Female Therapists in Napanee, ON

Photo of Sarah Long, BA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Sarah Long
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
My therapeutic style is person-centered, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in the healing process. Through empathy and collaboration, we can examine past and present relational dynamics that may be impacting your well-being. I believe in every individual's potential for growth and strive to empower clients toward fulfillment. I am dedicated to an inclusive therapeutic space, ensuring all clients feel validated and supported.
My therapeutic style is person-centered, emphasizing the importance of the therapeutic relationship in the healing process. Through empathy and collaboration, we can examine past and present relational dynamics that may be impacting your well-being. I believe in every individual's potential for growth and strive to empower clients toward fulfillment. I am dedicated to an inclusive therapeutic space, ensuring all clients feel validated and supported.
(343) 321-0097 View (343) 321-0097
Photo of Laura Anderson, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Laura Anderson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
Grief is simultaneously a universal and unique experience. It touches us all and also affects each of us differently. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space in which you can share your loss and begin to explore and understand your grief. In our work together, you will gain tools to manage the pain of your loss and find ways to carry your loved one forward in your life. My expertise is rooted both in the skilled training I have received and in my own lived experience. I am uniquely positioned to offer support for those experiencing out-of-order, complicated, and traumatic loss.
Grief is simultaneously a universal and unique experience. It touches us all and also affects each of us differently. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space in which you can share your loss and begin to explore and understand your grief. In our work together, you will gain tools to manage the pain of your loss and find ways to carry your loved one forward in your life. My expertise is rooted both in the skilled training I have received and in my own lived experience. I am uniquely positioned to offer support for those experiencing out-of-order, complicated, and traumatic loss.
(343) 500-6457 View (343) 500-6457
Photo of Cassandra Millen, MSW, BSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Cassandra Millen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
Now accepting new clients for reduced rate services with associates and interns. As a person and family-centered therapist, I believe that you are the expert of your life and your experiences and I am here to support you with the tools and strategies to navigate the challenges we face . I am regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I use an integrated approach, drawing from a variety of evidence-based approaches and therapeutic interventions in a way that meets your unique needs.
Now accepting new clients for reduced rate services with associates and interns. As a person and family-centered therapist, I believe that you are the expert of your life and your experiences and I am here to support you with the tools and strategies to navigate the challenges we face . I am regulated by the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. I use an integrated approach, drawing from a variety of evidence-based approaches and therapeutic interventions in a way that meets your unique needs.
(343) 304-5604 View (343) 304-5604
Photo of Nicole Armitage, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Nicole Armitage
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
What’s on your mind? Are you anxious, feeling down, or irritated? Do you feel like you have been getting stuck in these emotions? You’re not alone, let's talk about it. I am here to provide a safe space in which your thoughts, feelings, and experiences are validated. I strive to help individuals achieve positive change and meet their goals through a collaborative and person-centered approach. Together we can explore strategies to help you navigate and cope with different emotions. I have always been a strong advocate for mental health.
What’s on your mind? Are you anxious, feeling down, or irritated? Do you feel like you have been getting stuck in these emotions? You’re not alone, let's talk about it. I am here to provide a safe space in which your thoughts, feelings, and experiences are validated. I strive to help individuals achieve positive change and meet their goals through a collaborative and person-centered approach. Together we can explore strategies to help you navigate and cope with different emotions. I have always been a strong advocate for mental health.
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Photo of Larissa Doidge, BA, CYC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Larissa Doidge
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, CYC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
Offering the flexibility of in-person weekend appointments! My goal as a therapist is to ensure individuals to find their way to greater wellbeing when facing challenges. I aim to collaboratively create a safety space for us to work towards self-discovery and anything on your agenda. My passion is supporting individuals in all walks of life live their truth, because you deserve it!
Offering the flexibility of in-person weekend appointments! My goal as a therapist is to ensure individuals to find their way to greater wellbeing when facing challenges. I aim to collaboratively create a safety space for us to work towards self-discovery and anything on your agenda. My passion is supporting individuals in all walks of life live their truth, because you deserve it!
