Male therapists in Seattle, WA

We know that feeling understood matters just as much as clinical skill. We take care in matching clients with therapists who not only have strong training, but who also bring lived experience that helps them truly “get” what you’re going through. Our therapists work in a way that is both clinical and deeply human—offering evidence-based support while honoring identity, context, and real-life experience. We focus on creating a relationship where you feel safe, respected, and supported, so therapy feels meaningful, not mechanical.  

Hi, I’m Ryan. I became a therapist because I know how powerful it can be to have someone genuinely in your corner. Someone who sees the good in you when you’re struggling to see it yourself, who stays grounded when life feels overwhelming, and who believes that your current circumstances do not have to define your future. I believe people are capable of meaningful change, even after years of feeling stuck, lonely, anxious, disconnected, or shaped by painful experiences. Sometimes we simply need a relationship in which we feel safe enough to be honest, supported enough to take risks, and gently challenged enough to begin doing things differently. I hope to offer that kind of relationship to my clients. My path to becoming a therapist has not been entirely conventional. I grew up in Bellingham, Washington, earned degrees abroad in Italy and Spain, and previously worked as both a marketer and a psychometrist before entering the counseling profession. Living in different countries and moving through several professional worlds taught me to be curious about people. Their stories, cultures, relationships, contradictions, and the experiences that shape how they see themselves. In therapy, I want to know the person behind the symptoms. I want to understand what you long for, what keeps getting in the way, what you learned about yourself growing up, and who you might become if fear, shame, trauma, or self-doubt were no longer making so many of your decisions. You do not need to arrive with the perfect explanation for what is wrong. You may simply know that you feel lonely, overwhelmed, disconnected from yourself, haunted by the past, or tired of repeating the same relationship patterns. You may be outwardly successful while privately feeling insecure or lost. You may want deeper relationships but find yourself withdrawing, avoiding vulnerability, choosing unavailable partners, or questioning whether anyone could truly understand you. Whatever brings you here, you do not have to perform or pretend with me. I aim to create a space where you can speak honestly. Even about the thoughts, experiences, desires, fears, and parts of yourself that feel difficult to share elsewhere. My style is warm, grounded, direct, and deeply human. I will listen without judgment, but I will not simply nod along with everything you say. When helpful, I will gently challenge the beliefs or patterns that may be keeping you stuck. I believe we can be compassionate toward ourselves while also taking responsibility for creating change. Therapy with me is both insight-oriented and action-oriented. We will explore how early relationships, childhood experiences, unconscious beliefs, and protective behaviors may still influence your life today. I take an Adlerian and psychodynamic approach, meaning I am interested in the deeper story beneath your current struggles. However, I do not believe your past permanently determines who you are. Awareness gives us choices. Once we understand why a pattern developed and what purpose it once served, we can begin deciding whether it still belongs in the life you want today. Insight is important, but I also want therapy to extend beyond the hour we spend together. Depending on your goals, I may suggest small behavioral challenges (what I sometimes call “missions”) to help you practice new ways of relating to yourself and others. That might involve initiating an uncomfortable conversation, setting a boundary, reaching out to someone instead of isolating, tolerating the possibility of rejection, making eye contact, expressing a need, or interrupting a pattern of avoidance. These challenges are collaborative and paced carefully. The goal is not to overwhelm you or push you before you are ready. Instead, we gradually build your capacity to do things that once felt impossible. Little by little, you begin gathering evidence that you can survive discomfort, respond differently, and become more secure in yourself. I also use evidence-based approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy, or EMDR, as well as Cognitive Processing Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These approaches can be especially helpful when painful memories, traumatic experiences, intrusive thoughts, or deeply rooted negative beliefs continue to affect your relationships and daily life. We can discuss these options together and determine what feels most appropriate for you. Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I want you to understand and feel comfortable with the work we are doing. Many of the people who feel drawn to my practice are young adults, members of Gen Z and the millennial generation, and people who want to build more meaningful relationships. I often work with men experiencing loneliness, insecurity, relationship difficulties, or questions related to sexual identity. I particularly value working with gay and bisexual men and hope to provide a space where you can explore identity, dating, intimacy, coming out, attachment, and relationship dynamics without having to explain or defend who you are. I also enjoy working with women navigating attachment concerns, dating patterns, motherhood, single parenthood, major transitions, and the desire to form healthier, more secure relationships. Across identities, I tend to connect well with people who are introspective, curious about themselves, and ready to move toward a life that feels more authentic, even if they are not yet sure how to get there. My goal is not for therapy to become the only place where you feel known and supported. I want the trust we build together to ripple outward into the rest of your life. Over time, I hope you become more comfortable expressing yourself, navigating conflict, forming close relationships, recovering from setbacks, and allowing others to truly know you. Ultimately, my goal is to help you build a life so full, secure, and meaningful that you no longer need therapy in the same way. Outside of my work, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé, family, and friends. I love being outdoors, walking through neighborhoods and cities, riding my bike, growing food, and working on DIY and home-renovation projects. I also practice Vipassana meditation, although, like many people, not quite as consistently as I would like. These parts of my life help me stay curious, grounded, and connected to the ordinary moments that make life feel meaningful. Choosing a therapist is deeply personal. Training and therapeutic methods matter, but so does the feeling you have when you speak with someone. You deserve a therapist with whom you can gradually lower your guard and feel more like yourself. A free consultation is an opportunity for us to talk, for you to ask questions, and for you to get a sense of my personality and approach without pressure. You do not need to commit before knowing whether the connection feels right. I would be honored to meet you, hear what has been happening in your life, and explore whether I might be the person to walk alongside you as you begin creating something different.  

