Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment | National Psychology Training Consortium

At Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment, we are dedicated to creating a team of providers who deliver compassionate, integrative, and trauma-informed care to our clients on their journey of self-exploration. Whether seeking psychotherapy or engaging in an evaluation, our mission is to provide comprehensive psychological services that are guided by ethical principles and tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. Our goal is to establish rapport and trust, create safety, collaborate, and support clients in navigating their challenges, empower greater self-awareness and resilience, and promote individual growth, healing, psychological health, and overall well-being.

About Our Site

Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment is a growing psychotherapy and assessment practice located in Seattle, Washington. This practice was established in 2008 by Dr. Sierra Swing, during her internship year, and she maintained a part-time private practice while also working full time as a Behavioral Health Consultant at HealthPoint from 2009 through 2020. In 2013, Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment transitioned into a group practice in order to allow colleagues and previous supervisees working in behavioral health settings to practice traditional psychotherapy on a part-time basis, without having to establish their own practices or struggle to become paneled with insurance companies.

The work that we do is rooted in our desire to provide expert, high-quality, and trauma-informed care to all who need it, regardless of circumstance. We are one of the only private practices in the Pacific Northwest that contracts with all insurances, no matter what the reimbursement rate is, including Medicaid and Medicare. We are also one of only seven providers/practices in King County and one of only twenty providers/practices in the entire state of Washington that provide comprehensive evaluation services for Child Protective Services (CPS) and the Department of Children, Youth, & Families (DCYF). We are also contracted to complete disability evaluations through the Department of Disability Determination Services (DDS), as well as have contracts to complete comprehensive evaluations for the Office of Public Defense (OPD) and the Washington State Office of the Attorney General and are a top referral source for evaluations for local primary care providers, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, therapists, and attorneys.

We provide a unique opportunity to gain experience in a multidisciplinary, private practice setting, where you will practice traditional psychotherapy, but still have the chance to provide brief behavioral health interventions if needed. You will also gain experience in completing comprehensive psychological, neuropsychological, and forensic evaluations. Interns will work closely with Dr. Sierra Swing, Psy.D., who is a leading provider in trauma treatment and has years of experience in not providing trauma-informed care to clients, but also teaching trauma informed and integrated care to students. She is also a highly sought after psychologist for completing comprehensive evaluation services in the Seattle area. Interns will also have the opportunity to work with and be supervised by other skilled providers to deliver high-quality care through various therapeutic modalities and empirically supported treatments, as well as gain knowledge and experience in running a private practice, gain understanding and experience with medication management in a private practice setting consulting with a group of private psychiatric nurse practitioners, and will be exposed to the world of forensic psychology and expert testimony.

While our site is new, and we will be working out various kinks throughout the year, our goal is to provide a collaborative and supportive training environment where interns can develop their professional skills and competencies and be ready to start their careers as competent, well-rounded psychologists.

About this Rotation

Interns would be responsible for scheduling and managing their own clients whom they will see for individual, couples, or family therapy and provide evidenced-based interventions and documentation consistent with legal and ethical standards. They will have the opportunity to see people for traditional therapy or or brief interventions, provide individual, family, couples, and/or group therapy, as well as have the opportunity to provide comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological assessments.

Training Opportunities

Services Provided by Interns: Interns at Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment will engage in a diverse range of clinical activities, gaining comprehensive experience in both therapy and assessment. The primary services provided by interns include:

Psychotherapy:

- Individual Therapy: Interns will provide individual therapy sessions to clients, addressing issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, somatic concerns, adjustment related difficulties, and other life challenges.
- Couples and Family Therapy: Interns will conduct therapy sessions with couples and families, focusing on relationship dynamics and familial issues.
- Group Therapy: Interns will facilitate group therapy sessions on a topic of their choice (if interested).

Assessment:

- Psychological Evaluations: Comprehensive evaluations for diagnosing and understanding various psychological conditions, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, learning disorders, and other diagnostic evaluations as requested by primary care providers, teachers, psychiatric providers, or those that are self-referred.
- Neuropsychological Assessments: Conduct assessments to evaluate cognitive functions and behaviors, particularly for individuals with neurological conditions, developmental difficulties, brain injuries, etc.
- Forensic Evaluations: Engage in forensic assessments, including risk assessments for violence and abuse potential, parenting evaluations, and evaluations for attorneys (e.g., personal injury) or other custody-related matters.

Opportunities Available to Interns Throughout the Year:

Clinical Training and Supervision:

- Interns will receive structured supervision from experienced licensed psychologists and have opportunities to work with and learn from a multidisciplinary team of providers, enhancing their clinical skills and professional development.