(343) 307-9470 View (343) 307-9470
Photo of Christine Hager | Open Roads Therapy, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Christine Hager | Open Roads Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R  (Online Only)
I'm genuinely seeking clients who are ready to try and put themselves first. My aim is to provide a safe and relaxing space to learn more about you and your life's story. Through a compassionate, positive, culturally conscious, and trauma-informed lens, I hope to build a professional relationship that leads us down a path to improving your self-identified problem or issue. Are you feeling ready to try and put yourself first? I encourage you to reach out and allow me to walk beside you in your personal journey to wellbeing. Let's work together to bring your best version of self to life!
I'm genuinely seeking clients who are ready to try and put themselves first. My aim is to provide a safe and relaxing space to learn more about you and your life's story. Through a compassionate, positive, culturally conscious, and trauma-informed lens, I hope to build a professional relationship that leads us down a path to improving your self-identified problem or issue. Are you feeling ready to try and put yourself first? I encourage you to reach out and allow me to walk beside you in your personal journey to wellbeing. Let's work together to bring your best version of self to life!
(365) 544-3491 View (365) 544-3491
Photo of Trisha Nelson, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Trisha Nelson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
I am presently taking new clients and offer the flexibility of evening appointments. From the big questions in life to small challenges, therapy can be an empowering process. I work with clients experiencing various presenting concerns, including issues with relationships ( struggling with boundary setting and or gaslighting), emotion regulation, self-esteem and body image, trauma, and life changes. I take an integrative approach with my clients, as the therapy techniques or theories employed should be flexible and unique to the person. I believe that vulnerability and openness are at the heart of therapeutic change.
I am presently taking new clients and offer the flexibility of evening appointments. From the big questions in life to small challenges, therapy can be an empowering process. I work with clients experiencing various presenting concerns, including issues with relationships ( struggling with boundary setting and or gaslighting), emotion regulation, self-esteem and body image, trauma, and life changes. I take an integrative approach with my clients, as the therapy techniques or theories employed should be flexible and unique to the person. I believe that vulnerability and openness are at the heart of therapeutic change.
(343) 633-1753 View (343) 633-1753
Photo of Anita Mikaelian, BPHE, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Anita Mikaelian
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BPHE
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
I am currently accepting new clients and offer a sliding scale through First Light Therapy. As a compassion-driven and integrative therapist, I embrace a person-centred approach that values you as a human and an individual. I incorporate techniques rooted in emotion-focused and culturally sensitive practices when working with you, prioritizing your unique needs.
I am currently accepting new clients and offer a sliding scale through First Light Therapy. As a compassion-driven and integrative therapist, I embrace a person-centred approach that values you as a human and an individual. I incorporate techniques rooted in emotion-focused and culturally sensitive practices when working with you, prioritizing your unique needs.
(343) 304-6154 View (343) 304-6154
Photo of Stephanie Black, BAA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Stephanie Black
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BAA, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
Accepting New Clients. If you’re looking for some support, let's work together to help address your goals! I aim to provide a warm and safe environment for you to share your thoughts and feelings. Together we will work towards making the changes you are looking for in life. I love helping people become the most fulfilled versions of themselves, and have had the privilege to work in the field of mental health and addictions for 13 years now. I am registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario.
Accepting New Clients. If you’re looking for some support, let's work together to help address your goals! I aim to provide a warm and safe environment for you to share your thoughts and feelings. Together we will work towards making the changes you are looking for in life. I love helping people become the most fulfilled versions of themselves, and have had the privilege to work in the field of mental health and addictions for 13 years now. I am registered with the College of Psychotherapists of Ontario.
(343) 453-1194 View (343) 453-1194
Photo of Margo Thompson - Complete Care & Wellness Counselling, BSW, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Complete Care & Wellness Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
Complete Care & Wellness Counselling is a “one-stop shop” to holistic and wraparound care for the individuals we serve and their loved ones! At CCWC, we are dedicated and intentional about providing exceptional counselling, consultations and support services to our community members and community partners.
Complete Care & Wellness Counselling is a “one-stop shop” to holistic and wraparound care for the individuals we serve and their loved ones! At CCWC, we are dedicated and intentional about providing exceptional counselling, consultations and support services to our community members and community partners.
(343) 700-4416 View (343) 700-4416
Photo of Nica Mintz, Registered Psychotherapist
Nica Mintz
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
Are you feeling stuck? Does it seem like you are repeating the same patterns over and over? Do you encounter similar issues in different areas of your life? I am a relational therapist and graduate from the Gestalt Institute of Toronto and I would be excited and honoured to support you in figuring out what's going on for you.
