I am an attorney licensed to practice in Washington state. Do not take this as creating an attorney-client relationship. Here is my opinion.

Yes, diversion programs are permitted under Washington law and many counties have them. This is an option you should explore as soon as possible. If a diversion program is available in your county and you qualify for it you can avoid a criminal record. You would have to pay program fees, probably attend some sort of anti-shoplifting class and/or counseling, and perhaps do community service, so there is a type of punishment involved, but you can get out without have a criminal conviction on your record.

Diversion is not automatic. What you need to do is what Pandoras Box said: consult a criminal defense attorney in your local area. The lawyer can advise you if diversion is available and, if so, help you get admitted into a diversion program. If you cannot afford one then you should tell the court that and ask that a public defender be appointed for you. That is not free either. There is usually a payback obligation, but that is the least of your worries. If you have to enter a plea, plead “not guilty”. Do not expect to get good advice from the prosecutor, court staff, or the judge. You need a lawyer who has been hired by you or appointed by the court to represent your interests.