Photo of Dan Woodard, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Dan Woodard
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
If you are browsing through this website then you're most likely trying to find help with something in your life that you've been struggling with for for years. Maybe it's depression or anxiety and you need help trying to manage it, someone to hold it with you. Perhaps you have a hard time staying in a relationship for any length of time? Or maybe you're holding onto the secret of sexual abuse as a child or teen and have never told anyone. Sometimes things shatter and we don't know why, but it does. Life shatters us. I would love the privilege of walking with you. We can do it together. You don't have to do it alone anymore.
If you are browsing through this website then you're most likely trying to find help with something in your life that you've been struggling with for for years. Maybe it's depression or anxiety and you need help trying to manage it, someone to hold it with you. Perhaps you have a hard time staying in a relationship for any length of time? Or maybe you're holding onto the secret of sexual abuse as a child or teen and have never told anyone. Sometimes things shatter and we don't know why, but it does. Life shatters us. I would love the privilege of walking with you. We can do it together. You don't have to do it alone anymore.
(206) 557-3989 View (206) 557-3989
Photo of Ben Watson, LSWAIC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ben Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98117
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
My training and experience has primarily been with teens and adults experiencing a wide array of topics including sexual abuse, complicated grief, religious trauma, anxiety, family conflict, depression, loss, and identify exploration.
The greatest and most freeing gifts you can give yourself are self-exploration and compassion. Together, you and I can work collaboratively to further develop these qualities and foster your innate resilience. My goal is for you to feel safe, challenged, and empowered during our time together. The sheer fact that you are seeking support demonstrates an immense strength and courage. As a psychotherapist, I aim to create a non-judgmental, open-minded, and secure environment for clients to explore their feelings candidly and honestly. I utilize a variety of techniques and tailor treatment to the unique needs of the client.
(425) 287-6156 View (425) 287-6156
Photo of Wendell Moss - Wendell Moss MA Counseling, MA, Counselor
Wendell Moss MA Counseling
Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My specialty is around areas of sexual abuse/trauma, sexual addiction, and cultural issues.
I am a Christian therapist trained in the interpersonal/relational psychoanalytic theory. I've also engaged both object relational and cognitive behavioral theories through varied clinical experiences. I've mostly trained under Dan Allender. I am trained well to serve clients that desire to face issues of sexual abuse/trauma, narrative, and relational dynamics within relationships. I'm also able to help clients think through potential cultural issues that can also have impact on ones dealing with issues of abuse, story, and relationship.
My specialty is around areas of sexual abuse/trauma, sexual addiction, and cultural issues.
I am a Christian therapist trained in the interpersonal/relational psychoanalytic theory. I've also engaged both object relational and cognitive behavioral theories through varied clinical experiences. I've mostly trained under Dan Allender. I am trained well to serve clients that desire to face issues of sexual abuse/trauma, narrative, and relational dynamics within relationships. I'm also able to help clients think through potential cultural issues that can also have impact on ones dealing with issues of abuse, story, and relationship.
(855) 844-7381 View (855) 844-7381
Photo of Josh Saunders, BS, Counselor
Josh Saunders
Counselor, BS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Therapy is a chance to awaken to ourselves. Each of us are complex human beings with hopes, desires and a unique presence in this world. Life, however, can have a way of getting in the way of who we truly are. My desire is to provide a space where together we can safely get to know all the parts of you, free these parts from past trauma, and allow you to live a fuller life. I work compassionately with people dealing with chronic people pleasing, religious trauma and faith deconstruction, childhood sexual abuse, anxiety, relationship issues, and identity exploration. I also work with couples desiring deeper connection.
Therapy is a chance to awaken to ourselves. Each of us are complex human beings with hopes, desires and a unique presence in this world. Life, however, can have a way of getting in the way of who we truly are. My desire is to provide a space where together we can safely get to know all the parts of you, free these parts from past trauma, and allow you to live a fuller life. I work compassionately with people dealing with chronic people pleasing, religious trauma and faith deconstruction, childhood sexual abuse, anxiety, relationship issues, and identity exploration. I also work with couples desiring deeper connection.