Are you feeling stuck? Does it seem like you are repeating the same patterns over and over? Do you encounter similar issues in different areas of your life? I am a relational therapist and graduate from the Gestalt Institute of Toronto and I would be excited and honoured to support you in figuring out what's going on for you.
(647) 424-0452 View (647) 424-0452
Photo of Shannon Horrigan - Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy, RP RSSW, Registered Psychotherapist
Insync Counselling & Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP RSSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R  (Online Only)
My name is Shannon Horrigan and I work "insync" with you to provide mental health and addictions support. I am a seasoned helping professional with over 25 years of experience providing services to individuals and family members. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioural addictions such as gambling and technology overuse. I am currently available to provide virtual appointments in the evening and on weekends. I offer a free 15 minute consultation and welcome your inquiries. I can be reached at 613-888-1416
My name is Shannon Horrigan and I work "insync" with you to provide mental health and addictions support. I am a seasoned helping professional with over 25 years of experience providing services to individuals and family members. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance use and behavioural addictions such as gambling and technology overuse. I am currently available to provide virtual appointments in the evening and on weekends. I offer a free 15 minute consultation and welcome your inquiries. I can be reached at 613-888-1416
(613) 900-0945 View (613) 900-0945
Photo of Stacey Dowling, BA, MA, Registered Psychotherapist
Stacey Dowling
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
My goal is to work with individuals as they navigate through their difficult times and strive to work collaboratively towards a better quality of life. I am a registered member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am a certified EMDR practionier and am Accredited Cool Kids provider (anxiety treatment program for children and youth). My primary goal is to build a strong therapeutic rapport with each of my clients and ensure there is comfort in the vulnerability of sharing their story while working towards the goals of therapy.
My goal is to work with individuals as they navigate through their difficult times and strive to work collaboratively towards a better quality of life. I am a registered member of the College of Registered Psychotherapists and have a Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology. I am a certified EMDR practionier and am Accredited Cool Kids provider (anxiety treatment program for children and youth). My primary goal is to build a strong therapeutic rapport with each of my clients and ensure there is comfort in the vulnerability of sharing their story while working towards the goals of therapy.
(613) 777-7159 View (613) 777-7159
Photo of Amy Steiginga, MA, MDiv, Registered Psychotherapist
Amy Steiginga
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
Kindly note: maternity leave starting end of August/mid-September - I am welcoming new clients until the beginning of July. > Psychotherapy with me is specifically personalized to fit you and what you need. Areas I can help you with include: Anxiety, Grief, Decision-Making, Life Transitions, Burnout, and Chronic Illness Management, like Type One Diabetes (I am a fellow T1D). Together, we will walk through your concerns, create space for you to be heard, and determine together what it is that you want out of therapy. We will work to meet those goals in an individualized way that best helps you.
Kindly note: maternity leave starting end of August/mid-September - I am welcoming new clients until the beginning of July. > Psychotherapy with me is specifically personalized to fit you and what you need. Areas I can help you with include: Anxiety, Grief, Decision-Making, Life Transitions, Burnout, and Chronic Illness Management, like Type One Diabetes (I am a fellow T1D). Together, we will walk through your concerns, create space for you to be heard, and determine together what it is that you want out of therapy. We will work to meet those goals in an individualized way that best helps you.
(343) 800-0090 View (343) 800-0090
Photo of Tara Buchan, MC, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Tara Buchan
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MC
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
At times life can feel like it’s full of obstacles and setbacks. In this, you can experience self-doubt, stress, and feel overwhelmed. You can also feel isolated, hopeless, or stuck. You are not alone. My role is to help enrich your understanding of yourself and support you on your journey to self-discovery and healing. My practice is centered on your preferences, values, and beliefs. I build on your strengths and create an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
At times life can feel like it’s full of obstacles and setbacks. In this, you can experience self-doubt, stress, and feel overwhelmed. You can also feel isolated, hopeless, or stuck. You are not alone. My role is to help enrich your understanding of yourself and support you on your journey to self-discovery and healing. My practice is centered on your preferences, values, and beliefs. I build on your strengths and create an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs.
