Female Therapists in Woodland Hills, CA
![Photo of Laleh Lilly Saedi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cc6f63d-ad7a-4701-bdbe-5579f379986d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Laleh Lilly Saedi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in meeting you where you are, understanding your struggles,finding new purposes in the life and identity mindful decisions to develop a new healthier and happier self . we will collaborate to address the blind spots of your life that keep you stuck and get you to a place of self-esteem and acceptance.I am eager to be a part of your journey towards a more genuine YOU and a happier life. I provide a collaborative approach in therapy, giving individualized "homework" to clients every session. Homework is intended to decrease symptoms, build insight, promote healthier behaviors and increase coping skills in your daily life.
I believe in meeting you where you are, understanding your struggles,finding new purposes in the life and identity mindful decisions to develop a new healthier and happier self . we will collaborate to address the blind spots of your life that keep you stuck and get you to a place of self-esteem and acceptance.I am eager to be a part of your journey towards a more genuine YOU and a happier life. I provide a collaborative approach in therapy, giving individualized "homework" to clients every session. Homework is intended to decrease symptoms, build insight, promote healthier behaviors and increase coping skills in your daily life.
![Photo of Sepideh A Souris, PsyD, SAP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/498278cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As we all have heard, "Life is a journey." Therefore, as with any "road trip," once in a while we may need to stop, check our path, and refuel before continuing onward. As a practicing clinical psychologist, I am committed to working with my clients to help them explore a variety of life paths and detours in order for them to reach their destinations and achieve subjectively important, and oftentimes difficult to achieve goals.
As we all have heard, "Life is a journey." Therefore, as with any "road trip," once in a while we may need to stop, check our path, and refuel before continuing onward. As a practicing clinical psychologist, I am committed to working with my clients to help them explore a variety of life paths and detours in order for them to reach their destinations and achieve subjectively important, and oftentimes difficult to achieve goals.
![Photo of Melany Cohen, MFT, CHT, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf6af67d-cb2d-4d21-bded-2442acd8f483/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melany Cohen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CHT, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I’m passionate about helping people find freedom from debilitating pain and anxiety. As a recovering attorney and mom of two boys, I know what it’s like to feel stuck in a career you don’t love and to feel guilty that you can’t show up as your best self for your family and kids. My ‘stuckness’ left me feeling physically and emotionally drained. I developed chronic pain, insomnia and was riddled with anxiety.
I’m passionate about helping people find freedom from debilitating pain and anxiety. As a recovering attorney and mom of two boys, I know what it’s like to feel stuck in a career you don’t love and to feel guilty that you can’t show up as your best self for your family and kids. My ‘stuckness’ left me feeling physically and emotionally drained. I developed chronic pain, insomnia and was riddled with anxiety.
![Photo of Analin A Flores, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/295b9d5c-3434-4dbf-a581-4b96f667d9a3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that interferes with you having a satisfying life? Do you feel like you're constantly trying to catch up with your daily demands or that you are failing in your roles as a wife, mother, or in your career? Do you long for reaching a place of happiness and peace as you enjoy your accomplishments with your children and spouse? Now more than ever women are feeling challenged and tired by the demands of work, parenting, marriage, experiencing a loss or a big change in their lives, difficult relationships, or pain from past traumatic experiences.
Do you struggle with anxiety or depression that interferes with you having a satisfying life? Do you feel like you're constantly trying to catch up with your daily demands or that you are failing in your roles as a wife, mother, or in your career? Do you long for reaching a place of happiness and peace as you enjoy your accomplishments with your children and spouse? Now more than ever women are feeling challenged and tired by the demands of work, parenting, marriage, experiencing a loss or a big change in their lives, difficult relationships, or pain from past traumatic experiences.
