Strength-Based Therapists in Burien, WA

Photo of Vanessa Davis, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Thank you for taking the time to put you and your family first in finding a therapist that will best meet your needs in navigating through your present concerns, or life challenges you and your family are presently experiencing. For the past six years I have provided a wide range of psychotherapy services to children, families, individuals, and couples who have experienced depression, perinatal/postpartum difficulties, anxiety, grief, trauma, adverse stress, relationship conflicts, behavioral and developmental related concerns. My approach to therapy is always strength based, warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
Thank you for taking the time to put you and your family first in finding a therapist that will best meet your needs in navigating through your present concerns, or life challenges you and your family are presently experiencing. For the past six years I have provided a wide range of psychotherapy services to children, families, individuals, and couples who have experienced depression, perinatal/postpartum difficulties, anxiety, grief, trauma, adverse stress, relationship conflicts, behavioral and developmental related concerns. My approach to therapy is always strength based, warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative.
(206) 752-5892 x102 View (206) 752-5892 x102
Photo of Marilyn Baker, MA, LMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Marilyn Baker
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
She individualizes her approach for each client using a person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach with strength-based clinically focused methods.
Marilyn Baker is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with experience in corporate and nonprofit sectors working with diverse populations and internationally. She has been involved in Christian ministry since 2016 and received her graduate degree from Western Seminary. She focuses on providing direct counseling services to those in high-stress work environments and those struggling with chronic physical or emotional burdens.
She individualizes her approach for each client using a person-centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach with strength-based clinically focused methods.
Marilyn Baker is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate with experience in corporate and nonprofit sectors working with diverse populations and internationally. She has been involved in Christian ministry since 2016 and received her graduate degree from Western Seminary. She focuses on providing direct counseling services to those in high-stress work environments and those struggling with chronic physical or emotional burdens.
(206) 594-5075 View (206) 594-5075
Photo of Niashay Whitaker, LMHC , MHP, Counselor
Niashay Whitaker
Counselor, LMHC , MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98148
I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.
I aim to provide a supportive, judgement free environment. As my client, your wants and needs will become a priority. As a team we will work together to reach your goals. I work hard to understand my clients worldview while also maintaining the ability to share outside perspective. I believe that with the right support everyone has the ability to live a fulfilling life. If you are searching for support, healing, understanding, perspective, or challenge I would love to help you with your journey.
(206) 203-9492 View (206) 203-9492
Photo of Geramy Michael Hudson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Geramy Michael Hudson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
Life sometimes presents with challenges and obstacles that seem impossible to get through. One may often times feel alone and that there's nowhere to turn; but there truly is. I look at the whole individual and their experience as unique and focus on helping the person reveal their true self; the person they always wanted to be.
Life sometimes presents with challenges and obstacles that seem impossible to get through. One may often times feel alone and that there's nowhere to turn; but there truly is. I look at the whole individual and their experience as unique and focus on helping the person reveal their true self; the person they always wanted to be.
(206) 278-2885 View (206) 278-2885
Photo of Kathryn Kong, MSW, LICSW, SUDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Kong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, SUDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Hi, I'm Kathryn! I specialize in working with adults navigating religious trauma and/or cultural challenges, including cultural identity issues and generational trauma. Other areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. I consider it an honor to be invited into my clients' lives to help them navigate uncertainty, make meaning of challenging experiences, and regain purpose and hope.
Hi, I'm Kathryn! I specialize in working with adults navigating religious trauma and/or cultural challenges, including cultural identity issues and generational trauma. Other areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use. I consider it an honor to be invited into my clients' lives to help them navigate uncertainty, make meaning of challenging experiences, and regain purpose and hope.
(206) 736-1484 x215 View (206) 736-1484 x215
Photo of Chase Torbergson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chase Torbergson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in relationships, anxiety, frustration, ADHD, and problems with focus and motivation. I see both couples and individuals, as well as adolescents. Counseling focus may include relationship satisfaction, anxiety control, focus and motivational problems with both personal life and work, as well as general ADHD management. I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I offer both short-term counseling (8-10 weeks) and long-term counseling. I also offer coaching related to focus and motivation.
I see a wide range of clients, although I specialize in relationships, anxiety, frustration, ADHD, and problems with focus and motivation. I see both couples and individuals, as well as adolescents. Counseling focus may include relationship satisfaction, anxiety control, focus and motivational problems with both personal life and work, as well as general ADHD management. I've helped countless clients move from a place of feeling stuck and dissatisfied, to one of happiness and flourishing. I offer both short-term counseling (8-10 weeks) and long-term counseling. I also offer coaching related to focus and motivation.
(206) 203-0671 View (206) 203-0671
Photo of Michelle Solomon, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Solomon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high stress job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? If you've had difficulty prioritizing your needs and happiness and want more skills to help you relax, now might be the time to reach out to a therapist. You're ready to advocate and put yourself first. You crave balance in your routine and want to learn how to set healthy boundaries so you can find time to take a break. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you each step of the way.
Are you struggling to achieve work-life balance as someone with bipolar disorder or in a high stress job? Do you feel exhausted and overwhelmed trying to manage your mood or stressors of daily life? If you've had difficulty prioritizing your needs and happiness and want more skills to help you relax, now might be the time to reach out to a therapist. You're ready to advocate and put yourself first. You crave balance in your routine and want to learn how to set healthy boundaries so you can find time to take a break. Let's work together to rediscover joy and pleasure in your life once again. I'm here to help you each step of the way.
(206) 752-3559 View (206) 752-3559
Photo of Claire L. Schaffer, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Claire L. Schaffer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166
