Photo of Candace Deese - Guiding Hope Marriage and Family Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Guiding Hope Marriage and Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calimesa, CA 92320
Have you noticed an an increase in anxiety, chronic stress, loss of sleep or experiencing difficulty due to depression, difficulty within relationships, isolation or create behaviors that are harmful? Has life begun to feel like it is rocking you to our core and beginning to feel like life is unmanageable? If you are experiencing effects of trauma, mental health feeling unstable, addiction, individual, martial, family issues, teens, adjustment concerns, we are here to walk with you as we learn to understand the inner truth with healthy coping skills and restoration of strength to embrace life with all it has to offer.
Have you noticed an an increase in anxiety, chronic stress, loss of sleep or experiencing difficulty due to depression, difficulty within relationships, isolation or create behaviors that are harmful? Has life begun to feel like it is rocking you to our core and beginning to feel like life is unmanageable? If you are experiencing effects of trauma, mental health feeling unstable, addiction, individual, martial, family issues, teens, adjustment concerns, we are here to walk with you as we learn to understand the inner truth with healthy coping skills and restoration of strength to embrace life with all it has to offer.
(909) 316-1866 View (909) 316-1866
Photo of Erica Tumbaga, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Tumbaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Pasadena, CA 91030  (Online Only)
We are at a time where compassion towards self is more important than ever. Life is overwhelming and complicated. Maybe you "have it all" but feel like something is missing or you are having issues communicating your needs. Many struggle with the idea of having symptoms of depression and anxiety internalizing the symptoms with being "crazy". I am here to remove the labels and have individuals be more aware of the symptoms you experience (fear, poor sleep and appetite, nervousness, sadness, negative thoughts, etc.) and treat them with compassion, reframing and safe coping skills to better improve your life.
We are at a time where compassion towards self is more important than ever. Life is overwhelming and complicated. Maybe you "have it all" but feel like something is missing or you are having issues communicating your needs. Many struggle with the idea of having symptoms of depression and anxiety internalizing the symptoms with being "crazy". I am here to remove the labels and have individuals be more aware of the symptoms you experience (fear, poor sleep and appetite, nervousness, sadness, negative thoughts, etc.) and treat them with compassion, reframing and safe coping skills to better improve your life.
(626) 788-5357 View (626) 788-5357
Photo of Angelika Panova, LMFT, PMHNP, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angelika Panova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Santa Ana, CA 92705
I use traditional talk therapy and neurofeedback training to improve symptoms of Autism/Asperger's, ADHD, RAD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Addictions, Learning Disabilities, Insomnia, Sleep Disorders, Migraine.
I worked with broad range of clients- kids, individuals, couples. I have been supervising several addiction and dual diagnosis clinics. I treated successfully hundreds of patients and helped to find best solution to the most difficult situation or problem my patients faced. I help my patients to rebuild relationships based on honesty, understanding, forgiveness, and trust. I teach coping skills to regulate your impulses, emotions, increase your sense of personal identity , improve your judgment, reduce the sense of crisis in your life and find healthy solutions. I offer Neurofeedback training that helps to enhance physical, mental performance, improves memories.
I use traditional talk therapy and neurofeedback training to improve symptoms of Autism/Asperger's, ADHD, RAD, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Management, Addictions, Learning Disabilities, Insomnia, Sleep Disorders, Migraine.
I worked with broad range of clients- kids, individuals, couples. I have been supervising several addiction and dual diagnosis clinics. I treated successfully hundreds of patients and helped to find best solution to the most difficult situation or problem my patients faced. I help my patients to rebuild relationships based on honesty, understanding, forgiveness, and trust. I teach coping skills to regulate your impulses, emotions, increase your sense of personal identity , improve your judgment, reduce the sense of crisis in your life and find healthy solutions. I offer Neurofeedback training that helps to enhance physical, mental performance, improves memories.