Exposure to Private Practice Management:

- Interns will gain hands-on experience in the operations of a private practice, including client management, documentation, and administrative responsibilities.
- They will participate in consultations with a group of psychiatric nurse practitioners, gaining an understanding of medication management in a private practice setting.

Forensic Psychology Experience:

- Interns will be exposed to the field of forensic psychology, including opportunities to participate in forensic evaluations and observe expert testimony.
- This unique training will prepare them for roles in both clinical and forensic settings, enhancing their career prospects and expertise.

Interns at Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment will receive a well-rounded training experience, preparing them for diverse roles in psychology with a strong foundation in both clinical practice and forensic evaluation. This comprehensive training program ensures that interns are ready to provide high-quality, evidence-based care to their clients.

Rotation Schedule

Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment currently has two offices – one in West Seattle and another in SODO, about 3.5 miles apart from each other. The West Seattle office is primarily used for therapy, though we are acquiring a second office at this location to use for parent child observations and other clinical services. The SODO office is primarily used for testing, though it is set up for therapy as well. Interns will use both office locations, depending on their therapy and testing schedules. Interns will also have the option of completing virtual appointments and report writing at home 1-2 days a week.

Interns can choose their own schedule, for the most part, though their schedule should support the needs of clients, as well as their own personal preferences. For example, they should have at least 1 day a week where they have later evening appointments and have earlier appointments available if needed on another day.

Placement Location

	Title	Address	Description	Link

APPIC Training Experiences

Treatment Modalities

Example treatment modalities (as listed by APPIC):

Assessment	Major Area (50%+)
Individual Intervention	Major Area (50%+)
Couples Intervention	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Family Intervention	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Group Intervention	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Community Intervention	N/A
Consultation/Liaison	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Crisis Intervention	N/A
Brief Intervention	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Long-Term Intervention	Experience (21% to 30%)
Cognitive Rehabilitation	N/A
Primary Care	N/A
Supervision of Prac. Students	N/A
Evidence-Based Practice	Major Area (50%+)
Evidence-Based Research	N/A

Supervised Experiences

Example supervised experiences (as listed by APPIC):

Health Psychology	Exposure (1% to 20%)	Forensics / Corrections	Emphasis (31% to 49%)
Women’s Health	Exposure (1% to 20%)	Sexual Offenders	Exposure (1% to 20%)
HIV / AIDS	N/A	Geropsychology	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Eating Disorders	Exposure (1% to 20%)	Pediatrics	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Sexual Disorders	Exposure (1% to 20%)	School	N/A
Sports Psychology	N/A	Counseling	Major Area (50%+)
Rehabilitation Psychology	N/A	Vocational / Career Development	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Physical Disabilities	N/A	Multicultural Therapy	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Learning Disabilities	Experience (21% to 30%)	Feminist Therapy	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Developmental Disabilities	Exposure (1% to 20%)	Religion / Spirituality	N/A
Assessment	Major Area (50%+)	Empirically-Supported Treatment	Experience (21% to 30%)
Neuropsychology – Adult	Major Area (50%+)	Public Policy / Advocacy	N/A
Neuropsychology – Child	Experience (21% to 30%)	Program Development/Evaluation	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Serious Mental Illness	Exposure (1% to 20%)	Supervision	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Anxiety Disorders	Experience (21% to 30%)	Research	N/A
Trauma/PTSD	Emphasis (31% to 49%)	Administration	Exposure (1% to 20%)
Sexual Abuse	Emphasis (31% to 49%)	Integrated Health Care–Primary	N/A
Substance Use Disorders	Experience (21% to 30%)	Integrated Health Care–Specialty	N/A

Patient Population

Number of Counties Served: 5

Total Number of Clients Served: 200

My primary office space is in the West Seattle neighborhood of Seattle and my testing office is located in the SODO neighborhood (South of Downtown). West Seattle is one of the largest neighborhoods in Seattle, with a population of over 80,000 residents. West Seattle is known for its diversity, with a mix of ethnicities and cultures represented within its population. While there is no single majority ethnicity, the neighborhood has a significant white population, along with communities of Asian, Hispanic, and African American descent. Educational attainment levels vary within the population, with a mix of individuals holding high school diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and advanced degrees. The age distribution in West Seattle is diverse, with residents spanning across different age groups. There are families with children, young professionals, and older adults living in the neighborhood. SODO is a primarily industrial and commercial area, with a smaller residential population compared to West Seattle. The population of SODO is estimated to be around 6,000 residents and of various ages, education, and diversity.

