Photo of Souraya Matar, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Souraya Matar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
A few years ago I read a joke: "Fish don't know they're in the water". The scenario is that Fish Number One asks Fish Number Two, "How's the water?" Fish Number Two responds, "What the hell is water?". The fish who is "in" the situation (hence the water) does not even realize its surrounding. What surrounds you is only normal because it's what you know. I got another one that I recently came across: "We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are." This, references to dream analysis but it basically mean that our preconceptions can dramatically alter the way we perceive the world. (Quote by writer Anais Nin).
A few years ago I read a joke: "Fish don't know they're in the water". The scenario is that Fish Number One asks Fish Number Two, "How's the water?" Fish Number Two responds, "What the hell is water?". The fish who is "in" the situation (hence the water) does not even realize its surrounding. What surrounds you is only normal because it's what you know. I got another one that I recently came across: "We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are." This, references to dream analysis but it basically mean that our preconceptions can dramatically alter the way we perceive the world. (Quote by writer Anais Nin).
(657) 226-1180 View (657) 226-1180
Photo of Ebtesam Girgis, MFT, Psy D, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ebtesam Girgis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, Psy D
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
Are you going through tough time, feeling stressed out and get overwhelmed easily? do you suffer from anxiety and depression? do you feel that life is just too hard to handle right now? Are you struggling in your relationships? do you feel like you can't get over the painful memories and hurt from your past trauma and abuse? These are common feelings and you are not alone. I'm here for you and would love to come along side of you in your journey of healing to have a better and fulfilling life. I provide unconditional acceptance, genuine compassion, and a safe haven for you to tell your story without being judged.
Are you going through tough time, feeling stressed out and get overwhelmed easily? do you suffer from anxiety and depression? do you feel that life is just too hard to handle right now? Are you struggling in your relationships? do you feel like you can't get over the painful memories and hurt from your past trauma and abuse? These are common feelings and you are not alone. I'm here for you and would love to come along side of you in your journey of healing to have a better and fulfilling life. I provide unconditional acceptance, genuine compassion, and a safe haven for you to tell your story without being judged.
(714) 392-7935 View (714) 392-7935

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chiraz El Helou Fathy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chiraz El Helou Fathy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92805  (Online Only)
هل تعاني بصمت؟ رحلتك نحو الشعور بالتمكن وتحرير الذات تبدأ الآن. سوف تتمكن من تطوير القدرات اللازمة لمواجهة صعوبات الحياة. كلٌّ منّا يمتلك في داخله قدرة كبيرة نحو تطوير الذات. من خلال مساحة آمنة حقيقية وأُذنٍ صاغية، سوف تتمكن من الإستفادة من قدرتك الفطرية نحو التطور و النجاح. إن تجارب الطفولة التي نعيشها ونوع التعلق الذي نمتلكه (حسب نظرية جون بولبي) لهم تأثير كبير على شخصيتنا و تصرفاتنا. من هنا تأتي أهمية التعمق في معرفة و تقييم علاقاتنا الماضية للحصول على رؤية واضحة عن وضعنا الحالي. ومن ثمّ استعمال هذه الرؤية للسيطرة على القلق والعثور على الطريق السليم.
هل تعاني بصمت؟ رحلتك نحو الشعور بالتمكن وتحرير الذات تبدأ الآن. سوف تتمكن من تطوير القدرات اللازمة لمواجهة صعوبات الحياة. كلٌّ منّا يمتلك في داخله قدرة كبيرة نحو تطوير الذات. من خلال مساحة آمنة حقيقية وأُذنٍ صاغية، سوف تتمكن من الإستفادة من قدرتك الفطرية نحو التطور و النجاح. إن تجارب الطفولة التي نعيشها ونوع التعلق الذي نمتلكه (حسب نظرية جون بولبي) لهم تأثير كبير على شخصيتنا و تصرفاتنا. من هنا تأتي أهمية التعمق في معرفة و تقييم علاقاتنا الماضية للحصول على رؤية واضحة عن وضعنا الحالي. ومن ثمّ استعمال هذه الرؤية للسيطرة على القلق والعثور على الطريق السليم.
(909) 323-1262 View (909) 323-1262
Photo of Dr. Teriza Mekhail-Andreou, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Teriza Mekhail-Andreou
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Life is dynamic and full of challenges, and sometimes we are presented with difficulties that we do not feel equipped to handle. Major life concerns, relationship issues, or old patterns can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed or uncertain about how to move forward. I have come to the belief that much of our unhappiness comes from "not knowing." When we lack information about how to have healthy relationships, how to cope with adversity, or how to survive and thrive in the world, it can lead us down paths we never intended to journey.
