Feminist Counselling in Balmain, NSW

Photo of Katrina English, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Katrina English
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
I am a registered psychologist working with young people (14+) and adults who experience mood and/or emotion dysregulation; struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviours, including substance use, suicidal thoughts and self-harm; eating disorders; and people who have experienced trauma, including painful early life experiences. I have experience working with individuals, groups and families across education, health and community settings. I aim to create a warm and validating space in which you can safely explore your challenges and work towards a greater sense of self-agency, and compassionate understanding of yourself.
I am a registered psychologist working with young people (14+) and adults who experience mood and/or emotion dysregulation; struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviours, including substance use, suicidal thoughts and self-harm; eating disorders; and people who have experienced trauma, including painful early life experiences. I have experience working with individuals, groups and families across education, health and community settings. I aim to create a warm and validating space in which you can safely explore your challenges and work towards a greater sense of self-agency, and compassionate understanding of yourself.
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Photo of Sonia Scali, PACFA, Counsellor
Sonia Scali
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulties with boundaries, family estrangement and shame. Supporting my clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
Welcome, I’m Sonia, a warm, compassionate and open-minded counsellor. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative and strength-based, listening and tailoring my approach around your needs. My aim is to help you manage life's challenges with self-compassion and self-kindness. I work with both adults and adolescents, specialising in trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, domestic and family violence, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, life transitions, difficulties with boundaries, family estrangement and shame. Supporting my clients with communication and interpersonal relationships is a special interest of mine.
(02) 9100 0424 View (02) 9100 0424
Photo of Kate Mackie (Previously O'Brien), AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Mackie (Previously O'Brien)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions & life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
As humans, we will all go through challenging times and need support. Therapeutically, I work to assist the brain and body cope with trauma, challenging emotions & life experiences. I aim to sensitively attune to each person and look to work together to address your concerns. I humanise lived experiences and see the relevance of how our social and cultural context can shape our mood, mental health and recovery. I have special interest and experience working with people who have had a difficult childhood and those affected by trauma including sexual, physical, emotional, psychological & domestic abuse.
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Photo of Natasha Lawrence, PACFA, Counsellor
Natasha Lawrence
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Balmain, NSW 2041
Each person's experience is unique. You might be struggling with past hurts, experiencing challenging thoughts, have feelings of self-sabotage or that no matter what you do, you end up in the same relationships and repeating the same patterns. The answers lie within you and I can help you uncover them. I bring non-judgemental acceptance, belief in your resilience, and compassion to the journey that we embark on together. I will support you to find the patterns and behaviours in your life that no longer serve you.
Each person's experience is unique. You might be struggling with past hurts, experiencing challenging thoughts, have feelings of self-sabotage or that no matter what you do, you end up in the same relationships and repeating the same patterns. The answers lie within you and I can help you uncover them. I bring non-judgemental acceptance, belief in your resilience, and compassion to the journey that we embark on together. I will support you to find the patterns and behaviours in your life that no longer serve you.
(02) 9188 7723 View (02) 9188 7723
Photo of Tara Hurster - The TARA Clinic, PsyBA General, Psychologist
The TARA Clinic
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041  (Online Only)
Society has viewed addiction as a weakness that you are powerless over or a defect of character only impacting those from lower socioeconomic status. The reality is that addiction doesn't discriminate! The TARA Clinic helps busy and successful people to regain control over substance use and addiction while leaving the guilt and shame behind, because we believe that everyone deserves to find the freedom they truly crave.
Society has viewed addiction as a weakness that you are powerless over or a defect of character only impacting those from lower socioeconomic status. The reality is that addiction doesn't discriminate! The TARA Clinic helps busy and successful people to regain control over substance use and addiction while leaving the guilt and shame behind, because we believe that everyone deserves to find the freedom they truly crave.
(02) 8074 5497 View (02) 8074 5497
Photo of Lexie Ashwell-Jones - The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones), MC, ACA-L2, Counsellor
The Kink Counsellor (Lexie Ashwell-Jones)
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041  (Online Only)
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
Life is messy and imperfect. Sexuality and identity is a lifelong journey. So many of us are limited in our exploration due to shame, stigma, or lack of sexuality education. I believe in a sex-positive approach which acknowledges and celebrates the diversity of human sexuality, identity and expression. When we are informed, empowered and validated, we live happier and more authentic lives.
(02) 9100 0765 View (02) 9100 0765
Photo of Patrick Eid, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Patrick Eid
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Balmain, NSW 2041
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
Hi, my name is Patrick and I cannot tell you how excited I am to be able to provide you with this service. As a Queer person from a CALD background who grew up in a conservative community with a high stigma around mental health illness, I understand what it is like to develop and live with poor mental health as a result of systemic concerns. Throughout my personal and professional life, I’ve always found it difficult to find a service that holistically caters to the mental health of people that live in complex systems (e.g., accounting for racial injustice, systemic oppression, complex trauma, and the patriarchy… to name a few).
(02) 8322 9090 View (02) 8322 9090

