Feminist Therapists in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Callie Miller - Gender Identity Center, LMSW
Callie Miller - Gender Identity Center
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My approach is deeply person-centered, focusing on building resilience and empowering individuals on their ever evolving journey of self discovery to navigate life’s challenges. My background is rooted in community based services, and for the last four years I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse, individuals in crisis and children ages 3+ in various settings. I am a proud feminist and my work is centered around the recognition and subsequent destructing of the harsh systemic realities we find ourselves in. I am here to be your staunch advocate, encourager, and counsel. Together we will learn, unlearn, and grow as necessary.
My approach is deeply person-centered, focusing on building resilience and empowering individuals on their ever evolving journey of self discovery to navigate life’s challenges. My background is rooted in community based services, and for the last four years I have worked with survivors of domestic abuse, individuals in crisis and children ages 3+ in various settings. I am a proud feminist and my work is centered around the recognition and subsequent destructing of the harsh systemic realities we find ourselves in. I am here to be your staunch advocate, encourager, and counsel. Together we will learn, unlearn, and grow as necessary.
(623) 343-1040 View (623) 343-1040
Photo of Rory Bergstrom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rory Bergstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85045
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic approach integrates relational psychotherapy, non-dualism, transpersonal psychology, feminist psychotherapy, EMDR, parts-work, body centered/somatic techniques, and embodied practices for unlearning white-body supremacy and other forms of oppression.
I will be out of the office until September 10th 2024. Please message me to be added to my wait-list. Have you tried traditional talk-therapy and made progress at the beginning, only to find yourself stuck and frustrated months down the line? I offer treatments that catalyze deeper healing and growth to help my clients move forward; including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Therapy and psychedelic integration. If you have struggled with depression, anxiety or PTSD and haven't found relief with standard treatments then my practice is for you. I offer in-person sessions in Tucson and virtual sessions throughout Arizona.
My therapeutic approach integrates relational psychotherapy, non-dualism, transpersonal psychology, feminist psychotherapy, EMDR, parts-work, body centered/somatic techniques, and embodied practices for unlearning white-body supremacy and other forms of oppression.
I will be out of the office until September 10th 2024. Please message me to be added to my wait-list. Have you tried traditional talk-therapy and made progress at the beginning, only to find yourself stuck and frustrated months down the line? I offer treatments that catalyze deeper healing and growth to help my clients move forward; including EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Therapy and psychedelic integration. If you have struggled with depression, anxiety or PTSD and haven't found relief with standard treatments then my practice is for you. I offer in-person sessions in Tucson and virtual sessions throughout Arizona.
(520) 999-2296 View (520) 999-2296
Photo of Kristen Barry, MA
Kristen Barry
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
My therapeutic approach in sessions is from a feminist perspective.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
My therapeutic approach in sessions is from a feminist perspective.
In the therapeutic setting, my goal is to provide clients the space to be their most authentic selves. Too often in society, we are forced to wear a façade, or be a fraction of ourselves in any given space, for fear of being “too much” or fear of not being accepted fully. In our sessions, I encourage you to take up space unapologetically. I love being able to help my clients discover their real selves and give them the tools to overcome any obstacles in their journeys towards wellness. I show up to sessions as my authentic self, and I encourage my clients to do the same. The work begins where the masks end.
(312) 374-6977 View (312) 374-6977
Photo of Amanda S Malak, PsyD, Psychologist
Amanda S Malak
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
Grounded in decolonizing mental health, liberation, and feminist psychologies, my practice employs multimodal approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive processing therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, somatic experiencing, emotionally focused couples therapy, Gottman, family systems, and psychoanalysis.
Via psychotherapy and assessment, I support individuals, couples, families, and organizations through the changing seasons of life. Intersectional identity shifts, intergenerational trauma, faith transitions, pregnancy/postpartum, sexual trauma, systemic oppression, multicultural couples (polyamory affirming), and families navigating members "coming out" or "letting in" with diverse political or spiritual views are a few specialty areas. Particular attunement is provided to BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodiverse/autistic communities. My goal is to help communities live in alignment with their values.
Grounded in decolonizing mental health, liberation, and feminist psychologies, my practice employs multimodal approaches, including dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive processing therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, somatic experiencing, emotionally focused couples therapy, Gottman, family systems, and psychoanalysis.
Via psychotherapy and assessment, I support individuals, couples, families, and organizations through the changing seasons of life. Intersectional identity shifts, intergenerational trauma, faith transitions, pregnancy/postpartum, sexual trauma, systemic oppression, multicultural couples (polyamory affirming), and families navigating members "coming out" or "letting in" with diverse political or spiritual views are a few specialty areas. Particular attunement is provided to BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and neurodiverse/autistic communities. My goal is to help communities live in alignment with their values.