(206) 222-4721 View (206) 222-4721
Photo of Randy Marinez, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Randy Marinez
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
Working with sexual abuse survivors and the LGBTQ community means that I am adept at helping clients work-through attachment issues.
I have been counseling since 1981 and opened my private practice in 1988. I have expertise in working with individuals around their history of sexual victimization, people healing from trauma and LGBTQ life issues. I also specialize in working with couples whether poly, open, heterosexual and/or gay. Included within my expertise is the breadth of issues surrounding sexuality and attachment. I also specialize in helping people become aware of and channel their emotions in a healthy way. Moreover, people who are grappling with existential issues, developmental transitions or life changes find meaning in working with me as well.
(206) 745-5831 View (206) 745-5831
Photo of Jonathan Coopersmith, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jonathan Coopersmith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work with issues related to codependency, unwanted sexual behaviors, major life transitions, identity shifts, grief and loss, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a space where we get to focus on helping you move towards a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. I work with people struggling with anxious thoughts, depression, or challenging relationships. Some are trying to navigate dating, intimacy, and partnership. Some have experienced spiritual abuse or are coming out of religious systems that have left them confused and even traumatized. Some of the people I work with are unpacking their past and trying to be free of difficult patterns. Many people are just stuck and want some help figuring out why. Counseling helps you get unstuck.
I work with issues related to codependency, unwanted sexual behaviors, major life transitions, identity shifts, grief and loss, and sexual abuse.
Counseling is a space where we get to focus on helping you move towards a life that is more fulfilling, meaningful, and connected. I work with people struggling with anxious thoughts, depression, or challenging relationships. Some are trying to navigate dating, intimacy, and partnership. Some have experienced spiritual abuse or are coming out of religious systems that have left them confused and even traumatized. Some of the people I work with are unpacking their past and trying to be free of difficult patterns. Many people are just stuck and want some help figuring out why. Counseling helps you get unstuck.
(425) 215-0186 View (425) 215-0186
Photo of Bryan Brown, MA, LMHCA
Bryan Brown
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
I work alongside individuals, couples, and groups who are seeking to address experiences of grief, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, racial trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, spiritual abuse, PTSD, and COVID related issues. Together we will explore the ways that therapy can assist you towards achieving your personal goals for wellbeing. Healing and transformation is a lifestyle and we all require assistance in cultivating a life that will help us navigate unavoidable difficulties. Isolation works against these efforts which is why seeking therapy is truly one of the best things you can offer yourself.
I work alongside individuals, couples, and groups who are seeking to address experiences of grief, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, racial trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, spiritual abuse, PTSD, and COVID related issues. Together we will explore the ways that therapy can assist you towards achieving your personal goals for wellbeing. Healing and transformation is a lifestyle and we all require assistance in cultivating a life that will help us navigate unavoidable difficulties. Isolation works against these efforts which is why seeking therapy is truly one of the best things you can offer yourself.
(206) 208-2356 View (206) 208-2356
Photo of Brian Garrison, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Brian Garrison
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Behind so much of how we think, what we long for, and how we relate to ourselves and others lies unacknowledged shame, trauma, and the strategies we developed, sometimes very early on, to cope with and hide these realities from ourselves. These make up the “muscle memory” of our emotional worlds, which cannot always be easily recalled, but determine our lives nonetheless. Therapy aims to cultivate awareness of what lies underneath in disconnected, dissociated ways, and provides a space to move through the pain, accept, and integrate the past so that it no longer repeats itself in our lives.
Behind so much of how we think, what we long for, and how we relate to ourselves and others lies unacknowledged shame, trauma, and the strategies we developed, sometimes very early on, to cope with and hide these realities from ourselves. These make up the “muscle memory” of our emotional worlds, which cannot always be easily recalled, but determine our lives nonetheless. Therapy aims to cultivate awareness of what lies underneath in disconnected, dissociated ways, and provides a space to move through the pain, accept, and integrate the past so that it no longer repeats itself in our lives.
