Photo of Ewa (Eva) Kearl, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Ewa (Eva) Kearl
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1
I have experience working with a wide variety of issues, including bereavement and loss, stress, depression, anger, fears, anxiety, phobias, PTSD, OCD, relationships, eating disorders, unwanted habits, self-harm, low self-esteem, confidence, motivation, addiction, abuse, trauma.
I am Qualified Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist, dedicated to helping every individual thrive in their own way, according to their specific need. Tailored to each individual I use varieties of therapeutic treatments including Person-Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Transactional Analyses, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), also relaxation techniques.
I have experience working with a wide variety of issues, including bereavement and loss, stress, depression, anger, fears, anxiety, phobias, PTSD, OCD, relationships, eating disorders, unwanted habits, self-harm, low self-esteem, confidence, motivation, addiction, abuse, trauma.
I am Qualified Integrative Counsellor/Psychotherapist, dedicated to helping every individual thrive in their own way, according to their specific need. Tailored to each individual I use varieties of therapeutic treatments including Person-Centred Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Transactional Analyses, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), also relaxation techniques.
01869 943671 View 01869 943671
Photo of Caterina Fadda - Caterina Fadda - Psychotherapy - EMDR, MA, BPC, Psychotherapist
Caterina Fadda - Psychotherapy - EMDR
Psychotherapist, MA, BPC
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a qualified and Accredited Psychotherapist and Accredited EMDR Practitioner. I offer online sessions in English or Italian to clients based internationally. For over 10 years, I have been working in the NHS, educational settings, and in private practice helping children, young people and adults recover from emotional difficulties such as Attachment issues, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and the impact of Trauma/Developmental Trauma. I have experience in working with neurodivergent people, I am culturally sensitive and have been supporting individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Hi, I am a qualified and Accredited Psychotherapist and Accredited EMDR Practitioner. I offer online sessions in English or Italian to clients based internationally. For over 10 years, I have been working in the NHS, educational settings, and in private practice helping children, young people and adults recover from emotional difficulties such as Attachment issues, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD and the impact of Trauma/Developmental Trauma. I have experience in working with neurodivergent people, I am culturally sensitive and have been supporting individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+.
020 3535 6758 View 020 3535 6758
Photo of Gabrielle Lees, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Gabrielle Lees
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX4
I am a fully trained and registered psychotherapist with over 20 years experience in the NHS (ongoing). I run a small evening clinic in Jericho offering time limited and open ended work. I also offer a very popular 4 session 'fast response' intervention for adolescents and young adults for £220. This treatment can be extremely helpful at times of crisis and change. I am registered with ACP, BACP and the Professional Standards Authority; PSA. I teach and supervise other therapists.
I am a fully trained and registered psychotherapist with over 20 years experience in the NHS (ongoing). I run a small evening clinic in Jericho offering time limited and open ended work. I also offer a very popular 4 session 'fast response' intervention for adolescents and young adults for £220. This treatment can be extremely helpful at times of crisis and change. I am registered with ACP, BACP and the Professional Standards Authority; PSA. I teach and supervise other therapists.
01865 954062 View 01865 954062
Photo of Jessica Barratt - Your Ultimate You therapies with Jessica Barratt, MA
Your Ultimate You therapies with Jessica Barratt
MA
Verified Verified
Oxford OX4
I work with ages spanning from the tender age of 3 to adulthood. I work within trauma and attachment-related challenges, seeking solace and healing. Rooted in past experiences, and how the issues manifest in strained relationships, emotional dysregulation, and a pervasive sense of disconnection. Individuals needs transcend age barriers, encompassing a safe space for expression, empathetic understanding, and tools for coping and resilience. Through therapy, individuals will aspire to reclaim a sense of security, rebuild trust in relationships, and cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth.
I work with ages spanning from the tender age of 3 to adulthood. I work within trauma and attachment-related challenges, seeking solace and healing. Rooted in past experiences, and how the issues manifest in strained relationships, emotional dysregulation, and a pervasive sense of disconnection. Individuals needs transcend age barriers, encompassing a safe space for expression, empathetic understanding, and tools for coping and resilience. Through therapy, individuals will aspire to reclaim a sense of security, rebuild trust in relationships, and cultivate a healthy sense of self-worth.
