Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Justus Pascual, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Justus Pascual
Counselor, MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Therapy is a space to slow down, make sense of your experiences, and reconnect with yourself. My work centers on exploring the deeper patterns that shape your thoughts, feelings, and relationships, especially those that feel hard to name or change. Many of my clients are BIPOC or LGBTQ+ individuals navigating complex emotions, trauma, or the stress of politicized identities. Together we work toward greater connection, self-understanding, and a sense of stability that feels authentic and lasting. I aim to create a space where curiosity, honest attention, and compassion can support real growth.
Therapy is a space to slow down, make sense of your experiences, and reconnect with yourself. My work centers on exploring the deeper patterns that shape your thoughts, feelings, and relationships, especially those that feel hard to name or change. Many of my clients are BIPOC or LGBTQ+ individuals navigating complex emotions, trauma, or the stress of politicized identities. Together we work toward greater connection, self-understanding, and a sense of stability that feels authentic and lasting. I aim to create a space where curiosity, honest attention, and compassion can support real growth.
(206) 752-4165 View (206) 752-4165
Photo of Erika Eichelberger, Counselor, LMHCA
Erika Eichelberger
Counselor, LMHCA
Online Only
As a somatic therapist, I help people find their way home to themselves through the body. This means that in addition to working with feelings and thoughts in session, we also listen to sensations and impulses and we honor the way that our nervous systems can shape emotions and perceptions. I love supporting people who have experienced developmental trauma or other complex trauma and folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, and/or relational stresses. I bring a warm, conversational, collaborative approach to therapy and a spirit of humility, gentleness, and solidarity.
As a somatic therapist, I help people find their way home to themselves through the body. This means that in addition to working with feelings and thoughts in session, we also listen to sensations and impulses and we honor the way that our nervous systems can shape emotions and perceptions. I love supporting people who have experienced developmental trauma or other complex trauma and folks who struggle with anxiety, depression, and/or relational stresses. I bring a warm, conversational, collaborative approach to therapy and a spirit of humility, gentleness, and solidarity.
(206) 984-8721 View (206) 984-8721
Photo of Sara Szczepanski, Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, PhD
Sara Szczepanski
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, PhD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! I specialize in helping folks who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and the effects of trauma. As someone who has struggled with a chronic illness for nearly a decade, I would especially like to support others who are also suffering from chronic illnesses that may have greatly impacted their mental health and wellbeing. I take a collaborative, culturally-sensitive, and trauma-informed approach to counseling and my healing work is influenced by person-centered therapy, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Hello! I specialize in helping folks who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, and the effects of trauma. As someone who has struggled with a chronic illness for nearly a decade, I would especially like to support others who are also suffering from chronic illnesses that may have greatly impacted their mental health and wellbeing. I take a collaborative, culturally-sensitive, and trauma-informed approach to counseling and my healing work is influenced by person-centered therapy, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(360) 559-0205 View (360) 559-0205
Photo of Brittany Casavant, Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Brittany Casavant
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
We all know that life is full of messiness, but what if we didn’t have to hold it together. What if we didn’t show a version of ourselves or wear a facade. And what if we could be really honest about our experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Sometimes it’s hard to find places to allow our chaos, confusion and pain to come out of hiding and be seen. My hope is that you find comfort and safety to allow the mess to show up. I believe therapy offers us the invitation to do something different — to choose a new way. It can be an uncomfortable and powerful offer to be seen, known and heard for who you really are.
We all know that life is full of messiness, but what if we didn’t have to hold it together. What if we didn’t show a version of ourselves or wear a facade. And what if we could be really honest about our experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Sometimes it’s hard to find places to allow our chaos, confusion and pain to come out of hiding and be seen. My hope is that you find comfort and safety to allow the mess to show up. I believe therapy offers us the invitation to do something different — to choose a new way. It can be an uncomfortable and powerful offer to be seen, known and heard for who you really are.
(206) 289-9145 View (206) 289-9145
Photo of Giselle Montemayor Solis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, MHP
Giselle Montemayor Solis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, MHP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a bilingual therapist offering services in both English and Spanish, here to support you as you navigate life’s complexities. If you’re struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges, or if you’re exploring your identity or sexuality, you’re not alone! Whatever brings you to therapy, my goal is to provide a compassionate, collaborative space where we can explore what matters most to you. Together, we’ll work on building tools, uncovering insights, and helping you move toward a sense of confidence, growth, and empowerment. This journey is about you
I am a bilingual therapist offering services in both English and Spanish, here to support you as you navigate life’s complexities. If you’re struggling with self-esteem, anxiety, trauma, or relationship challenges, or if you’re exploring your identity or sexuality, you’re not alone! Whatever brings you to therapy, my goal is to provide a compassionate, collaborative space where we can explore what matters most to you. Together, we’ll work on building tools, uncovering insights, and helping you move toward a sense of confidence, growth, and empowerment. This journey is about you