(206) 337-0756 View (206) 337-0756
Photo of Justin Paul Davidson, MA, LMHC
Justin Paul Davidson
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, isolated or stuck? Does it feel like something is keeping you from moving forward, but you don’t know what? Maybe you are feeling discouraged, like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work. There are times when relief from our struggles comes from outside of ourselves, through human connection. Therapy is a collaborative and creative process that can open the door to growth, self-awareness, and new pathways to experiencing the life you want to live.
Have you been feeling anxious, depressed, isolated or stuck? Does it feel like something is keeping you from moving forward, but you don’t know what? Maybe you are feeling discouraged, like you’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work. There are times when relief from our struggles comes from outside of ourselves, through human connection. Therapy is a collaborative and creative process that can open the door to growth, self-awareness, and new pathways to experiencing the life you want to live.
(425) 541-1806 View (425) 541-1806
Photo of Justin Barrante, MA, MACS, LMHC, Counselor
Justin Barrante
Counselor, MA, MACS, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98125
There are seasons when our struggles are more than we can hold alone. Though it may take time, it is very possible to work toward deeper kindness, strength & healing. What struggle do you hold today?
There are seasons when our struggles are more than we can hold alone. Though it may take time, it is very possible to work toward deeper kindness, strength & healing. What struggle do you hold today?
(206) 350-5603 View (206) 350-5603
Photo of David D Moore, PhD, MEd, Psychologist
David D Moore
Psychologist, PhD, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I am the Agency Psychologist for the Center for Systematic Therapy and Research Services (CSTARS). I work full-time after a career in research (University of Washington 1987-2004) and faculty appointment (John's Hopkins, Department of Mental Health [2004-2007]). I currently focus on directing two clinical programs with Clinical Director Melissa Byrd: 1) Relapse Prevention for advanced recovery in addiction and codependency (Group and Individual), 2) Sexual Victimization recovery from childhood and young adult PTSD (Group and Individual). I conduct neurodevelopmental assessments for Dr. Stumme-Parks' work with CSTARS' ADHD clients.
I am the Agency Psychologist for the Center for Systematic Therapy and Research Services (CSTARS). I work full-time after a career in research (University of Washington 1987-2004) and faculty appointment (John's Hopkins, Department of Mental Health [2004-2007]). I currently focus on directing two clinical programs with Clinical Director Melissa Byrd: 1) Relapse Prevention for advanced recovery in addiction and codependency (Group and Individual), 2) Sexual Victimization recovery from childhood and young adult PTSD (Group and Individual). I conduct neurodevelopmental assessments for Dr. Stumme-Parks' work with CSTARS' ADHD clients.
(253) 292-9519 View (253) 292-9519
Photo of Shaquille Sinclair, LMHCA, Counselor
Shaquille Sinclair
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Therapy is about learning how to tell our stories. It is deepening our courage to look ourselves in the face and tell the truth of what we find. It is taking in the bountiful love in the world though it sometimes seems impossible to find. It is learning to savor the taste of a good meal and laughter with others. It is knowing the name of our sadness whether or not we can find our tears. It is being. Just as we are with hope for more to come.
Therapy is about learning how to tell our stories. It is deepening our courage to look ourselves in the face and tell the truth of what we find. It is taking in the bountiful love in the world though it sometimes seems impossible to find. It is learning to savor the taste of a good meal and laughter with others. It is knowing the name of our sadness whether or not we can find our tears. It is being. Just as we are with hope for more to come.
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Photo of Carl Allen Tippins, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Carl Allen Tippins
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Waitlist for new clients
"What is the most important consideration when looking for a therapist? " The fit, the feel, the vibe you have with the therapist really is best way to decide if this is a good match. A good fit, you will work well together. We will work with the issues that you are currently experiencing, noticing the internal roots of conflict, and finding ways to make meaningful and purposeful shifts or changes in your life. Experiencing difficulties from depression, relationship endings, truama, abuse, addictions, let's talk. - I am now only taking cash, checks of credit card patients. Not accepting new insurance patients. Not taking couples.