Life is dynamic and full of challenges, and sometimes we are presented with difficulties that we do not feel equipped to handle. Major life concerns, relationship issues, or old patterns can leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed or uncertain about how to move forward. I have come to the belief that much of our unhappiness comes from "not knowing." When we lack information about how to have healthy relationships, how to cope with adversity, or how to survive and thrive in the world, it can lead us down paths we never intended to journey.
(714) 515-4090 View (714) 515-4090
Photo of Diana Hamawi, MA, MSc, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Diana Hamawi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MSc, AMFT
Verified Verified
Anaheim, CA 92801  (Online Only)
Welcome. I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey toward healing and empowerment. As a therapist specializing in abuse recovery, trauma, divorce, depression, and anxiety, my approach is rooted in compassion, understanding, and evidence-based practices. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for profound growth, even in the aftermath of profound suffering. I provide a safe space where you can explore your experiences, express your emotions, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you are navigating the aftermath of abuse, confronting traumatic memories, or battling with depression.
Welcome. I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey toward healing and empowerment. As a therapist specializing in abuse recovery, trauma, divorce, depression, and anxiety, my approach is rooted in compassion, understanding, and evidence-based practices. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for profound growth, even in the aftermath of profound suffering. I provide a safe space where you can explore your experiences, express your emotions, and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you are navigating the aftermath of abuse, confronting traumatic memories, or battling with depression.
(714) 912-1441 View (714) 912-1441
Photo of Emy Yacoub - Emy Yacoub, MA, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Emy Yacoub
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Are you feeling unhappy, anxious, furious, feeling lonely, depressed, sad, detached from your loved ones, struggle with loss of motivation and feeling stuck with no one to turn to. The therapeutic relationship helps you to reach your goal and here is hope and healing for you. I confidently believe that everyone is capable of making significant changes in their lives. My Passion as a guide is to help others in their journey of self-discovery and healing. We all need someone to talk to, who will actually listen to us and accept us for who we are, without passing judgment.
Are you feeling unhappy, anxious, furious, feeling lonely, depressed, sad, detached from your loved ones, struggle with loss of motivation and feeling stuck with no one to turn to. The therapeutic relationship helps you to reach your goal and here is hope and healing for you. I confidently believe that everyone is capable of making significant changes in their lives. My Passion as a guide is to help others in their journey of self-discovery and healing. We all need someone to talk to, who will actually listen to us and accept us for who we are, without passing judgment.
(714) 464-7165 View (714) 464-7165
Photo of Mariam Holt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariam Holt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801
As humans, we seek love and acceptance to become whole. Somewhere in our lives, we became broken due to external circumstances beyond our control or choices that we have made. The therapeutic relationship offers healing and provides hope and acceptance. Helping clients come to a place of congruence and authenticity where they value and accept themselves is my primary goal. I believe I can genuinely change the trajectory of my clients’ lives through healing and guide them to achieve a powerful transformation . My desire is to provide a safe place for you to share your thoughts and feelings freely .
As humans, we seek love and acceptance to become whole. Somewhere in our lives, we became broken due to external circumstances beyond our control or choices that we have made. The therapeutic relationship offers healing and provides hope and acceptance. Helping clients come to a place of congruence and authenticity where they value and accept themselves is my primary goal. I believe I can genuinely change the trajectory of my clients’ lives through healing and guide them to achieve a powerful transformation . My desire is to provide a safe place for you to share your thoughts and feelings freely .
(949) 373-4691 View (949) 373-4691
Photo of Moniqua Christensen, AMFT, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Moniqua Christensen
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Life's demands can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, unbalanced and not sure how to proceed. Whether you are a business executive navigating high stakes decisions, a veteran adjusting to civilian life or a teen growing up in a fast paced world, your journey is unique and deserves dedicated support. I am committed to providing a compassionate, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Together, we will work towards understanding your challenges, building resilience, and achieving personal growth. My approach is tailored to your individual needs, to ensure our sessions are effective.
Life's demands can often leave us feeling overwhelmed, unbalanced and not sure how to proceed. Whether you are a business executive navigating high stakes decisions, a veteran adjusting to civilian life or a teen growing up in a fast paced world, your journey is unique and deserves dedicated support. I am committed to providing a compassionate, confidential space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Together, we will work towards understanding your challenges, building resilience, and achieving personal growth. My approach is tailored to your individual needs, to ensure our sessions are effective.