There are limited barriers to treatment at my site, as we provide services for clients with private insurance and state insurance (e.g., Medicaid), which is something that most private practices do not offer. Both office spaces are accessible via public transportation and most services can be offered virtually if transportation is a barrier to clients. I have several state contracts that help to provide diverse population of clients and a wife range of experiences

with both therapy and evaluation services. There may be some barriers to interns in terms of cost of living, as the Seattle area has become increasingly costly.

Our Supervisors

While we won’t know your exact supervisor assignments until the internship starts, these are examples of some of the individuals you may work with over the course of your year at the site.

Site Training Director

Sierra Swing, PsyD

Dr. Swing is a licensed clinical and forensic psychologist. She provides psychotherapy for individuals and couples throughout the lifespan, as well as offers a breadth of experience in forensic, neuropsychological, parenting, and general psychological evaluations. She has extensive experience working with the consequences of adverse childhood experiences and trauma, as well as seeing clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship problems, adjustment and life transitions, addictive behaviors, stress, chronic pain, health issues, dissociative disorders, and grief and loss. She offers an integrated and collaborative therapeutic approach pulling from multiple therapeutic modalities and empirically supported treatments. She also utilizes her Therapy Dog, Boomer, as a co-therapist in her practice.

Supervisors

Samuel Collier, Psy.D.

Dr. Samuel Collier is a dedicated therapist who provides compassionate, non-judgmental, and collaborative care to help clients overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, and systemic oppression. He has a special interest in working with young adults but is open to supporting individuals of all genders from age 17 to late adulthood. With a culturally sensitive approach, Dr. Collier has significant experience working with diverse populations, including immigrants, people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals. His therapeutic framework is person-centered and empowerment-based, integrating cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness, and life coaching to help clients discover their inner strengths and potential. Dr. Collier recently established his own practice and is available for appointments via Psychology Today or email at samuel@pacpsych.net.

Living Guide for Interns at Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment, West Seattle, Washington

Best Areas to Live Around the Site:

West Seattle:

- Neighborhoods: Alki Beach, Admiral, and Fauntleroy are popular choices due to their proximity to the water, parks, and vibrant community atmosphere. These areas offer a mix of residential tranquility and access to local amenities.
- Why Live Here: West Seattle boasts beautiful views of the Puget Sound, numerous parks and recreational areas, and a strong sense of community. It’s ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a close-knit neighborhood feel.

Capitol Hill:

- Why Live Here: Capitol Hill is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and cultural attractions. It’s a bustling urban neighborhood with a young, dynamic population. It’s a bit farther from West Seattle but offers a rich social and cultural environment.

Ballard:

- Why Live Here: Ballard is a historic neighborhood with a mix of trendy restaurants, shops, and breweries. It’s known for its lively Sunday Farmers Market and the beautiful Ballard Locks. It’s a good option for those who want a neighborhood feel with plenty of activities, though commuting from Ballard to West Seattle and SODO may be a challenge depending on the time of day.

Beacon Hill:

- Beacon Hill is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood located just southeast of downtown Seattle. It’s known for its sweeping views of the city, Puget Sound, and the Olympic Mountains.
- Why Live Here: Beacon Hill offers a mix of residential tranquility and urban convenience. It has a strong sense of community, numerous parks, and easy access to downtown via public transit, including the Link Light Rail.
- Key Features: Jefferson Park, one of Seattle’s largest green spaces, offers golf, a skate park, and community gardens. The neighborhood is also home to a variety of restaurants and shops reflecting its multicultural population.
- Housing: Beacon Hill has a mix of single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, catering to a range of budgets.

Burien:

- Overview: Burien is a suburban city located southwest of Seattle. It offers a quieter, more suburban feel compared to the urban neighborhoods of Seattle.
- Why Live Here: Burien provides a balance of affordability and convenience. It’s a great option for those looking for more space and a slower pace of life while still being close to the city.
- Key Features: The city has a charming downtown area with shops, restaurants, and the Burien Farmers Market. It also has several parks, including Seahurst Park, which has trails and beach access.
- Housing: Burien offers a variety of housing options, from affordable apartments to spacious single-family homes.

SODO:

- Overview: SODO (South of Downtown) is an industrial and commercial area just south of downtown Seattle. It’s known for its large warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and major sports stadiums.
- Why Live Here: While primarily industrial, SODO is close to downtown and has convenient access to major highways and public transit, including buses and the Link Light Rail.
- Key Features: SODO is home to T-Mobile Park and Lumen Field, making it a hub for sports and entertainment. It also has a growing number of breweries and creative spaces.
- Housing: Residential options in SODO are limited, but nearby neighborhoods offer more housing choices.