I am a trauma-informed Social Worker who provides counseling to individuals, couples, families, and polycules. I support my Clients to live on their own terms and have the best life that they can. My goal is to support the dignity, autonomy, and self-expression of everyone and work within a feminist, anti-racist, liberatory framework. I believe in freedom and vitality for all people everyone and have been working towards that world for decades. I believe in supporting my Clients to pursue their own goals in therapy and to live according to their own values.  

My role is as collaborator, guide, coach and empathetic listener. Together we will work to explore your goals and how I can best support your journey there. I believe clients can become the heroes of their lives and help them tap into their own wisdom and healing capacity.  

The exploration of personal meaning and connection is the foundation of learning and potential throughout all stages of our lives. Facing the obstacles of our lives and meeting their challenges can strengthen us. Unlock your potential and feel better; find your way through loss, and learn self compassion.  

With over two decades of experience working in diverse therapeutic environments—ranging from outpatient clinics to psychiatric hospitals, adventure programs, residential treatment facilities, schools, juvenile corrections, and a military hospital—I bring a wide-ranging perspective to problem-solving and overcoming life's obstacles. As the Founder & President of two award-winning mental health centers with a staff 150, I've gained a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to care.  

I believe that change is possible, even when life feels overwhelming. As someone whose mind tends to move fast, dig deep, and resist “fitting in,” I’ve learned firsthand how isolation, frustration, and burnout can grow from being misunderstood. In my practice, I offer a place of understanding, clarity, and transformation. I help clients map how their unique thinking, energy, and attention patterns affect relationships, work, and daily life. Together, we create strategies and habits that align with who you are—so that your strengths become the foundation for growth, not sources of struggle. I provide this support virtually across 44 states—and I’m committed to meeting you exactly where you are, and helping you move toward what’s next.  

I offer online therapy. Allow my 25+ years of counseling experience to help guide you in your challenges. Call for a free 15 minute consultation. I have a non-judgmental compassionate approach my clients appreciate.  

I offer a thoughtful, collaborative therapy space grounded in both compassion and clinical insight. Clients who work with me often seek deeper understanding, meaningful change, and adaptive ways of relating to themselves and others. Together, we explore patterns, build emotional awareness, and support lasting growth so you can move through life with greater clarity, confidence, and authenticity.  

I am not currently accepting clients. My practice is closed as of Feb 2026  

At times, we may lose our ability to trust our intuition. We may feel like imposters in our relationships, jobs or within ourselves. Therapy can offer a bridge back to understanding your authentic needs. I work with adults of all genders, races and sexual orientations experiencing anxiety, self-doubt and perfectionism. Symptoms related to these issues can manifest as feeling cut off from emotions, overwhelm, stress and burnout. I also provide services to athletes and performing artists who may be experiencing life transitions, performance anxiety or injury. My own journey as a member of the LGBTQ+ population and professional ballet dancer led me to the field of mental health. My approach is client-centered and strengths-based. I believe everyone has the wisdom to know what is best for their own growth. I am here to guide individuals in uncovering new skills and untangling unhelpful narratives and core beliefs. Together, we will develop an understanding of structures at play in your life that uphold self-doubt by laying the framework to trust your intuition and Self. We will also stretch your mind through self-compassion, curiosity, resilience, creativity, and adaptability. If you are interested in meeting with me, please reach out to see if we are a good fit. I look forward to hearing from you!  

