Female Therapists in Lindsay, ON

Photo of Alexandra MacKay, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Alexandra MacKay
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
I work with diverse populations. When working with individuals experiencing trauma, grief, diverse mental health concerns and/or addiction, I use a compassionate Inquiry approach, a trauma informed approach developed by Dr. Gabor Mate. Other approaches I use include Mindfulness, CBT, DBT and ACT. When working with couples, I use a systemic, humanistic, person-centred, attachment and developmental approach with a focus on resilience.
I work with diverse populations. When working with individuals experiencing trauma, grief, diverse mental health concerns and/or addiction, I use a compassionate Inquiry approach, a trauma informed approach developed by Dr. Gabor Mate. Other approaches I use include Mindfulness, CBT, DBT and ACT. When working with couples, I use a systemic, humanistic, person-centred, attachment and developmental approach with a focus on resilience.
(249) 490-4578 View (249) 490-4578
Photo of Monica Verbosky, RP, MACP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Monica Verbosky
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
About You: You are 21+ and you’re struggling. Maybe it's been a slow progression, or maybe your world took sudden turn and you feel stuck. It's as if your life went into syndication and all the music was stripped away. You need a comfortable and secure space to be heard and to heal. You want a therapist with a genuine interest in you. Someone who provides the kind of non-judgmental care which drove you to consider therapy in the first place. You want a therapist who sees you as an individual and intuitively endeavors to both challenge you and collaborate with you.
About You: You are 21+ and you’re struggling. Maybe it's been a slow progression, or maybe your world took sudden turn and you feel stuck. It's as if your life went into syndication and all the music was stripped away. You need a comfortable and secure space to be heard and to heal. You want a therapist with a genuine interest in you. Someone who provides the kind of non-judgmental care which drove you to consider therapy in the first place. You want a therapist who sees you as an individual and intuitively endeavors to both challenge you and collaborate with you.
(249) 488-2751 View (249) 488-2751
Photo of Couples Therapy Sharon Arruda, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Couples Therapy Sharon Arruda
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
Would you like to work on your relationship? Whether you attend alone, or as a couple, I welcome the opportunity to work with you in a non-judgmental and collaborative way. I have a strong understanding of depression and anxiety, if you find yourself struggling with your mental health. You don't have to go through it alone. Perhaps you have ADHD and would like some support and skills to make life a bit easier. We can make life more manageable together. I also offer Christian counselling for those seeking that worldview in therapy.
Would you like to work on your relationship? Whether you attend alone, or as a couple, I welcome the opportunity to work with you in a non-judgmental and collaborative way. I have a strong understanding of depression and anxiety, if you find yourself struggling with your mental health. You don't have to go through it alone. Perhaps you have ADHD and would like some support and skills to make life a bit easier. We can make life more manageable together. I also offer Christian counselling for those seeking that worldview in therapy.
(289) 302-7044 View (289) 302-7044
Photo of Stacey Gudmundsson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Stacey Gudmundsson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
I have worked with children, youth and their families for thirteen years. In the two years, I have expanded to working with adults and couples, and have completed additional training in couples and family therapy through the University of Guelph. I have experience supporting complex mental health and wellbeing issues, and am comfortable working with clients who are, or who have, experienced trauma, complex family systems issues, and life transitions (including grief and loss).
I have worked with children, youth and their families for thirteen years. In the two years, I have expanded to working with adults and couples, and have completed additional training in couples and family therapy through the University of Guelph. I have experience supporting complex mental health and wellbeing issues, and am comfortable working with clients who are, or who have, experienced trauma, complex family systems issues, and life transitions (including grief and loss).
(249) 523-4856 View (249) 523-4856
Photo of Lorie Blundon, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Lorie Blundon
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
Helping others during difficult times is my passion. I use a solution-focused approach to help people find the answers they need. My aim is to provide individuals or couples with a safe and non-judgmental space to express their thoughts, feelings, and fears while working towards developing a plan for the future. I have experience working with clients who have sought help with a range of concerns including anxiety, trauma, grief, and various life stages, to name a few. I also work with my clients to develop their own toolbox for moving forward.