"What is the most important consideration when looking for a therapist? " The fit, the feel, the vibe you have with the therapist really is best way to decide if this is a good match. A good fit, you will work well together. We will work with the issues that you are currently experiencing, noticing the internal roots of conflict, and finding ways to make meaningful and purposeful shifts or changes in your life. Experiencing difficulties from depression, relationship endings, truama, abuse, addictions, let's talk. - I am now only taking cash, checks of credit card patients. Not accepting new insurance patients. Not taking couples.
(253) 214-9352 View (253) 214-9352
Photo of Daniel Kelley-Petersen, MAEd, LMHC, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Daniel Kelley-Petersen
Counselor, MAEd, LMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking out counseling is a courageous act of support that you give yourself and is a challenging and rewarding process that is full of support and deep exploration. I am excited to talk with you about what you are experiencing and how to move forward through the challenges you are facing today.
Seeking out counseling is a courageous act of support that you give yourself and is a challenging and rewarding process that is full of support and deep exploration. I am excited to talk with you about what you are experiencing and how to move forward through the challenges you are facing today.
(206) 693-4889 View (206) 693-4889
Photo of James Paul Nole, MA, LMHC, Counselor
James Paul Nole
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, ashamed, and disconnected from our true selves. You may be fed up with feeling triggered in everyday situations, isolated from friends who can’t understand, or guilt over what happened to you. It may even feel like this will last forever. Either way, you’re ready for some relief and actual change. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your past getting in the way. You’re ready to rediscover your true self. Most of all, you’re ready to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of hope.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, ashamed, and disconnected from our true selves. You may be fed up with feeling triggered in everyday situations, isolated from friends who can’t understand, or guilt over what happened to you. It may even feel like this will last forever. Either way, you’re ready for some relief and actual change. You’re ready to enjoy deep relationships without your past getting in the way. You’re ready to rediscover your true self. Most of all, you’re ready to love yourself again & to face your future with a sense of hope.
(206) 809-7518 View (206) 809-7518
Photo of Matija Petrovcic, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Matija Petrovcic
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy is a collaborative process and a unique form of conversation. In this treatment modality we recognize the centrality of relationships in human development and explore constitutive effects that significant relationships have on our mind; how they guide our wishes, fears and conflicts. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy also understands that our level of self-awareness is always limited and that our behaviors, choices, interests, and conscious beliefs are influenced by internal and external forces that we may not be fully aware of.
Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy is a collaborative process and a unique form of conversation. In this treatment modality we recognize the centrality of relationships in human development and explore constitutive effects that significant relationships have on our mind; how they guide our wishes, fears and conflicts. Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy also understands that our level of self-awareness is always limited and that our behaviors, choices, interests, and conscious beliefs are influenced by internal and external forces that we may not be fully aware of.
(206) 309-1299 View (206) 309-1299
Photo of Matthew A Smith, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Matthew A Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Do you feel stuck in the past, anxious and on edge in the present, and/or constantly fearful about the future? Are you struggling to create the intimacy and connections you desire? Do you feel detached, unaware of your body, and unlike yourself? These are just a few of the heartbreaking realities experienced by survivors of everyday, acute, and chronic trauma. This is why I am here, to help you navigate the tangled web of relationships and trauma, build the skills you need to engage your story with honesty and kindness, and to find the healing you long for.
Do you feel stuck in the past, anxious and on edge in the present, and/or constantly fearful about the future? Are you struggling to create the intimacy and connections you desire? Do you feel detached, unaware of your body, and unlike yourself? These are just a few of the heartbreaking realities experienced by survivors of everyday, acute, and chronic trauma. This is why I am here, to help you navigate the tangled web of relationships and trauma, build the skills you need to engage your story with honesty and kindness, and to find the healing you long for.
(206) 823-2017 View (206) 823-2017
Photo of Isaac R Ekblad, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Isaac R Ekblad
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer psychotherapy to people who feel drawn to explore and expand their self awareness and transform emotional confusion and suffering. I believe that it’s in relationship with others where we are harmed and it’s also in relationship with others where we can heal. The therapy relationship facilitates a healing conversation because it is a place of safety where you can begin to expand your ability to communicate, develop your capacity for self compassion, deepen your emotional understanding, and increase your self confidence.