(480) 637-3254 View (480) 637-3254
Photo of Clarke Scott, MA, LPC, Counselor
Clarke Scott
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Have you ever experienced a difficulty that left you feeling isolated? Or a relationship that just didn’t make sense? These are all parts of being human but can leave us feeling unsettled, disconnected, confused, and hurt. I genuinely enjoy connecting with people, hearing their stories, and helping them through the hard times. Above all else, I find it important to create a safe space for my clients to feel secure enough to speak openly and show the more vulnerable parts of themselves. I do this by creating an environment of trust based on direct and authentic communication.
Have you ever experienced a difficulty that left you feeling isolated? Or a relationship that just didn’t make sense? These are all parts of being human but can leave us feeling unsettled, disconnected, confused, and hurt. I genuinely enjoy connecting with people, hearing their stories, and helping them through the hard times. Above all else, I find it important to create a safe space for my clients to feel secure enough to speak openly and show the more vulnerable parts of themselves. I do this by creating an environment of trust based on direct and authentic communication.
(480) 531-5951 View (480) 531-5951
Photo of Amy Rehm, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Rehm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I am currently only accepting clients for online therapy! You are the greatest project you will ever work on. Often times we make ourselves the last priority, but when you take the time to fill your own cup and heal from hurt and trauma, you free yourself up to experience peace. I am passionate about working with individuals & couples and creating a safe space for clients to be transparent and culture an environment for personal growth. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach to therapy including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(480) 462-7718 View (480) 462-7718
Photo of Jennifer Monninger, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Monninger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85003
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
I am a certified sex therapist with a focus on sexuality, intimacy, and relationships. I offer individual and couples counseling focused on sexual addiction, infidelity, polyamory, kink/BDSM, desire differences, sexual pain and other health concerns impacting sexuality, and generally helping individuals improve their understanding of their sexuality. I use a sex positive approach that works to reduce shame and improve communication around sex. I would love to hear your story and see what I can do to support you. I see clients in person in Phoenix, and through telehealth in NM.
(602) 755-3230 View (602) 755-3230
Photo of Ashleigh Camarda, MS, LAC, CCTP, Counselor
Ashleigh Camarda
Counselor, MS, LAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like life is harder than usual right now? Do your relationships feel unfulfilling, are you extra critical of yourself? If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, insecurity, difficulty feeling joy, or continually seeking a way to avoid the pain; counseling may be right for you. You might be struggling with events in your past, your current life circumstances might feel impossible to overcome, or you have fears about the future. Imagine what it would be like to develop internal resilience, to feel joy again, to recognize the person you see in the mirror, to feel like you are in control of your life and decisions
Are you feeling like life is harder than usual right now? Do your relationships feel unfulfilling, are you extra critical of yourself? If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, insecurity, difficulty feeling joy, or continually seeking a way to avoid the pain; counseling may be right for you. You might be struggling with events in your past, your current life circumstances might feel impossible to overcome, or you have fears about the future. Imagine what it would be like to develop internal resilience, to feel joy again, to recognize the person you see in the mirror, to feel like you are in control of your life and decisions
(623) 526-5569 View (623) 526-5569
Photo of Virginia Lea Bagby, LMSW, MAdm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Virginia Lea Bagby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MAdm
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85032
Hello, I am Virginia!  I'm a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of providing Cognitive Behavioral, Play, Narrative, and Family Systems counseling to clients who have experienced various types of trauma and life stressors.  I earned my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University. I've worked in many different clinical settings in Arizona, New Jersey, and New York City ever since.
Hello, I am Virginia!  I'm a licensed Social Worker with over 20 years of providing Cognitive Behavioral, Play, Narrative, and Family Systems counseling to clients who have experienced various types of trauma and life stressors.  I earned my Bachelors and Masters in Social Work from Arizona State University. I've worked in many different clinical settings in Arizona, New Jersey, and New York City ever since.
(602) 755-4596 View (602) 755-4596
Photo of Colleen Steppa - Amity Counseling & Consultation - Colleen Steppa, MSW, MBA, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amity Counseling & Consultation - Colleen Steppa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself making the same mistakes over and over in relationships? Do people say you have a "bad picker" when it comes to friends and partners? Sounds like a good place to start in therapy to explore some patterns and where they come from. I specialize in working with people of all genders who are survivors of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, including religious trauma. In therapy, I work with people on setting boundaries by learning how to listen to their own needs and trust themselves. I am not credentialed with state insurance plans (Medicaid/Medical Assistance/AHCCCS) or EAPs.