(657) 306-5351 View (657) 306-5351
Photo of Susanne Bech Simonsen M.s Health Psychology
I do ONLINE SESSIONS. Quit smoking - easy and without gaining weight. 1-2 sessions. I believe that if you change your thoughts, you can change anything in your life! Your history is never your destiny. With more than 35 years of experience in the field, I have treated people with all kinds of issues. My experience includes owning and running a drug and alcohol treatment facility with 300 inpatients. In my practice the number 1 priority is to let go of the past, sleep good, feel good and eat good from session 1 - this creates a good foundation for the further treatment. Session in your home is possible
I do ONLINE SESSIONS. Quit smoking - easy and without gaining weight. 1-2 sessions. I believe that if you change your thoughts, you can change anything in your life! Your history is never your destiny. With more than 35 years of experience in the field, I have treated people with all kinds of issues. My experience includes owning and running a drug and alcohol treatment facility with 300 inpatients. In my practice the number 1 priority is to let go of the past, sleep good, feel good and eat good from session 1 - this creates a good foundation for the further treatment. Session in your home is possible
(323) 765-3339 View (323) 765-3339
Photo of Kristin Whelan, PsyD, Psychologist
Kristin Whelan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
Dr. Whelan is an experienced Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is passionate about establishing a strong alliance with her patients and providing excellence in care. She provides assessment, diagnosis, and treatment to patients with an array of psychological, neurological, and medical conditions. Dr. Whelan specializes in the treatment of depression and anxiety related disorders, chronic pain, sleep/eating disorders, substance use, grief, trauma, and bipolar spectrum conditions. She provides individualized, evidence-based psychotherapy involving a blend of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT),
(619) 738-2306 View (619) 738-2306
Photo of Jarfa A Wabs - Jarfa Wabs, MA LMFT dba Counseling Together, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jarfa Wabs, MA LMFT dba Counseling Together
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Finding a therapist at a time when your whole world is falling apart, is one more difficult task to add to the many tasks required of you. Well, you aren't alone! Couples & family counseling is one of my many focuses. Premarital and marriage counseling can be very effective in starting and saving relationships. I also focus on stress, fears, and anxiety that might be causing unexplained aches and pains in your body, frustrating you and others around you. I am well versed on issues of Chronic illness, hormonal imbalances, Fibromyalgia, Infertility, Postpartum, Menopause, Thyroid and many life events affecting healthy relationships.
Finding a therapist at a time when your whole world is falling apart, is one more difficult task to add to the many tasks required of you. Well, you aren't alone! Couples & family counseling is one of my many focuses. Premarital and marriage counseling can be very effective in starting and saving relationships. I also focus on stress, fears, and anxiety that might be causing unexplained aches and pains in your body, frustrating you and others around you. I am well versed on issues of Chronic illness, hormonal imbalances, Fibromyalgia, Infertility, Postpartum, Menopause, Thyroid and many life events affecting healthy relationships.
(949) 281-6275 View (949) 281-6275
Photo of Eshawn Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Eshawn Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90746
Reaching out for help is a difficult thing to do. However, you are closer to your healing by viewing this. You may have felt misunderstood throughout your life, but self acceptance is the primary goal. My desire is for you to improve your daily functioning and satisfaction in your life. Engaging in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, you will enhance your communication skills, coping strategies, and a sense of emotional and mental wellness. Opportunities for a happier and more fulfilling life are developed through compassion, collaboration, and support. By picking up the phone and dialing my number you have displayed self love and hope.
Reaching out for help is a difficult thing to do. However, you are closer to your healing by viewing this. You may have felt misunderstood throughout your life, but self acceptance is the primary goal. My desire is for you to improve your daily functioning and satisfaction in your life. Engaging in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, you will enhance your communication skills, coping strategies, and a sense of emotional and mental wellness. Opportunities for a happier and more fulfilling life are developed through compassion, collaboration, and support. By picking up the phone and dialing my number you have displayed self love and hope.
(562) 758-7347 View (562) 758-7347
Photo of Minda Streamer, ACSW
Minda Streamer
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Not Verified Not Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with three years of experience providing individual and group therapy to a wide variety of people through various settings. I earned my Bachelors in American Indian Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Clinical Social Work through a Trauma Responsive program of study at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am also an enrolled member of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians.
I am an Associate Clinical Social Worker with three years of experience providing individual and group therapy to a wide variety of people through various settings. I earned my Bachelors in American Indian Studies at UCLA and my Masters in Clinical Social Work through a Trauma Responsive program of study at the University of Chicago Crown Family School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice. I am also an enrolled member of the Los Coyotes Band of Cahuilla and Cupeño Indians.
(347) 658-1393 View (347) 658-1393
Photo of Nanette Sebourn - Nanette Sebourn Couples-Individual-Sex specialist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nanette Sebourn Couples-Individual-Sex specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
Ms. Sebourn is IMPARTIAL, KIND AND ACCURATE. She treats individuals and couples AT THE SAME TIME. She specializes in sex therapy for individuals and couples. She is a Psychologist, a Healer and an Educator so her treatments use all three modes to help with any issue. Her hours are 12noon to 7pm to accommodate everyone's schedule on Mondays thru Thursday. She wrote a book titled "Love with a Brain" ( ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0578661698 ) and it is available on Amazon. She offers a free meet & greet so please call to find out more. She honestly cares about her clients. See for yourself at Nanettesebourn.com
Ms. Sebourn is IMPARTIAL, KIND AND ACCURATE. She treats individuals and couples AT THE SAME TIME. She specializes in sex therapy for individuals and couples. She is a Psychologist, a Healer and an Educator so her treatments use all three modes to help with any issue. Her hours are 12noon to 7pm to accommodate everyone's schedule on Mondays thru Thursday. She wrote a book titled "Love with a Brain" ( ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-0578661698 ) and it is available on Amazon. She offers a free meet & greet so please call to find out more. She honestly cares about her clients. See for yourself at Nanettesebourn.com
(951) 291-0563 View (951) 291-0563
Photo of Dr. Rebecca A Scott, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca A Scott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Carmel Valley, CA 93924  (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your goals.