Other Nearby Neighborhoods:

Georgetown:

- Overview: Georgetown is an eclectic neighborhood south of SODO known for its artsy vibe and historic charm.
- Why Live Here: It offers a unique mix of industrial and residential areas with a strong community spirit. It’s popular among artists and young professionals.
- Key Features: Georgetown is known for its arts and culture scene, with many galleries, studios, and unique shops. It also has a variety of bars, restaurants, and breweries.
- Housing: The neighborhood has a mix of historic homes, new townhomes, and loft-style apartments.

Areas to Avoid Living Around the Site:

Industrial District:

- Why Avoid: This area is primarily industrial with limited residential amenities. It can be noisy and less safe due to the lack of residential communities and essential services.

South Park:

- Why Avoid: South Park has experienced higher crime rates compared to other Seattle neighborhoods. It’s an area in transition but may not provide the safest environment for new residents.

Public Transportation Available in the Area:

Bus:

- King County Metro Transit provides extensive bus services throughout Seattle, including West Seattle. Routes 50, 21, and RapidRide C Line are commonly used by residents in West Seattle.

Light Rail:

- The Link Light Rail connects various parts of Seattle, though it currently does not extend directly to West Seattle. However, it’s accessible from downtown Seattle, which can be reached via bus or other transit options.

Water Taxi:

- The West Seattle Water Taxi offers a scenic and quick route to downtown Seattle, especially useful during peak traffic times.

Ride-Sharing and Taxis:

- Services like Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxis are widely available and provide convenient transportation options for getting around the city.

Other Useful Information:

- Parks and Recreation: West Seattle is home to Alki Beach, Lincoln Park, and Schmitz Preserve Park, offering plenty of outdoor activities and scenic spots.
- Local Amenities: The Junction in West Seattle is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, providing a variety of options for leisure and convenience.
- Community Events: West Seattle hosts numerous community events and farmers markets, fostering a strong sense of community and offering opportunities to connect with locals.

Annual Pay, Benefits, and Support

Annual Pay for the 2025-2026 Training Year: $40,000

Benefits provided at this site include:

- 112 hours of PTO/Sick Time
- 3 days (24 hours) of CME
- Health and Dental Insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Laptop provided for professional use
- 401k (no employer match)

Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment observes the following 9 holidays:

- New Years Day
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- President’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving
- Friday after Thanksgiving
- Christmas Day

Please note that available benefits and observed holidays are subject to change. Matched interns will receive full benefit orientations at their site which will go over all benefit information for the training year. More information about the Support and Benefits offered in each of our regions can be found here.

Employment Requirements

Sound Psychotherapy & Assessment, LLC is contracted with the Department of Children, Youth, & Families (DCYF) and Interns will need to become approved subcontractors, thus, they will need to pass a background check, sign a confidentiality agreement, as well as complete various trainings in order to remain compliant with the contract.

Qualified applicants must have completed their Master’s degree, and currently be enrolled in a PhD, PsyD, or EdD program in clinical or counseling (preferred) or school (acceptable) psychology and have completed all formal coursework. Interns should also hold a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (LMHCA) license in Washington State, and have completed EMDR Level 1 training, be EMDR Certified, or have other certifications and training in providing trauma specific treatments and/or specialized treatment modalities.

Intern Selection Process

We choose our interns based on their specific areas of interest and experience, their ability to demonstrate self-motivation, hard work, and a willingness to learn, and their ability and willingness to provide comprehensive, integrated, client-centered care to a wide range of clients. Interns will be asked to complete the Predictive Index to ensure your behavioral profile aligns with our practice and supervisor profiles to ensure the best outcomes possible.

To be eligible for this location, applicants must have completed a master’s degree (not educational equivalent).

Interview Process

Interviews will ideally be held in person, though will depend on the number of applicants. If there is enough interest, the interview would be a half to full day event. The dates of the interviews are to be determined and may be based on other local interview dates so the intern does not have to travel multiple times or will be scheduled as needed with individual applicants if the interview does not take place in person.

If the interview takes place in person, interns will meet with Dr. Swing and Dr. Collier, as well as a panel of business owners and leaders from Dr. Swing’s Trusted Advisor group with Vistage Worldwide.

COVID-19 Response

Services will take place mostly in person, though the intern will have the ability to schedule virtual appointments as needed or requested by the clients.

Masks are not required.

We are not currently using any specific safety precautions or protocols for COVID outside of using air filtres in each office and ensuring that offices are cleaned and sanitized.

There are no testing requirements on site and the COVID vaccine is not required. The policies will be reviewed if there is a substantial change in circumstances or another outbreak that requires more specific intervention.

Pacific Region Sites

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Download our brochures for the 2025-2026 training year:

Central Region
Great Lakes Region
Cascades Region
Cy-Hawk Region
Pacific Region

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