Female Therapists in Hermosa Beach, CA
![Photo of Anat Sideman, MA, LMFT, ESQ, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/974c4fde-2677-4b3d-ab46-db91cdd884e2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anat Sideman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ESQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
We are all capable of greater joy and intimacy in our lives. Partnering with the right therapist can be an important step towards that personal growth. Whether you're struggling with marital issues, lack of intimacy, infidelity, parenting concerns, the grief over the loss of a loved one, or feelings of depression, anxiety or despair, you are not alone. My intention is to help you develop clarity about the nature of your experiences, awareness of your strengths and challenges and empowerment in your daily life. Through this process of exploration you can move towards an enhanced confidence and more gratifying, loving relationships.
We are all capable of greater joy and intimacy in our lives. Partnering with the right therapist can be an important step towards that personal growth. Whether you're struggling with marital issues, lack of intimacy, infidelity, parenting concerns, the grief over the loss of a loved one, or feelings of depression, anxiety or despair, you are not alone. My intention is to help you develop clarity about the nature of your experiences, awareness of your strengths and challenges and empowerment in your daily life. Through this process of exploration you can move towards an enhanced confidence and more gratifying, loving relationships.
![Photo of Sharon Chung, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2e094c4-3ba4-4aef-81bb-797203d21299/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
My style is more goal-oriented and structured. One of my main goals is to help my clients improve their quality of life in ways that are meaningful for them. I utilize tools from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. These therapies have been extensively studied to show their effectiveness in improving quality of life. I am also well-versed in Attachment Theory, Love Languages, and the Enneagram.
My style is more goal-oriented and structured. One of my main goals is to help my clients improve their quality of life in ways that are meaningful for them. I utilize tools from evidence-based practices like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. These therapies have been extensively studied to show their effectiveness in improving quality of life. I am also well-versed in Attachment Theory, Love Languages, and the Enneagram.
![Photo of Sharon M. Coulter, MA, PPS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/066ab920-add5-4b72-9ef9-9cd964685b73/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon M. Coulter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Life is messy but my philosophy is that even crisis brings great opportunity for growth. Whether you're an adolescent, adult, or couple, our work together integrates therapeutic approaches such as Compassionate/Non-Violent Communication, Tapping (EFT), CBT, EMDR, Gestalt and Internal Family Systems, Hypnosis, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Anxiety and depression are the organism's way of expressing the need for help. Whether you're looking to address past trauma, increase self confidence and self compassion, grieve or nurture a relationship, or support yourself through a life transition, I am here to support you on the journey.
Life is messy but my philosophy is that even crisis brings great opportunity for growth. Whether you're an adolescent, adult, or couple, our work together integrates therapeutic approaches such as Compassionate/Non-Violent Communication, Tapping (EFT), CBT, EMDR, Gestalt and Internal Family Systems, Hypnosis, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Anxiety and depression are the organism's way of expressing the need for help. Whether you're looking to address past trauma, increase self confidence and self compassion, grieve or nurture a relationship, or support yourself through a life transition, I am here to support you on the journey.
![Photo of Stephanie Greller, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/163a5a41-6a3c-4b39-9e4a-930898dee459/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Greller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Welcome! My name is Stephanie and I am passionate about helping others heal by creating a safe and empathetic space for individuals seeking support on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. I believe in the power of an open-minded and non-judgmental environment, where clients feel heard, understood, and accepted. This allows for an exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of criticism, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic process. My goal is to empower individuals to navigate life's challenges, build resilience, and cultivate a deeper sense of self awareness.
Welcome! My name is Stephanie and I am passionate about helping others heal by creating a safe and empathetic space for individuals seeking support on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. I believe in the power of an open-minded and non-judgmental environment, where clients feel heard, understood, and accepted. This allows for an exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without fear of criticism, fostering a sense of trust and collaboration in the therapeutic process. My goal is to empower individuals to navigate life's challenges, build resilience, and cultivate a deeper sense of self awareness.
![Photo of Jackie Smuckler, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f62c91-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie Smuckler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
Life is hard sometimes and it's OK to need help along the way! Therapy is a great place to get the unbiased support you need. So many people live their lives feeling effects of depression, anxiousness or loneliness, feeling stuck, lost, or that something just isn't sitting right. Those feelings don't have to be carried around with you every day.