(613) 217-1294 View (613) 217-1294
Photo of Whitney Ann Babcock, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Whitney Ann Babcock
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
My work focuses on individual adults of all ages, along with care givers, teachers, and post secondary students experiencing anxiety, low mood, life transitions, work stresses, feeling stuck or dealing with concerns such as fatigue, burnout, and overwhelm. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space in which individuals can explore and identify the concerns, issues and hopes in their lives. I work from a client-centred, trauma-informed point of view and customize my approach for each individual. The approaches I use include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), strengths focused, mindfulness and humanistic psychotherapy
My work focuses on individual adults of all ages, along with care givers, teachers, and post secondary students experiencing anxiety, low mood, life transitions, work stresses, feeling stuck or dealing with concerns such as fatigue, burnout, and overwhelm. I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space in which individuals can explore and identify the concerns, issues and hopes in their lives. I work from a client-centred, trauma-informed point of view and customize my approach for each individual. The approaches I use include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), strengths focused, mindfulness and humanistic psychotherapy
(613) 707-5098 View (613) 707-5098
Photo of Angela Nicholson, BAH, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Angela Nicholson
Registered Psychotherapist, BAH, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals who are finding themselves stuck, unsure of next steps or finding it difficult to work through life's obstacles. Together we will address areas of challenges and growth to improve life satisfaction, communication, emotional expression and behaviours that are getting in the way of life. I have experience working with military, first responders, and frontline workers and their families, those affected by Operational Stress Injuries including PTSD, and major life transitions associated with the their occupations.
I work with individuals who are finding themselves stuck, unsure of next steps or finding it difficult to work through life's obstacles. Together we will address areas of challenges and growth to improve life satisfaction, communication, emotional expression and behaviours that are getting in the way of life. I have experience working with military, first responders, and frontline workers and their families, those affected by Operational Stress Injuries including PTSD, and major life transitions associated with the their occupations.
(613) 801-4692 View (613) 801-4692
Photo of Sarah G. Horsford, MEd, RP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Sarah G. Horsford
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
Waitlist for new clients
Only accepting new individual clients for day-time appointments. I view counselling as a courageous act and as an opportunity for personal growth. I believe those seeking counselling are the experts of their own lives and I act as a neutral third party without judgment to be a sounding board/cheerleader. Together we put the puzzle pieces together to make sense of questions and move forward. My practice is guided by client-centred therapy and my approach uses a variety of modalities including behavioural and cognitive-behavioural therapies as well as other therapies for more of an eclectic stance.
Only accepting new individual clients for day-time appointments. I view counselling as a courageous act and as an opportunity for personal growth. I believe those seeking counselling are the experts of their own lives and I act as a neutral third party without judgment to be a sounding board/cheerleader. Together we put the puzzle pieces together to make sense of questions and move forward. My practice is guided by client-centred therapy and my approach uses a variety of modalities including behavioural and cognitive-behavioural therapies as well as other therapies for more of an eclectic stance.
(613) 703-3368 View (613) 703-3368
Photo of Patricia Marchand, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Patricia Marchand
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
I believe in the strength and resilience of families, and all persons ability to heal. If you and or your family are searching for healing and having better relationships, give me a call I’d be happy to help.
I believe in the strength and resilience of families, and all persons ability to heal. If you and or your family are searching for healing and having better relationships, give me a call I’d be happy to help.
(613) 704-2748 View (613) 704-2748
Photo of Joanne Roston, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Joanne Roston
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R  (Online Only)
I have 28 years in private practice and public service co-creating well-being with all ages and relationship configurations. Addiction, drug culture & use; the blues, depression & anxiety; violence & social justice; family and personal crises; LGBTQ issues; young adult & menopausal transition times; & all aspects of relationships both inter- and intra-personal are my areas of interest and proficiency. Group trainings are available to address any of these issues.
I have 28 years in private practice and public service co-creating well-being with all ages and relationship configurations. Addiction, drug culture & use; the blues, depression & anxiety; violence & social justice; family and personal crises; LGBTQ issues; young adult & menopausal transition times; & all aspects of relationships both inter- and intra-personal are my areas of interest and proficiency. Group trainings are available to address any of these issues.
(855) 976-9632 View (855) 976-9632
Photo of Kim Lawrence, BScH, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Kim Lawrence
Registered Social Worker, BScH, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
I offer person-centered, attachment-based counselling services in order to assist with relationship enhancement, personal growth, healing, awareness and emotional understanding. I offer compassionate, confidential counselling sessions and have experience working with individuals and couples in the following areas: Stress, anxiety and depression; Relationship concerns; Grief and loss; Physical and sexual abuse; Self-esteem concerns; Anger management; Parenting/co-parenting concerns; Separation and divorce; Pre-marital education. I work within a collective with fellow RSWs and RPs. Please see website for further details.