Helping others during difficult times is my passion. I use a solution-focused approach to help people find the answers they need. My aim is to provide individuals or couples with a safe and non-judgmental space to express their thoughts, feelings, and fears while working towards developing a plan for the future. I have experience working with clients who have sought help with a range of concerns including anxiety, trauma, grief, and various life stages, to name a few. I also work with my clients to develop their own toolbox for moving forward.
(249) 202-5279 View (249) 202-5279
Photo of Jennifer Teefy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Teefy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
Waitlist for new clients
Every challenge is an opportunity to find ourselves, see things differently, and self-actualize. When you're stuck, stressed, or struggling (grief, relationships, life altering events, work or academic stress, general health and wellbeing), I guide you to reconnect with your inner strength, recognize your talents, make meaningful connections, and see new possibilities—walking forward with new perspective. I listen with compassion, work with transparency, and provide creative therapy.
Every challenge is an opportunity to find ourselves, see things differently, and self-actualize. When you're stuck, stressed, or struggling (grief, relationships, life altering events, work or academic stress, general health and wellbeing), I guide you to reconnect with your inner strength, recognize your talents, make meaningful connections, and see new possibilities—walking forward with new perspective. I listen with compassion, work with transparency, and provide creative therapy.
(249) 494-5911 View (249) 494-5911
Photo of Meghan Seto, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Meghan Seto
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
I truly believe that every family has different needs and I strive to cater my services to meet the client where they are. No family is alike, and I offer a dynamic and personable experience. Going through challenging life experiences and trauma can seem overwhelming and where to begin can be difficult or seem impossible. I support you to work through those emotions and develop steps to get where you want to be, and most importantly, heal. I listen closely to your feelings and challenges and ensure you feel safe and in a trusting environment.
I truly believe that every family has different needs and I strive to cater my services to meet the client where they are. No family is alike, and I offer a dynamic and personable experience. Going through challenging life experiences and trauma can seem overwhelming and where to begin can be difficult or seem impossible. I support you to work through those emotions and develop steps to get where you want to be, and most importantly, heal. I listen closely to your feelings and challenges and ensure you feel safe and in a trusting environment.
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Photo of Bianca Caporusso, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Bianca Caporusso
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! Congratulations on starting your healing journey! Therapy through natural conversation with an experienced, relatable and personable counsellor can make your experience feel less isolating and daunting. This is your safe space to express yourself fully and understand that you are never alone in working through your life challenges.
Accepting new clients! Congratulations on starting your healing journey! Therapy through natural conversation with an experienced, relatable and personable counsellor can make your experience feel less isolating and daunting. This is your safe space to express yourself fully and understand that you are never alone in working through your life challenges.
(249) 488-2607 View (249) 488-2607
Photo of Suzanne Doupe, RegPsy, BA, RYT200, Registered Psychotherapist
Suzanne Doupe
Registered Psychotherapist, RegPsy, BA, RYT200
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
Suzanne works with adults, teens and preteens in her private practice with offices in Lindsay and Port Perry. Relationship counselling and family counselling as well as individual counselling are available. Suzanne explores the issues that are positively and negatively effecting life and relationships. Some have diagnosed concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, while others require tools to facilitate communication and sort out life choices and directions. Counselling is about helping people to know themselves better. To make clear and conscious choices that make for a productive, healthy life.
Suzanne works with adults, teens and preteens in her private practice with offices in Lindsay and Port Perry. Relationship counselling and family counselling as well as individual counselling are available. Suzanne explores the issues that are positively and negatively effecting life and relationships. Some have diagnosed concerns such as anxiety, ADHD, bipolar, depression, while others require tools to facilitate communication and sort out life choices and directions. Counselling is about helping people to know themselves better. To make clear and conscious choices that make for a productive, healthy life.
