Individual Therapy

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Signs of Repressed Sexual Trauma: Understanding Hidden Effects and When to Seek Support

Sexual trauma can have lasting effects that aren’t always immediately recognizable. For some people, traumatic experiences are remembered clearly. For others, memories may feel fragmented, vague, or difficult to access. This can leave survivors wondering why they struggle with anxiety, relationships, or emotional reactions without understanding the underlying cause. At Steffen Counseling Services, we understand […]

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CBT vs. DBT: What’s the Difference and Which One Might Be Right for You?

If you’ve been looking into therapy, you may have already come across the question of CBT vs DBT. These two approaches are related, but they’re not the same, and understanding the difference can help you feel more grounded as you explore your options. Many people don’t know where to start when they’re trying to choose

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Gender-Affirming Therapy Seattle: How We Create an Inclusive Therapy Experience from Intake to Follow-Up

If you’re searching for gender-affirming therapy in Seattle, finding a therapist who truly understands and respects your identity is essential. At Steffen Counseling Services, we are committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based mental health care for transgender, nonbinary, gender-diverse, and questioning individuals. From your very first interaction with our practice to your ongoing therapy sessions, we

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Neurodivergent-Affirming EMDR: A More Accessible Way to Heal from Trauma

If you’re neurodivergent, you may have heard that EMDR therapy can help with trauma, anxiety, and distressing memories. You may also wonder whether it would actually work for you. The short answer is yes: EMDR can support neurodivergent clients in ways that feel safer, more flexible, and more affirming. Neurodivergent-affirming EMDR does not force clients

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What Is Relationship OCD? Understanding ROCD, Symptoms, and Treatment

Every relationship comes with moments of uncertainty. It’s normal to wonder whether you’re making the right decision, whether your relationship will last, or whether you and your partner are truly compatible. Most people experience these thoughts from time to time and are able to move forward without them taking over their lives. For people with

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A Therapist’s Toolkit: The Therapeutic Relationship & What Makes Therapy Work

When people begin therapy, they often wonder what makes therapy work. Is it the techniques? The diagnosis? The therapist’s training? While all of those matter, research consistently points to one factor above the rest: the therapeutic relationship. What Makes Therapy Work? At its core, therapy works because of the connection between client and therapist. This

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GLP-1s, Body Image, and Mental Health: The Weight of Social Judgment

The conversation around GLP-1 medications has become about much more than healthcare. Every day, social media, news headlines, and everyday conversations invite people to weigh in on who “should” take these medications, who “deserves” them, and what they say about the people who use them. Lost in these conversations is something equally important: the emotional

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Alyse Autism Assessments

Adult Autism Evaluations in Seattle Now Available with Alyse Bradway!

If you’ve ever wondered whether autism could explain experiences you’ve had throughout your life, you’re not alone. Many adults are discovering they’re autistic later in life after years of feeling different, misunderstood, or overlooked. At our practice, we’re committed to making the diagnostic process more accessible, respectful, and affirming. We’re excited to share that Alyse

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Tech Layoffs in Seattle: How to Cope with Job Loss and Uncertainty

Seattle’s tech industry has long been associated with stability, innovation, and high-paying careers. But in recent years, tech layoffs in Seattle have disrupted that sense of security across companies both large and small. If you’ve been impacted, whether directly or indirectly, you’re not alone. The Emotional Impact of Tech Layoffs Job loss in the tech

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Emerson

Meet Emerson: Your Attachment-Focused Therapist in Seattle

We’re excited to welcome Jessica Emerson, LMHCA back to Steffen Counseling Services! Emerson first joined our practice as a clinical intern, and we’re thrilled to celebrate her return as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA). If you’re looking for an attachment-focused therapist in Seattle, Emerson is currently accepting new clients for in-person therapy in

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