Mara Applebaum, PhD, LMHC

My practice draws from psychodynamic and psychoanalytic theory (specifically British Object Relations), family systems theory, and meditation. I believe, first and foremost, that one must feel deeply understood before thinking and introspection can evolve. I listen as closely as I can to you, reflect what I hear, and offer a trained perspective that can be helpful.

One of the most important aspects of what I offer is to address what is being expressed both explicitly and implicitly (between the lines). The depth of this work often has significant effect and includes a myriad of emotions.People often experience relief in having the help and the capacity to navigate their thoughts and feelings. Because my approach is inclusive and paced to fit the needs of each individual, many people experience a greater sense of personal freedom, intimacy, and creativity over time. Session frequency is one to five times per week, depending on your needs and the acuity of your symptoms. Meetings are available in person or via telehealth.

I work with individual adults. Issues I often address with patients include:

Depression and social anxiety

Perfectionism, overachievement, control, workaholism

Life transitions (new job/job loss, move, engagement, divorce/breakup, etc.)

Personal identity, existential questions (“Who am I? Why am I here?”)

Adult autism

Issues related to Ehlers Danlos Syndrome/POTS/MCAS

I also offer professional consultation to licensed clinicians who are interested in deepening their practices and thinking and working more psychoanalytically. This includes developing a self-reflective approach that addresses both transference and countertransference in the therapeutic relationship. Consultation is available to anyone fully licensed at the master's or PhD/MD level by your state or country.

About Mara
Email • 206.999.3266

I have a master’s degree in applied behavioral science from Bastyr University and a master's and doctorate in mythology and depth psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. I am licensed by the state of Washington as a mental health counselor and currently a senior candidate at the Northwestern Psychoanalytic Society and Institute.

Since 2002, my experiences as a psychotherapist, community-agency counselor, and hospital clinician have connected me with people from diverse cultures, races, classes, religions, and sexual orientations. I’ve spoken as a clinical expert for many organizations, including Shepherd’s Counseling Service, Swedish Hospital, Seattle University, La Leche League, and Postpartum Support International of Washington. My affiliations include the International Psychoanalytical Association, International Psychoanalytical Studies Organization, and the Northwest Alliance for Psychoanalytic Study.

Policies

INITIAL PHONE CONSULTATION

I generally talk with prospective patients by phone for a few minutes at no charge to discuss the reasons for seeking psychotherapy and to determine if the next step is scheduling an appointment.

STRUCTURE

We can think of the first few sessions as a time for both of us to see if we are a fit. We will discuss your goals for treatment. Session frequency is one or more times a week, depending on your needs.

FEES AND INSURANCE

My fee per session is $200 and paid to me directly. I am an out-of-network provider. Many insurance plans offer coverage for out-of-network mental health treatment; it may be helpful to ask your plan what kind of OON coverage you have. I cannot guarantee reimbursement from your plan, but I can provide a monthly superbill that can be submitted to your insurance plans for direct reimbursement to you.

GOOD FAITH ESTIMATE

Under Section 2799B-6 of the Public Health Service Act, health care providers and health care facilities are required to inform individuals who are not enrolled in a plan or coverage or a federal health care program, or not seeking to file a claim with their plan or coverage both orally and in writing of their ability, upon request or at the time of scheduling health care items and services, to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” of expected charges.

You have the right to receive a “Good Faith Estimate” explaining how much your medical care will cost. Under the law, health care providers need to give patients who don’t have insurance or who are not using insurance an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.

You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate for the total expected cost of any non-emergency items or services. This includes related costs like medical tests, prescription drugs, equipment, and hospital fees.
Make sure your health care provider gives you a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least 1 business day before your medical service or item. You can also ask your health care provider, and any other provider you choose, for a Good Faith Estimate before you schedule an item or service.
If you receive a bill that is at least $400 more than your Good Faith Estimate, you can dispute the bill.
Make sure to save a copy or picture of your Good Faith Estimate. For questions or more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises

Contact

Please get in touch via email or phone to discuss working together. I look forward to connecting.

Email • 206.999.3266