(855) 742-2453 View (855) 742-2453
Photo of Lisa Greci, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Lisa Greci
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
Located in the Kawartha Lakes region, I offer both online and in-person therapeutic counselling services. My approach to healing includes providing an inclusive and person-centred environment. Whether you are experiencing life-changing circumstances that are causing feelings of anxiety or depression, or if you are noticing trouble in your relationships and wonder how to feel closer to those you care about, I provide a safe space for you to share your experiences. Together, we can explore new strategies to successfully navigate life's changing circumstances.
Located in the Kawartha Lakes region, I offer both online and in-person therapeutic counselling services. My approach to healing includes providing an inclusive and person-centred environment. Whether you are experiencing life-changing circumstances that are causing feelings of anxiety or depression, or if you are noticing trouble in your relationships and wonder how to feel closer to those you care about, I provide a safe space for you to share your experiences. Together, we can explore new strategies to successfully navigate life's changing circumstances.
(705) 809-1875 View (705) 809-1875
Photo of Brittany Creighton, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Brittany Creighton
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with people to become better versions of themselves so they can lead more fulfilled lives. Together we can work to recognize the strengths and resilience you have within, so you can apply it to your everyday reality. ​
I specialize in working with people to become better versions of themselves so they can lead more fulfilled lives. Together we can work to recognize the strengths and resilience you have within, so you can apply it to your everyday reality. ​
(249) 488-2863 View (249) 488-2863
Photo of Karyn Dowdall, MACP, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Karyn Dowdall
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
For those seeking treatment and support for mental suffering and/or personal development, including personality disorders, mood disorders, grief, trauma, addiction and life changes.
For those seeking treatment and support for mental suffering and/or personal development, including personality disorders, mood disorders, grief, trauma, addiction and life changes.
(249) 496-3554 View (249) 496-3554
Ruth-Ellen Baker
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
Ruth-Ellen Baker, Registered Psychotherapist, has graduate and post-graduate training in Family Therapy and Play Therapy and, about ten years ago, shifted from a general practice to a focus on children, youth and their families. She strongly believes that, wherever possible, caregivers need to be consistently involved in their child's therapy, in order to make long-term change possible outside of sessions. She is also committed to strengthening attachments in family relationships, as another important factor in creating positive change.
Ruth-Ellen Baker, Registered Psychotherapist, has graduate and post-graduate training in Family Therapy and Play Therapy and, about ten years ago, shifted from a general practice to a focus on children, youth and their families. She strongly believes that, wherever possible, caregivers need to be consistently involved in their child's therapy, in order to make long-term change possible outside of sessions. She is also committed to strengthening attachments in family relationships, as another important factor in creating positive change.
(249) 492-9887 View (249) 492-9887
Photo of Sandra McNeil, PhD , MSW , RSW , Registered Social Worker
Sandra McNeil
Registered Social Worker, PhD , MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
I welcome adults (18+) who experience a wide range of mental health and substance use issues. Grounded in a client-centered, recovery-oriented, and trauma-informed approach, I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to engage people in a journey of self-awareness and reflective action.
I welcome adults (18+) who experience a wide range of mental health and substance use issues. Grounded in a client-centered, recovery-oriented, and trauma-informed approach, I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to engage people in a journey of self-awareness and reflective action.
(249) 559-0555 View (249) 559-0555
Photo of Kelsey Cicci, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kelsey Cicci
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
Surviving traumatic events can feel isolating when societal norms encourage us to suppress difficult emotions and move on. Well-intentioned clichés like "time heals all wounds," can make us feel like something's wrong with us if we continue to feel distressed after time has passed. The truth is, that societal perceptions of trauma and mental health often lack accuracy. Time alone does not guarantee healing. It is crucial to know your distress is a physiological reaction to what you've survived rather than an indication of any personal shortcomings.