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Desmarchelier, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Melissa Desmarchelier
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
I work predominantly with adolescents, young people, and adults, and have a special interest in working with people who are studying or working in creative fields (music, visual arts, dance), people from culturally and linguistically-diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQIA+ community, girls from age 12 and women of all ages. I apply an integrative approach of evidence-based interventions including CBT, ACT, EFT, NT and SFT. I have a special interest in Mindfulness, Music-Assisted Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Feminist Psychology and working with girls and women. I work with many adults seeking ADHD & Autism Assessment & coaching.
I work predominantly with adolescents, young people, and adults, and have a special interest in working with people who are studying or working in creative fields (music, visual arts, dance), people from culturally and linguistically-diverse backgrounds and the LGBTQIA+ community, girls from age 12 and women of all ages. I apply an integrative approach of evidence-based interventions including CBT, ACT, EFT, NT and SFT. I have a special interest in Mindfulness, Music-Assisted Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy, Feminist Psychology and working with girls and women. I work with many adults seeking ADHD & Autism Assessment & coaching.
(07) 2100 4865 View (07) 2100 4865
Photo of Elizabeth Chikako Crouch, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Elizabeth Chikako Crouch
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
Newtown, NSW 2042
My practice draws from feminist, attachment and trauma theory, and I use a number of different types of therapies in session depending on client need and what works for them.
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
My practice draws from feminist, attachment and trauma theory, and I use a number of different types of therapies in session depending on client need and what works for them.
Therapy can be a big step and decision and it is important that your therapist is someone you feel safe and supported by, that you are respected and so are your strengths and capacities. I work in a holistic and supportive way working with clients to heal, and achieve the outcomes that they choose. I have worked for a number of years with survivors of childhood sexual assault, adult sexual assault, intimate partner and other violence and also work with those who use violence.
(02) 8294 6092 View (02) 8294 6092
Photo of Rakib Islam, ACA-L2, Psychotherapist
Rakib Islam
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newtown, NSW 2042
I use an integrative approach, drawing from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), somatic techniques, IFS (Internal Family Systems), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), expressive art, narrative, and feminist therapy.
I am passionate about supporting people on their path to healing and growth. I specialize in grief, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. As a South Asian (Bangladeshi) person of colour and an immigrant, I am committed to assisting individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Whether it's cultural pressures, discrimination, or adjustment issues, I'm here to help. Additionally, I welcome those seeking support for spiritual and existential concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out; together, we can navigate your path towards living a meaningful and authentic life.
I use an integrative approach, drawing from EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing), somatic techniques, IFS (Internal Family Systems), CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy), expressive art, narrative, and feminist therapy.
I am passionate about supporting people on their path to healing and growth. I specialize in grief, anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. As a South Asian (Bangladeshi) person of colour and an immigrant, I am committed to assisting individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. Whether it's cultural pressures, discrimination, or adjustment issues, I'm here to help. Additionally, I welcome those seeking support for spiritual and existential concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out; together, we can navigate your path towards living a meaningful and authentic life.
(02) 9100 0026 View (02) 9100 0026
Photo of Haley Krenzke - Lux Counselling, MSc, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Lux Counselling
Psychotherapist, MSc, PACFA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
The work I do is informed by queer and feminist theory, as well as anti-oppression frameworks.
As a dedicated sex and relationship therapist, I am passionate about fostering healthy and fulfilling connections between individuals and within relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I strive to create a supportive space where clients can explore their concerns, desires, and challenges regarding intimacy, sexuality, and relationships. Ultimately, my goal is to help clients navigate the complexities of intimacy and relationships with confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of connection and fulfillment. I have advanced training in working with LGBTQ+, kink, and non-monogamous communities.
The work I do is informed by queer and feminist theory, as well as anti-oppression frameworks.
As a dedicated sex and relationship therapist, I am passionate about fostering healthy and fulfilling connections between individuals and within relationships. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I strive to create a supportive space where clients can explore their concerns, desires, and challenges regarding intimacy, sexuality, and relationships. Ultimately, my goal is to help clients navigate the complexities of intimacy and relationships with confidence, resilience, and a renewed sense of connection and fulfillment. I have advanced training in working with LGBTQ+, kink, and non-monogamous communities.
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Photo of Tara Megan Scott - Tara - Cathartic Collaborations, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara - Cathartic Collaborations
