Couples Counseling Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Gustavo A Parra, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gustavo A Parra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98199  (Online Only)
Though dedicated to helping clients with all forms of challenges, I have a specialized interest in working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with trauma.
I am a compassionate, culturally sensitive, solution-oriented mental health professional. I am dedicated to providing exceptional care and implementing effective treatment plans for individuals, couples and families. With an inherent ability to manage different types of personalities I am able to diffuse stressful situations to proactively resolve issues and meet challenging goals and objectives. As a client-oriented therapist I possess the innate ability to establish a genuine rapport and build the necessary trust for a solid client/therapist relationship. It is my belief that engaging communication and client advocacy can provide the motivation for growth and change.
Though dedicated to helping clients with all forms of challenges, I have a specialized interest in working with individuals, couples, and families dealing with trauma.
I am a compassionate, culturally sensitive, solution-oriented mental health professional. I am dedicated to providing exceptional care and implementing effective treatment plans for individuals, couples and families. With an inherent ability to manage different types of personalities I am able to diffuse stressful situations to proactively resolve issues and meet challenging goals and objectives. As a client-oriented therapist I possess the innate ability to establish a genuine rapport and build the necessary trust for a solid client/therapist relationship. It is my belief that engaging communication and client advocacy can provide the motivation for growth and change.
(855) 759-4904 View (855) 759-4904
Photo of Natasha Wahi, MA, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Natasha Wahi
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
I aim to empower others like me who have constantly heard “it is not okay to go to therapy and share your personal life with anyone,” to help shift this tabooed narrative into a more positive one. It is OKAY to share your personal life with someone who can help build that trusting relationship with you, and it is also okay to express your feelings and emotions without feeling the pressures of shame and guilt. I use the space we create together to encourage deconstructing harmful internalized messages, processing experiences of attachment and trauma, and managing relational and personal challenges.
I aim to empower others like me who have constantly heard “it is not okay to go to therapy and share your personal life with anyone,” to help shift this tabooed narrative into a more positive one. It is OKAY to share your personal life with someone who can help build that trusting relationship with you, and it is also okay to express your feelings and emotions without feeling the pressures of shame and guilt. I use the space we create together to encourage deconstructing harmful internalized messages, processing experiences of attachment and trauma, and managing relational and personal challenges.
(206) 589-2056 View (206) 589-2056
Photo of Elizabeth Thayil, LMHCA, Counselor
Elizabeth Thayil
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I’m a relational depth-oriented therapist which means that I believe our therapeutic relationship is the transformative engine in therapy for long-term healing. I hold faith in and listen deeply for the inner wisdom of my clients that is sometimes overlooked because of doubt, shame, trauma, and external voices that promote self-abandonment. I believe this work is sacred and that it is as much about creating more capacity for joy and vitality as it is about processing harm. I consider it an honor to journey with each and every person who walks into our shared therapeutic space.
I’m a relational depth-oriented therapist which means that I believe our therapeutic relationship is the transformative engine in therapy for long-term healing. I hold faith in and listen deeply for the inner wisdom of my clients that is sometimes overlooked because of doubt, shame, trauma, and external voices that promote self-abandonment. I believe this work is sacred and that it is as much about creating more capacity for joy and vitality as it is about processing harm. I consider it an honor to journey with each and every person who walks into our shared therapeutic space.
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Photo of Emma Summer Maternal Mental Health, LMHCA, PMH-C, MAT, Counselor
Emma Summer Maternal Mental Health
Counselor, LMHCA, PMH-C, MAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
Accepting new clients! Quickly and easily schedule your free consultation on my website: Emmasummer.com / I work with women and couples during their reproductive season: family planning, fertility and infertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum and loss. I specialize in reproductive mental health disruption and am Perinatal Mental Health certified (PMH-C) by Postpartum Support International. I am also a certified grief care professional. I have three children and my own lived experience informs my work as well as over a decade working as a birth and postpartum doula attending 100's of births.
Accepting new clients! Quickly and easily schedule your free consultation on my website: Emmasummer.com / I work with women and couples during their reproductive season: family planning, fertility and infertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum and loss. I specialize in reproductive mental health disruption and am Perinatal Mental Health certified (PMH-C) by Postpartum Support International. I am also a certified grief care professional. I have three children and my own lived experience informs my work as well as over a decade working as a birth and postpartum doula attending 100's of births.
(206) 309-7366 View (206) 309-7366
Photo of Carol Poole, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Carol Poole
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
People can get stuck in painful emotional states and relationship patterns, for all kinds of reasons. I help people with chronic emotional pain, depression, anxiety, and the aftereffects of trauma and abuse. I focus on helping people work through sources of pain, and build their capacities for a satisfying life. In couples counseling, I help partners hear and understand each other in new ways, and create the space they need to thrive as both individuals and as partners in a relationship.