![Photo of April Mollner (Blanchette), LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7052051b-50a9-4def-b31f-dcb7a04c60af/1/320x400.jpeg)
April Mollner (Blanchette)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91367 (Online Only)
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
I am a dedicated therapist specializing in trauma informed care using EMDR, sex & gender affirmative therapy and addiction & recovery support. With a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of their experiences, I bring a unique blend of empathy, expertise, and compassion to my practice. I have honed my skills in trauma therapy, providing a safe and supportive environment for my clients to process their past experiences and find healing. I understand the profound impact of trauma and I’m committed to empowering individuals to reclaim their sense of self, and move forward with resilience.
![Photo of Lauren Melissa Jolly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37b4d321-45fd-4d2d-8f28-934fa9cbd2fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Melissa Jolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Not accepting new clients
I am here to support your growth into who you want to be, at your own pace, in a nonjudgmental and brave space- whether it's self-discovery, healing past trauma or simply providing you with the space to be reflective. Shame, disappointment, embarrassment, and guilt do not need to be a permanent state of being. You are here, which is the first step to feeling better!
I am here to support your growth into who you want to be, at your own pace, in a nonjudgmental and brave space- whether it's self-discovery, healing past trauma or simply providing you with the space to be reflective. Shame, disappointment, embarrassment, and guilt do not need to be a permanent state of being. You are here, which is the first step to feeling better!
![Photo of Jennifer Walker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4743398b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and Welcome... Whether you are brand new to therapy or have had many years of experience in doing therapy, I can help. As a Solution Focused Therapist, my goal is to help you to uncover your true potential so that you can lead a life that is truly worth celebrating. Although we cannot change difficult situations in the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Hello and Welcome... Whether you are brand new to therapy or have had many years of experience in doing therapy, I can help. As a Solution Focused Therapist, my goal is to help you to uncover your true potential so that you can lead a life that is truly worth celebrating. Although we cannot change difficult situations in the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Lankavi Guneratne Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66d10cee-9321-4b58-a883-0ff14960c78e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lankavi Guneratne Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (Online Only)
Have you ever wondered “what would my life be like if I didn’t feel this way?” Do you feel like something needs to change, but don’t know where to start? Perhaps the gratitude journals, self-help books and internet advice isn’t really cutting it anymore, and you feel stuck while others are moving forward with their lives. The good news- you’re not alone and you no longer have to suffer in silence. Finding the "right" therapist can be daunting, especially if this is your first time. I strive to be transparent and authentic with you. I understand struggle because I’ve struggled myself. I’m a real person. I’m here to help.
Have you ever wondered “what would my life be like if I didn’t feel this way?” Do you feel like something needs to change, but don’t know where to start? Perhaps the gratitude journals, self-help books and internet advice isn’t really cutting it anymore, and you feel stuck while others are moving forward with their lives. The good news- you’re not alone and you no longer have to suffer in silence. Finding the "right" therapist can be daunting, especially if this is your first time. I strive to be transparent and authentic with you. I understand struggle because I’ve struggled myself. I’m a real person. I’m here to help.
![Photo of Hayli Evans, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7fb6ffb4-5000-47e4-828a-aff4dd49e1b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hayli Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (Online Only)
My name is Hayli Evans and I specialize in working with survivors of trauma. I use a trauma-informed, holistic, and collaborative approach to therapy, integrating the body, mind, and spirit into the healing process. I am passionate about working with adults struggling with issues related to trauma, PTSD, (CPTSD), sexual assault, substance abuse, stress management, anxiety, depression, sex, relationships, and communication.
My name is Hayli Evans and I specialize in working with survivors of trauma. I use a trauma-informed, holistic, and collaborative approach to therapy, integrating the body, mind, and spirit into the healing process. I am passionate about working with adults struggling with issues related to trauma, PTSD, (CPTSD), sexual assault, substance abuse, stress management, anxiety, depression, sex, relationships, and communication.
![Photo of Heather Elayne Cobbs - I Heart Therapy Inc., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3750637-8c4a-4ce5-ac06-8e6f24a5b171/3/320x400.jpeg)
I Heart Therapy Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I am passionate about working with women of all ages and walks of life that are on a journey to grow self love, a positive self image, and are looking to change self talk from negative to positive. It is my pleasure to assist women struggling with anxiety and/or depression to increase their mood by changing self talk, examine negative core beliefs, unravel dysfunctional behavior patterns, and provide tools to meet their life goals.