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000
My practice framework encompasses neurodivergent affirming strengths based methods, harm reduction, trauma informed approaches, anti-oppressive practices, feminist theory, and systemic practice.
Hello! I'm Tara (they/them). I have immediate availability for therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks and ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
My practice framework encompasses neurodivergent affirming strengths based methods, harm reduction, trauma informed approaches, anti-oppressive practices, feminist theory, and systemic practice.
Hello! I'm Tara (they/them). I have immediate availability for therapeutic support in person in Nundah, Brisbane or telehealth Australia wide. I am queer, neurodivergent (Autism & ADHD) and non-binary. I am passionate about providing therapeutic support to neurodivergent (particularly Autistic folks and ADHDers) and LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults.
(07) 2100 4431 View (07) 2100 4431
Photo of Antigone Foster, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Antigone Foster
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a person-centred, trauma-informed counsellor who holds space for you with non-judgemental and non-pathologising warmth and safety. I am an integrative counsellor, applying a range of modalities and approaches, including trauma-focused, somatic, family systems, ACT, narrative, and feminist, openly and collaboratively. My creative skills acquired within the context of music foster spontaneous and imaginative sessions, encouraging you to participate actively on your path to positive change. I am passionate about sharing resources so you can contemplate other ways of thinking about your challenges.
I am a person-centred, trauma-informed counsellor who holds space for you with non-judgemental and non-pathologising warmth and safety. I am an integrative counsellor, applying a range of modalities and approaches, including trauma-focused, somatic, family systems, ACT, narrative, and feminist, openly and collaboratively. My creative skills acquired within the context of music foster spontaneous and imaginative sessions, encouraging you to participate actively on your path to positive change. I am passionate about sharing resources so you can contemplate other ways of thinking about your challenges.
(02) 9158 6545 View (02) 9158 6545
Photo of Mansi Pase, MA, Counsellor
Mansi Pase
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I draw on evidence-based methods such as client-centred, trauma-informed, solution-focused, and feminist approaches.
I hold a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy and Counselling and have extensive professional experience as a counsellor, specialising in supporting adults and adolescents through a range of mental health concerns. I am certified by PACFA as a Certified Practicing Counsellor, and I am dedicated to serving clients of all ages and backgrounds. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to providing a nurturing environment where clients can freely explore, understand, and express their life needs. I approach counselling with deep compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, aiming to foster collaboration and effective solutions.
I draw on evidence-based methods such as client-centred, trauma-informed, solution-focused, and feminist approaches.
I hold a Master’s degree in Psychotherapy and Counselling and have extensive professional experience as a counsellor, specialising in supporting adults and adolescents through a range of mental health concerns. I am certified by PACFA as a Certified Practicing Counsellor, and I am dedicated to serving clients of all ages and backgrounds. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to providing a nurturing environment where clients can freely explore, understand, and express their life needs. I approach counselling with deep compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental attitude, aiming to foster collaboration and effective solutions.
(02) 7804 4424 View (02) 7804 4424
Photo of Nicky L Golan, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicky L Golan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
My clients seek my services for many reasons. Their individual circumstances or concerns vary but ultimately they express a want for their lived experiences to be different. They may want to shift their relationship with themselves, or with others or they may want the time, space and trusting therapeutic relationship to authentically show up and be vulnerable and develop aspects of themselves or identify goals or different ways of being. Often the reasons individuals seek support may not be instantly clear. They may have an identified goal or a few and then as the therapeutic relationship develops, so does their own unique process.
My clients seek my services for many reasons. Their individual circumstances or concerns vary but ultimately they express a want for their lived experiences to be different. They may want to shift their relationship with themselves, or with others or they may want the time, space and trusting therapeutic relationship to authentically show up and be vulnerable and develop aspects of themselves or identify goals or different ways of being. Often the reasons individuals seek support may not be instantly clear. They may have an identified goal or a few and then as the therapeutic relationship develops, so does their own unique process.
(02) 9100 0382 View (02) 9100 0382
Photo of Rachel Richardson, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Rachel Richardson
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Sydney, NSW 2000
I have worked with children, adolescents and families for over 10 years across parenting residential care, child protection, outreach and education settings. ​ In private practice, I work with various neurotypes and mental health presentations including anxiety, depression, OCD, and emotion dysregulation. I support neurodivergent (Autism and ADHD) children and adolescents to feel empowered in their neurotype and enhance awareness of their individual social, emotional and communication preference.