01865 638474 View 01865 638474
Photo of Karen Burke - Karen Burke, Trauma Recovery, CBT, Counselling, MBACP, Counsellor
Karen Burke, Trauma Recovery, CBT, Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX44  (Online Only)
Trauma-focused therapy helps to address the underlying traumatic memories and triggers that contribute to anxiety. CBT, on the other hand, equips individuals with practical techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns. However, a combination of trauma-focused therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can offer effective strategies for managing anxiety and reclaiming a sense of calm. I provide a safe and supportive environment for processing and healing trauma, and all anxiety-based issues. I offer therapy sessions over the phone and video link.
Trauma-focused therapy helps to address the underlying traumatic memories and triggers that contribute to anxiety. CBT, on the other hand, equips individuals with practical techniques to identify and challenge negative thought patterns. However, a combination of trauma-focused therapy and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can offer effective strategies for managing anxiety and reclaiming a sense of calm. I provide a safe and supportive environment for processing and healing trauma, and all anxiety-based issues. I offer therapy sessions over the phone and video link.
01744 419687 View 01744 419687
Photo of Shelley Marie Alcock - Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre  , DCounsPsych, BACP, Counsellor
Cheltenham’s Counselling Centre
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
Hello my name is Shelley and I am a qualified adult and child Therapeutic Counsellor. I have a vast amount of experience as a pastoral worker working in schools and as a counsellor working for a charity. I am a member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and offer face to face or online sessions . These sessions provide a confidential, supportive environment where clients can feel safe and explore the work through any emotional or life difficulties. I believe by offering online counselling this gives each individual the ability to reach their true potential within the safety of their chosen space.
01242 339245 View 01242 339245
Photo of Heather Shipley, MNCPS Acc., Psychotherapist
Heather Shipley
Psychotherapist, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Oxford OX1
I am a highly qualified Clinical Supervisor and Counsellor who is passionate about supporting my clients. My aim is to create a trusting, safe and comfortable space for you to be able to express your concerns. By combining my variety of skills and experience, I am able to tailor my therapy to suit your needs. I have experience with children and adolescents (Cover Teacher and Nurture Lead) charities, social services and other agencies), as well as extensive work with adults (including menopause) and couples in my private practice and working with an employee assistance programme.
I am a highly qualified Clinical Supervisor and Counsellor who is passionate about supporting my clients. My aim is to create a trusting, safe and comfortable space for you to be able to express your concerns. By combining my variety of skills and experience, I am able to tailor my therapy to suit your needs. I have experience with children and adolescents (Cover Teacher and Nurture Lead) charities, social services and other agencies), as well as extensive work with adults (including menopause) and couples in my private practice and working with an employee assistance programme.
01789 331153 View 01789 331153
Photo of Karen J O'Connell, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
Karen J O'Connell
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Oxford OX2
Welcome to my Counselling & Psychotherapy Service in Bristol and Cheltenham. I am an experienced and fully accredited Psychotherapist (MA Dip, Hip) and UKCP registered. I see clients with a range of issues on both a long term and short-term basis. This includes: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Work Related Stress and Relationship difficulties too early childhood trauma. Also as a Qualified Social Worker I have many years practice of supporting client's through adverse experiences in their lives.
Welcome to my Counselling & Psychotherapy Service in Bristol and Cheltenham. I am an experienced and fully accredited Psychotherapist (MA Dip, Hip) and UKCP registered. I see clients with a range of issues on both a long term and short-term basis. This includes: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Work Related Stress and Relationship difficulties too early childhood trauma. Also as a Qualified Social Worker I have many years practice of supporting client's through adverse experiences in their lives.
0117 456 2138 View 0117 456 2138
Photo of Dr Sandra Boccard-Binet, PhD, GMBPsS, Psychologist
Dr Sandra Boccard-Binet
Psychologist, PhD, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Oxford OX3
I am a Psychologist registered with the British Psychological Society (MBPsS) & the National Hypnotherapy Society. In my practice I use a pluralistic approach to understand and support my clients throughout their difficulties, in a friendly and empathetic way. My previous research in Neurosciences at the University of Oxford was fascinating and gratifying, but my desire to help people led me to this more fulfilling vocation. Sessions last 50 minutes and can be held face-to-face or online, in English or French.
I am a Psychologist registered with the British Psychological Society (MBPsS) & the National Hypnotherapy Society. In my practice I use a pluralistic approach to understand and support my clients throughout their difficulties, in a friendly and empathetic way. My previous research in Neurosciences at the University of Oxford was fascinating and gratifying, but my desire to help people led me to this more fulfilling vocation. Sessions last 50 minutes and can be held face-to-face or online, in English or French.
