ABOUT ME

Hello and welcome to my practice!

My name is Jamie Kostek, MA, LMHC. I am a licensed mental health counselor in Seattle, WA who sees children, teens, and adults. I received my master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology from the University of Washington and my B.S. in psychology from Washington State University. I am currently an adjunct professor at Bastyr University and Heritage University, and am pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision at Antioch University. In addition to completing my clinical training at Evidence-Based Treatment Centers of Seattle, I also served as a crisis counselor for many years. I’ve worked and volunteered in a number of roles at Seattle Public Schools, facilitated a long-running support group for cult survivors, and serve as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) in King County. I am a member of the American Counseling Association, Washington Mental Health Counselor Association, and the International OCD Foundation.

My approach to counseling emphasizes culturally sensitive evidence-based treatments. While my primary role as a therapist is to assess, diagnose, treat, and prevent mental illnesses, I also understand that every person is much more than a label given by Western systems. I incorporate elements of Buddhist philosophy into my work in order to address a core belief that all humans wish to be happy and free from suffering, and that everyone has the capacity for profound change. I believe that happiness cannot be found in isolation, but instead through kindness and compassion, mindful living, and insight. I have maintained a meditation practice for 25 years and come to the therapy space with a mix of respect for modern science and reverence for ancient knowledge.

In my free time, I enjoy riding my bike, watching Star Trek, and backpacking in far off places.