I am passionate about working with women of all ages and walks of life that are on a journey to grow self love, a positive self image, and are looking to change self talk from negative to positive. It is my pleasure to assist women struggling with anxiety and/or depression to increase their mood by changing self talk, examine negative core beliefs, unravel dysfunctional behavior patterns, and provide tools to meet their life goals.
![Photo of Krystal Williams-Payne, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77d94dbe-d84d-43fa-a37d-22cd5a6aa370/1/320x400.jpeg)
Let's work together towards giving yourself permission to put YOU first and knowing what you bring into this world is enough. Are you feeling sad but you're too ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone? Do you put on a smile when all you want to do is cry? I know exactly what you're feeling: overwhelmed, pressured, anxious, afraid of being judged that you "don't have your shit together". Upholding an unrealistic expectation of self and societal pressure of "keeping it all together" is exhausting! and I don't want you to continue this cycle... I hear you, I see you!
Let's work together towards giving yourself permission to put YOU first and knowing what you bring into this world is enough. Are you feeling sad but you're too ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone? Do you put on a smile when all you want to do is cry? I know exactly what you're feeling: overwhelmed, pressured, anxious, afraid of being judged that you "don't have your shit together". Upholding an unrealistic expectation of self and societal pressure of "keeping it all together" is exhausting! and I don't want you to continue this cycle... I hear you, I see you!
15 Second Videos
Melany Cohen
Analin A Flores
Hayli Evans
I Heart Therapy Inc.
Krystal Williams-Payne
Sabrina Naqvi
Staci Diner
Lynn Marie Rush
Mercedes Cusick
Samantha Hertz
Innovative Group Psychotherapy, Inc.
Marjan Modaresi
Brandy Lorraine Hall
Lara B Eisenberg
Bar Zafrany
Embracing You Therapy
Sherry Nourian
Jennifer Dean
Kelley Zabelovsky
Francia Telesford
Rhyan N (Foster) Daniel
Karine Echighian
Hypnotherapy And Wellness
Wendy Douglas
Jesse Giunta Rafeh
Cynthia D Weston
Mitra Rashidian
Adi Goral
Catherine E. DeMonte
Jamye Waxman
Cassidy Russell
Leah Edwards
Melissa Cline
The Chronic Pain Therapist- Wendy Mark
Anger Management 818
Rosa L. Casquino-Sexual Abuse And Narcissist Abuse Therapy
Ashley Nevin Itzhakian
Ilona Strasser
AlignED Care Eating Disorder & Mental Health
Tamar Lev Ran
Carissa Gustafson
Vanessa Ulibas
Gretchen Anne Cooper
Nicole Young
Katie Busse
Theresa Hennessey
Courtney Killough
Elizabeth B Bailey
Amy Clayton
![Photo of Fariba Manesh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6143188-6c41-4e7b-a0e2-cd01d01ad765/3/320x400.jpeg)
Fariba Manesh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who offers well rounded experience in working with individuals, families, and couples, from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds. My goal is to help you free yourself from the effects of past experiences and cultural conditioning, break patterns of thinking that lead to conflictual relationships and strengthen your connection to your own unmet needs, help you with areas such as depression, anxiety, divorce, employment issues, life transitions, relationship issues and family conflicts.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who offers well rounded experience in working with individuals, families, and couples, from a variety of social and cultural backgrounds. My goal is to help you free yourself from the effects of past experiences and cultural conditioning, break patterns of thinking that lead to conflictual relationships and strengthen your connection to your own unmet needs, help you with areas such as depression, anxiety, divorce, employment issues, life transitions, relationship issues and family conflicts.