People can get stuck in painful emotional states and relationship patterns, for all kinds of reasons. I help people with chronic emotional pain, depression, anxiety, and the aftereffects of trauma and abuse. I focus on helping people work through sources of pain, and build their capacities for a satisfying life. In couples counseling, I help partners hear and understand each other in new ways, and create the space they need to thrive as both individuals and as partners in a relationship.
(253) 343-0824 View (253) 343-0824
Photo of Ali Ahmad, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ali Ahmad
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Hi there, I’m Ali! I am a second-generation Cambodian American who comes from a community of Muslim refugees. It goes without saying that I am intimately familiar with generational trauma, and it’s the reason I entered the field of mental health. Through my own journey of self-discovery, I’ve come to realize the importance of healing our traumas and its impact on our overall well-being. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who come from historically marginalized communities. I believe that with the right tools and support everybody has the capability to heal and grow.
Hi there, I’m Ali! I am a second-generation Cambodian American who comes from a community of Muslim refugees. It goes without saying that I am intimately familiar with generational trauma, and it’s the reason I entered the field of mental health. Through my own journey of self-discovery, I’ve come to realize the importance of healing our traumas and its impact on our overall well-being. I am passionate about working with individuals and couples who come from historically marginalized communities. I believe that with the right tools and support everybody has the capability to heal and grow.
(509) 563-8606 View (509) 563-8606
Photo of Marte White, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marte White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Are you navigating life and repeating the same patterns or struggling personally and/or in your relationships? Oftentimes there is big or little trauma impacting your feelings of "stuckness" today. I work with individuals and couples from a trauma-informed approach looking at what is coming up for you today in your struggles and what is influencing how these issues are presenting. Therapy can help work through and gain more understanding and insight to grow and change in the ways you would like to.
Are you navigating life and repeating the same patterns or struggling personally and/or in your relationships? Oftentimes there is big or little trauma impacting your feelings of "stuckness" today. I work with individuals and couples from a trauma-informed approach looking at what is coming up for you today in your struggles and what is influencing how these issues are presenting. Therapy can help work through and gain more understanding and insight to grow and change in the ways you would like to.
(206) 582-6802 View (206) 582-6802
Photo of Scott Shillito, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Scott Shillito
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118
Are you ready for a stronger relationship? Maybe communication with your partner has broken down, or there always seems to be another painful conflict? There are many different ways a relationship can become derailed, but it can get better, and you have taken the first step.
Are you ready for a stronger relationship? Maybe communication with your partner has broken down, or there always seems to be another painful conflict? There are many different ways a relationship can become derailed, but it can get better, and you have taken the first step.
(206) 502-0949 View (206) 502-0949
Photo of Paige Jones, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Paige Jones
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
You may be seeking change, healing, or understanding as you exist in the relationships and situations around you. Whatever your reasons may be, my hope is to provide a safe space for transformation to occur. I work within the context of relationship, believing they are what shape us, harm us, and ultimately heal us. Therefore we will work together as we explore opportunities for you to step further into your own voice and longings, finding freedom from anxiety, stress, depression, and fear. Making the decision to enter therapy is admirable. I look forward to meeting you wherever you may be.
You may be seeking change, healing, or understanding as you exist in the relationships and situations around you. Whatever your reasons may be, my hope is to provide a safe space for transformation to occur. I work within the context of relationship, believing they are what shape us, harm us, and ultimately heal us. Therefore we will work together as we explore opportunities for you to step further into your own voice and longings, finding freedom from anxiety, stress, depression, and fear. Making the decision to enter therapy is admirable. I look forward to meeting you wherever you may be.
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Photo of Julia Robins, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Julia Robins
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
Waitlist for new clients
Do you have difficulty trusting your experiences and navigating how the world perceives and treats you? Are you struggling to feel comfortable in your body? Many of us learn to think and behave in unsustainable ways in order to stay safe in an unaccepting and marginalizing world. If you are struggling to break free from patterns that helped you survive in the past but are keeping you from thriving in the now, you're in the right place. I help LGBTQ+ individuals, couples and women build self-compassion and body-awareness to better understand how trauma is holding them back.
Do you have difficulty trusting your experiences and navigating how the world perceives and treats you? Are you struggling to feel comfortable in your body? Many of us learn to think and behave in unsustainable ways in order to stay safe in an unaccepting and marginalizing world. If you are struggling to break free from patterns that helped you survive in the past but are keeping you from thriving in the now, you're in the right place. I help LGBTQ+ individuals, couples and women build self-compassion and body-awareness to better understand how trauma is holding them back.