(949) 449-2382 View (949) 449-2382
Photo of Sara Alsabbagh, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sara Alsabbagh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
As a Clinical Social Worker, my approach centers on cultivating a safe and supportive environment where my clients can explore their challenges, needs and goals with openness and trust. Through active listening, empathy and collaboration, I work alongside clients to identity their specific concerns and aspirations. By utilizing evidence based techniques tailored to their unique circumstances, I assist clients in developing practical coping strategies, enhancing self awareness, and building resilience to overcome obstacles.
As a Clinical Social Worker, my approach centers on cultivating a safe and supportive environment where my clients can explore their challenges, needs and goals with openness and trust. Through active listening, empathy and collaboration, I work alongside clients to identity their specific concerns and aspirations. By utilizing evidence based techniques tailored to their unique circumstances, I assist clients in developing practical coping strategies, enhancing self awareness, and building resilience to overcome obstacles.
(657) 300-1324 View (657) 300-1324
Photo of Yara Mawad, MS, AMFT
Yara Mawad
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90815
Feeling Stuck? Life changes can be tough. New beginnings often bring up strong emotions like fear or past hurts. It's normal to feel overwhelmed during transitions. What if you could navigate these challenges with more confidence and self-understanding? Therapy can be your guide. It's a safe space to learn about yourself, develop healthy coping skills, and boost your self-belief. Whether you're facing a recent hurdle or seeking preventative support, therapy empowers you to reach your goals.
Feeling Stuck? Life changes can be tough. New beginnings often bring up strong emotions like fear or past hurts. It's normal to feel overwhelmed during transitions. What if you could navigate these challenges with more confidence and self-understanding? Therapy can be your guide. It's a safe space to learn about yourself, develop healthy coping skills, and boost your self-belief. Whether you're facing a recent hurdle or seeking preventative support, therapy empowers you to reach your goals.
(424) 688-1358 View (424) 688-1358
Photo of Lara Touckly, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Lara Touckly
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Fuck! Is this as good as it gets? Changes, traumas, relationships, stressors, expectations, life! I dodge right, to get hit from the left. I come up for air, to be pulled back into the current. And sometimes, I just can’t even.
Fuck! Is this as good as it gets? Changes, traumas, relationships, stressors, expectations, life! I dodge right, to get hit from the left. I come up for air, to be pulled back into the current. And sometimes, I just can’t even.
(619) 598-1405 View (619) 598-1405

Online Therapists

Photo of Hanouf Alahmari, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hanouf Alahmari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025  (Online Only)
أقبل عملاء جدد، للجلسات عبر الإنترنت فقط. هل تتوق إلى حياة أكثر رضا وتمكين - خالية من ثقل الصدمات النفسية والأعباء العاطفية؟ بصفتي معالجة متعاطفة، أنا هنا لدعمك في هذه الرحلة الملهمة كمعالج مهتم ومتعاطف. سويًا، سنعمل على التعامل مع تحديات الحياة، والتشافي من الجروح العاطفية، وتعزيز المرونة والسلام الداخلي. سأكون بجانبك خطوة بخطوة لتكتشف ذاتك الحقيقية وتبني حياة أكثر إشباعًا، خطوة بخطوة
أقبل عملاء جدد، للجلسات عبر الإنترنت فقط. هل تتوق إلى حياة أكثر رضا وتمكين - خالية من ثقل الصدمات النفسية والأعباء العاطفية؟ بصفتي معالجة متعاطفة، أنا هنا لدعمك في هذه الرحلة الملهمة كمعالج مهتم ومتعاطف. سويًا، سنعمل على التعامل مع تحديات الحياة، والتشافي من الجروح العاطفية، وتعزيز المرونة والسلام الداخلي. سأكون بجانبك خطوة بخطوة لتكتشف ذاتك الحقيقية وتبني حياة أكثر إشباعًا، خطوة بخطوة
(310) 861-7873 View (310) 861-7873
Photo of Nadia Abou-Seda Licensed Somatic Psychotherapist, BSW, MA , SEP, LPCC
Nadia Abou-Seda Licensed Somatic Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, BSW, MA , SEP, LPCC
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92612