![Photo of Gabriela Mendoza Carpio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bd778bc-d17a-4593-96c0-6558b05e1e74/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gabriela Mendoza Carpio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
I am a licensed clinical social worker with specialized training and experience in working with individuals, couples, and families of color and or trauma survivors. I offer therapy in both English and or Spanish. I offer a safe space for individuals and families to explore behavioral patterns, work stressors, effects of life changes, trauma, and difficult relationships.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with specialized training and experience in working with individuals, couples, and families of color and or trauma survivors. I offer therapy in both English and or Spanish. I offer a safe space for individuals and families to explore behavioral patterns, work stressors, effects of life changes, trauma, and difficult relationships.
![Photo of Lia Roy Nanda, MS, LMFT, PPS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf278f4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Lia Roy Nanda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults for broad spectrum of issues ranging from mild to severe. I counsel individuals and families for relationship difficulties, separation/divorce, parenting challenges, individual/family crises, survivors of abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, grief/loss, trauma, and suicidal/self-injurious behavior.During difficult times when a person feels very vulnerable, it takes a tremendous amount of courage and energy to seek help. My approach is warm and genuine; my sessions are collaborative so clients to develop effective coping skills to overcome obstacles in their life after therapy has terminated and not foster dependency.
I provide therapy to children, adolescents, and adults for broad spectrum of issues ranging from mild to severe. I counsel individuals and families for relationship difficulties, separation/divorce, parenting challenges, individual/family crises, survivors of abuse, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, grief/loss, trauma, and suicidal/self-injurious behavior.During difficult times when a person feels very vulnerable, it takes a tremendous amount of courage and energy to seek help. My approach is warm and genuine; my sessions are collaborative so clients to develop effective coping skills to overcome obstacles in their life after therapy has terminated and not foster dependency.
![Photo of Sabrina Naqvi, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a369fb5-a8a6-40ba-bd49-141d44e30d9a/2/320x400.png)
Sabrina Naqvi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
Are you looking for ways to make your life more meaningful? Stuck in old patterns? Having a hard time finding fulfilling relationships? Experiencing anxiety, self doubt, and/or low mood often? Perhaps you have tried many ways to cope with difficult feelings, but nothing seems to alleviate them in the long run. The good news is that it is possible to survive and even thrive with the right coping strategies and mindset. I hope to support you in this journey of transformational change. As your therapist, I will help you increase self-awareness, while assisting you in overcoming any blocks that have been holding you back.
Are you looking for ways to make your life more meaningful? Stuck in old patterns? Having a hard time finding fulfilling relationships? Experiencing anxiety, self doubt, and/or low mood often? Perhaps you have tried many ways to cope with difficult feelings, but nothing seems to alleviate them in the long run. The good news is that it is possible to survive and even thrive with the right coping strategies and mindset. I hope to support you in this journey of transformational change. As your therapist, I will help you increase self-awareness, while assisting you in overcoming any blocks that have been holding you back.
![Photo of Amanda Wall, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e159057-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Has your child been struggling in school and/or at home? Have teachers told you that your child has tremendous potential if he or she would just try harder or focus more? Has anyone ever suggested to you that your child may have a learning disorder? Do you find that no matter what you try, your child continues to be "difficult" at home? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a comprehensive evaluation may be the next step to help clarify why your child is not living up to his or her full potential.
Has your child been struggling in school and/or at home? Have teachers told you that your child has tremendous potential if he or she would just try harder or focus more? Has anyone ever suggested to you that your child may have a learning disorder? Do you find that no matter what you try, your child continues to be "difficult" at home? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then a comprehensive evaluation may be the next step to help clarify why your child is not living up to his or her full potential.
![Photo of Kristina Maglic, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6a0b8d7-4b95-4586-87d7-48cb9c6416a6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Maglic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
When we are feeling down and in need of support, we all deserve someone to talk to about our experiences. Sometimes it's not easy to communicate with those we are closest to about what we are feeling. I'm here to support individuals and families in processing their emotions and life experiences in a supportive and constructive environment. My goal when working with families is often to bridge the communication gap between adults and children. Some areas I specializes in are disruptive behaviors, depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment and communication challenges. Please reach out for a consultation if ever you need support.
