Photo of Jonathan Vander Schuur, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jonathan Vander Schuur
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
I love serving my community in Anacortes and surrounding areas. I have a wide range of expertise. I offer counseling for individuals, couples and minors. I work with all ages, especially children and teens, and take state insurances. I have significant experience working with couples, especially in domestic violence situations and in family reunification. I am also a Guardian Ad Litem for Island county.
(833) 232-4735 View (833) 232-4735
Photo of Dr. Katie Eastman, PsyD, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Katie Eastman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
As a licensed psychotherapist and coach specializing in loss and transition, I support people of all ages before, during and after serious loss by: Providing practical tools for coping with serious illness, death, divorce, retirement and other life transitions, allowing the pain of loss to serve as an opportunity for positive change. Facing loss can remind us of what we value most providing opportunity to consciously make choices that re- affirm these values in all aspects of our lives. Over time, this process of reaffirming and recreating our lives reveals the skills, gifts and talents we bring to the world.
As a licensed psychotherapist and coach specializing in loss and transition, I support people of all ages before, during and after serious loss by: Providing practical tools for coping with serious illness, death, divorce, retirement and other life transitions, allowing the pain of loss to serve as an opportunity for positive change. Facing loss can remind us of what we value most providing opportunity to consciously make choices that re- affirm these values in all aspects of our lives. Over time, this process of reaffirming and recreating our lives reveals the skills, gifts and talents we bring to the world.
(360) 703-9131 View (360) 703-9131
Photo of Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gino Wolfe—Anxiety•depression•grief—Kids Adults
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA, SUDP, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
Do you ever feel like you’re alone in life as if the world is resting on your shoulders? Do you feel the burden of caring for loved ones while feeling like no one is there to take care of you? Do you feel disconnected from relationships in your life? Are you in the military and struggling with feelings of anxiety or stress about your deployment? Are you having trouble leaving your experiences from the military behind or experiencing PTSD? Is grief from losing a loved one impacting your relationships and your ability to manage the day-to-day? Through expert therapy, you can learn to move beyond your pain and be happier. Reach out now
(360) 219-9635 View (360) 219-9635
Photo of Abcde L. K. Matias, MS, Counselor
Abcde L. K. Matias
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Hi all, I'm accepting new clients. I believe everyone has a voice that matters, and I want to hear your story. Therapy can be challenging and enjoyable however the process unfolds, I will be there for the journey. I’m here to help guide you on what you think is important and provide useful tools along the way. Specializing in adolescents, adult counseling, and couples counseling through telehealth, other counseling specializations are available as well. Also, I'm currently facilitating an ongoing open Women's Support Group via telehealth.
Hi all, I'm accepting new clients. I believe everyone has a voice that matters, and I want to hear your story. Therapy can be challenging and enjoyable however the process unfolds, I will be there for the journey. I’m here to help guide you on what you think is important and provide useful tools along the way. Specializing in adolescents, adult counseling, and couples counseling through telehealth, other counseling specializations are available as well. Also, I'm currently facilitating an ongoing open Women's Support Group via telehealth.
(360) 504-4825 View (360) 504-4825
Photo of Mary Susan Schwartz, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Susan Schwartz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Anacortes, WA 98221  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
Perhaps you're hoping to improve your mood, increase your self-compassion, or enhance your romantic relationship. Maybe you're seeking a non-judgmental and supportive relationship with your therapist, within which you can learn strategies you can use right away. If so, I look forward to hearing from you!
(206) 455-8671 View (206) 455-8671