(206) 800-6644 View (206) 800-6644
Photo of Alesya Radosteva, Psychologist, PsyD
Alesya Radosteva
Psychologist, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112
My approach is collaborative and culturally sensitive, with compassion and respect for your unique story.
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're facing anxiety, relationship struggles, identity questions, or simply trying to make sense of your emotions. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can pause, reflect, and begin to heal.
My approach is collaborative and culturally sensitive, with compassion and respect for your unique story.
Life can feel overwhelming—whether you're facing anxiety, relationship struggles, identity questions, or simply trying to make sense of your emotions. I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can pause, reflect, and begin to heal.
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Photo of Jennifer Harkness, Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Jennifer Harkness
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help professionals and high achieving folks manage stress and burn out so they can stay grounded and effective in uncertain times. Specialities of mine within that framework are neurodivergence, chronic illness, and masking. I love walking with people on their journey toward creating more authentic and fulfilling lives filled with joy, compassion and love both at work and home. My clients often tell me that they feel I genuinely care about them and I do. My clients are also the type of people who are ready for and actively engage change towards living their best life.
I help professionals and high achieving folks manage stress and burn out so they can stay grounded and effective in uncertain times. Specialities of mine within that framework are neurodivergence, chronic illness, and masking. I love walking with people on their journey toward creating more authentic and fulfilling lives filled with joy, compassion and love both at work and home. My clients often tell me that they feel I genuinely care about them and I do. My clients are also the type of people who are ready for and actively engage change towards living their best life.
(206) 312-8258 View (206) 312-8258
Photo of Sarah Odell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP
Sarah Odell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MHP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
The decision to pursue therapy is a courageous one, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting or exhausting - but it is possible. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 15+ years helping clients navigate significant life changes, improve well-being, & manage ongoing stress while still pursuing bold dreams & individual purpose. I love helping clients find their most fulfilling & integrated life possible, even if it means taking big risks & making hard changes. Creating long term growth & healing is not easy, but it also picks up momentum & joy once we identify and navigate around the main obstacles in your way.
The decision to pursue therapy is a courageous one, and finding the right therapist can feel daunting or exhausting - but it is possible. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with 15+ years helping clients navigate significant life changes, improve well-being, & manage ongoing stress while still pursuing bold dreams & individual purpose. I love helping clients find their most fulfilling & integrated life possible, even if it means taking big risks & making hard changes. Creating long term growth & healing is not easy, but it also picks up momentum & joy once we identify and navigate around the main obstacles in your way.
(206) 737-2822 View (206) 737-2822
Photo of Ally Hurley, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Ally Hurley
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I'm Ally and I am so excited to get to know you, hear your story, and explore whatever it is that you have been going through. My goal is to help you regain a sense of control, balance, purpose and fulfillment in your life. When you come to our sessions, you are the most important person in the room. As we get to know one another, I look forward to learning your life story and what makes you the person you are today. Together we will explore how this story may be working for you or against you. Together we can gain insights, examine your thoughts and feelings, and rewrite your story moving forward.
Hi! I'm Ally and I am so excited to get to know you, hear your story, and explore whatever it is that you have been going through. My goal is to help you regain a sense of control, balance, purpose and fulfillment in your life. When you come to our sessions, you are the most important person in the room. As we get to know one another, I look forward to learning your life story and what makes you the person you are today. Together we will explore how this story may be working for you or against you. Together we can gain insights, examine your thoughts and feelings, and rewrite your story moving forward.
(206) 736-1064 View (206) 736-1064
Photo of John A Lembo, Counselor, MA, LMHC
John A Lembo
Counselor, MA, LMHC
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I seek to create a warm, down-to-earth, and accepting experience for you to explore the hard-ass things in life. Many of us, myself included, were rarely taught how to connect with and understand our emotions, and so when we experience difficult feelings like sadness, disappointment, shame, fear, grief, and pain, we don’t know how to engage them in a helpful way. But that can change. We will work together to promote positive change and restore direction, meaning, and resilience during difficult times. The wounds you have carried with you all your life can be healed.
I seek to create a warm, down-to-earth, and accepting experience for you to explore the hard-ass things in life. Many of us, myself included, were rarely taught how to connect with and understand our emotions, and so when we experience difficult feelings like sadness, disappointment, shame, fear, grief, and pain, we don’t know how to engage them in a helpful way. But that can change. We will work together to promote positive change and restore direction, meaning, and resilience during difficult times. The wounds you have carried with you all your life can be healed.
(206) 312-2675 View (206) 312-2675
Photo of Heidi Mesecke, Pre-Licensed Professional, FMT