My therapeutic approach is rooted in the understanding that seeking therapy is a life-changing decision that requires courage to face your deepest fears and wounds. I guide clients through a process grounded in awareness, creativity, curiosity, and compassion, helping them access their inner gifts for healing and growth. Each session unfolds in three phases: assessment, exploration, and embodiment, allowing us to reflect on where you’ve been, uncover new insights, and integrate meaningful change. My work is integrative, addressing the body, heart, mind, and soul to foster emotional resilience and creative vision. By weaving these dimensions together, I help clients cultivate strength, emotional resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose and connection.  

I can help you move through your anxiety and trauma in a way that permanently changes your relationship with it. Whether it's your relationships, work, or some other overwhelming stress, I will help you create a second start for yourself. Let's work together to make lasting change for you! I am also an approved supervisor, and can help you become an integrated and evidenced-based therapist. My PhD is in Counselor Education & Supervision and I have 7 years experience training counselors on psychodiagnostics, integrated theory, & trauma-informed care. I started my career in 2008 as a floor staff technician in group homes and mental health hospitals, gaining hands-on experience while working my way through college. I eventually became a college professor, clinical supervisor, and subject matter expert for the Department of Defense We will use a cognitive and internal systems approach to help you find a second start. Hope and change are waiting for you!. Don't suffer alone. Please reach out to me to get help now  

My counseling philosophy is simple yet profound: to build a genuine therapeutic relationship where you feel understood, supported, and empowered. I am committed to equipping you with the tools and strategies to navigate life’s challenges and create lasting change and renewed purpose."  

Dr. Jayson L. Mystkowski received a Ph.D. from UCLA’s Clinical Psychology program in 2003 and a B.A. Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa in Psychology, with Departmental Honors, from Northwestern University in 1997. At UCLA, where he has been a Clinical Professor for over 20yrs in their Psychology Clinic, Dr. Mystkowski acquired a strong foundation in applying behavior theories to the understanding and treatment of anxiety disorders while working with Dr. Michelle Craske and has published several papers on this topic. His clinical training is diverse, with time spent on anxiety treatment studies at UCLA, practicum and post-doctoral training at the Greater Los Angeles Veterans Administration Hospital System, and an APA-accredited internship at UCLA Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). After 15yrs as a licensed clinical psychologist and the Associate Clinical Director at Cognitive Behavior Associates in Beverly Hills, Dr. Mystkowski founded Cognitive Behavior Health Partners in 2019. Dr. Mystkowski is licensed in CA (#20077), CT (#4416), NY (#027100), WA (#61634860) and British Columbia (#1035249), has been granted the Authority to Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT: E. Passport Mobility #14145) and a Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).  

In a world that can feel isolating and overwhelming, you might be struggling with connection, stuck in old patterns, or feeling like something is missing. You don't have to figure it out alone. I specialize in working with men who are struggling with old unproductive habits, isolation, and the challenges of intimacy in relationships.  

I specialize in assisting clients who are dealing with anxiety and OCD-related disorders. During our initial sessions, we will thoroughly explore these challenges and work together to create a personalized plan. Many of my clients notice a significant reduction in their symptoms within the first month, which often leads to lasting improvements in their overall well-being. I earned a Doctorate and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from Chatham University in Pittsburgh, PA, in 2018. Prior to that, I completed my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at the University of Pittsburgh in 2008. Additionally, I completed a two-year postdoctoral training program at Harvard Medical/McLean Hospital’s OCDI residential program in Belmont, MA. I am passionate about providing culturally sensitive care and strive to create a comfortable space for individuals with diverse sociocultural identities.  

If your body is still feeling uncomfortable, agitated, or activated despite years of therapy and self-work, you're in the right place. If you've already made the connection that some of your physical symptoms are probably stress related, you're well along your way. Once you've identified that, then there are ways that you can learn to work with your nervous system to start moving in a better direction. I collaborate with intelligent, caring and curious humans to help them learn how to settle their nervous systems and resolve stress-related issues they may be contending with, ranging from digestive issues to anxiety attacks, nervous tics to emotional flares. I currently have openings on Wednesdays and Thursdays: Let's schedule a free 15-minute consult to see if we're a good fit. Just go to this address: https://oncehub.com/thoughtfulintro