Life is hard sometimes and it's OK to need help along the way! Therapy is a great place to get the unbiased support you need. So many people live their lives feeling effects of depression, anxiousness or loneliness, feeling stuck, lost, or that something just isn't sitting right. Those feelings don't have to be carried around with you every day.
![Photo of Shawn Klein, MFT, Jungian, Analyst, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c0d0cfa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Shawn Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, having relationship difficulties or need guidance and support in your life? As a therapist for over 25 years, I have effectively helped many individuals and couples with an insight and solution based therapy. I tailor the therapy to fit each individual’s needs by combining a compassionate approach with expertise and direct feedback. I’m trained in individual therapy, couple and family system dynamics and have an advanced degree in depth psychology.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, having relationship difficulties or need guidance and support in your life? As a therapist for over 25 years, I have effectively helped many individuals and couples with an insight and solution based therapy. I tailor the therapy to fit each individual’s needs by combining a compassionate approach with expertise and direct feedback. I’m trained in individual therapy, couple and family system dynamics and have an advanced degree in depth psychology.
![Photo of Melissa Kay, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fafc385-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"I CAN HELP YOU FIND HAPPINESS AND CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT" Your thoughts and feelings determine what your life is about and I can help guide you towards the manifestation of your dreams and happiness in all areas of your life, such as relationships, marriage, family, healthy body, career, success, etc. I have a unique approach that includes Holistic Counseling, Spirituality, the "Law of Attraction" and Mind-Body-Spirit Healing. I am very intuitive and a healer and I have had great success helping people thrive and live the life they want. I love the work I do and feel called to help you.
"I CAN HELP YOU FIND HAPPINESS AND CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT" Your thoughts and feelings determine what your life is about and I can help guide you towards the manifestation of your dreams and happiness in all areas of your life, such as relationships, marriage, family, healthy body, career, success, etc. I have a unique approach that includes Holistic Counseling, Spirituality, the "Law of Attraction" and Mind-Body-Spirit Healing. I am very intuitive and a healer and I have had great success helping people thrive and live the life they want. I love the work I do and feel called to help you.
![Photo of Karissa Matthews, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/091a9aec-0736-42cf-bb07-c4493566a31c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karissa Matthews
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
I provide a safe space for clients to speak openly and honestly, especially those who are not always seen or heard. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to set the path towards progress and growth. My multiple intersectional identities allow me to remain open and curious about each client’s unique background and needs. I have specialized training in college/university-aged individuals, identity exploration and formation, substance use, family of origin distress, work burnout, anxiety, and mood disorders.
I provide a safe space for clients to speak openly and honestly, especially those who are not always seen or heard. I enjoy collaborating with my clients to set the path towards progress and growth. My multiple intersectional identities allow me to remain open and curious about each client’s unique background and needs. I have specialized training in college/university-aged individuals, identity exploration and formation, substance use, family of origin distress, work burnout, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Kamala Horwitz, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48912fb1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kamala Horwitz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Beginning therapy is a positive step towards changing the way life is experienced. Someone may have challenges in relationships, may have experienced trauma, may not feel a sense of purpose, may feel sadness or fear. It is healing to be seen, heard and accepted and this is what I offer. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust and safety. Working with clients to explore thoughts, feelings and life experiences paves the way for healing, growth and a chance to live life more authentically. Self-compassion and vulnerability can lead to more connection with oneself and others while feeling less alone in the world.
Beginning therapy is a positive step towards changing the way life is experienced. Someone may have challenges in relationships, may have experienced trauma, may not feel a sense of purpose, may feel sadness or fear. It is healing to be seen, heard and accepted and this is what I offer. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship built on trust and safety. Working with clients to explore thoughts, feelings and life experiences paves the way for healing, growth and a chance to live life more authentically. Self-compassion and vulnerability can lead to more connection with oneself and others while feeling less alone in the world.