Surviving traumatic events can feel isolating when societal norms encourage us to suppress difficult emotions and move on. Well-intentioned clichés like "time heals all wounds," can make us feel like something's wrong with us if we continue to feel distressed after time has passed. The truth is, that societal perceptions of trauma and mental health often lack accuracy. Time alone does not guarantee healing. It is crucial to know your distress is a physiological reaction to what you've survived rather than an indication of any personal shortcomings.
(249) 509-0412 View (249) 509-0412
Photo of Melissa MacEachern (Clrpsych), (RSW), HBSW, BA/BEd, Registered Social Worker
Melissa MacEachern (Clrpsych)
Registered Social Worker, (RSW), HBSW, BA/BEd
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
If you or someone you know is struggling, I want you to know you are not alone. Our world is significantly changing and exerting pressure on us and our loved ones. I am here to support you in developing coping strategies, overcoming challenges, or changing your way of thinking and reacting.
If you or someone you know is struggling, I want you to know you are not alone. Our world is significantly changing and exerting pressure on us and our loved ones. I am here to support you in developing coping strategies, overcoming challenges, or changing your way of thinking and reacting.
(705) 928-0977 View (705) 928-0977
Photo of Meagan Bowman @ Psychotherapy For You, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Meagan Bowman @ Psychotherapy For You
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V  (Online Only)
My name is Meagan Bowman. I am a registered Social Worker (RSW) and am affiliated with the Ontario Association of Social Workers. I have over 7 years of experience working with folks experiencing issues such as, but not limited to relationship problems, stress, mood disorders, panic and anxiety, mental illness, difficulty with life transitions, substance use, or low self-esteem. My work emphasizes the importance of love, connection, authenticity, and our relationship with our body. I help you (re)connect with yourself, overcome burnout or stress, and help you learn to live a balanced, empowered, and meaningful life.
My name is Meagan Bowman. I am a registered Social Worker (RSW) and am affiliated with the Ontario Association of Social Workers. I have over 7 years of experience working with folks experiencing issues such as, but not limited to relationship problems, stress, mood disorders, panic and anxiety, mental illness, difficulty with life transitions, substance use, or low self-esteem. My work emphasizes the importance of love, connection, authenticity, and our relationship with our body. I help you (re)connect with yourself, overcome burnout or stress, and help you learn to live a balanced, empowered, and meaningful life.
(343) 801-6100 View (343) 801-6100
Photo of Jeanette Lee Haecker - Hopeful Healing Counselling Services, BA, OACCP, CRPO, Registered Psychotherapist
Hopeful Healing Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, OACCP, CRPO
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
I have 20+ years of therapeutic work with individuals and groups in various settings including community agencies and hospital units. I am a registered Psychotherapist. My strengths are addictions (including substances and behavioral), mental health, relationship issues, and life transitions. Services are offered in group, couples or individual settings. I am non-judgemental, respectful and welcoming. I am passionate about my work and can support you through healing, growth, meeting your goals and continued development of a fulfilling and preferred future.
I have 20+ years of therapeutic work with individuals and groups in various settings including community agencies and hospital units. I am a registered Psychotherapist. My strengths are addictions (including substances and behavioral), mental health, relationship issues, and life transitions. Services are offered in group, couples or individual settings. I am non-judgemental, respectful and welcoming. I am passionate about my work and can support you through healing, growth, meeting your goals and continued development of a fulfilling and preferred future.
(705) 910-4942 View (705) 910-4942
Photo of Deb Cockerton, BST, CYCP
Deb Cockerton
BST, CYCP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
I am now accepting new clients. I can provide behavioural, relational and strength-based counselling for children and youth. My activity-based learning introduces and reinforces the concepts in a non-threatening, fun and engaging manner. I utilize books, games and videos to teach the strategies and skills that make learning these new tools fun.