هل تعاني من ألم مزمن أو مشاكل صحية طويلة الأمد؟ هل عانيت من صدمة نفسية خلال فترة الطفولة؟ مثل إساءة المعاملة، والإهمال، ومشاهدة العنف، وما إلى ذلك؟ هل تعرضت إلى صدمة قوية مثل حوادث السيارات، أوخسارة شخص مقرب منك بشكل مفاجئ، أو تعرضت لكوارث الطبيعية، أوإجراءات طبية مثل زيارة طبيب الأسنان أو العمليات الجراحية؟ هل تعرضت لاعتداء أو هجوم لم تتمكن من الفرار منه (حقيقي أم متصور)؟ سأدعمك في استعادة توازنك الداخلي حتى تتمكن من العودة الى طبيعتك وتطوير نفسك والوصول إلى ما تتمنى! أتبنى منهجًا علمياً لعلاج الصدمات وتخفيف الإجهاد المزمن. سوف يعيد هذا النهج جهازك العصبي إلى وضعه السابق ويعزز قدرتك على التكيف مع الإجهاد والضغوطات النفسية والعصبية
هل تعاني من ألم مزمن أو مشاكل صحية طويلة الأمد؟ هل عانيت من صدمة نفسية خلال فترة الطفولة؟ مثل إساءة المعاملة، والإهمال، ومشاهدة العنف، وما إلى ذلك؟ هل تعرضت إلى صدمة قوية مثل حوادث السيارات، أوخسارة شخص مقرب منك بشكل مفاجئ، أو تعرضت لكوارث الطبيعية، أوإجراءات طبية مثل زيارة طبيب الأسنان أو العمليات الجراحية؟ هل تعرضت لاعتداء أو هجوم لم تتمكن من الفرار منه (حقيقي أم متصور)؟ سأدعمك في استعادة توازنك الداخلي حتى تتمكن من العودة الى طبيعتك وتطوير نفسك والوصول إلى ما تتمنى! أتبنى منهجًا علمياً لعلاج الصدمات وتخفيف الإجهاد المزمن. سوف يعيد هذا النهج جهازك العصبي إلى وضعه السابق ويعزز قدرتك على التكيف مع الإجهاد والضغوطات النفسية والعصبية
(949) 407-5775 View (949) 407-5775
Photo of Dr. Marina Zaky, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dr. Marina Zaky
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92508
If you are a young adult, you might be struggling with imposter syndrome which makes you feel like you are not "a real adult." Negative thoughts about who you are and your self-worth begin to creep in and take over. This is emotionally exhausting and I want to help guide you through a beautiful journey of self-exploration!
If you are a young adult, you might be struggling with imposter syndrome which makes you feel like you are not "a real adult." Negative thoughts about who you are and your self-worth begin to creep in and take over. This is emotionally exhausting and I want to help guide you through a beautiful journey of self-exploration!
(714) 312-7383 View (714) 312-7383
Photo of Nadine Abdellatif, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nadine Abdellatif
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
I work with individuals, couples, and families providing services in English and Arabic.
As a narrative therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your life and have a choice in how you tell your story. I work from a non-judgmental approach and come to therapy with empathy and compassion to create a space where we can map your story. I aim to create a comfortable space and a solid therapeutic relationship to identify your values to guide how you want to be in the face of whatever problem may be presenting itself. Whether it be grief, loss, stress, or depression we can work through these problems to identify your preferred way of being.
I work with individuals, couples, and families providing services in English and Arabic.
As a narrative therapist, I believe that you are the expert in your life and have a choice in how you tell your story. I work from a non-judgmental approach and come to therapy with empathy and compassion to create a space where we can map your story. I aim to create a comfortable space and a solid therapeutic relationship to identify your values to guide how you want to be in the face of whatever problem may be presenting itself. Whether it be grief, loss, stress, or depression we can work through these problems to identify your preferred way of being.
(213) 642-1526 View (213) 642-1526
Photo of Suha Albadawi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suha Albadawi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
I offer individual, couples, and family sessions both in Arabic and English.
Have you been feeling confused, alone, anxious, unable to concentrate? Life happens to all of us and it is important to allow yourself the opportunity to get help. My speciality is to help my clients find their true potential and overcome their struggles. So, whether your struggle is anxiety, depression, past trauma, interpersonal relationships, cultural issues, family conflict, or woman issues, from any background or affiliation, I am committed to actively listen and empathize with you to collaboratively articulate the best treatment plan that will best meet your needs and healing.
I offer individual, couples, and family sessions both in Arabic and English.