![Photo of Veronica Calkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b8ca9c4-ebfd-403a-9bf2-52fa939ba81f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
![Photo of Jessica Zucker, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa0fabb9-6749-4f6b-9499-84c53381d047/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Zucker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed in the challenges you're up against? Ever feel confused about where things went wrong, and unsure how to get your life back on track? When we're stuck in the dips of life, it can be difficult to see the way out. The essence of therapy, is having a safe space to process feelings while learning to navigate the struggles. Each client offers a unique blend of beliefs, perspectives and values. I offer support, warmth and empathy. I offer a space without judgement, an opening for us to work together to find a way forward.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed in the challenges you're up against? Ever feel confused about where things went wrong, and unsure how to get your life back on track? When we're stuck in the dips of life, it can be difficult to see the way out. The essence of therapy, is having a safe space to process feelings while learning to navigate the struggles. Each client offers a unique blend of beliefs, perspectives and values. I offer support, warmth and empathy. I offer a space without judgement, an opening for us to work together to find a way forward.
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![Photo of Evelyn Jacobson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e064e65-0710-4a3a-8c82-65b1d6b472ff/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evelyn Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I strive to create safe space where clients can feel comfortable examining their strengths and challenges. I see myself as a guide on this journey of self-discovery, and I believe it's important to look together at the multiple contexts that affect us as individuals, from our family backgrounds to the meanings that we attach to our experiences in order to find our authenticity. I use an individualized approach grounded in family systems to guide clients on their journeys of self-exploration, weaving mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques into sessions. I am trained in Exposure and Response Prevention through IOCDF.org.
I strive to create safe space where clients can feel comfortable examining their strengths and challenges. I see myself as a guide on this journey of self-discovery, and I believe it's important to look together at the multiple contexts that affect us as individuals, from our family backgrounds to the meanings that we attach to our experiences in order to find our authenticity. I use an individualized approach grounded in family systems to guide clients on their journeys of self-exploration, weaving mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques into sessions. I am trained in Exposure and Response Prevention through IOCDF.org.
![Photo of Courtney Hamlin - Courtney Hamlin, LMFT, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46b93df5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Hamlin, LMFT, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I'm here to help you. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling, or you are returning to work through a challenging time, I commend you for your willingness to try out therapy and/or continue your work. As we all know, life is not easy, and we are constantly confronted by doubts, darkness, fear, loss, and loneliness. I dedicate my time and efforts and use my skill set to collaborate with clients. I help them develop resources and tools, tap their inner strength, and get them back on the road to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I'm here to help you. Whether this is your first time seeking counseling, or you are returning to work through a challenging time, I commend you for your willingness to try out therapy and/or continue your work. As we all know, life is not easy, and we are constantly confronted by doubts, darkness, fear, loss, and loneliness. I dedicate my time and efforts and use my skill set to collaborate with clients. I help them develop resources and tools, tap their inner strength, and get them back on the road to living a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Erin Rieger, LMFT, LEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c3b59a3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Rieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
![Photo of Lucy Papillon, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f81fbf6-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm often asked how'd you get to be a therapist? My answer is... I know the pain people have, because I have experienced severe traumas - and ultimately conquered them. Since you have come to this site, you have the strength and persistence it takes to move through obstacles in your path. Along the way, you will discover unhealed places and ways to confront them gently. Together, we can get to the issues as we establish a trusting, safe relationship and ultimately reach the highest goal, which is transformation.
I'm often asked how'd you get to be a therapist? My answer is... I know the pain people have, because I have experienced severe traumas - and ultimately conquered them. Since you have come to this site, you have the strength and persistence it takes to move through obstacles in your path. Along the way, you will discover unhealed places and ways to confront them gently. Together, we can get to the issues as we establish a trusting, safe relationship and ultimately reach the highest goal, which is transformation.
![Photo of Chloe Canton, AMFT, APCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cd4899d-8c15-494b-9a90-db6cfe049bc0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chloe Canton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Watching your child struggle is uniquely painful. Your family functions as a system, and as your child continues to face hardships, it impacts each member in different ways. While one child suffers, siblings feel overlooked, caregivers are consumed with worry, and the parental unit struggles to attend to one another. The good news is, you have every resource needed to bring the family system back into functionality. Here, the family is the solution. Our work will uncover the strengths that already exist within your child and family unit, while providing you with the tools and knowledge needed to capitalize on those strengths.
Watching your child struggle is uniquely painful. Your family functions as a system, and as your child continues to face hardships, it impacts each member in different ways. While one child suffers, siblings feel overlooked, caregivers are consumed with worry, and the parental unit struggles to attend to one another. The good news is, you have every resource needed to bring the family system back into functionality. Here, the family is the solution. Our work will uncover the strengths that already exist within your child and family unit, while providing you with the tools and knowledge needed to capitalize on those strengths.