I am now accepting new clients. I can provide behavioural, relational and strength-based counselling for children and youth. My activity-based learning introduces and reinforces the concepts in a non-threatening, fun and engaging manner. I utilize books, games and videos to teach the strategies and skills that make learning these new tools fun.
(877) 331-6784 View (877) 331-6784
Photo of Mara Hotrum, Registered Psychotherapist
Mara Hotrum
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
My primary goal in counselling is to support clients in their understanding of self. Recognition of your individual dignity, value and unique experiences allows you to journey towards stronger mental health. Even difficult times can support growth, new found knowledge and strength and potential. Counselling allows me to help you recognize and enhance your own power to thrive and/or heal. Reflective practice and careful listening allows me to see and hear the pieces of your story that you may be too close to notice.
My primary goal in counselling is to support clients in their understanding of self. Recognition of your individual dignity, value and unique experiences allows you to journey towards stronger mental health. Even difficult times can support growth, new found knowledge and strength and potential. Counselling allows me to help you recognize and enhance your own power to thrive and/or heal. Reflective practice and careful listening allows me to see and hear the pieces of your story that you may be too close to notice.
(705) 302-3244 View (705) 302-3244
Photo of Karen Searle, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Karen Searle
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
Do you experience unwanted feelings, emotions, sensations, attitudes, or pains without necessarily being aware of the underlying causes of them? Do you experience ongoing symptoms of anxiety or depression? Have you faced the loss of a loved one or friend or suffered from an incident (divorce, car accident, an assault, etc.,) which continues to cause you ongoing emotional or physical pain? I use a client-centred approach to guiding clients in addressing and releasing unwanted emotional or behavioural after-effects of life events such as grief/loss, injuries, illness, relationship concerns and other painful life experiences.
Do you experience unwanted feelings, emotions, sensations, attitudes, or pains without necessarily being aware of the underlying causes of them? Do you experience ongoing symptoms of anxiety or depression? Have you faced the loss of a loved one or friend or suffered from an incident (divorce, car accident, an assault, etc.,) which continues to cause you ongoing emotional or physical pain? I use a client-centred approach to guiding clients in addressing and releasing unwanted emotional or behavioural after-effects of life events such as grief/loss, injuries, illness, relationship concerns and other painful life experiences.
(844) 402-2687 View (844) 402-2687
Photo of Jennifer Sprague, BSc, EXA, RP, BCN, Registered Psychotherapist
Jennifer Sprague
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, EXA, RP, BCN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
I am a therapist and counselor with training in Neurofeedback, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, and the Expressive Arts. My approach is client-centered and I work with empathy and compassion to help my clients find new strategies when old patterns aren't working anymore. I have 20 years experience providing therapy and deep understanding to people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges and other life issues. In addition to my clinical skills, I have years of meditation practice and experience teaching the mindfulness skills that can reduce stress and generate a new perspective on life.
I am a therapist and counselor with training in Neurofeedback, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, and the Expressive Arts. My approach is client-centered and I work with empathy and compassion to help my clients find new strategies when old patterns aren't working anymore. I have 20 years experience providing therapy and deep understanding to people struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges and other life issues. In addition to my clinical skills, I have years of meditation practice and experience teaching the mindfulness skills that can reduce stress and generate a new perspective on life.
(855) 974-4730 View (855) 974-4730
Photo of Dr. Krystal L. Kelly, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Krystal L. Kelly
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
I am a clinical forensic psychologist who does individual therapy and assessment. I have a passion for mental health, enjoy meeting new clients, and I like to help people figure out the cause of their distress. I focus on providing a safe and confidential space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. I strive to be approachable, attentive, and warm while collaborating with my clients to create a genuine relationship. Providing strategies and tools to help clients live a more productive and fulfilling life is truly rewarding, and I love seeing my clients meet their treatment goals.