(206) 337-0688 View (206) 337-0688
Photo of John A. DeNinno, Psychologist
John A. DeNinno
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
In psychotherapy much depends upon the rapport. You must feel comfortable with the therapist and hopeful about the therapy. When you feel this way, therapy is more likely to be helpful to you. I have been practicing clinical psychology since 1977. I focus on the interplay between our internal world and our relations with others. Not restricted to one approach, I integrate a range of useful change strategies including interpersonal and cognitive-behavioral. Psychotherapy is both an educational process and an interpersonal process. Each person’s experience is unique. I have special interest in eating disorders, relationship disturbances, depression, and stress.
In psychotherapy much depends upon the rapport. You must feel comfortable with the therapist and hopeful about the therapy. When you feel this way, therapy is more likely to be helpful to you. I have been practicing clinical psychology since 1977. I focus on the interplay between our internal world and our relations with others. Not restricted to one approach, I integrate a range of useful change strategies including interpersonal and cognitive-behavioral. Psychotherapy is both an educational process and an interpersonal process. Each person’s experience is unique. I have special interest in eating disorders, relationship disturbances, depression, and stress.
(253) 220-6257 View (253) 220-6257
Photo of Kris Jacobsen - Kris Jacobsen LMHC, PLLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kris Jacobsen LMHC, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Compassionate Mindfulness, Curiosity, Exploration. I provide Somatic Pyschotherapy and Couples Counseling to those looking to cultivate a deeper relationship with themselves and with others. We will study and learn from moment by moment experiences about how you relate to your world and the implicit meanings it has for you. We can incorporate art, imagination, dreamwork, and playful experimentation in our work to help access some of your growing edges. This is both depth work as well as practical day to day skill building in learning to know and express a more authentic You.
Compassionate Mindfulness, Curiosity, Exploration. I provide Somatic Pyschotherapy and Couples Counseling to those looking to cultivate a deeper relationship with themselves and with others. We will study and learn from moment by moment experiences about how you relate to your world and the implicit meanings it has for you. We can incorporate art, imagination, dreamwork, and playful experimentation in our work to help access some of your growing edges. This is both depth work as well as practical day to day skill building in learning to know and express a more authentic You.
(360) 858-6841 View (360) 858-6841
Photo of John Paul Gaylor, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
John Paul Gaylor
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
As an individual, couples, and sex therapist, my passion lies in helping people to confront and tackle the challenges which deeply impact their personal and relational lives and leave them feeling stuck. Whether you are struggling to cope with anxiety, grief, or depression, navigating conflict or resentment in your relationship, or facing concerns about your sexual health or identity, I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of rejection.
As an individual, couples, and sex therapist, my passion lies in helping people to confront and tackle the challenges which deeply impact their personal and relational lives and leave them feeling stuck. Whether you are struggling to cope with anxiety, grief, or depression, navigating conflict or resentment in your relationship, or facing concerns about your sexual health or identity, I strive to create a non-judgmental and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences without fear of rejection.
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Photo of Dr. Kristy Carangi, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Kristy Carangi
Counselor, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in childhood trauma and CPTSD, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, and LGBTQ issues. I work with both couples and individuals, as well as children and adolescents. Therapy focus may include relationship conflict, anxiety control, satisfaction in both your personal life and work, focus and motivation, and building a sense of "feeling whole" or "complete." I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I also offer specialized care to transgender and questioning clients, including transition-related counseling.
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in childhood trauma and CPTSD, relationships, anxiety, ADHD, and LGBTQ issues. I work with both couples and individuals, as well as children and adolescents. Therapy focus may include relationship conflict, anxiety control, satisfaction in both your personal life and work, focus and motivation, and building a sense of "feeling whole" or "complete." I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I also offer specialized care to transgender and questioning clients, including transition-related counseling.
(206) 208-6954 View (206) 208-6954
Photo of Mikaela Serafin, MDiv, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Mikaela Serafin
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
I am skilled in working with relationship + family issues, trauma, shame, life transitions, + spirituality.
The truth is, our world is unpredictable. Our lives are jolted by circumstances that are wonderful, exciting, + lovely–circumstances that are terrible, tragic, + awful. These two opposites do not cancel each other out. Life is both incredible + hard. Therapy is a courageous choice to explore the impact these circumstances have on our lives. The goal of therapy is to help you flourish–to work from the core of who you are to equip you with the necessary skills to live the life you desire. It would be an honor to come alongside you in this aim.
I am skilled in working with relationship + family issues, trauma, shame, life transitions, + spirituality.
The truth is, our world is unpredictable. Our lives are jolted by circumstances that are wonderful, exciting, + lovely–circumstances that are terrible, tragic, + awful. These two opposites do not cancel each other out. Life is both incredible + hard. Therapy is a courageous choice to explore the impact these circumstances have on our lives. The goal of therapy is to help you flourish–to work from the core of who you are to equip you with the necessary skills to live the life you desire. It would be an honor to come alongside you in this aim.