![Photo of Carol Lee Kole, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee771c9e-0aa8-4b98-9c21-80ceb824d0bc/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are facing a challenging, unprecedented time with the pandemic. Routines are changing, family dynamics are shifting, jobs are being lost, We are all under inordinate stress trying to create new routines for ourselves, our families, learning how to connect with others across computer screens. Many of us are grieving losses of jobs, careers, financial stability, life cycle events like weddings, even attending funerals, sitting shivas over video. We all need support. . Please reach out. You do not need to shoulder the stresses alone. I am here to support you as you journey through these uncharted territories.
We are facing a challenging, unprecedented time with the pandemic. Routines are changing, family dynamics are shifting, jobs are being lost, We are all under inordinate stress trying to create new routines for ourselves, our families, learning how to connect with others across computer screens. Many of us are grieving losses of jobs, careers, financial stability, life cycle events like weddings, even attending funerals, sitting shivas over video. We all need support. . Please reach out. You do not need to shoulder the stresses alone. I am here to support you as you journey through these uncharted territories.
![Photo of Rhonda Smillie, MEd, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ddcec41d-4f15-4e0c-92b5-f85493537b71/1/320x400.png)
Rhonda Smillie
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
Rethink, Reframe, Realign, Recover. Do you feel as if your life is a sandcastle with the water always threatening to wash it out to sea? I work with clients to explore how unresolved issues from the past impact the present. In an open and safe environment, we explore authentic feelings and lost aspects of self often censored in general society, toward greater personal insight, growth, and change. An accepting and validating therapy relationship can be a key element in the healing of old wounds.
Rethink, Reframe, Realign, Recover. Do you feel as if your life is a sandcastle with the water always threatening to wash it out to sea? I work with clients to explore how unresolved issues from the past impact the present. In an open and safe environment, we explore authentic feelings and lost aspects of self often censored in general society, toward greater personal insight, growth, and change. An accepting and validating therapy relationship can be a key element in the healing of old wounds.
![Photo of Meisha Vella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3de4f767-6011-498f-8678-837cbd84cbef/2/320x400.jpeg)
Meisha Vella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (Online Only)
Healing is sacred; it involves mind, body, and spirit. My approach integrates self-compassion, neuro-physiologically informed care, mindfulness, and cultural humility. I will walk with you as we explore your history, patterns, and struggles; and help you to learn and practice new coping skills. This includes learning the "go to" responses of your nervous system and how you can resource yourself more so you can live the life you want. In our work together, you can expect curiosity, empathy, hope, and laughter. Ultimately, I hope that our relationship can be a source of support, calm, and understanding.
Healing is sacred; it involves mind, body, and spirit. My approach integrates self-compassion, neuro-physiologically informed care, mindfulness, and cultural humility. I will walk with you as we explore your history, patterns, and struggles; and help you to learn and practice new coping skills. This includes learning the "go to" responses of your nervous system and how you can resource yourself more so you can live the life you want. In our work together, you can expect curiosity, empathy, hope, and laughter. Ultimately, I hope that our relationship can be a source of support, calm, and understanding.
![Photo of Susan Watson, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b825ab9c-118f-43e8-a0e8-879c4094a6cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to explore positive options for your life? Life isn't easy and change is inevitable. We are offered continuous learning opportunities as we progress on our journey. It takes courage, strength, and awareness to identify and overcome barriers to self-acceptance and inner peace. Therapy is a useful tool to gain the self-awareness and insight necessary for healing and positive change. No matter what your goals are overcoming trauma/loss; learning useful methods of communication; improving relationships; dealing with uncomfortable emotions; and more success and positive change can be achieved!
Are you ready to explore positive options for your life? Life isn't easy and change is inevitable. We are offered continuous learning opportunities as we progress on our journey. It takes courage, strength, and awareness to identify and overcome barriers to self-acceptance and inner peace. Therapy is a useful tool to gain the self-awareness and insight necessary for healing and positive change. No matter what your goals are overcoming trauma/loss; learning useful methods of communication; improving relationships; dealing with uncomfortable emotions; and more success and positive change can be achieved!
See more therapy options for Hermosa Beach
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Female Therapists
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.