Do you find yourself making the same mistakes over and over in relationships? Do people say you have a "bad picker" when it comes to friends and partners? Sounds like a good place to start in therapy to explore some patterns and where they come from. I specialize in working with people of all genders who are survivors of emotional, physical, and sexual abuse, including religious trauma. In therapy, I work with people on setting boundaries by learning how to listen to their own needs and trust themselves. I am not credentialed with state insurance plans (Medicaid/Medical Assistance/AHCCCS) or EAPs.
(480) 452-0091 View (480) 452-0091
Photo of Logan Denny, LAC, Counselor
Logan Denny
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Hey! I am Logan (they/them)- I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent LAC/sex therapist with an education background in trauma-informed sex therapy. I am committed to creating a collaborative space where folx can seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. I believe in supporting and empowering people in navigating the exploration of gender, sexuality, kink, non-monogamous relationships, intimate relationships, shame free sex, religious trauma and any other situations life has to offer.
Hey! I am Logan (they/them)- I am a queer, nonbinary, neurodivergent LAC/sex therapist with an education background in trauma-informed sex therapy. I am committed to creating a collaborative space where folx can seek wellness, pleasure, and liberation. I believe in supporting and empowering people in navigating the exploration of gender, sexuality, kink, non-monogamous relationships, intimate relationships, shame free sex, religious trauma and any other situations life has to offer.
(623) 210-6199 View (623) 210-6199
Photo of Dr. Dylan Richard, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Dylan Richard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85048  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
At this time I am not taking on new clients and will be suspending all clinical services starting on 7/26/24 due to moving. Once able to resume clinical services, I will update my profile to reflect this. I currently have no estimate of when I will be able to resume services.
At this time I am not taking on new clients and will be suspending all clinical services starting on 7/26/24 due to moving. Once able to resume clinical services, I will update my profile to reflect this. I currently have no estimate of when I will be able to resume services.
(520) 523-4949 View (520) 523-4949
Photo of Neda Tavassoli, DBH, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neda Tavassoli
Licensed Professional Counselor, DBH, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Personal growth and development is necessary to a person's journey. For over 20 years, I have helped adults and teens achieve personal and professional goals through modalities like solutions-focused therapy with exploration into areas of depression, anxiety, and fear. I help clients explore the emotions and thoughts that get in the way of progress.
Personal growth and development is necessary to a person's journey. For over 20 years, I have helped adults and teens achieve personal and professional goals through modalities like solutions-focused therapy with exploration into areas of depression, anxiety, and fear. I help clients explore the emotions and thoughts that get in the way of progress.
(602) 833-5829 View (602) 833-5829
Photo of James Rodis, MC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Rodis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016  (Online Only)
Do you feel a loss of meaning, pain from a difficult past, or feelings of anxiety and overwhelm? Are you struggling with relationship conflict or renegotiation? When people have experienced complex trauma—whether it is oppression, child abuse, painful relationships, or the struggle of being alive—they often lose trust in themselves and others. Therapy is an opportunity to rebuild trust, redefine your sense of self, choose your values, shift your relationship to the past, create a life of meaning, and build relationship safety. I specialize in working with the LGBTQ, neurodivergent/autistic/ADHD, poly, and kink communities.
Do you feel a loss of meaning, pain from a difficult past, or feelings of anxiety and overwhelm? Are you struggling with relationship conflict or renegotiation? When people have experienced complex trauma—whether it is oppression, child abuse, painful relationships, or the struggle of being alive—they often lose trust in themselves and others. Therapy is an opportunity to rebuild trust, redefine your sense of self, choose your values, shift your relationship to the past, create a life of meaning, and build relationship safety. I specialize in working with the LGBTQ, neurodivergent/autistic/ADHD, poly, and kink communities.
(602) 610-5459 View (602) 610-5459
Photo of Lindsey R Buckman, PsyD, Psychologist
Lindsey R Buckman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
As a psychologist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and help you find ways to be your best self. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can use them to better understand and resolve the current challenges in your life. By working collaboratively, we will work to adjust behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(480) 418-0894 View (480) 418-0894
Photo of Staci Rubin-Shepherd, MC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Staci Rubin-Shepherd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85050  (Online Only)
It’s hard (and okay!) to admit that you are going through a tough time. Whether you are challenged by depression or anxiety, getting stuck in patterns that feel impossible to change, battling trauma and the weight it can hold on your shoulders, or needing to understand, explore, and process your gender or sexuality journey, I am here for you. Everyone needs a safe and comfortable environment to reflect on and work through life’s challenges. And that’s where I come in. I believe in the curative and healing powers of vulnerability.
