is okay, too!
Specialization – If you have a specific concern, look for therapists who specialize in the area that aligns with your needs. For example, if you're dealing with a significant loss, look for a therapist specializing in grief counseling. Or if you have tried talk therapy before and know you want something more, possibly consider looking for Brainspotting in Seattle or EMDR in Seattle.
Schedule a free consultation with a therapist in West Seattle
I hope this helps give you some ideas on how to find a therapist in West Seattle. If you’re still feeling unsure, feel free to call me at (646) 543-7878, or click here, for a free 15-minute phone consultation. I’d be happy to talk with you about what is going on and what type of help might work for your situation. If I’m not the right person then I will do my best to point you in the right direction. If you are looking for help with life transitions, anxiety, grief, or relationship issues you can read more about how I can help here.