I am a clinical forensic psychologist who does individual therapy and assessment. I have a passion for mental health, enjoy meeting new clients, and I like to help people figure out the cause of their distress. I focus on providing a safe and confidential space for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. I strive to be approachable, attentive, and warm while collaborating with my clients to create a genuine relationship. Providing strategies and tools to help clients live a more productive and fulfilling life is truly rewarding, and I love seeing my clients meet their treatment goals.
(249) 503-4490 View (249) 503-4490
Photo of Anna Field Smit, MDiv, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Anna Field Smit
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
Lindsay, ON K9V
Have you suffered trauma and wonder if it’s possible to heal? Are you anxious and worried, struggling to cope? Do you push people away before they hurt you? Or chase after someone, terrified to lose them? Do you question your worth, sure that you will never be enough? Have you ever wondered “is there hope for me”? YES! There is hope! It is possible to heal, to learn how to have healthier relationships, to feel good about yourself instead of feeling bad. You can learn how to manage emotions so that anxiety doesn’t stop you from doing things you want to do. You CAN gain more control of your life and emotions and feel more confident!
Have you suffered trauma and wonder if it’s possible to heal? Are you anxious and worried, struggling to cope? Do you push people away before they hurt you? Or chase after someone, terrified to lose them? Do you question your worth, sure that you will never be enough? Have you ever wondered “is there hope for me”? YES! There is hope! It is possible to heal, to learn how to have healthier relationships, to feel good about yourself instead of feeling bad. You can learn how to manage emotions so that anxiety doesn’t stop you from doing things you want to do. You CAN gain more control of your life and emotions and feel more confident!
(249) 501-5203 View (249) 501-5203
Photo of Allyson Lucas, M Div, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Allyson Lucas
Registered Psychotherapist, M Div, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindsay, ON K9V
Allyson (and NorthStar Counselling Services) supports a wholistic approach to mental health: mind, body and spirit. Services are offered to children, youth and adults. Some goals may include moving from: confusion to clarity, fear to trust, anger to understanding, doubt to confidence, and resistance to acceptance. As a therapist, it's my responsibility to create a safe, non-judgmental space while both joy and suffering are explored.
Allyson (and NorthStar Counselling Services) supports a wholistic approach to mental health: mind, body and spirit. Services are offered to children, youth and adults. Some goals may include moving from: confusion to clarity, fear to trust, anger to understanding, doubt to confidence, and resistance to acceptance. As a therapist, it's my responsibility to create a safe, non-judgmental space while both joy and suffering are explored.
(249) 495-5341 View (249) 495-5341
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See more therapy options for Lindsay

Female Counsellors

Does it matter what gender my therapist is?

In general, this is not an important factor, as there is no relationship between a therapist’s gender and their efficacy. Some clients, however, prefer to see therapists of a particular gender, whether due to their own past experiences with men and women, or ingrained beliefs about how people of different genders think and behave. Exploring the roots of such preferences and considering what one wants to address in therapy can help someone determine whether their therapist’s gender truly matters to them.

Should I see a female therapist?

Many people—not just women—prefer to see a female therapist, either because they believe that a woman will be able to relate to their specific challenges (for example, sexism in the workplace) or because they imagine feeling more comfortable disclosing sensitive information to a woman. Such beliefs may not turn out to be accurate, however, and adhering too rigidly to a gender preference can at times hinder a client from finding the best therapeutic match.

Do therapists get specific training to help with women’s concerns?

Therapists are trained to provide care to clients of any gender. However, some therapists—both men and women—may pursue additional training in feminist therapy, gender-specific issues, or women’s mental health. Female clients may wish to ask prospective therapists whether they have received specific training in the client’s primary area(s) of concern, or whether they have worked extensively with women on issues similar to their own.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience in treating women?

It’s OK—even encouraged!—to ask a therapist directly whether and how often they have treated women in the past, or whether they have treated women dealing with the client’s most prominent concern(s). Competent therapists will be happy to share their educational background, preferred treatment modalities, and prior client experience to help an individual find the therapist best suited to their needs.