Heidi Mesecke
Pre-Licensed Professional, FMT
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Hey! I appreciate you reading my profile! Are you struggling and need some help figuring it out? I can offer a warm, compassionate presence and space to explore what's going on. We can meet online, while in the comfort of your space or in my office in Seattle over a warm cup of coffee or tea. Whatever way you choose, know that I believe you are the expert on you! I honor your uniqueness and see the strengths within that uniqueness! Healing the heart of issues can take time, patience, and a lot of understanding. On this journey, I will be curious, nonjudgmental, and accepting of you and your life.
Hey! I appreciate you reading my profile! Are you struggling and need some help figuring it out? I can offer a warm, compassionate presence and space to explore what's going on. We can meet online, while in the comfort of your space or in my office in Seattle over a warm cup of coffee or tea. Whatever way you choose, know that I believe you are the expert on you! I honor your uniqueness and see the strengths within that uniqueness! Healing the heart of issues can take time, patience, and a lot of understanding. On this journey, I will be curious, nonjudgmental, and accepting of you and your life.
(206) 672-8023 View (206) 672-8023
Photo of Lynn Buell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, FABP, MSSW
Lynn Buell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, FABP, MSSW
Seattle, WA 98104
Together, we will manage feelings stirred up by isolation, loneliness, anger, self-criticism, and low self-esteem. I use my expertise to teach you to handle anxiety, anger, and depression. Clients often rediscover childhood creativity and make quick progress. Why pay high psychiatrist fees when you can see a certified psychoanalyst for less and achieve better results?
Together, we will manage feelings stirred up by isolation, loneliness, anger, self-criticism, and low self-esteem. I use my expertise to teach you to handle anxiety, anger, and depression. Clients often rediscover childhood creativity and make quick progress. Why pay high psychiatrist fees when you can see a certified psychoanalyst for less and achieve better results?
(253) 200-9303 View (253) 200-9303
Photo of Shuyang Liu, Counselor, LHMC, MA
Shuyang Liu
Counselor, LHMC, MA
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a bicultural, bilingual immigrant therapist passionate about supporting and empowering people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and other marginalized groups. I’m committed—both personally and professionally—to challenging oppression and fostering a more equitable, safe world. My work is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. I see healing as something that happens through genuine connection, and that means building a warm, trusting relationship where you feel truly seen, where your unique path, values, and goals are respected and supported.
I’m a bicultural, bilingual immigrant therapist passionate about supporting and empowering people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and other marginalized groups. I’m committed—both personally and professionally—to challenging oppression and fostering a more equitable, safe world. My work is rooted in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy. I see healing as something that happens through genuine connection, and that means building a warm, trusting relationship where you feel truly seen, where your unique path, values, and goals are respected and supported.
(206) 752-3522 View (206) 752-3522
Photo of Em Steen, Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, BCN
Em Steen
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, BCN
Seattle, WA 98126
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, identity questions, or major life changes? Whether you're a teen, young adult, or caregiver, you may be navigating emotional ups and downs, relationship challenges, grief, or struggles with focus and thinking. Searching for clarity, connection, and coping strategies that feel personalized and empowering? You deserve a space where you feel truly seen and supported, a space to explore your experiences, understand your patterns, and begin to rewrite your story with compassion and confidence.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, trauma, identity questions, or major life changes? Whether you're a teen, young adult, or caregiver, you may be navigating emotional ups and downs, relationship challenges, grief, or struggles with focus and thinking. Searching for clarity, connection, and coping strategies that feel personalized and empowering? You deserve a space where you feel truly seen and supported, a space to explore your experiences, understand your patterns, and begin to rewrite your story with compassion and confidence.
(253) 398-8685 View (253) 398-8685
Photo of Rebecca Levenson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Rebecca Levenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Seattle, WA 98136
I am passionate about helping people better understand their bodies and sexuality to empower them in their intimate relationships. By gaining knowledge of and comfort with ourselves, we can enjoy a deeper sense of bonding and pleasure in sexual relationships. Whether you are looking to improve your connection to your body or your relationship with your partner(s), I am here to support your journey. I believe sexual health and pleasure are fundamental to both personal well-being and fulfilling relationships. We will collaborate to help you develop a sexual life that gives you joy, pleasure, a sense of connection, and an authentic identity.
I am passionate about helping people better understand their bodies and sexuality to empower them in their intimate relationships. By gaining knowledge of and comfort with ourselves, we can enjoy a deeper sense of bonding and pleasure in sexual relationships. Whether you are looking to improve your connection to your body or your relationship with your partner(s), I am here to support your journey. I believe sexual health and pleasure are fundamental to both personal well-being and fulfilling relationships. We will collaborate to help you develop a sexual life that gives you joy, pleasure, a sense of connection, and an authentic identity.
(206) 460-1809 View (206) 460-1809
Photo of Sherri Hainje, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Sherri Hainje
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Online Only