Online Therapists

Photo of Sophia Hilsen, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sophia Hilsen
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
By integrating multiple modalities, I use tools from CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, negative self-talk, depression, or the stresses of life? Perhaps you're facing major life transitions, unresolved grief, or relationship issues. If any of this resonates, I'm here to help. Hi, I'm Sophia Hilsen, a devoted and compassionate therapist committed to supporting you in creating the life you want. I work with clients of all ages, including children 6 and older, teens, adults, and couples, who are motivated to better understand themselves and their relationships. My goal is to provide a safe space where we can build your confidence to help you take ownership in your life.
By integrating multiple modalities, I use tools from CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT.
Are you struggling with overwhelming anxiety, negative self-talk, depression, or the stresses of life? Perhaps you're facing major life transitions, unresolved grief, or relationship issues. If any of this resonates, I'm here to help. Hi, I'm Sophia Hilsen, a devoted and compassionate therapist committed to supporting you in creating the life you want. I work with clients of all ages, including children 6 and older, teens, adults, and couples, who are motivated to better understand themselves and their relationships. My goal is to provide a safe space where we can build your confidence to help you take ownership in your life.
(360) 926-9561 View (360) 926-9561
Photo of Elizabeth Vital-Gragnani, MA, LMHC, RDT, Counselor
Elizabeth Vital-Gragnani
Counselor, MA, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98020
I believe that the world is a beautifully complex, and yet sometimes concerning place. Within our human connections we are able to lighten the load and free ourselves from the burdens we carry. I offer compassionate and individually designed sessions. My approach is strengths based and garnered to find hope and inspiration. In my work I also incorporate theoretical perspectives such as expressive arts therapy, narrative therapy, existential therapy and mindfulness.
I believe that the world is a beautifully complex, and yet sometimes concerning place. Within our human connections we are able to lighten the load and free ourselves from the burdens we carry. I offer compassionate and individually designed sessions. My approach is strengths based and garnered to find hope and inspiration. In my work I also incorporate theoretical perspectives such as expressive arts therapy, narrative therapy, existential therapy and mindfulness.
(425) 357-7343 View (425) 357-7343
Photo of Cristina Neuenschwander, MA, LMHCA
Cristina Neuenschwander
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a number of relational therapy modalities, primarily informed by attachment theory, family systems theories, and narrative therapy.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I am passionate about walking along side others on their journey toward wholeness and healing. I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing a wide range of emotional or behavioral issues. All of us have experienced suffering or relational brokenness within our stories that can feel confusing or hard to address. While we are most often harmed in relationship, it is also in relationship that we heal. It is my hope that in our sessions, you will experience the relief of engaging the hard moments of your story in the presence of a supportive witness as you move toward healing.
I work from a number of relational therapy modalities, primarily informed by attachment theory, family systems theories, and narrative therapy.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I am passionate about walking along side others on their journey toward wholeness and healing. I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and children experiencing a wide range of emotional or behavioral issues. All of us have experienced suffering or relational brokenness within our stories that can feel confusing or hard to address. While we are most often harmed in relationship, it is also in relationship that we heal. It is my hope that in our sessions, you will experience the relief of engaging the hard moments of your story in the presence of a supportive witness as you move toward healing.
(425) 600-9103 View (425) 600-9103
Photo of Hannah Guggenheim, MSW, MFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Guggenheim
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MFA
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249
Waitlist for new clients
Art Therapy & Narrative Therapy.
Intuitive, culturally sensitive, solution-based therapy can help you cultivate gratitude, understand nuance and heal. Our focus: wellbeing, self acceptance and your quest for ongoing transformation. I am a trauma informed practitioner supporting life transitions for individuals, couples and families. I work with adjustment difficulties and disorders, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD, SPD, infertility and parent coaching. LGBTQ2SIA, gender affirming mental health therapy. I am a certified technology addiction specialist.
Art Therapy & Narrative Therapy.
Intuitive, culturally sensitive, solution-based therapy can help you cultivate gratitude, understand nuance and heal. Our focus: wellbeing, self acceptance and your quest for ongoing transformation. I am a trauma informed practitioner supporting life transitions for individuals, couples and families. I work with adjustment difficulties and disorders, anxiety/depression, grief and loss, PTSD, ADHD, SPD, infertility and parent coaching. LGBTQ2SIA, gender affirming mental health therapy. I am a certified technology addiction specialist.
(360) 288-4772 View (360) 288-4772
Photo of Bee Cook, LMHCA, Counselor
Bee Cook
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who seek to understand and express their emotions in relation to their life experiences and identity. Clients who work with me want to grow in processing their feelings and deepen self-understanding. Through a psychodynamic basis, I utilize a trauma-informed, narrative, and relational approach to therapy, incorporating parts work, attachment theory, and somatic techniques to emphasize the mind-body connection. I specialize in working with neurodivergent clients, those with chronic illnesses, queer clients, and those processing spiritual deconstruction and grief.
My ideal clients are children, adolescents, and adults who seek to understand and express their emotions in relation to their life experiences and identity. Clients who work with me want to grow in processing their feelings and deepen self-understanding. Through a psychodynamic basis, I utilize a trauma-informed, narrative, and relational approach to therapy, incorporating parts work, attachment theory, and somatic techniques to emphasize the mind-body connection. I specialize in working with neurodivergent clients, those with chronic illnesses, queer clients, and those processing spiritual deconstruction and grief.
(425) 382-6394 View (425) 382-6394
Photo of Chessie Rebecca Snider, MEd-MHP, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Chessie Rebecca Snider
Counselor, MEd-MHP, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
I use Parent Coaching, somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems, the Neurorelational Framework, Child-Centered Play, Multimodal, ND Affirming DBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, & Narrative Therapy.