I have worked with children, adolescents and families for over 10 years across parenting residential care, child protection, outreach and education settings. ​ In private practice, I work with various neurotypes and mental health presentations including anxiety, depression, OCD, and emotion dysregulation. I support neurodivergent (Autism and ADHD) children and adolescents to feel empowered in their neurotype and enhance awareness of their individual social, emotional and communication preference.
(02) 9100 0360 View (02) 9100 0360
Photo of Brooke Clark - Brooke Clark Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Brooke Clark Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hi! I am Brooke, a Neurodivergent and Neuro-affirming Registered Psychologist. My goal is empowering people to heal and uncover their true, authentic selves. I want to help clients build a life based on their unique values. My practice is: kink, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and gender non-conforming affirming. All people are welcome and celebrated. I work exclusively as a telehealth psychologist, Australia-wide referrals are welcome. I see clients with Medicare plans, NDIS plans and self-funded currently.
Hi! I am Brooke, a Neurodivergent and Neuro-affirming Registered Psychologist. My goal is empowering people to heal and uncover their true, authentic selves. I want to help clients build a life based on their unique values. My practice is: kink, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent and gender non-conforming affirming. All people are welcome and celebrated. I work exclusively as a telehealth psychologist, Australia-wide referrals are welcome. I see clients with Medicare plans, NDIS plans and self-funded currently.
Photo of Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling, MA, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Janet Burke - The Holding Space Counselling
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surry Hills, NSW 2010
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about companioning people through adversity, and believe that it through support and connection that we are able to come back to ourselves. I combine my love of neuroscience with an integrative approach, drawing on a number of modalities to support healing. Initially trained as a teacher I have worked extensively in education and health, working therapeutically with children, young people and their families in hospice and hospital to support coping with chronic illness for over 25 years.
With specialist skills in grief, chronic illness and infertility I work from a somatic and trauma informed lens. I am passionate about companioning people through adversity, and believe that it through support and connection that we are able to come back to ourselves. I combine my love of neuroscience with an integrative approach, drawing on a number of modalities to support healing. Initially trained as a teacher I have worked extensively in education and health, working therapeutically with children, young people and their families in hospice and hospital to support coping with chronic illness for over 25 years.
0402 350 782 View 0402 350 782
Photo of Matthew Musgrave - Strong Space Counselling - Supporting Men, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Strong Space Counselling - Supporting Men
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sydney, NSW 2000  (Online Only)
Men are often taught not to reach out for help. You may have been made to believe that to seek help for yourself was to admit weakness or that it would make you a burden. Maybe you don't know where to start. But you've been thinking about getting professional support for some time now, that's why you are here. You know you need help, maybe because you're experiencing social anxiety or an overwhelming difficulty to get out of bed. You might no longer enjoy the things that used to make you happy, or you're having darker, more intrusive thoughts. It's starting to impact your relationships, your work & your physical health.
Men are often taught not to reach out for help. You may have been made to believe that to seek help for yourself was to admit weakness or that it would make you a burden. Maybe you don't know where to start. But you've been thinking about getting professional support for some time now, that's why you are here. You know you need help, maybe because you're experiencing social anxiety or an overwhelming difficulty to get out of bed. You might no longer enjoy the things that used to make you happy, or you're having darker, more intrusive thoughts. It's starting to impact your relationships, your work & your physical health.
(02) 5135 1111 View (02) 5135 1111
Photo of Elizabeth Fairbanks - Lizzie Fairbanks Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
Lizzie Fairbanks Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Crows Nest, NSW 2065
The world is changing, not just on a macro scale concerning issues like climate change, globalisation and social media, but on a micro scale too; the way we identify personally in terms of intersectionality, sexuality and relationship orientation. Whilst there is an increasing awareness and growing acceptance of new and different ways of being in the world, we can also find a whole new set of complex challenges arise when we start to embody our true identity. Maybe these challenges are rooted in past trauma, negative core beliefs and self-talk, overwhelming emotions, unhelpful coping behaviours or ways of relating to others.
The world is changing, not just on a macro scale concerning issues like climate change, globalisation and social media, but on a micro scale too; the way we identify personally in terms of intersectionality, sexuality and relationship orientation. Whilst there is an increasing awareness and growing acceptance of new and different ways of being in the world, we can also find a whole new set of complex challenges arise when we start to embody our true identity. Maybe these challenges are rooted in past trauma, negative core beliefs and self-talk, overwhelming emotions, unhelpful coping behaviours or ways of relating to others.
(02) 9100 0337 View (02) 9100 0337

See more therapy options for Balmain

Feminist Counsellors

How does feminist therapy work?

Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.

What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?

Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.

How long does feminist therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.

Does feminist therapy work?

As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.