Family Therapy in University District, Seattle, WA

Photo of Spencer Wallis, Marriage & Family Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Spencer Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
Waitlist for new clients
I use approaches based on theory in family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based approaches.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
I use approaches based on theory in family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based approaches.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
(253) 509-7168 View (253) 509-7168
Photo of Julia N. Bonnheim, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in University District, Seattle, WA
Julia N. Bonnheim
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
I have experience working with people struggling to navigate complicated family, romantic, peer, and work relationships; manage anxiety and depression; cope with fertility issues, pregnancy, and the postpartum period; examine identity and sense of self; and navigate life transitions like marriage, parenthood, career changes and more.
Our lives are complicated. They’re full of complicated relationships, conflicts over what we want, struggles in how we see ourselves and others, and questions about satisfaction and meaning in life. In therapy, we have the opportunity to understand these painful dilemmas and better know our own minds. We can discover new ways of looking at our experiences, relationships, and internal world, and create a freer, more flexible, and more authentic life. I work with a wide variety of people and particularly enjoy working with those who are curious about themselves and interested in working collaboratively towards self-understanding.
I have experience working with people struggling to navigate complicated family, romantic, peer, and work relationships; manage anxiety and depression; cope with fertility issues, pregnancy, and the postpartum period; examine identity and sense of self; and navigate life transitions like marriage, parenthood, career changes and more.
Our lives are complicated. They’re full of complicated relationships, conflicts over what we want, struggles in how we see ourselves and others, and questions about satisfaction and meaning in life. In therapy, we have the opportunity to understand these painful dilemmas and better know our own minds. We can discover new ways of looking at our experiences, relationships, and internal world, and create a freer, more flexible, and more authentic life. I work with a wide variety of people and particularly enjoy working with those who are curious about themselves and interested in working collaboratively towards self-understanding.
(206) 202-9792 View (206) 202-9792
Photo of Yoshimi Pelczarski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Yoshimi Pelczarski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98117
I HELP INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES NAVIGATE CHALLENGING TIMES : Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed and anxious? Are you struggling with family of origin or relationship issues? Do you want to rebuild your new life or perhaps a new career, but don't know where to start or paralyzed by fear? It is imperative to tackle the root causes of your suffering in order for you to move forward. When your regular support system is not enough, it may be time to talk with a professional. As an experienced psychotherapist and coach, I can help you move past self-doubt and fear so that you can be excited about living your life again.
I HELP INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES NAVIGATE CHALLENGING TIMES : Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed and anxious? Are you struggling with family of origin or relationship issues? Do you want to rebuild your new life or perhaps a new career, but don't know where to start or paralyzed by fear? It is imperative to tackle the root causes of your suffering in order for you to move forward. When your regular support system is not enough, it may be time to talk with a professional. As an experienced psychotherapist and coach, I can help you move past self-doubt and fear so that you can be excited about living your life again.
(206) 203-5839 View (206) 203-5839
Photo of Jamie Zhou, Counselor in University District, Seattle, WA
Jamie Zhou
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
My primary school of practice is Schema Therapy, with integrative perspectives from the Internal Family System, Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Feminist Therapy.
I graduated from the Graduate School of Education of the University of Pennsylvania with a master’s in counseling and mental health services (M.S.Ed.) and a master’s in professional counseling (M.Phil.Ed.). I have experience working with adults with diverse backgrounds, providing bilingual services (i.e., Mandarin and English), addressing a wide range of client problems, and managing different platforms for conducting therapy.
My primary school of practice is Schema Therapy, with integrative perspectives from the Internal Family System, Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Feminist Therapy.
I graduated from the Graduate School of Education of the University of Pennsylvania with a master’s in counseling and mental health services (M.S.Ed.) and a master’s in professional counseling (M.Phil.Ed.). I have experience working with adults with diverse backgrounds, providing bilingual services (i.e., Mandarin and English), addressing a wide range of client problems, and managing different platforms for conducting therapy.