01235 617889 View 01235 617889

Online Therapists

Photo of Susie Cabrillana, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Susie Cabrillana
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton BN2  (Online Only)
I can help with difficulties like anxiety & panic, PTSD, depression, postpartum psychosis, OCD, phobias and tokophobia - fear of pregnancy/birth - and trauma (earlier life or birth trauma) & pregnancy loss.
As a therapist and midwife I understand the barriers you might feel asking for help during the perinatal period (pregnancy, birth or postnatally). Many people struggle to talk about their anxiety, depression or doubts and worries about being a parent. You might feel judged or that you have failed in some way and there can be a real sense of pressure to feel positive throughout, making it sometimes feel really hard to admit you are struggling, so I understand just how significant asking for help is. Reaching out is positive and is the first step towards recovery - of your sense of self, your self worth and your wellbeing.
I can help with difficulties like anxiety & panic, PTSD, depression, postpartum psychosis, OCD, phobias and tokophobia - fear of pregnancy/birth - and trauma (earlier life or birth trauma) & pregnancy loss.
As a therapist and midwife I understand the barriers you might feel asking for help during the perinatal period (pregnancy, birth or postnatally). Many people struggle to talk about their anxiety, depression or doubts and worries about being a parent. You might feel judged or that you have failed in some way and there can be a real sense of pressure to feel positive throughout, making it sometimes feel really hard to admit you are struggling, so I understand just how significant asking for help is. Reaching out is positive and is the first step towards recovery - of your sense of self, your self worth and your wellbeing.
01903 947075 View 01903 947075
Photo of Dr Bianca Iacono, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Bianca Iacono
Psychologist, MSc, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W1U
I am Dr Bianca, a Clinical Psychologist based in London, UK. I specialise in providing therapy, both individually and in group, for mental health issues concerning depression, generalised anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, health anxiety, specific phobia, panic disorder, anger management. Together we can tailor the pace and style of each session to your specific needs and circumstances. I am warm, compassionate and respectful in my approach towards clients. My aim is to restore a state of wellbeing in those who come to me for help.
I am Dr Bianca, a Clinical Psychologist based in London, UK. I specialise in providing therapy, both individually and in group, for mental health issues concerning depression, generalised anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, health anxiety, specific phobia, panic disorder, anger management. Together we can tailor the pace and style of each session to your specific needs and circumstances. I am warm, compassionate and respectful in my approach towards clients. My aim is to restore a state of wellbeing in those who come to me for help.
020 3857 9603 View 020 3857 9603
Photo of Amreeta Chapman, PsychD, MBACP, Counsellor
Amreeta Chapman
Counsellor, PsychD, MBACP
Verified Verified
Reading RG5
My Clients over the last 18 years have ranged from having simple symptoms ( i.e. sleep disturbances, anxiety about interviews or social anxiety ) to severe symptoms (i.e. severe depression, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, Borderline Personality or sexual abuse). My clients are looking for tools that will help them reduce or eliminate those symptoms but they are also wanting to develop long term functional habits that will help them lead a healthier life. Most of my clients are highly functional but they are struggling with emotional issues in their relationships with childhood abuse, addictions, fears, self-esteem and others.
My Clients over the last 18 years have ranged from having simple symptoms ( i.e. sleep disturbances, anxiety about interviews or social anxiety ) to severe symptoms (i.e. severe depression, insomnia, PTSD, OCD, Borderline Personality or sexual abuse). My clients are looking for tools that will help them reduce or eliminate those symptoms but they are also wanting to develop long term functional habits that will help them lead a healthier life. Most of my clients are highly functional but they are struggling with emotional issues in their relationships with childhood abuse, addictions, fears, self-esteem and others.
0118 214 8554 View 0118 214 8554
Androulla Troisi
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Pinner HA5
I offer both short term and long term therapy for many issues loss, bereavement, self harm, relationships, self esteem, eating issues, Work related issues, family relationships, gender and sexual identity , depression, anxiety, PTSD but most importantly work with your own issues and support you in being yourself and happy in your own skin .
