Find a Federal Way Therapist or Counselor

Finding a Federal Way therapist can be challenging when there are many to choose from and you’re not sure how to assess their ability to meet your needs. You’re already overwhelmed with life stuff, the last thing you want is to window shop for therapists. I’ve made this process easy by including a list of simple tips for narrowing down your search.

I want to help you find a Federal Way therapist

Whether this is your first or twentieth time looking for counseling in Federal Way, it can be daunting to sift through websites and online profiles of the many local counselors. Federal Way is jam packed with quality therapists, but are they all the right fit for you? Here’s a list of tips to help you start your search and make sure you’re looking for the right information…

1) Don’t reduce your search by insurance type. Many people struggle with the financial investment it takes to find a quality mental health expert. While I totally understand this, I encourage you to be honest about your financial abilities and explore outside your insurance if possible. Focusing your search on fit vs insurance may create an easier path toward the right therapist. Everyone has differing financial abilities and that’s ok, I just want you to create space for all your options if you have the ability to do so.

2) Look for signs of safety and inclusion. If you belong to a marginalized identity, look for signs that a therapist is an ally, accepting, and competent in supporting you. For instance, do they have a statement about inclusivity in their profile (like this)? Do they have a banner or sticker that shows their allyship to specific communities? Do they offer services for specific communities (like this)? Do they talk about their own identity and privileges? These are some signs that a therapist is mindful and considerate of safety and inclusion in their practice. I encourage you to evaluate this further during a phone consult.

3) In person vs telehealth. Assess whether being in person or virtual is best for your therapy experience. It’s ok if you have a preference for one or the other, but make sure that whoever you contact for a consult offers the type you need. It’s also ok if you don’t know which option is best. When you connect with a Federal Way therapist, ask them how their therapy works in either setting and if they work best in the office or online. For example, I offer both in person and virtual options, but prefer to see clients in person. There’s something about connecting face-to-face that allows me to be more present and read your reactions and body language. Every therapist will work differently and have their preferences, but it’s ultimately up to you and how you’d like to experience therapy.

4) Find out what their specialties are. Most therapists work with a broad range of people and issues. However, knowing who is an expert in your specific issue or works within your unique identity could be the most beneficial. You can search for something specific or look for this information on therapy websites. These may be listed on a home page or have their own pages just like Therapy for ADHD or Therapy for People-pleasers. If you’re new to seeking counseling support, you may not know exactly what you’re looking for. The easiest way is to start by scheduling consults and allow yourself time to shop around. I recently found a new counselor but it took me 5 phone consults before I landed on the right person. Give yourself time to explore this process.

5) Don’t be afraid to ask questions. When speaking with a potential therapist, ask questions that will help you determine if they are the right support. You’re allowed to take up space during the consult and if you don’t feel like you can, that may be a sign to keep looking. I can’t speak for all Federal Way therapists, but I would rather you ask all the questions (within the allotted time of course) to ensure we connect and start to build trust. I would rather you tell me that you don’t feel the connection so I can provide referrals, rather than you try to force anything to work. Be as honest and transparent as you can and I’ll do the same!

So what now? (psst…start looking for counseling in Federal Way)

Start sending emails or setting up calls today! Once you get the initial contact, you can start info gathering and assessing your needs. I promise that as you speak to different Federal Way therapists, you’ll start to notice who feels comfortable and who can meet your needs. Narrowing this down by searching for specific terms or specialties may help the process move along quicker.

Looking for counseling in Federal Way? Reach out to a therapist who is open to answering your questions and fully qualified to work within her specialties.

Be well,

Katie G.

Related articles: Questions to Ask a Federal Way Therapist

Quality Counseling in Federal Way, WA and Online Therapy in Washington State

At Rainy Day Therapy, Katie offers the best counseling in Federal Way, WA within her scope of expertise! Katie is trained in attachment theory, feminist therapy, solution-focused therapy, mindfulness, ADHD, communication and boundaries, relationship needs, identity building, and disordered eating & body acceptance. Katie works best with women, queer identities, plus size folks, non-binary and gender fluid individuals, and highly sensitive people. Rainy Day Therapy provides counseling in Federal Way, WA and online therapy in Washington state. Interested in working with Katie? Book a free 15min consult here.

Have questions about counseling in Federal Way? Check out the FAQ page for more info.