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Photo of Rena Marie Brisentine, MS, LPC, LMHC, CST, Counselor
Rena Marie Brisentine
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, CST
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Those who come to therapy are often ready for something to change. I like to work with people their stuck points, frustrations, feelings and all things relationship. Whether you are partnered, dating, or learning more about your relationship with yourself, I am here to provide support and guidance.
Those who come to therapy are often ready for something to change. I like to work with people their stuck points, frustrations, feelings and all things relationship. Whether you are partnered, dating, or learning more about your relationship with yourself, I am here to provide support and guidance.
(360) 382-2894 View (360) 382-2894
Photo of Alexzia Wagner-Engman, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexzia Wagner-Engman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I offer couples counseling services tailored to various relationship stages.
Accepting new clients! I will help you learn to value and believe in yourself, creating a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. I believe that having a sense of playfulness and curiosity can be just as important as delving into deeper emotional work. I strive to be direct and challenge you, while bringing a sense of warmth and lightness when needed. Finding the right therapist can make all the difference. You need someone you can truly connect with, who makes you feel comfortable enough to open up and be your authentic self which will translate to a more fulfilling life.
I offer couples counseling services tailored to various relationship stages.
Accepting new clients! I will help you learn to value and believe in yourself, creating a strong sense of self-worth and confidence. I believe that having a sense of playfulness and curiosity can be just as important as delving into deeper emotional work. I strive to be direct and challenge you, while bringing a sense of warmth and lightness when needed. Finding the right therapist can make all the difference. You need someone you can truly connect with, who makes you feel comfortable enough to open up and be your authentic self which will translate to a more fulfilling life.
(425) 563-7740 View (425) 563-7740
Photo of Jessica Hoekstra, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Hoekstra
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I have completed Level One of the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to working with couples.
At its core, I believe therapy to be about creating space for change. People come to therapy for a variety of reasons—seeking support and healing, desiring change, looking for relief from pain. With a relational and trauma-informed lens, we’ll look at how you landed here, in an effort to find new ways of being that may be kinder to yourself and more congruent with a whole and healthy life. I work with teens, adults, and couples on issues of trauma, anxiety, grief, relationships, life transitions, and identity formation. I have focused much of my work supporting women recovering from trauma.
I have completed Level One of the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to working with couples.
At its core, I believe therapy to be about creating space for change. People come to therapy for a variety of reasons—seeking support and healing, desiring change, looking for relief from pain. With a relational and trauma-informed lens, we’ll look at how you landed here, in an effort to find new ways of being that may be kinder to yourself and more congruent with a whole and healthy life. I work with teens, adults, and couples on issues of trauma, anxiety, grief, relationships, life transitions, and identity formation. I have focused much of my work supporting women recovering from trauma.
(206) 207-9372 View (206) 207-9372
Photo of Dr. Peter Matthew Rivera, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Peter Matthew Rivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Whether it's improving communication, finding better work-life balance, or reigniting the spark in your relationship, I will tailor our sessions to address your specific needs and goals.
I am taking new clients and have 10+ years of experience helping individuals and couples strengthen their relationships, improve communication, and find healthy ways to cope with stress. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your challenges and develop practical strategies to address them. I want you to know that there is no judgment here. Therapy is a safe space where you can express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear. My goal is to create an atmosphere of trust, where you can open up and explore your thoughts and emotions openly and honestly.
Whether it's improving communication, finding better work-life balance, or reigniting the spark in your relationship, I will tailor our sessions to address your specific needs and goals.
I am taking new clients and have 10+ years of experience helping individuals and couples strengthen their relationships, improve communication, and find healthy ways to cope with stress. Together, we will work to identify the root causes of your challenges and develop practical strategies to address them. I want you to know that there is no judgment here. Therapy is a safe space where you can express your thoughts, feelings, and concerns without fear. My goal is to create an atmosphere of trust, where you can open up and explore your thoughts and emotions openly and honestly.
(253) 214-3142 View (253) 214-3142
Photo of Maria Costello, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
In my practice, I am dedicated to helping couples deepen their emotional connection and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships through Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I specialize in treating couples struggling with codependency, infidelity, and addiction recovery. My approach is deeply rooted in compassion, understanding, and evidence-based interventions. I work collaboratively with couples to help them to rediscover joy, intimacy, and mutual support in their relationship. Additionally, I work with individuals, offering holistic and personalized care to help heal from past wounds, and develop new coping skills.
In my practice, I am dedicated to helping couples deepen their emotional connection and cultivate healthier, more fulfilling relationships through Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I specialize in treating couples struggling with codependency, infidelity, and addiction recovery. My approach is deeply rooted in compassion, understanding, and evidence-based interventions. I work collaboratively with couples to help them to rediscover joy, intimacy, and mutual support in their relationship. Additionally, I work with individuals, offering holistic and personalized care to help heal from past wounds, and develop new coping skills.
(206) 594-5154 View (206) 594-5154
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.