I’m an individual & family therapist with a background based in research and evidence based practice. I provide support for kids, adults & caregivers in transition & needing support with life’s many challenges. I specialize in skill building for friendships, trans affirming treatment, emotional dysregulation, confidence, general anxiety & grief. My goal is to provide a space for adults, parents & children to engage in therapy to promote strong bonds within themselves & community, and become a self-sufficient unit outside of my care. I look forward to connecting with you and/or your family!
I use Parent Coaching, somatic approaches, Internal Family Systems, the Neurorelational Framework, Child-Centered Play, Multimodal, ND Affirming DBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, & Narrative Therapy.
I’m an individual & family therapist with a background based in research and evidence based practice. I provide support for kids, adults & caregivers in transition & needing support with life’s many challenges. I specialize in skill building for friendships, trans affirming treatment, emotional dysregulation, confidence, general anxiety & grief. My goal is to provide a space for adults, parents & children to engage in therapy to promote strong bonds within themselves & community, and become a self-sufficient unit outside of my care. I look forward to connecting with you and/or your family!
(206) 825-6719 View (206) 825-6719
Photo of Marla Johns, MS, MHP, LMHC, Counselor
Marla Johns
Counselor, MS, MHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a wide variety of treatment methods including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, CETA, play therapy, MI and Narrative Therapy.
Here at "A New Tomorrow Therapy", I believe that life is a journey that no one is meant to walk through alone. So together, we can tackle whatever life has thrown your way. Whether you find yourself dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, parenting, family challenges, and/or any other major life difficulty; I am here to help you reach whatever your goals may be. Together, we will work to identify your own personal targets and a plan for how to get there.
I utilize a wide variety of treatment methods including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, CBT, CETA, play therapy, MI and Narrative Therapy.
Here at "A New Tomorrow Therapy", I believe that life is a journey that no one is meant to walk through alone. So together, we can tackle whatever life has thrown your way. Whether you find yourself dealing with anxiety, depression, life transitions, grief, loss, parenting, family challenges, and/or any other major life difficulty; I am here to help you reach whatever your goals may be. Together, we will work to identify your own personal targets and a plan for how to get there.
(360) 230-1284 View (360) 230-1284
Photo of Audrey Comber, LSWAIC, PPSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey Comber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, PPSC
Verified Verified
Mukilteo, WA 98275  (Online Only)
I am positive psychology, transpersonal psychology, and narrative therapy based.
If you have struggled with trauma related to childhood abuse, dysfunction, attachment issues; and/or interpersonal violence (domestic abuse, sexual abuse) I can help! I also specialize in helping clients diagnosed with BPD unpack and heal their underlying trauma. In working with me, you will learn how to HEAL your trauma without constant use of coping skills to dull the pain. First session is free.
I am positive psychology, transpersonal psychology, and narrative therapy based.
If you have struggled with trauma related to childhood abuse, dysfunction, attachment issues; and/or interpersonal violence (domestic abuse, sexual abuse) I can help! I also specialize in helping clients diagnosed with BPD unpack and heal their underlying trauma. In working with me, you will learn how to HEAL your trauma without constant use of coping skills to dull the pain. First session is free.
(425) 470-5882 View (425) 470-5882
Photo of Ali Ahmad, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ali Ahmad
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
As each client is unique, I tailor my treatments accordingly to their specific needs with a mixture of modalities including narrative therapy, emotionally-focused therapy and solution-focused therapy.
Hi there, I’m Ali! I am a second-generation Cambodian American who comes from a community of Muslim refugees. It goes without saying that I am intimately familiar with generational trauma, and it’s the reason I entered the field of mental health. Through my own journey of self-discovery, I’ve come to realize the importance of healing our traumas and its impact on our overall well-being. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who come from historically marginalized communities. I believe that with the right tools and support everybody has the capability to heal and grow.
As each client is unique, I tailor my treatments accordingly to their specific needs with a mixture of modalities including narrative therapy, emotionally-focused therapy and solution-focused therapy.
Hi there, I’m Ali! I am a second-generation Cambodian American who comes from a community of Muslim refugees. It goes without saying that I am intimately familiar with generational trauma, and it’s the reason I entered the field of mental health. Through my own journey of self-discovery, I’ve come to realize the importance of healing our traumas and its impact on our overall well-being. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who come from historically marginalized communities. I believe that with the right tools and support everybody has the capability to heal and grow.
(509) 563-8606 View (509) 563-8606
Photo of Kaila Duke Peterson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaila Duke Peterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98402  (Online Only)
Adults/teens/family/couples: Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman's Couples Therapy, Gestalt Therapy (Experiential-based), CBT, Narrative therapy.
I work with children ages 5-15, couples, families and individuals from a family systems perspective to address any myriad of concerns. I work collaboratively with my clients, to facilitate a client-led course of treatment based on their own strengths. If you want to strengthen relationships, identify and track potentially harmful behavior or thought patterns, and overall improve and progress in your life and circumstances, I am here to help you do that!
Adults/teens/family/couples: Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman's Couples Therapy, Gestalt Therapy (Experiential-based), CBT, Narrative therapy.
I work with children ages 5-15, couples, families and individuals from a family systems perspective to address any myriad of concerns. I work collaboratively with my clients, to facilitate a client-led course of treatment based on their own strengths. If you want to strengthen relationships, identify and track potentially harmful behavior or thought patterns, and overall improve and progress in your life and circumstances, I am here to help you do that!
(253) 843-7538 View (253) 843-7538
Photo of Nicole O'Mahoney, LMHCA, Counselor
Nicole O'Mahoney
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bonney Lake, WA 98391
Therefore, I also incorporate elements and techniques from mindfulness, narrative therapy, strengths-based therapy, and positive psychology.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of living the life you want to live? Are these challenges having a negative impact on your everyday life? Sometimes, we need a little extra support overcoming these challenges. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about helping others and providing the support necessary to improve the quality of life of my clients. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental environment and strive to develop strong therapeutic relationships with each of my clients. I believe that every individual is unique and that each person's experiences shape their perspectives and realities.
