Get Started

I strongly believe that when the therapist and client are on the same page, therapy is more likely to be helpful to you. Here is a description of what it’s like to work together. If, after reading this, you think I’m a good fit for your needs, there are instructions for getting started below.

  • I work with adult women and womxn (18 and older), and by that I mean all people who have been socialized as girls and women, including cisgender women, transgender women, feminized bodies, and gender-nonconforming bodies.

    I provide individual therapy only.

    1. Fill out the New Client Inquiry form on my website. This form helps us both determine if we're a good match for your needs.

    2. After submitting the form, you'll be directed to schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me. This call is an opportunity for us to clarify any questions or logistics before officially starting.

    3. At the scheduled consultation time, I'll give you a call. If all goes well and we decide to move forward, I'll set you up in my client portal. From there, you can secure your weekly appointment slot and complete the intake and consent forms.

    4. Before each session, you'll receive an email with a link for our video session.

  • 50-minute sessions: $195

    In compliance with the No Surprises Act enacted on January 1, 2022, all healthcare providers must notify clients of their rights and protections against “surprise billing.” This Act requires that we notify you of your federally protected rights to receive a notification when services are rendered by an out-of-network provider, if you are uninsured, or if you elect not to use your insurance.

    You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your therapy or counseling will cost. Click here for more information.

  • I do not work with insurance companies directly or accept Medicare. If you have out-of-network benefits, I can provide a 'superbill' for reimbursement.

    If you need clarity on your out-of-pocket expenses, please check with your insurance provider before scheduling your phone consultation.

  • Sessions are conducted via secure telehealth using video conferencing for face-to-face conversations. The platform is HIPAA-protected and completely confidential, with no recording. You can connect using an internet browser or an app on your tablet or smartphone.

    Online sessions are available to clients across Washington state.

    All you need is a device with internet and a quiet, well-lit space.

  • During our initial sessions, I'll gather information about your challenges and therapy goals. By the end of the first or second session, I'll share my understanding of your situation and what I can offer.

    In subsequent sessions, you'll discuss areas to work on, and I'll use my expertise to guide you toward the changes you seek. We'll regularly review our progress to ensure it's beneficial for you.

    Expect to engage in exercises during sessions (in-vivo learning) to apply concepts directly. This hands-on approach may feel unfamiliar initially but is key to personal growth. I'll also provide exercises for you to practice outside of our sessions.

  • This type of therapy is learned by doing, so we will meet weekly. Therapy concludes when you've practiced and feel confident in using the skills consistently in your daily life.

    While it might seem logical to reduce session frequency, this could unnecessarily prolong your progress.

    Therapy length varies, as everyone learns at their own pace. The goal is to empower you to confidently navigate life's challenges.

    Please note, my practice doesn't offer regular support between sessions ("crisis calls"). However, as long as my schedule allows and it's clinical appropriate, we may schedule more than one session per week.

  • No advanced notice required. You can cancel last-minute with no fees.*

    I waive fees for two cancellations per year. Other cancelled/missed appointments are rescheduled within a three-week window: the week before, during, or after your absence.

    You’ll access my online scheduling system for quick and seamless cancellations or rescheduling.

    *A cancellation fee is only charged after using up your two waived sessions and not rescheduling during the three-week window.

  • My working hours are Tuesday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. I am out of the office on most major holidays.

    1. Working with me is different from visiting a medical doctor. Our time together is more than just talking about your problems and feelings; it’s about actively engaging in the process of change. This involves putting in your best efforts to shift behaviors, which can transform how you relate to yourself, others, and your life.

    2. To make the most of therapy, it helps to integrate what we discuss into your daily life. Reflect on our sessions, complete any assigned tasks, and practice the skills we work on together.

    3. Open communication is key. If you have feedback or need adjustments, please let me know. I view your input as a valuable opportunity to enhance our work together and ensure that the therapy process meets your needs.

    4. It's important to remember that change can be more complex than expected and therapy can sometimes be challenging. Patience and trust in the process are essential, as challenges often signify progress and growth.

Online Counseling for Women in Seattle and Across Washington State

Let’s Work Together

I’m so glad you’re here. Here’s how to become a client:

01. Review the Info: If you haven’t already, make sure my clinical focus areas align with your needs by checking out the relevant pages:

02. Complete the New Client Inquiry Form: Click the button below to fill out the form and see if we're a good fit. After you submit it, you'll be able to schedule a phone consultation.

I’m excited to learn more about you and see how we can work together!

Note that you will be taken away from my website to a HIPAA-secure Google form. If you are having trouble with my online scheduling process, please email me at counseling@emilywhitish.com.

My practice is 100% telehealth

Doing therapy virtually is perfect if your busy life makes getting to an office feel impossible. My clients join sessions from all kinds of places—home, work, on trips, even their cars. They’ve come to therapy from a cozy bed, the Target parking lot, a closet hideout (thanks, kids), a local park, and their office at work.

Oh, the places you can do therapy! Want to head out of the house for your session? Go for it—therapy can go where you go. It’s flexible, convenient, and all about meeting you where you are (literally).