(206) 809-8430 View (206) 809-8430
Photo of Dr. Alice Huang, Psychologist in University District, Seattle, WA
Dr. Alice Huang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
(425) 906-7157 View (425) 906-7157
Photo of Katina J Gould, Counselor in University District, Seattle, WA
Katina J Gould
Counselor, MAEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
As a counselor, I am experienced and devoted to supporting individuals, children, teens, couples and families who present with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, spiritual trauma/abuse, adjustment issues, crisis, loss and grief, fears, depression, relational issues, negative self-talk, family conflict, the need for coping skills, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, life transitions, anxiety, childhood trauma/recent trauma in adults and children, and those wanting to explore their cultural identity and issues of spirituality.
As a counselor, I am experienced and devoted to supporting individuals, children, teens, couples and families who present with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, spiritual trauma/abuse, adjustment issues, crisis, loss and grief, fears, depression, relational issues, negative self-talk, family conflict, the need for coping skills, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, life transitions, anxiety, childhood trauma/recent trauma in adults and children, and those wanting to explore their cultural identity and issues of spirituality.
(206) 752-4316 View (206) 752-4316
Photo of Janet K. Look, Psychologist in University District, Seattle, WA
Janet K. Look
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
Dr. Look provides individual, family and group psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. Sometimes, it is difficult to talk to our family or friends about our problems. Meeting with Dr. Janet can help you to assess the seriousness of a problem and the best way to cope with it. Dr. Look is trained in assessment and psychotherapeutic techniques that can help you to answer your questions and manage your problems. You will learn to develop an individualized plan based on your strengths for dealing with your personal, educational and occupational needs.
Dr. Look provides individual, family and group psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. Sometimes, it is difficult to talk to our family or friends about our problems. Meeting with Dr. Janet can help you to assess the seriousness of a problem and the best way to cope with it. Dr. Look is trained in assessment and psychotherapeutic techniques that can help you to answer your questions and manage your problems. You will learn to develop an individualized plan based on your strengths for dealing with your personal, educational and occupational needs.
(206) 759-8733 View (206) 759-8733
Photo of Jen Mccormick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Jen Mccormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98115
Hello- I am not taking new clients until September 2023. Thank you for taking a look at my profile. Choosing to engage in therapy is an opportunity for growth and change. In my practice, I strive to meet you where you are and help illuminate your path a bit. The focus of my therapeutic work is within the relationship and the belief in your autonomy and ability to empower yourself. With trust and respect, we can work together to explore areas of your life that may need a fresh perspective. Speciality areas include traumatic loss, transition, depression, and family relationship struggles with children, adolescents, and adults.
Hello- I am not taking new clients until September 2023. Thank you for taking a look at my profile. Choosing to engage in therapy is an opportunity for growth and change. In my practice, I strive to meet you where you are and help illuminate your path a bit. The focus of my therapeutic work is within the relationship and the belief in your autonomy and ability to empower yourself. With trust and respect, we can work together to explore areas of your life that may need a fresh perspective. Speciality areas include traumatic loss, transition, depression, and family relationship struggles with children, adolescents, and adults.
(206) 203-3945 View (206) 203-3945
Photo of Arren Lenau, Social Worker Associate in University District, Seattle, WA
Arren Lenau
Social Worker Associate, LSWAIC, MSW, MHP, MFA
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
My interests are in working with adults that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, religious trauma, family of origin issues, people diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression, as well as LGBTQIA+ people and people experiencing gender dysphoria and/or seeking gender affirming surgery. As a social worker, I believe it is important to name systemic oppressions, such as racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, classism, capitalism and the ways they intersect in order to acknowledge the harm we continue to experience on a daily basis.
My interests are in working with adults that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, religious trauma, family of origin issues, people diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression, as well as LGBTQIA+ people and people experiencing gender dysphoria and/or seeking gender affirming surgery. As a social worker, I believe it is important to name systemic oppressions, such as racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, classism, capitalism and the ways they intersect in order to acknowledge the harm we continue to experience on a daily basis.