As a systemic therapist, I believe in the exploration of all cultural and societal messages, norms, and values that have shaped my clients into who they are today. Making the brave decision to begin therapy is often preceded by many obstacles and challenges, and it is important to me to take the necessary time to walk through clients' stories and reflect on their experiences. I work to create a safe, trusting, and open environment where my clients and I can exchange constructive feedback. I believe that the therapy room is a space for emotional vulnerability, reflection, and growth.
As a systemic therapist, I believe in the exploration of all cultural and societal messages, norms, and values that have shaped my clients into who they are today. Making the brave decision to begin therapy is often preceded by many obstacles and challenges, and it is important to me to take the necessary time to walk through clients' stories and reflect on their experiences. I work to create a safe, trusting, and open environment where my clients and I can exchange constructive feedback. I believe that the therapy room is a space for emotional vulnerability, reflection, and growth.
(425) 428-6712 View (425) 428-6712
Photo of Luís Merced, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II, AF-EMDR, Counselor
Luís Merced
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCTP-II, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
My preferred initial communication is email. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is collaborative. The client is the expert of themselves and my role is to provide the knowledge and skills I have attained to support the clients needs. My clinical interests include treating trauma, neuroaffirming as well as providing LGBTQIA+ affirmative psychotherapy to sexual minorities. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or past experiences are negatively affecting you, feel free to reach out to see if we are a good fit to work together.
My preferred initial communication is email. My approach to the therapeutic relationship is collaborative. The client is the expert of themselves and my role is to provide the knowledge and skills I have attained to support the clients needs. My clinical interests include treating trauma, neuroaffirming as well as providing LGBTQIA+ affirmative psychotherapy to sexual minorities. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression or past experiences are negatively affecting you, feel free to reach out to see if we are a good fit to work together.
(206) 401-9751 View (206) 401-9751
Photo of Nick Farkas, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Nick Farkas
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166
Are you having increased anxiety or depression during the COVID-19 pandemic? Are particular relationships proving to be difficult? Are you looking for something to change? I believe in deep goodness and healing that occurs when we share our brokenness with one another to grieve the past, accept the present, and voice hope for the future. We will spend time making sense of your past and how it impacts your relationships. I will work with you, your children, or your family to develop relational and coping skills, with the ultimate goal of developing self-compassion. I will approach our work with empathy and compassion.
Are you having increased anxiety or depression during the COVID-19 pandemic? Are particular relationships proving to be difficult? Are you looking for something to change? I believe in deep goodness and healing that occurs when we share our brokenness with one another to grieve the past, accept the present, and voice hope for the future. We will spend time making sense of your past and how it impacts your relationships. I will work with you, your children, or your family to develop relational and coping skills, with the ultimate goal of developing self-compassion. I will approach our work with empathy and compassion.
(206) 203-7091 View (206) 203-7091
Photo of Rosemary Tyksinski - Rosemary Bannon Tyksinski, PhD, LLC, PhD, LMHC, NBCMC , BCC, Counselor
Rosemary Bannon Tyksinski, PhD, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NBCMC , BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Awarded Bellevue's Best Mental Health & Counseling Business for 8 consecutive years. Because your life isn't like anyone else's your therapy shouldn't be either. Your therapy is designed to fit your needs, strengths, vulnerabilities, and personality. I offer a flexible array of therapeutic approaches providing both short-term problem-focused therapy and long-term attachment-based therapy. Your therapy is approached holistically because every part of your life and health are important to your well being.
Awarded Bellevue's Best Mental Health & Counseling Business for 8 consecutive years. Because your life isn't like anyone else's your therapy shouldn't be either. Your therapy is designed to fit your needs, strengths, vulnerabilities, and personality. I offer a flexible array of therapeutic approaches providing both short-term problem-focused therapy and long-term attachment-based therapy. Your therapy is approached holistically because every part of your life and health are important to your well being.
(253) 499-5035 View (253) 499-5035
Photo of Issy K Kleiman - Counseling Services for Wellbeing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98166
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Bobbie Catton, MA, LMHC, SUDP, C-DBT, CPC, Counselor
Bobbie Catton
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP, C-DBT, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146  (Online Only)
Are you feeling "stuck", disconnected, or having trouble with stressors in your life? When we are stuck it changes the way we think about ourselves and how we view the world around us. This leads to disconnection to those around us. Every person can experience blind spots in the narrative they tell themselves, this creates challenges in our relationships with our "favorite people." I invite you, your partner, or children a safe space to reconnect with yourself and / or those around you. Together we will work collaboratively to develop strategies that promote healing, resilience, and personal growth which will increase peace in life.
Are you feeling "stuck", disconnected, or having trouble with stressors in your life? When we are stuck it changes the way we think about ourselves and how we view the world around us. This leads to disconnection to those around us. Every person can experience blind spots in the narrative they tell themselves, this creates challenges in our relationships with our "favorite people." I invite you, your partner, or children a safe space to reconnect with yourself and / or those around you. Together we will work collaboratively to develop strategies that promote healing, resilience, and personal growth which will increase peace in life.
(206) 482-9906 View (206) 482-9906
Photo of Sondra Longbrake, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sondra Longbrake
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166  (Online Only)
Do discussions with your partner often lead to yelling or angry silence? Do you find yourselves arguing about the same issues year after year with no resolution? Learn to restore harmony in your home with communication skills that create guardrails for safety (I sometime call them training wheels or bumper pads). When couples feel like they’re walking on eggshells, life feels exhausting. When the best of intentions devolve into disappointment, misunderstanding, and hurt feelings, it might seem like there is no way back to the romantic bond you once enjoyed. It can be done, and together we will plot that course!
Do discussions with your partner often lead to yelling or angry silence? Do you find yourselves arguing about the same issues year after year with no resolution? Learn to restore harmony in your home with communication skills that create guardrails for safety (I sometime call them training wheels or bumper pads). When couples feel like they’re walking on eggshells, life feels exhausting. When the best of intentions devolve into disappointment, misunderstanding, and hurt feelings, it might seem like there is no way back to the romantic bond you once enjoyed. It can be done, and together we will plot that course!