Accepting New Patients. When we feel stuck in our situation, it can create feelings of hopelessness. In addition to the many problems that complicate our daily lives such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, patients come to me with complex relationship issues including marital distress, divorce recovery, verbal & emotional abuse, loss of child, parent, or spouse. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective, to address the root problem, not just the symptoms. Like physical therapy, the goal is to get well and end treatment. I offer perspective on your experience, and provide clear, concise directions on meeting your goals.
(831) 208-3701 View (831) 208-3701
Photo of Kathryn Hedjasi, MA, MBA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Hedjasi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself struggling? Hurting? I can help you feel better! You have the ability to THRIVE regardless of your circumstances armed with my support & many new tools in your arsenal. I can help you tap into your own resilience & ability to heal. Wherever you are at in life, whether satisfied but looking to improve, struggling daily & feeling as if the floor is about to fall out, in crisis-mode, on a journey of self-discovery, or simply looking for support from a fully present empathetic skilled partner in your personal, interpersonal & professional goals. I AM HERE FOR YOU!
Do you find yourself struggling? Hurting? I can help you feel better! You have the ability to THRIVE regardless of your circumstances armed with my support & many new tools in your arsenal. I can help you tap into your own resilience & ability to heal. Wherever you are at in life, whether satisfied but looking to improve, struggling daily & feeling as if the floor is about to fall out, in crisis-mode, on a journey of self-discovery, or simply looking for support from a fully present empathetic skilled partner in your personal, interpersonal & professional goals. I AM HERE FOR YOU!
(650) 262-4006 View (650) 262-4006
Photo of Jenny Pepper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenny Pepper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Working with a therapist who you feel safe with and connected to will make all the difference in your healing journey. I am a warm therapist, who will also be directive for the sake of your growth. I am sincerely dedicated to your healing journey. And, I can teach you practical tools to live a balanced and more fulfilling life. I would love to guide you towards better understanding yourself. I am highly trained in CBT, DBT and ACT. My approach is integrative, adapting to fit each person’s unique needs. I’ve worked extensively and closely with people struggling with anxiety, BPD, addiction, depression, and low self-worth.
Working with a therapist who you feel safe with and connected to will make all the difference in your healing journey. I am a warm therapist, who will also be directive for the sake of your growth. I am sincerely dedicated to your healing journey. And, I can teach you practical tools to live a balanced and more fulfilling life. I would love to guide you towards better understanding yourself. I am highly trained in CBT, DBT and ACT. My approach is integrative, adapting to fit each person’s unique needs. I’ve worked extensively and closely with people struggling with anxiety, BPD, addiction, depression, and low self-worth.
(310) 359-1863 View (310) 359-1863
Photo of Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala, MA, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alia Harlan Kaneaiakala
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Mission Viejo, CA 92694  (Online Only)
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
I am an Attachment based therapist well versed with severe levels of trauma, anxiety and depression due to family systems, addiction, adoption or other struggles. I have over 20 years experience as a dancer and dance studio owner from which I draw upon for a creative, integrative approach in therapy and fresh approach to understanding my clients. I am also fortunate enough to work collaborately with another therapist and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners to provide wraparound services for clients all in our beautiful office space. I believe in exploring all avenues and taking innovative approaches in therapy to aid the client in healing and personal growth.
(949) 273-2912 View (949) 273-2912
Photo of Grayce Marie Stratton, PhD, PsyD, Psychologist
Grayce Marie Stratton
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Accessing hope, grounding, greater energy, and newfound peace are my specialities and passion, and I assist the patient to take charge in finding harmony and illuminating a vibrant life. Working creatively and eclectically, I emphasize psychophysiology and integrative modalities, the medical end of psychology in my practice, Lifetime Development in Pleasanton, California. Assessing carefully the unique strengths and needs of each child, adolescent, and adult who calls, my goal is to assist clients to become more masterful in their lives at every age. Using the lens of in-depth traditional psychotherapeutic knowledge, I aim for faster outcomes than those possible with "talk therapy" alone.