I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist with over 30 years experience working within charities - private health providers and education. I am senior accredited clinical supervisor who provides clinical supervision to other psychotherapists and counsellors - also run group supervision
I offer both short term and long term therapy for many issues loss, bereavement, self harm, relationships, self esteem, eating issues, Work related issues, family relationships, gender and sexual identity , depression, anxiety, PTSD but most importantly work with your own issues and support you in being yourself and happy in your own skin .
I am a fully qualified integrative psychotherapist with over 30 years experience working within charities - private health providers and education. I am senior accredited clinical supervisor who provides clinical supervision to other psychotherapists and counsellors - also run group supervision
020 8016 3274 View 020 8016 3274
Photo of Rav Saffron Khela - psychlarity Consultancy, MA, MUKCP, Psychotherapist
psychlarity Consultancy
Psychotherapist, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Wolverhampton WV6
Welcome to my profile. I am fortunate to have worked across a range of contexts as well as extensive experience with a numerous clients. As a consultant family and systemic psychotherapist with 25 years experience I specialise in parental alienation, reunification, complex trauma and ptsd, couple therapy, family therapy, eating disorders, child and adult mental health, relationship difficulties, addiction including porn, sex and betrayal. I provide therapy for child to parental violence and repair family systems. Alongside working with courts, solicitors, social care, individual clients I also provide coaching and supervision.
Welcome to my profile. I am fortunate to have worked across a range of contexts as well as extensive experience with a numerous clients. As a consultant family and systemic psychotherapist with 25 years experience I specialise in parental alienation, reunification, complex trauma and ptsd, couple therapy, family therapy, eating disorders, child and adult mental health, relationship difficulties, addiction including porn, sex and betrayal. I provide therapy for child to parental violence and repair family systems. Alongside working with courts, solicitors, social care, individual clients I also provide coaching and supervision.
01902 973074 View 01902 973074
Photo of Gillian Strutton, MBACP Snr. Accred, Psychotherapist
Gillian Strutton
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Billericay CM12  (Online Only)
I am Senior Accredited with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, an EMDR Europe Accredited Consultant and an Integrative Clinical Supervisor. I am registered on the approved Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (License 055765) and have experience working with adults, adolescents and couples. I am DBS and UK Gov National Security approved. I have over 19 years of experience and offer clinical assessment and treatment for a range of mental health presenting problems. These include anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Bi-polar, stress, phobias, self esteem, anger, relationship problems etc
I am Senior Accredited with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, an EMDR Europe Accredited Consultant and an Integrative Clinical Supervisor. I am registered on the approved Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (License 055765) and have experience working with adults, adolescents and couples. I am DBS and UK Gov National Security approved. I have over 19 years of experience and offer clinical assessment and treatment for a range of mental health presenting problems. These include anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Bi-polar, stress, phobias, self esteem, anger, relationship problems etc
01277 674013 View 01277 674013
Photo of Dr Yasmine Lau, HCPC - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Dr Yasmine Lau
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE22  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with difficulties such as anxiety (generalised anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, health anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Complex PTSD and PTSD, low mood, low self-esteem, adjustment to life events, health issues (such as cancer, diabetes, COPD, heart conditions, renal), perinatal difficulties, bereavement, stress).
I am a Clinical Psychologist and CBT therapist, registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) and British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). In my private practice I see children, adolescents and adults with a range of difficulties. I strongly believe in cultivating a compassionate and non-judgemental space in which we work together to understand your current difficulties. In my work I draw upon current evidence-based practice to work collaboratively with children and their families or adults individually to deliver personalised treatment plans.
My experience includes working with difficulties such as anxiety (generalised anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, health anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Complex PTSD and PTSD, low mood, low self-esteem, adjustment to life events, health issues (such as cancer, diabetes, COPD, heart conditions, renal), perinatal difficulties, bereavement, stress).
I am a Clinical Psychologist and CBT therapist, registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) and British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). In my private practice I see children, adolescents and adults with a range of difficulties. I strongly believe in cultivating a compassionate and non-judgemental space in which we work together to understand your current difficulties. In my work I draw upon current evidence-based practice to work collaboratively with children and their families or adults individually to deliver personalised treatment plans.
020 7870 1806 View 020 7870 1806
Photo of Kirsty Hartgrove - happy parent and child initiative, MBACP, Counsellor
happy parent and child initiative
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ipswich IP7
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Kinsley, I work with children from the ages of 4, using both talking & creative play based therapy. I can help if your child is suffering from anxiety, or emotional & mental health issues, challenging behaviours, eating issues, emotional based school avoidance & much more. I specialise in working with Autistic, adhd & PDA Children. I offer therapeutic play therapy sessions, parent counselling sessions & parent support sessions. I work with parents who have suffered birth trauma, postnatal depression, ptsd & can work with parent child attachment.