It’s hard (and okay!) to admit that you are going through a tough time. Whether you are challenged by depression or anxiety, getting stuck in patterns that feel impossible to change, battling trauma and the weight it can hold on your shoulders, or needing to understand, explore, and process your gender or sexuality journey, I am here for you. Everyone needs a safe and comfortable environment to reflect on and work through life’s challenges. And that’s where I come in. I believe in the curative and healing powers of vulnerability.
(623) 257-7202 View (623) 257-7202
Photo of Kelsey J. Walsh, PhD, Psychologist
Kelsey J. Walsh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
As a licensed psychologist, I have extensive training and experience using evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and trauma. I view the client-therapist relationship as a crucial component in facilitating client growth and work from a holistic and interdisciplinary framework, using a relational approach informed by cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed, emotion-focused, and insight-oriented interventions. To ensure individualized care, I attend to client identities and cultural experiences (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender) to inform treatment and empower clients to identify and actively pursue their personal therapy goals.
As a licensed psychologist, I have extensive training and experience using evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and trauma. I view the client-therapist relationship as a crucial component in facilitating client growth and work from a holistic and interdisciplinary framework, using a relational approach informed by cognitive-behavioral, trauma-informed, emotion-focused, and insight-oriented interventions. To ensure individualized care, I attend to client identities and cultural experiences (e.g., race/ethnicity, gender) to inform treatment and empower clients to identify and actively pursue their personal therapy goals.
(602) 483-4853 View (602) 483-4853
Photo of Breanna Wandrych, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breanna Wandrych
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85003
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in gender and neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic and ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults. My focus is on supporting those in Gen Z and Millennial generations who are starting to realize that their perfectionism is holding them back and want to better align with their most authentic selves. I invite you to step into a space where you can express yourself and explore your inner world where the multitudes you contain are not just accepted but cherished. If you possess a natural curiosity about yourself and the world, we will likely work wonderfully together.
I specialize in gender and neurodivergent affirming therapy for Autistic and ADHD, LGBTQ+ adults. My focus is on supporting those in Gen Z and Millennial generations who are starting to realize that their perfectionism is holding them back and want to better align with their most authentic selves. I invite you to step into a space where you can express yourself and explore your inner world where the multitudes you contain are not just accepted but cherished. If you possess a natural curiosity about yourself and the world, we will likely work wonderfully together.
(602) 833-0439 View (602) 833-0439
Photo of Jessica Roberts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012  (Online Only)
Swipe right on me! :) Just kidding, different app! - I specialize in affirming your strengths while identifying your barriers to growth. It gives me joy to help you see the “true self” that may have been obscured by feelings of anxiety and depression. By remembering and connecting with who you are, you are able to enact a vision of who you want to become. My clients are able to feel more comfortable in their own skin and achieve their goals of greater balance and peace in their lives. I especially enjoy working with women to help you on your journey of self-discovery both individually and in relationship.
Swipe right on me! :) Just kidding, different app! - I specialize in affirming your strengths while identifying your barriers to growth. It gives me joy to help you see the “true self” that may have been obscured by feelings of anxiety and depression. By remembering and connecting with who you are, you are able to enact a vision of who you want to become. My clients are able to feel more comfortable in their own skin and achieve their goals of greater balance and peace in their lives. I especially enjoy working with women to help you on your journey of self-discovery both individually and in relationship.
(602) 780-2497 View (602) 780-2497
Photo of Jordan Berry, LCSW, MAT, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85018  (Online Only)
You want more from your therapy. You might be thinking, "I've done some work to understand myself and my childhood and it all makes sense, but I don't feel any better." Or, "I want support for what I'm going through right now, but I don't want to just cope with it forever. I'm ready to go deeper.” You're motivated to understand yourself and your relationships, but also to get to the bottom of what really hurts and actually heal—for good. Here's the thing: when you can finally honor all parts of yourself, you can transform pain and release it, empowering you to have more confidence, agency, and authenticity. I'm here to help.
You want more from your therapy. You might be thinking, "I've done some work to understand myself and my childhood and it all makes sense, but I don't feel any better." Or, "I want support for what I'm going through right now, but I don't want to just cope with it forever. I'm ready to go deeper.” You're motivated to understand yourself and your relationships, but also to get to the bottom of what really hurts and actually heal—for good. Here's the thing: when you can finally honor all parts of yourself, you can transform pain and release it, empowering you to have more confidence, agency, and authenticity. I'm here to help.
(480) 462-6082 View (480) 462-6082
Feminist Therapists

How does feminist therapy work?

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

What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?

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

How long does feminist therapy last?

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

Does feminist therapy work?

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