Therefore, I also incorporate elements and techniques from mindfulness, narrative therapy, strengths-based therapy, and positive psychology.
Are life's challenges getting in the way of living the life you want to live? Are these challenges having a negative impact on your everyday life? Sometimes, we need a little extra support overcoming these challenges. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about helping others and providing the support necessary to improve the quality of life of my clients. I am committed to providing a safe, non-judgemental environment and strive to develop strong therapeutic relationships with each of my clients. I believe that every individual is unique and that each person's experiences shape their perspectives and realities.
(253) 487-0884 View (253) 487-0884
Photo of LoriLee Haener, MA, ABS
LoriLee Haener
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, ABS
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98021  (Online Only)
I also utilize a combination of Solution Focused Therapies, Narrative approaches.
Hello and welcome. My name is LoriLee Haener. I would imagine, if you’re exploring options for different treatment modalities while choosing a therapist that’s right for you, it’s for a very good reason. You may be feeling stuck, either caused by a sudden, significant “life-event” or grappling with anxiety, fear, & trauma that have seized your ability to make choices that are aligned with your health and well-being during anxious and tense moments. You may have suffered with addiction in the process of easing your daily pain. You are not alone, but how you address these issues is unique to you.
I also utilize a combination of Solution Focused Therapies, Narrative approaches.
Hello and welcome. My name is LoriLee Haener. I would imagine, if you’re exploring options for different treatment modalities while choosing a therapist that’s right for you, it’s for a very good reason. You may be feeling stuck, either caused by a sudden, significant “life-event” or grappling with anxiety, fear, & trauma that have seized your ability to make choices that are aligned with your health and well-being during anxious and tense moments. You may have suffered with addiction in the process of easing your daily pain. You are not alone, but how you address these issues is unique to you.
(425) 585-4157 View (425) 585-4157
Photo of Ozlem Yalcin, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ozlem Yalcin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98296
So, my therapy approaches are narrative, emotionally focused, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based.
Many of us seek therapy at different periods of our lives for different reasons, such as couple and family conflicts, losing loved ones, life transition issues, addiction, sadness, anxiety, and depression. We sometimes may not figure out what we are going through. Unknowns and uncertainties may increase in our lives and become unmanageable, or we are unable to fulfill our search for meaning. Therapy helps us cope with difficult and painful emotions, figure out what we are going through, and name it. Carl Rogers defines growth as any kind of movement toward “self-esteem, flexibility, or respect and compassion for self and others."
So, my therapy approaches are narrative, emotionally focused, solution-focused, and mindfulness-based.
Many of us seek therapy at different periods of our lives for different reasons, such as couple and family conflicts, losing loved ones, life transition issues, addiction, sadness, anxiety, and depression. We sometimes may not figure out what we are going through. Unknowns and uncertainties may increase in our lives and become unmanageable, or we are unable to fulfill our search for meaning. Therapy helps us cope with difficult and painful emotions, figure out what we are going through, and name it. Carl Rogers defines growth as any kind of movement toward “self-esteem, flexibility, or respect and compassion for self and others."
(425) 434-9200 View (425) 434-9200
Photo of Alli Fisher, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Alli Fisher
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I am passionate about utilizing art therapy while integrating a person-centered, strengths-based approach, polyvagal theory, narrative therapy, and use a trauma informed lens.
I feel passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults seeking a safe space for their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, specifically sexual trauma and childhood abuse/assault. I have experience working with people who are neurodivergent, in the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC clients, depression, anxiety, and child and adolescent concerns. I have interests in working with people in the kink and BDSM communities, as well as an interest in working with children and adolescents with parents/caregivers in polyamorous and ethical non-monogamous relationships.
I am passionate about utilizing art therapy while integrating a person-centered, strengths-based approach, polyvagal theory, narrative therapy, and use a trauma informed lens.
I feel passionate about working with children, adolescents, and young adults seeking a safe space for their therapeutic journey. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, specifically sexual trauma and childhood abuse/assault. I have experience working with people who are neurodivergent, in the LGBTQIA+ community, BIPOC clients, depression, anxiety, and child and adolescent concerns. I have interests in working with people in the kink and BDSM communities, as well as an interest in working with children and adolescents with parents/caregivers in polyamorous and ethical non-monogamous relationships.
(425) 448-7079 View (425) 448-7079
Photo of Agnes Chmielewska, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Agnes Chmielewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
The following approaches that I use and integrate in therapy are: individual and family counseling, art therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy and behavioral modifications.
Are you concerned about your child? Does your child struggle with: anxiety, feeling sad, behavioral outbursts, difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep, problems at school, low grades? Is the stress affecting your family? I am here for you! I work with children, teens and families to find solutions that can help the whole family live a healthy life and deal with the challenges that we deal with daily. I believe in healing through playing, being creative and talk therapy. I advocate for children and teens who need that extra support in school.
The following approaches that I use and integrate in therapy are: individual and family counseling, art therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy and behavioral modifications.
Are you concerned about your child? Does your child struggle with: anxiety, feeling sad, behavioral outbursts, difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep, problems at school, low grades? Is the stress affecting your family? I am here for you! I work with children, teens and families to find solutions that can help the whole family live a healthy life and deal with the challenges that we deal with daily. I believe in healing through playing, being creative and talk therapy. I advocate for children and teens who need that extra support in school.
(425) 333-2696 View (425) 333-2696