I offer person-centered, attachment-based counselling services in order to assist with relationship enhancement, personal growth, healing, awareness and emotional understanding. I offer compassionate, confidential counselling sessions and have experience working with individuals and couples in the following areas: Stress, anxiety and depression; Relationship concerns; Grief and loss; Physical and sexual abuse; Self-esteem concerns; Anger management; Parenting/co-parenting concerns; Separation and divorce; Pre-marital education. I work within a collective with fellow RSWs and RPs. Please see website for further details.
(343) 655-4100 View (343) 655-4100
Photo of Jessica Lankmann - Jessica Lankmann - Anxiety Annihilator, BST, MA, RP, Registered Psychotherapist
Jessica Lankmann - Anxiety Annihilator
Registered Psychotherapist, BST, MA, RP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
Right now things just don't feel right. You're trying your best to cope, but it just isn't working. You're tired, not motivated, feeling down and blue, and you don't know how to fix it. Or, you're noticing that you're feeling uncomfortable in your body, worried, and stressed out, but attempts to solve your problem just haven't cut it (and maybe your coping attempts are making things a bit worse!). You might be noticing eating, sleeping, or additional problems, and you're tempted to back away from your regular life patterns to manage.
Right now things just don't feel right. You're trying your best to cope, but it just isn't working. You're tired, not motivated, feeling down and blue, and you don't know how to fix it. Or, you're noticing that you're feeling uncomfortable in your body, worried, and stressed out, but attempts to solve your problem just haven't cut it (and maybe your coping attempts are making things a bit worse!). You might be noticing eating, sleeping, or additional problems, and you're tempted to back away from your regular life patterns to manage.
(613) 902-0499 View (613) 902-0499
Photo of Vanessa Mensah - Vanessa @ Selah Counselling & Consulting, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Vanessa @ Selah Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, RSW
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
Feeling disoriented, deflated and just tired can make it hard to experience joy. How can I walk alongside of you? Are you ready to regain balance? To break cyclical behaviours and thoughts? Or to grow in deeper intimacy in your relationships.
Feeling disoriented, deflated and just tired can make it hard to experience joy. How can I walk alongside of you? Are you ready to regain balance? To break cyclical behaviours and thoughts? Or to grow in deeper intimacy in your relationships.
(343) 338-4452 View (343) 338-4452
Photo of Casey Onysko Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BST, MACP, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Casey Onysko Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, BST, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
Napanee, ON K7R
I use a collaborative and integrated approach to therapy grounded in a psychodynamic perspective. I believe in tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs and goals. With a decade of experience working both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, I am versed in working with clients from a diversity of backgrounds and with complex presentations.
I use a collaborative and integrated approach to therapy grounded in a psychodynamic perspective. I believe in tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs and goals. With a decade of experience working both inpatient and outpatient mental health settings, I am versed in working with clients from a diversity of backgrounds and with complex presentations.
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Photo of Brittnee Stewart - Spear Counselling And Psychotherapy, RP, MA, BA, Registered Psychotherapist
Brittnee Stewart - Spear Counselling And Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Napanee, ON K7R
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and co-creator of Spear Wellness Centre and Spear Counselling & Psychotherapy. I am a self-led Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR Consultant in Training, IFS Level 1 trained Therapist and trained Psychedelic Assisted Therapist. My practice embodies a holistic approach to wellness, using the alchemy of science + spirituality to facilitate meaningful and long lasting positive changes. I am passionate about helping others achieve balance and harmony within their internal system and I create a safe container to support personal transformation so you can find your way back home - to yourself.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and co-creator of Spear Wellness Centre and Spear Counselling & Psychotherapy. I am a self-led Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR Consultant in Training, IFS Level 1 trained Therapist and trained Psychedelic Assisted Therapist. My practice embodies a holistic approach to wellness, using the alchemy of science + spirituality to facilitate meaningful and long lasting positive changes. I am passionate about helping others achieve balance and harmony within their internal system and I create a safe container to support personal transformation so you can find your way back home - to yourself.
(343) 500-6291 View (343) 500-6291
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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.