(509) 619-1485 View (509) 619-1485
Photo of Rachel Loch, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P, Counselor
Rachel Loch
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166
Whether you are getting to know yourself better or are seeking support while navigating life’s challenges, I would love to come alongside your journey to offer a compassionate and empowering space to process and grow in. I enjoy working with people who may be members of the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and people with systemic or religious trauma. However, you don’t need to belong to these particular communities to work with me, I hope to see clients thrive in exactly who they are.
Whether you are getting to know yourself better or are seeking support while navigating life’s challenges, I would love to come alongside your journey to offer a compassionate and empowering space to process and grow in. I enjoy working with people who may be members of the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, and people with systemic or religious trauma. However, you don’t need to belong to these particular communities to work with me, I hope to see clients thrive in exactly who they are.
(509) 796-7912 View (509) 796-7912
Photo of Megan Choitz - Brave Heart Therapy, MSW, LICSW, ACM-SW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brave Heart Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, ACM-SW
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166
Waitlist for new clients
I believe you know yourself best, but may need to make time and space to reconnect with you. I apply an integrative, holistic approach that examines each person's experience while taking into account the context in which they exist. The foundation of my work is establishing a brave space of safety and trust, while embracing compassion, empathy, non-judgment and openness.
I believe you know yourself best, but may need to make time and space to reconnect with you. I apply an integrative, holistic approach that examines each person's experience while taking into account the context in which they exist. The foundation of my work is establishing a brave space of safety and trust, while embracing compassion, empathy, non-judgment and openness.
(253) 893-6186 View (253) 893-6186
Photo of Donovan R Bigelow, JD, LLM, MA, (LMHC), Counselor
Donovan R Bigelow
Counselor, JD, LLM, MA, (LMHC)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burien, WA 98146
The Only Cure Is Strength. Our work together will focus on your needs. Psychoanalytic Therapy, integrated with other perspectives, is a powerful and effective way to help individuals and couples address life's most urgent issues. Together we can work through, overcome, or improve: Depression, stress and anxiety, Love and intimate relationships, Family conflict resolution, Sexuality and body image, Parent-child conflicts, Drug abuse and eating disorders, Balancing work and personal life, Managing emotions effectively, Strengthening the will/ego, Artistic and athletic creativity, and Creation of meaning. Every effort in therapy should be focused on achieving an aesthetic self-creation.
The Only Cure Is Strength. Our work together will focus on your needs. Psychoanalytic Therapy, integrated with other perspectives, is a powerful and effective way to help individuals and couples address life's most urgent issues. Together we can work through, overcome, or improve: Depression, stress and anxiety, Love and intimate relationships, Family conflict resolution, Sexuality and body image, Parent-child conflicts, Drug abuse and eating disorders, Balancing work and personal life, Managing emotions effectively, Strengthening the will/ego, Artistic and athletic creativity, and Creation of meaning. Every effort in therapy should be focused on achieving an aesthetic self-creation.
(206) 940-6732 View (206) 940-6732
Photo of David Flack, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
David Flack
Counselor, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98166
Welcome! My name's David Flack. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Substance Use Disorders Professional. For over two decades, I’ve provided counseling to teens and young adults with a wide variety of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and histories of trauma. I can help you, too. Together, we'll make choices about what to change, identify behaviors to leave behind, and develop the insight and skills needed for the journey ahead.
Welcome! My name's David Flack. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Substance Use Disorders Professional. For over two decades, I’ve provided counseling to teens and young adults with a wide variety of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and histories of trauma. I can help you, too. Together, we'll make choices about what to change, identify behaviors to leave behind, and develop the insight and skills needed for the journey ahead.
(206) 693-4784 View (206) 693-4784
Photo of Sydney Wolfe, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sydney Wolfe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98146
I approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model. I view every individual/family/couple as unique, utilizing methods and techniques best-suited for each situation. My experience includes many areas, all pertaining to individuals, couples and families. I am passionate in working with women, teens, couples and the LGBTQ community. I was trained in Family Systems Therapy; I approach therapy work holistically, focusing on the individual and extending beyond, to the interactions between family members and significant others. I work with clients to help them recognize how extended family, culture, and society may impact them as individuals.
I approach my work using a client-centered, strengths-based model. I view every individual/family/couple as unique, utilizing methods and techniques best-suited for each situation. My experience includes many areas, all pertaining to individuals, couples and families. I am passionate in working with women, teens, couples and the LGBTQ community. I was trained in Family Systems Therapy; I approach therapy work holistically, focusing on the individual and extending beyond, to the interactions between family members and significant others. I work with clients to help them recognize how extended family, culture, and society may impact them as individuals.
(425) 332-7524 View (425) 332-7524
Photo of Janet Engelgau, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Engelgau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burien, WA 98168
My work experience as a therapist has given me the opportunity to work with diverse populations that include a wide range of issues. I have worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, grief and loss, recognizing and recovering from psychological abuse as well as other relationship struggles and life transitions. I use evidence based treatment and I am constantly expanding my knowledge of ways to help clients resolve past issues and lead more satisfying lives. Mental health concerns can impact any of us in our daily lives and present unexpected hurdles.
My work experience as a therapist has given me the opportunity to work with diverse populations that include a wide range of issues. I have worked with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, grief and loss, recognizing and recovering from psychological abuse as well as other relationship struggles and life transitions. I use evidence based treatment and I am constantly expanding my knowledge of ways to help clients resolve past issues and lead more satisfying lives. Mental health concerns can impact any of us in our daily lives and present unexpected hurdles.
(360) 800-1701 View (360) 800-1701
1
Strength-Based Therapists