I offer psychotherapy to people who feel drawn to explore and expand their self awareness and transform emotional confusion and suffering. I believe that it’s in relationship with others where we are harmed and it’s also in relationship with others where we can heal. The therapy relationship facilitates a healing conversation because it is a place of safety where you can begin to expand your ability to communicate, develop your capacity for self compassion, deepen your emotional understanding, and increase your self confidence.
(360) 226-5574 View (360) 226-5574
Photo of Jeffrey Serage, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jeffrey Serage
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who has an intention to change. During my 31 years as a practicing therapist I have encountered a wide range of issues. Having worked with a large number of clients to the point of solution, I have concluded that in the end, the core of helping people is to listen. Effective listening gives me a deep understanding of their current situation. I can then gently point them toward getting more of what they want. My experience and compassion have often proven to be crucial elements for our success. This is the work of my life.
My ideal client is someone who has an intention to change. During my 31 years as a practicing therapist I have encountered a wide range of issues. Having worked with a large number of clients to the point of solution, I have concluded that in the end, the core of helping people is to listen. Effective listening gives me a deep understanding of their current situation. I can then gently point them toward getting more of what they want. My experience and compassion have often proven to be crucial elements for our success. This is the work of my life.
(206) 707-9303 View (206) 707-9303
Photo of Patrick James Hart, PsyD, LMHC, MHP, Counselor
Patrick James Hart
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Mental Health Counseling in Seattle | Psychotherapy Private Practice: Psychotherapist and counselor for problems of depression and anxiety. Therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress, simple phobia, anger management, stress reduction, social anxiety, phobias and avoidance. I help people by providing skills based therapy to assure you effectively manage your moods, emotions and behavior. I'll help you learn the competencies to resolve unwanted life defeating habits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Learn effective personal solutions from anxiety and panic to sex & pornography addiction - lasting behavior change. Thanks for your interest in my practice! I'm just a phone call away!
Mental Health Counseling in Seattle | Psychotherapy Private Practice: Psychotherapist and counselor for problems of depression and anxiety. Therapy for panic disorder, generalized anxiety, post traumatic stress, simple phobia, anger management, stress reduction, social anxiety, phobias and avoidance. I help people by providing skills based therapy to assure you effectively manage your moods, emotions and behavior. I'll help you learn the competencies to resolve unwanted life defeating habits. Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Learn effective personal solutions from anxiety and panic to sex & pornography addiction - lasting behavior change. Thanks for your interest in my practice! I'm just a phone call away!
(253) 642-7941 View (253) 642-7941
Sexual Abuse Therapists

How do therapists treat sexual abuse?

A good therapist will be nonjudgmental and possibly demonstrate active listening, repeating back what the client says to show that they have understood. These skills allow people to feel comfortable discussing their traumatic experiences openly. Some important treatment goals are to restore a sense of safety and to rebuild confidence. In addition to working one-on-one with the patient, a therapist might bring in supportive family members to assist the client.

Do you have to talk extensively about sexual abuse in therapy?

Survivors frequently find it difficult to describe what happened to them out loud. They can even still be in a state of denial if the sexual abuse occurred recently. It is important for survivors to acknowledge that what happened isn’t their fault and to challenge and reappraise any unhealthy feelings or thoughts as they arise. Art therapy and play therapy are useful non-verbal means of communication for some survivors.

How long does treatment for sexual abuse take?

Recovery from sexual abuse can be a long and difficult process. Some survivors are able to move on naturally on their own, given time, while others require the guidance of a trained therapist. Therapy needs vary and can range from a few sessions to months or even years. Healing from sexual abuse takes time, and everyone’s journey will look a little different.

Can trauma symptoms caused by sexual abuse come back after treatment?

As occurs in many cases of trauma, survivors of sexual abuse may experience PTSD-like symptoms long after the abuse has ceased or after an initial round of treatment has occurred. In such a case, there is evidence that prolonged exposure therapy is a useful treatment for survivors, and may be more efficacious than supportive counseling alone. While triggers may continue to cause distress, the idea is that, with time and repeated exposure, their power will fade, allowing survivors to move on with their lives.