ABOUT ME

Hello and welcome to my practice, Eightfold Therapy! My name is Jamie Kostek, MA, LMHC. I am a licensed mental health counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. My approach to counseling emphasizes culturally sensitive evidence-based treatments. My primary role as a mental health counselor is to assess, diagnose, treat, and prevent mental illnesses. However, I also understand that every person is much more than a label given by Western systems. I incorporate elements of Buddhist philosophy into my practice in order to address the core assumption 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.

I received my master’s degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology from the University of Washington and my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Washington State 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 am currently an adjunct professor at Heritage University and am pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision at Antioch University. I’ve worked and volunteered in a number of roles at Seattle Public Schools, facilitated a support group for cult survivors, and serve as a court appointed special advocate (CASA) in King County. I am a member of the Washington Mental Health Counselor Association, the American Counseling Association and the International OCD Foundation.

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