How does strength-based therapy work?

During strength-based therapy sessions, the therapist will ask about an individual’s experiences of stress, pain, or trauma with the goal of orienting the client to view themselves as a survivor rather than a victim, and focusing on their strengths rather than on their weaknesses. In framing a client’s personal narrative along these lines, the therapist and client work together to identify existing skills that can be harnessed.

Is strength-based therapy evidence-based?

Strength-based therapy is an evidence-based treatment that has been studied extensively and shown to be effective across domains. The treatment has been found to be particularly effective in helping individuals who are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and other mental health concerns. Strength-based therapy has been used by therapists to help clients for more than 60 years.

How long does strength-based therapy last?

There’s no precise timeline for strength-based therapy. The duration of treatment depends on the individual’s specific needs and goals and the severity of their concerns. Some individuals may find they achieve their therapeutic goals quickly, while others might benefit from ongoing support and guidance in order to continue progressing.

How effective is strength-based therapy?

Clinical research and decades of practice have shown strength-based therapy to be an effective treatment to improve mental health and well-being for many conditions. The treatment can engender a sense of connection and collaboration between the therapist and the individual, fostering a positive therapeutic relationship. For individuals with narcissistic tendencies, strength-based therapy may be less effective, as the focus on the individual’s strengths may undermine the work needed to honestly assess the challenges the individual faces.