I’m Kinsley, I work with children from the ages of 4, using both talking & creative play based therapy. I can help if your child is suffering from anxiety, or emotional & mental health issues, challenging behaviours, eating issues, emotional based school avoidance & much more. I specialise in working with Autistic, adhd & PDA Children. I offer therapeutic play therapy sessions, parent counselling sessions & parent support sessions. I work with parents who have suffered birth trauma, postnatal depression, ptsd & can work with parent child attachment.
01449 701331 View 01449 701331
Photo of Carole Scarlett, MBACP, Psychotherapist
Carole Scarlett
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hemel Hempstead HP3
At times we need a place, independent of family & friends, to explore any fears/anxieties we have. Do you have a safe space to explore how your feeling? How can I help? I offer a safe, confidential & non-judgemental space for you to do so talking through any issues you may have. My expertise is extensive, working with issues such as e.g. Abuse, Anxiety/Worrying, Bereavement, Depression, PTSD, Domestic Violence, Self-esteem/Confidence, Low Moods, Neuro-diversity & Self-harm. This makes me unique and experienced to work successfully with clients to overcome these setbacks and to build upon your inner resources to move forward.
At times we need a place, independent of family & friends, to explore any fears/anxieties we have. Do you have a safe space to explore how your feeling? How can I help? I offer a safe, confidential & non-judgemental space for you to do so talking through any issues you may have. My expertise is extensive, working with issues such as e.g. Abuse, Anxiety/Worrying, Bereavement, Depression, PTSD, Domestic Violence, Self-esteem/Confidence, Low Moods, Neuro-diversity & Self-harm. This makes me unique and experienced to work successfully with clients to overcome these setbacks and to build upon your inner resources to move forward.
01442 953053 View 01442 953053
Photo of Stephanie Dunning - Peace of Mind Wellbeing, MSc, MBABCP, Psychotherapist
Peace of Mind Wellbeing
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Cannock WS12
Peace of Mind Wellbeing offers therapeutic support and mental health intervention to Children, Young People and Adults, presenting with psychological difficulties such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Childhood Trauma, Relationship difficulties and Low Self Esteem. Peace of Mind Wellbeing also offers couples therapy and family therapy, alongside training packages to other professionals, family and friends, to support their understanding of different psychological difficulties, how they present and how they can appropriately offer their support.
Peace of Mind Wellbeing offers therapeutic support and mental health intervention to Children, Young People and Adults, presenting with psychological difficulties such as Depression, Anxiety, OCD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Specific Phobias, Childhood Trauma, Relationship difficulties and Low Self Esteem. Peace of Mind Wellbeing also offers couples therapy and family therapy, alongside training packages to other professionals, family and friends, to support their understanding of different psychological difficulties, how they present and how they can appropriately offer their support.
View
Photo of Dr Claudia Schmidt, PhD, CPsychol, Psychologist
Dr Claudia Schmidt
Psychologist, PhD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Bristol BS9
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma/PTSD (post traumatic stress).
Sometimes difficulties can have a major impact on our well-being, relationships or work. Maybe friends and family can offer some support but we may also choose to see a qualified and experienced practitioner, who can provide a safe space in which to work with whatever is going on for us. I have a wide range of experience, including working in the NHS, at university as Associate Lecturer (14 years) and in a GP practice as a Lead Therapist and Supervisor, delivering Relational Integrative Therapy. I draw on Psychodynamic and Person-Centred approaches, relational CBT and CFT (Compassion-Focussed Therapy).
Trauma/PTSD (post traumatic stress).
Sometimes difficulties can have a major impact on our well-being, relationships or work. Maybe friends and family can offer some support but we may also choose to see a qualified and experienced practitioner, who can provide a safe space in which to work with whatever is going on for us. I have a wide range of experience, including working in the NHS, at university as Associate Lecturer (14 years) and in a GP practice as a Lead Therapist and Supervisor, delivering Relational Integrative Therapy. I draw on Psychodynamic and Person-Centred approaches, relational CBT and CFT (Compassion-Focussed Therapy).
0117 463 3058 View 0117 463 3058

See more therapy options for Oxford

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.