When we are feeling down and in need of support, we all deserve someone to talk to about our experiences. Sometimes it's not easy to communicate with those we are closest to about what we are feeling. I'm here to support individuals and families in processing their emotions and life experiences in a supportive and constructive environment. My goal when working with families is often to bridge the communication gap between adults and children. Some areas I specializes in are disruptive behaviors, depression, anxiety, trauma, attachment and communication challenges. Please reach out for a consultation if ever you need support.
![Photo of Parisa Zivari, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34b2cce8-301d-44fb-bd6f-a3fc48757041/2/320x400.jpeg)
Parisa Zivari
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I am an insurance provider for both AETNA and Kaiser. I offer both In Person and Telehealth services. People come to therapy for many reasons. Some come to seek support due to relationship issues, to process grief and loss, to heal from their childhood/adult trauma and others come to therapy to find meaning in their life and find hope. No matter what the reason is, sometimes talking to professionals can help. Therapy sessions can be anywhere between 6 sessions to 8 months or longer. The options is yours. My job is to help you reach your destinations.
I am an insurance provider for both AETNA and Kaiser. I offer both In Person and Telehealth services. People come to therapy for many reasons. Some come to seek support due to relationship issues, to process grief and loss, to heal from their childhood/adult trauma and others come to therapy to find meaning in their life and find hope. No matter what the reason is, sometimes talking to professionals can help. Therapy sessions can be anywhere between 6 sessions to 8 months or longer. The options is yours. My job is to help you reach your destinations.
![Photo of Emma Schneider, MA, AMFT, CADCIII, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fef318c-aa59-4952-834e-a5974c60d0a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emma Schneider
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91367
At the core of my practice lies a deep belief in the power of authentic connection and the transformative impact of therapy. Having personally experienced the benefits of therapy, I’m dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their inner worlds with honesty, compassion, and curiosity. For me, therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution- it's a collaborative and creative process where we work together to cultivate a life that is in alignment with what matters most to you.
At the core of my practice lies a deep belief in the power of authentic connection and the transformative impact of therapy. Having personally experienced the benefits of therapy, I’m dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their inner worlds with honesty, compassion, and curiosity. For me, therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution- it's a collaborative and creative process where we work together to cultivate a life that is in alignment with what matters most to you.
![Photo of Julia Zabasky, LMFT, MBA, MPEC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a6caf97-9d9c-49ff-be66-c2ff5bc832d5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Zabasky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MBA, MPEC
Verified Verified
Woodland Hills, CA 91364
I have over 19 years of experience working with adolescents, individuals, and families in crisis. Teens and young adults are under all sorts of external pressure that can lead to sudden mood changes, anxiety, feelings of insecurity, and questioning self-worth. Whether its a strained relationship with your teen, or you are looking to improve, or you just want to make sure you have the right strategies for helping your teen or young adult thrive, I can help. My direct work with adolescents gives me a unique perspective which has put me in touch with the emotional needs of teens and I integrate that into my approach.LGBTQ+friendly.
I have over 19 years of experience working with adolescents, individuals, and families in crisis. Teens and young adults are under all sorts of external pressure that can lead to sudden mood changes, anxiety, feelings of insecurity, and questioning self-worth. Whether its a strained relationship with your teen, or you are looking to improve, or you just want to make sure you have the right strategies for helping your teen or young adult thrive, I can help. My direct work with adolescents gives me a unique perspective which has put me in touch with the emotional needs of teens and I integrate that into my approach.LGBTQ+friendly.
See more therapy options for Woodland Hills
Nearby Female Therapists Searches for Woodland Hills
- Calabasas
- Canoga Park
- Chatsworth
- Encino
- Hidden Hills
- Northridge
- Porter Ranch
- Reseda
- Tarzana
- Topanga
- West Hills
- Winnetka
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.