(206) 895-7326 View (206) 895-7326
Photo of Alyse Bradway, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in University District, Seattle, WA
Alyse Bradway
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Therapy is a vulnerable process, and my goal is to meet clients where they’re at and work with them in a warm, engaging, and direct manner. I work with clients collaboratively, seeing you as the expert of your own life and me as a third party to help see patterns, ask questions, and hold difficult things with you. My goal is to see holistic change for each client. I work from a systems perspective, meaning I incorporate the way your family, friends, community, work, etc. affect who you are. With this knowledge, we can build healthy frameworks and relationships.
Therapy is a vulnerable process, and my goal is to meet clients where they’re at and work with them in a warm, engaging, and direct manner. I work with clients collaboratively, seeing you as the expert of your own life and me as a third party to help see patterns, ask questions, and hold difficult things with you. My goal is to see holistic change for each client. I work from a systems perspective, meaning I incorporate the way your family, friends, community, work, etc. affect who you are. With this knowledge, we can build healthy frameworks and relationships.
(206) 203-1554 View (206) 203-1554
Photo of Jill Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Jill Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
My initial training was in family therapy, and I later completed Seattle's first ever child therapy program.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (with a doctorate from Columbia University) with over 40 years of practice experience with children, families, couples, and adults. My approach to our work is "psychodynamic" and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I am open to consultation, crisis intervention, short term therapy, and more intensive, insight oriented treatment. The "ideal client" is the one who is willing to work hard. So am I!
My initial training was in family therapy, and I later completed Seattle's first ever child therapy program.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (with a doctorate from Columbia University) with over 40 years of practice experience with children, families, couples, and adults. My approach to our work is "psychodynamic" and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I am open to consultation, crisis intervention, short term therapy, and more intensive, insight oriented treatment. The "ideal client" is the one who is willing to work hard. So am I!
(855) 463-3711 View (855) 463-3711
Photo of Simone Heyward, Mental Health Counselor in University District, Seattle, WA
Simone Heyward
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I completed my graduate training in California in 2016 at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Irvine Campus and have been a licensed Mental Health Professional with experience in Integrated Behavioral Health Services, Sexual dysfunction, emergency crisis stabilization, case management and psychotherapy, individual, family/couple, and group therapy.
The ideal client is an individual ready to make active change. Change is subjective and can be both big and small therefore, we start where you are and not where others think you should be. This is a collaborative approach in which you receive support and guidance towards the growth that you would like to see. I am fully invested in my clients and take the time to apply factors that can also hinder and promote success. My artistic background also allows me to be open to thinking outside the box when needed. I encourage you to think and explore both challenges and probable solutions as you continue in your therapeutic experience
I completed my graduate training in California in 2016 at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, Irvine Campus and have been a licensed Mental Health Professional with experience in Integrated Behavioral Health Services, Sexual dysfunction, emergency crisis stabilization, case management and psychotherapy, individual, family/couple, and group therapy.
The ideal client is an individual ready to make active change. Change is subjective and can be both big and small therefore, we start where you are and not where others think you should be. This is a collaborative approach in which you receive support and guidance towards the growth that you would like to see. I am fully invested in my clients and take the time to apply factors that can also hinder and promote success. My artistic background also allows me to be open to thinking outside the box when needed. I encourage you to think and explore both challenges and probable solutions as you continue in your therapeutic experience
(360) 284-1557 View (360) 284-1557
Photo of Makoto Fujisaki, Counselor in University District, Seattle, WA
Makoto Fujisaki
Counselor, LMHCA, MS, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I work with many clients who struggle understanding emotions, managing anxiety and stress, depressed moods, career uncertainties, and relationship/family issues.
