Seattle, Washington Therapists

Guide to Finding Mental Health Professionals  in Seattle

Seattle, Washington is located in the Pacific Northwest off the Puget Sound and is home to 724,745 residents. The largest city in the state, there are many forms of outside entertainment with the surrounding mountains, forests, and parkland to experience. Many industries including Microsoft, Amazon, Costco, and Starbucks are headquartered in Seattle and give the city’s economy a nationwide identity. Tourists who visit the city enjoy Seattle’s notable Space Needle and Pike’s Place Fish Market. With unique experiences only found on the West Coast; Seattle can be a visitor’s delight.

However, the city faces a variety of challenges. Due to the city’s increased popularity, residents are faced with an affordable housing crunch and increased traffic congestion. Ranked 6th in the nation for the worst average daily commute, Seattle residents find that they spend 54 minutes traveling to and from work than other cities whose average commute is 49 minutes. Also, citizens have seen a spike in Seattle’s homeless population as a recent study indicated that 13% of its population lives in poverty. In 2018, the area held a point-in-time count revealing that 8,600 homeless citizens are part of King County’s ongoing homelessness crisis.

Additionally, mental health issues are a problem for Seattle. Research indicates that 13.7 suicide deaths per 100,000 people occur yearly. Seattle’s males reported that they are 3 times more likely than females to commit suicide as well as adults 45 years or older. In the King County Community Health Needs Assessment, a portion of Seattle’s youth reported having depressed feelings – an increase across the county. Recently, the area was also ranked 41st nationally in addressing citizens’ mental health issues. This ranged from adults with serious thoughts of suicide to adults with AMI (any mental illness) who did not receive treatment. While officials recognize that the gaps in providing service exist, the Seattle area remains inadequate on a national level for providing treatment. This along with rapid housing costs can lead to stress, anxiety, and a host of health issues.

Deciding to go to a therapist can be easy, but for some, finding a therapist can feel like a difficult experience. Let us help you with that process. Taking the time to find a therapist who will solely be invested in your well-being is important. You may see concerns in your life as either vague or inconsequential and it’s all right to seek help even during those times. Whether you or someone you know suffers from suicidal thoughts or bipolar disorder, you do not have to face these issues alone at home, in relationships, at work, or at school.

It is important to ensure when sharing your thoughts and feelings, you are comfortable with this person during your session. First, determine the ailments that you suffer from while looking for recommendations and our trained professionals can help you along the process. When selecting your qualified Seattle professional, make sure that they are local and that their office hours are compatible with yours.

Questions to consider during the research process are:
• Why am I seeking help?
• What are my goals in therapy?
• Am I more comfortable with a man or a woman?
• Are there any personal aspects I’m not willing to discuss?
• Do I want to be able to lead the discussion, or have it led?
• How long do I plan to attend therapy?
• Does my problem need extra specialization?

Take time to connect with professionals by viewing their profiles, bios, and blog posts. While in many cases, the success of your treatment depends on developing a strong relationship with your therapist. Once you have narrowed down the list of practitioners that meet your needs, locations, and schedule, your next step is to schedule a time for a phone interview. This allows you the opportunity to see if you can converse with them with ease, understand their style, and see if they are empathetic and interested in you.

Life can be difficult. Taking time to invest in you is a necessity. With effective therapy and treatment, many individuals with mental health issues live successful and productive lives. Your therapy journey is about you and your needs and we wish you the best.