La Perla Counseling is a small counseling practice that has been in business for over a decade. The founder, Sonja Rudie, sustained an injury years ago that was life-changing for her. As a result of working through her own personal therapy, she recognized that healing was really possible! She decided to pursue a Master's Degree in Psychology & Human Resource Development. Armed with this knowledge and education, she created an organization with the goal in mind that it would give back to the community. She believes positive changes, mastery, and resiliency CAN become a reality and can directly occur as a result of good counseling.

Sonja decided to additionally create a team of Trauma Response Professionals. This became her way of providing emergency mental health care to people in communities where there had been a disaster or critical incident. Giving back care, instilling hope in those who suffer, offering encouragement and a "hand up" is all part of the core values of this organization. La Perla Counseling is named after a family member who has inspired the continuation of these core values, and also reflects the Spanish word for "Pearl", a metaphor for something precious created under enormous pressure while outwardly appearing craggy or unimportant.

By the way, our office location is in Campus Office Park near Overlake Hospital in Bellevue, Washington. We have found this location to be an easy access from most major roads and the parking here is a breeze since there are no parking garages nor extra fees to pay. There are complimentary beverages for our clients (and their guests) in the beverage center and two restrooms (no key required) located conveniently in the building. Please continue to the drop down of the therapist's names and click on them for more information.