Immediate openings available. Asian therapist who understands and will work with you to manage anxiety, relationship issues, boost your confidence and guide you to identify deeper root causes. Accepting Premera, BCBS, Anthem and Lifewise. Japanese available. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Are you struggling with low self-esteem? Have you ever wondered where your anxieties and other challenges are coming from? I understand the toll that these hurdles can take on your well-being. Whether you’re facing challenges dealing with and understanding your emotions or everyday life struggles, you are not alone and I’m here for you.
I work with many clients who struggle understanding emotions, managing anxiety and stress, depressed moods, career uncertainties, and relationship/family issues.
Immediate openings available. Asian therapist who understands and will work with you to manage anxiety, relationship issues, boost your confidence and guide you to identify deeper root causes. Accepting Premera, BCBS, Anthem and Lifewise. Japanese available. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Are you struggling with low self-esteem? Have you ever wondered where your anxieties and other challenges are coming from? I understand the toll that these hurdles can take on your well-being. Whether you’re facing challenges dealing with and understanding your emotions or everyday life struggles, you are not alone and I’m here for you.
(206) 401-5763 View (206) 401-5763
Photo of Kat Chen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Kat Chen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
I work with individuals aged 16 and up, and I am committed to creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship. I believe that working together means uncovering your strengths, confronting challenges, and developing strategies that enhance your well-being and quality of life. Whether you're struggling with the pressures of school/family/society, the weight of past traumas, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I offer a personalized approach to help you navigate in the face of change.
I work with individuals aged 16 and up, and I am committed to creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship. I believe that working together means uncovering your strengths, confronting challenges, and developing strategies that enhance your well-being and quality of life. Whether you're struggling with the pressures of school/family/society, the weight of past traumas, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I offer a personalized approach to help you navigate in the face of change.
(206) 429-6798 View (206) 429-6798
Photo of Claire Hipkens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Claire Hipkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
(206) 752-2461 View (206) 752-2461
Photo of Cassady Kintner PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Cassady Kintner PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MDFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
Specialized training in Medical Family Therapy (MDFT) and experiences as someone with T1D allow me to collaborate with health care teams and speak for organizations including ConnecT1D, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, American Diabetes Association, and College Diabetes Network.
I am passionate about helping people with complex, highly demanding medical conditions, particularly diabetes, to face the emotional and behavioral challenges that so often accompany chronic health problems. I also enjoy working with 15+ teens and young women struggling with feelings of being "too much" and still "not enough". There is hope, and I can help you overcome frustration and discouragement to find peace, balance and a sense of purpose. You are not alone, and you don't have to do this alone.
Specialized training in Medical Family Therapy (MDFT) and experiences as someone with T1D allow me to collaborate with health care teams and speak for organizations including ConnecT1D, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, American Diabetes Association, and College Diabetes Network.
I am passionate about helping people with complex, highly demanding medical conditions, particularly diabetes, to face the emotional and behavioral challenges that so often accompany chronic health problems. I also enjoy working with 15+ teens and young women struggling with feelings of being "too much" and still "not enough". There is hope, and I can help you overcome frustration and discouragement to find peace, balance and a sense of purpose. You are not alone, and you don't have to do this alone.
(206) 202-6615 View (206) 202-6615
Photo of Clara Brand, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Clara Brand
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98195
I offer individual counseling to adults 18+ and most often support people with concerns about disordered eating/chronic dieting, negative body image, stress around life transitions, and challenging family dynamics.
When people first come to see me, they’re often feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or shutdown. Many of them have tried breaking patterns that no longer serve them, but can’t seem to do it on their own. If this sounds like you: you're in the right place. Oftentimes, old patterns and residual feelings are connected to events and experiences we haven’t yet fully processed. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental place for you to do this processing. As a relational therapist, I bring my full, authentic self to our sessions. I won’t just nod my head and take notes–I will roll up my sleeves and join you in your healing process.
I offer individual counseling to adults 18+ and most often support people with concerns about disordered eating/chronic dieting, negative body image, stress around life transitions, and challenging family dynamics.