Accessing hope, grounding, greater energy, and newfound peace are my specialities and passion, and I assist the patient to take charge in finding harmony and illuminating a vibrant life. Working creatively and eclectically, I emphasize psychophysiology and integrative modalities, the medical end of psychology in my practice, Lifetime Development in Pleasanton, California. Assessing carefully the unique strengths and needs of each child, adolescent, and adult who calls, my goal is to assist clients to become more masterful in their lives at every age. Using the lens of in-depth traditional psychotherapeutic knowledge, I aim for faster outcomes than those possible with "talk therapy" alone.
(925) 462-2123 View (925) 462-2123
Photo of Amanda Lesky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Lesky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I assist you to develop and use your strengths to improve your relationships and yourself through self-exploration and guidance. I use an integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. I work with individuals that struggle with depression and anxiety related to career, athletics, interpersonal relationships, medical conditions, disease, pre/post op surgery and injuries. Through a safe and supportive environment, I believe in the importance of devising a realistic plan for treatment that is personalized for your particular symptoms and collaborate with you to improve your quality of life.
I assist you to develop and use your strengths to improve your relationships and yourself through self-exploration and guidance. I use an integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. I work with individuals that struggle with depression and anxiety related to career, athletics, interpersonal relationships, medical conditions, disease, pre/post op surgery and injuries. Through a safe and supportive environment, I believe in the importance of devising a realistic plan for treatment that is personalized for your particular symptoms and collaborate with you to improve your quality of life.
(628) 244-3762 View (628) 244-3762
Photo of Adilia E Torres, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adilia E Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94120  (Online Only)
Healing is a gift that emerges from seeds cultivated by struggle, broken borders, and bold dreams. I am a queer mental health practitioner in the Bay Area. My daily practice as a mental health clinician is guided and shaped by culturally relevant services imbued with an Indigenous approach to healing and medicine. My work is focused on trauma-trauma-informed care and recovery services for children, youth, adults, and families impacted by (im)migration, displacement, and other forms of oppression. We individualize and collaborate with the creation of your treatment plan of care tailored to the needs of each person. English & Spanish
Healing is a gift that emerges from seeds cultivated by struggle, broken borders, and bold dreams. I am a queer mental health practitioner in the Bay Area. My daily practice as a mental health clinician is guided and shaped by culturally relevant services imbued with an Indigenous approach to healing and medicine. My work is focused on trauma-trauma-informed care and recovery services for children, youth, adults, and families impacted by (im)migration, displacement, and other forms of oppression. We individualize and collaborate with the creation of your treatment plan of care tailored to the needs of each person. English & Spanish
(415) 639-3276 View (415) 639-3276
Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Sarah Sherertz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Sherertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I love working with attachment, relationships, and transformation. I tend to work the with highly competent, sensitive, and self reliant who have outgrown their survival strategies and need to expand their toolbox, improve their quality of life and get help metabolizing past experiences. Trauma can be overcome, you can find love, relationships can dramatically improve, and physical symptoms can be effectively addressed.
I love working with attachment, relationships, and transformation. I tend to work the with highly competent, sensitive, and self reliant who have outgrown their survival strategies and need to expand their toolbox, improve their quality of life and get help metabolizing past experiences. Trauma can be overcome, you can find love, relationships can dramatically improve, and physical symptoms can be effectively addressed.
(415) 429-6893 View (415) 429-6893
Photo of Michelle Davis - Personalized Recovery, LVN, CAADAC, CYT
Personalized Recovery
LVN, CAADAC, CYT
Verified Verified
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
We provide individualized private confidential one on one medically assisted detox services . Many of our clients are Professionals in their community and prefer the privacy and convenience of a in home detox plan. I have always been committed to maintaining the accuracy, confidentiality, and security of your personal and corporate information. Personalized Recovery is dedicated to addressing your personal needs and guiding you through your recovery process.
We provide individualized private confidential one on one medically assisted detox services . Many of our clients are Professionals in their community and prefer the privacy and convenience of a in home detox plan. I have always been committed to maintaining the accuracy, confidentiality, and security of your personal and corporate information. Personalized Recovery is dedicated to addressing your personal needs and guiding you through your recovery process.
(805) 214-6011 View (805) 214-6011
Photo of Ayleen Bryan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ayleen Bryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayleen Bryan Bilingual LMFT. We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
Ayleen Bryan Bilingual LMFT. We all have issues we deal with on a daily basis, and therapy is about addressing those issues in a positive, effective manner. I provide the highest level of professional care in a warm, inviting, supportive and nonjudgmental environment. I help people of all ages, and work in many different modalities tailoring the treatment to the needs of each patient. I work with individuals, couples and families to assist in skill building and to promote healthy everyday living. I specialize in managing individuals' issues, couples counseling, working with children and families.
(909) 500-4561 View (909) 500-4561
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.