See more therapy options for Anacortes

Narrative Therapists

Is narrative therapy evidence-based?

Narrative therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy. Some small studies do show that depressed and anxious individuals who were treated with narrative therapy reported improvement in anxiety and depression symptoms.

How long does narrative therapy last?

Narrative therapy is less structured when compared with psychoanalysis, for example. Narrative therapy is more open-ended and may not be limited to a set number of sessions. It is common for clients to be in therapy for a few months, and sometimes a year or longer. Patients see their therapist one to two times a week, though the exact schedule and timeline may vary depending on a person’s challenges and progress. Individuals can also practice the principles of narrative therapy after treatment has ended.

Does narrative therapy work?

Narrative therapy can help a person manage or reduce symptoms of conditions like depression or anxiety. This type of therapy encourages a person to reflect on the moments of their life when their particular problem was not at the forefront of their minds—perhaps life celebrations, achievements, and other successes. The individual is encouraged to rewrite their storyline as if their particular problem was not part of their life. This therapy may offer benefits that are hard to measure.

What are the possible limitations of narrative therapy?

Narrative therapy is person-centered or client-centered, and the health professional pays more attention to the subjective narratives that are constructed by the client, as opposed to other objective measures. The therapist privileges the individual’s perspective over all others. This open form may feel frustrating for individuals seeking a more structured approach; certainly, no one therapy type will work for every individual.