When people first come to see me, they’re often feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or shutdown. Many of them have tried breaking patterns that no longer serve them, but can’t seem to do it on their own. If this sounds like you: you're in the right place. Oftentimes, old patterns and residual feelings are connected to events and experiences we haven’t yet fully processed. I offer a supportive, non-judgmental place for you to do this processing. As a relational therapist, I bring my full, authentic self to our sessions. I won’t just nod my head and take notes–I will roll up my sleeves and join you in your healing process.
(206) 973-3082 View (206) 973-3082
Photo of Carol Hirshfield, Psychologist in University District, Seattle, WA
Carol Hirshfield
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
Postgraduate training includes hypnosis; family systems therapy; advanced training in mediation, collaborative divorce, Gottman communication model and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I have had over 25 years experience working with children, adults and their families on both the East and West Coasts. I was born and raised in New York City, and have had professional experience in New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles and Seattle. My special expertise includes child development, populations with special needs (learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, developmental disabilities, and autism), and services for families who are engaged in high conflict divorce. I am here to help you, and if your family needs help, work with the issues life brings us.
Postgraduate training includes hypnosis; family systems therapy; advanced training in mediation, collaborative divorce, Gottman communication model and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
I have had over 25 years experience working with children, adults and their families on both the East and West Coasts. I was born and raised in New York City, and have had professional experience in New York, New Jersey, Los Angeles and Seattle. My special expertise includes child development, populations with special needs (learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, developmental disabilities, and autism), and services for families who are engaged in high conflict divorce. I am here to help you, and if your family needs help, work with the issues life brings us.
(310) 321-4280 View (310) 321-4280
Photo of Jane Seelye Washington State Online Counseling, Counselor in University District, Seattle, WA
Jane Seelye Washington State Online Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
We all face challenges in life, but sometimes we get stuck, overwhelmed, or notice repeating patterns that negatively affect our relationships, work, and our overall health. I work with women who feel anxious, worried, lonely, sad, not good enough, or confused about what to do next. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, hurtful relationships, family issues, difficult transitions, trauma and many other life challenges. Most women I see are looking to build confidence, become empowered to make changes, break unhealthy patterns and form healthier relationships. Counseling can be a great resource we can use to heal and grow.
We all face challenges in life, but sometimes we get stuck, overwhelmed, or notice repeating patterns that negatively affect our relationships, work, and our overall health. I work with women who feel anxious, worried, lonely, sad, not good enough, or confused about what to do next. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, hurtful relationships, family issues, difficult transitions, trauma and many other life challenges. Most women I see are looking to build confidence, become empowered to make changes, break unhealthy patterns and form healthier relationships. Counseling can be a great resource we can use to heal and grow.
(206) 258-6397 View (206) 258-6397
Photo of Scotty Sonntag, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in University District, Seattle, WA
Scotty Sonntag
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHA, MPA
Verified Verified
University District, Seattle, WA 98105
Provide individual, couple, and family therapy along with teletherapy options.
Sonntag Counseling: Providing Hope, Awareness, & Direction. My experience consists of 19 years in academic medical centers, 14 of which was inpatient psychiatric care. I see therapy as a partnership between client and therapist with the goal of teaching skills to help individuals live and behave in ways consistent with their personal values, while also developing psychological flexibility. By recognizing ways in which our attempts to suppress, manage, and control emotional experiences can create challenges and strain relationships, we determine goals and work towards wellness, balance, and a life full of meaning.
Provide individual, couple, and family therapy along with teletherapy options.
Sonntag Counseling: Providing Hope, Awareness, & Direction. My experience consists of 19 years in academic medical centers, 14 of which was inpatient psychiatric care. I see therapy as a partnership between client and therapist with the goal of teaching skills to help individuals live and behave in ways consistent with their personal values, while also developing psychological flexibility. By recognizing ways in which our attempts to suppress, manage, and control emotional experiences can create challenges and strain relationships, we determine goals and work towards wellness, balance, and a life full of meaning.
(801) 898-2333 View (801) 898-2333

See more therapy options for University District, Seattle

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.