Have you been feeling confused, alone, anxious, unable to concentrate? Life happens to all of us and it is important to allow yourself the opportunity to get help. My speciality is to help my clients find their true potential and overcome their struggles. So, whether your struggle is anxiety, depression, past trauma, interpersonal relationships, cultural issues, family conflict, or woman issues, from any background or affiliation, I am committed to actively listen and empathize with you to collaboratively articulate the best treatment plan that will best meet your needs and healing.
(909) 637-3529 View (909) 637-3529
Victorville Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Victorville, CA 92392
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to Victorville Counseling! Our clinic provides a wide variety of services all throughout California. Our mission is to ensure you are provided with quality care as you embark on your therapeutic journey. We have providers who can provide services in Arabic and Spanish. We also provide Court Ordered/CFS Requested Therapy, Mental Health Evaluations, Short Term Therapy, and much more. To see if we are able to provide a certain service please give us a call.
Accepting New Clients! Welcome to Victorville Counseling! Our clinic provides a wide variety of services all throughout California. Our mission is to ensure you are provided with quality care as you embark on your therapeutic journey. We have providers who can provide services in Arabic and Spanish. We also provide Court Ordered/CFS Requested Therapy, Mental Health Evaluations, Short Term Therapy, and much more. To see if we are able to provide a certain service please give us a call.
(442) 237-5450 View (442) 237-5450
Photo of Shakeh Yegavian, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shakeh Yegavian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Glendale, CA 91203
For over 30 years, I have been helping individuals, families and couples through their journey of self discovery, with awareness of the roots of their issues, and with tools for growth, for self improvement and improved relationships in a safe, warm and supportive environment. In addition, I specialize in cross- cultural therapy and effective parenting tips for parents. I possess Armenian and Arabic language skills. I have written a book on effective parenting skills in Armenian for Armenian parents. I have trained interns in the field of Psychotherapy for 17 years.
For over 30 years, I have been helping individuals, families and couples through their journey of self discovery, with awareness of the roots of their issues, and with tools for growth, for self improvement and improved relationships in a safe, warm and supportive environment. In addition, I specialize in cross- cultural therapy and effective parenting tips for parents. I possess Armenian and Arabic language skills. I have written a book on effective parenting skills in Armenian for Armenian parents. I have trained interns in the field of Psychotherapy for 17 years.
(626) 593-6635 View (626) 593-6635
Photo of Dr. Reema Takla, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Reema Takla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Placentia, CA 92870
I speak both English and Arabic (Lebanese, Syrian, Jordanian, Palestinian, Egyptian dialect).
I am here to help you change your life! I provide an empathetic, non-judgemental and caring therapeutic approach. My goal is to help you reduce symptoms and gain positive change. Are you feeling anxious, sad, lonely, and struggle with loss of motivation? Are you having boundary issues, relationship issues, work problems, gender identity, culture issues, and/or immigration struggles. I am passionate about working with my clients to meet their goals. Every case is unique and requires a special therapeutic approach. I tailor my approach to your specific needs.
I speak both English and Arabic (Lebanese, Syrian, Jordanian, Palestinian, Egyptian dialect).
I am here to help you change your life! I provide an empathetic, non-judgemental and caring therapeutic approach. My goal is to help you reduce symptoms and gain positive change. Are you feeling anxious, sad, lonely, and struggle with loss of motivation? Are you having boundary issues, relationship issues, work problems, gender identity, culture issues, and/or immigration struggles. I am passionate about working with my clients to meet their goals. Every case is unique and requires a special therapeutic approach. I tailor my approach to your specific needs.
(657) 325-8437 View (657) 325-8437
Photo of Irene G Behnan, PSY, LMFT, PhD, CAMF, Psychologist
Irene G Behnan
Psychologist, PSY, LMFT, PhD, CAMF
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I've been extensively conducting therapy with children, adolescents, couples, and families from divers populations in two languages, English & Arabic.
I believe that seeking professional help is a strength and not a weakness. I value individuals for who they are, and I appreciate their pain and struggle. I make every effort to understand my client's needs, and I make it a priority to meet with my clients at their starting point. Along the way, I do my best to provide my clients with safe and healthy environment.
I've been extensively conducting therapy with children, adolescents, couples, and families from divers populations in two languages, English & Arabic.
I believe that seeking professional help is a strength and not a weakness. I value individuals for who they are, and I appreciate their pain and struggle. I make every effort to understand my client's needs, and I make it a priority to meet with my clients at their starting point. Along the way, I do my best to provide my clients with safe and healthy environment.
(818) 293-5701 View (818) 293-5701

See more therapy options for Los Alamitos

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.