
Alex Contrades
MSW, LICSW
Insurances Accepted:
BlueCross (Premera), BlueShield (Regence), First Choice Health, Kaiser HMO, Kaiser PPO, Lifewise, Medicare, Premera, Regence, Tricare
Fees:
Private Pay: Individual $150
Office Location:
Private Office
12515 Meridian E, Suite 204
Puyallup, WA 98373
Main Office
2719 E Madison St
Seattle, WA 98112
Alex Contrades
MSW, LICSW
Alex's clients characterize her as caring, open, and sincere.
Her approach to therapy is responsive, adaptive, and nonjudgemental.
How We Can Work Together
I work with folks struggling to manage with anxiety, depression, anger, self-doubt, or the lasting effects of complex trauma (C-PTSD). Often, clients come to me after a tough time, hoping to build stronger relationships and get a better handle on their emotions. Together, we’ll figure out your goals and work on building real self-confidence.
I’ve been through my own mental health struggles, so I understand how scary it can feel to open up to someone new. (Don’t worry – therapists get nervous about meeting new clients too!) You’ll find a supportive environment here to explore your experiences at your own pace.
I especially love working with adults who were recently diagnosed with autism or ADHD – partly because I’ve walked this path myself. If you’re rediscovering who you are after years of feeling different, I understand those unique challenges. Instead of focusing on what’s “wrong” with you, we’ll discover your unique strengths and help you feel good about who you are.
Your Therapy Experience
I blend different proven approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, existential therapy, and others based on what works best for you.
You’ll experience a balance of deep conversations about your feelings with practical steps you can take right away. I believe in spending time helping you understand yourself better, then using what we learn together to help you live the life you actually want.
What You Can Expect
- Neurodiversity-affirming approach: I see your brain differences as natural parts of human diversity, not things to fix
- Whole-person focus: We’ll consider your relationships, family, work, and community – not just what happens in our sessions
- Social justice awareness: I recognize how racism, discrimination, and unfair systems affect your mental health
You’re welcome in my practice regardless of your race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, ability, body type, or income level. I work hard to understand how different parts of your identity shape your experiences.
When I’m Not Working
I enjoy exploring the outdoors with my husband and son; curling up with a good book and a pet (or two…or more!); listening to nerdy podcasts; and purchasing craft supplies that may or may not be used one day.
Education
- Master of Social Work, Arizona State University, 2012
- Bachelor of Social Work, Seattle University, 2008
- Bachelor of Arts in Humanities, Seattle University, 2008
Ongoing Learning & Certifications
- Autistic-Centered Therapy
- Neuroaffirming Assessments
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy
- EMDR Trained Clinician
- Special Considerations for EMDR with Autistic and ADHD Clients
- Time Management and Executive Function for ADHD
- Psychodynamic Therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Neurodiversity-Affirming Care
- Certification in Traumatic Stress Studies, Trauma Research Foundation
- Infant/Family Clinical Practice Certificate, Harris Institute