Therapy works best when it is tailored to your needs. My job is to provide a safe and welcoming place for you to show up just as you are, to feel heard and supported, and to work through the issues that are causing distress. Sometimes we know why we are feeling what we are feeling and sometimes we don’t—both are great places to start therapy. Together we can explore what is happening in your life and find solutions that best suit you. I enjoy working with teens and adults on a wide range of issues and most recently spent time working with adolescents as a school-based therapist in middle school and high school.
Therapy works best when it is tailored to your needs. My job is to provide a safe and welcoming place for you to show up just as you are, to feel heard and supported, and to work through the issues that are causing distress. Sometimes we know why we are feeling what we are feeling and sometimes we don’t—both are great places to start therapy. Together we can explore what is happening in your life and find solutions that best suit you. I enjoy working with teens and adults on a wide range of issues and most recently spent time working with adolescents as a school-based therapist in middle school and high school.
(206) 502-1907 View (206) 502-1907
Photo of Jeanne Foss Swaine, Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, LMFT
Jeanne Foss Swaine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFA, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133
Seeking therapy is a courageous, empowering step. Although you are strong, you shouldn't have to walk through life's hardships alone. I provide individual and couples counseling with a mindful and compassionate approach around subjects such as grief and loss, depression and anxiety, reclaiming one's self esteem, relational trauma, conflict resolution, fertility struggles, and new motherhood, to name a few. I am continually amazed by our natural ability to heal and thrive given the right kind of attention and caring presence.
Seeking therapy is a courageous, empowering step. Although you are strong, you shouldn't have to walk through life's hardships alone. I provide individual and couples counseling with a mindful and compassionate approach around subjects such as grief and loss, depression and anxiety, reclaiming one's self esteem, relational trauma, conflict resolution, fertility struggles, and new motherhood, to name a few. I am continually amazed by our natural ability to heal and thrive given the right kind of attention and caring presence.
(360) 813-6826 View (360) 813-6826
Photo of Phong Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Phong Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a licensed therapist in Washington state and provide therapy for individuals of all ages. My approach to therapy is collaborative, with sessions tailored to meet each individual’s needs and treatment goals. I aim to create a space where you feel understood and supported, and to help you reconnect with your inner strengths, values and sense of purpose.
I am a licensed therapist in Washington state and provide therapy for individuals of all ages. My approach to therapy is collaborative, with sessions tailored to meet each individual’s needs and treatment goals. I aim to create a space where you feel understood and supported, and to help you reconnect with your inner strengths, values and sense of purpose.
(206) 278-3546 View (206) 278-3546
Photo of Andrea Boykins - Andrea Boykins, Pre-Licensed Professional, IMHC
Andrea Boykins
Pre-Licensed Professional, IMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
If you struggle with self-care, self-love, emotional balance and relationship challenges I am here to assist you. Facing low self-confidence, difficulty processing unresolved emotions and managing life’s stress isn’t uncommon. I am able to provide you with guidance in emotional awareness, develop healthier coping strategies and improved communication skills. Let’s develop some goals surrounding healing emotionally and improving interpersonal relationships so you can experience personal transformation. Want to feel more empowered, connected, and confident in navigating life's challenges? We can work together to achieve growth!
If you struggle with self-care, self-love, emotional balance and relationship challenges I am here to assist you. Facing low self-confidence, difficulty processing unresolved emotions and managing life’s stress isn’t uncommon. I am able to provide you with guidance in emotional awareness, develop healthier coping strategies and improved communication skills. Let’s develop some goals surrounding healing emotionally and improving interpersonal relationships so you can experience personal transformation. Want to feel more empowered, connected, and confident in navigating life's challenges? We can work together to achieve growth!
(727) 877-1097 View (727) 877-1097
Photo of Carmen Munoz-Valdez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Carmen Munoz-Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Seattle, WA 98103
I have 14 years experience offering therapy services to individuals, couples, and families, both in English and Spanish. I offer services via telehealth or in-office, and have lunch-time and evening appointments available. I help clients undergoing difficult times in their lives who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, issues of identity, lifestyle issues, or issues involving parenting or being part of a couple, among others. As my client, I meet you where you are at and I aim to provide insights and guidance while at the same time honoring your autonomy and agency in determining your own life’s path.
I have 14 years experience offering therapy services to individuals, couples, and families, both in English and Spanish. I offer services via telehealth or in-office, and have lunch-time and evening appointments available. I help clients undergoing difficult times in their lives who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, issues of identity, lifestyle issues, or issues involving parenting or being part of a couple, among others. As my client, I meet you where you are at and I aim to provide insights and guidance while at the same time honoring your autonomy and agency in determining your own life’s path.
(206) 208-2589 x1 View (206) 208-2589 x1

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Culturally Sensitive Therapists

How does culturally sensitive therapy work?

A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.

How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?

Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?

While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.

Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?

Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.