Female Therapists in Shalimar, FL
![Photo of Stephanie Butler, LMHC-S, NCC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a525fad6-0379-4aa2-83d6-e532b8c754f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you exhausted from trying to keep up the “having it all together” persona you’re known for? Maybe you're used to being able to figure things out, but this time seems different. Are you wondering if this is your new normal? The things that used to come easily to you (and that seem to come so easily to everyone else) may now feel almost impossible. Despite your achievements and the life you’ve built, you feel stuck in this rut of unfulfillment and unhappiness. You’ve tried to get a handle on this—maybe even by going to therapy before—but nothing is changing.
Are you exhausted from trying to keep up the “having it all together” persona you’re known for? Maybe you're used to being able to figure things out, but this time seems different. Are you wondering if this is your new normal? The things that used to come easily to you (and that seem to come so easily to everyone else) may now feel almost impossible. Despite your achievements and the life you’ve built, you feel stuck in this rut of unfulfillment and unhappiness. You’ve tried to get a handle on this—maybe even by going to therapy before—but nothing is changing.
![Photo of Jessica M. Alea, EdD, MA, LMHC, CCTP, CCATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/992059c1-5935-4b49-a536-44dc9610c0dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Jessica Alea, LMHC. If you have gotten this far, then you understand how much trauma and/or anxiety can impact a person’s ability to find joy. Our minds can be our own worst bully. Experiencing anxiety and trauma, can leave one feeling tired and frustrated. You may feel irritable or too exhausted to deal with social situations. You may spend a lot of time thinking through how to handle social situations because it feels unsafe. Each situation presents another battle with how much you can handle. It just feels like your mind is always "on." If sounds familiar, I can help you find relief.
Hello, I am Jessica Alea, LMHC. If you have gotten this far, then you understand how much trauma and/or anxiety can impact a person’s ability to find joy. Our minds can be our own worst bully. Experiencing anxiety and trauma, can leave one feeling tired and frustrated. You may feel irritable or too exhausted to deal with social situations. You may spend a lot of time thinking through how to handle social situations because it feels unsafe. Each situation presents another battle with how much you can handle. It just feels like your mind is always "on." If sounds familiar, I can help you find relief.
![Photo of Heidi Anderson, LCSW, PsyD, RPT, JSOT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcb55e10-3851-4a15-a08a-91f99b75fae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, RPT, JSOT
Verified Verified
Shalimar, FL 32579 (Online Only)
My approach focuses on utilizing the brain’s ability to adapt through neuroplasticity to develop resiliency over experienced trauma. I have provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of populations including foster children, adjudicated adolescents, victims of domestic violence, service members and their families. I am truly in awe of the ability of the mind to recover and grow beyond the effects of trauma throughout the lifespan. My passion for this process has inspired me to pursue my doctorate in clinical psychology, in order to offer evidence based approaches that encourage lasting life change.
My approach focuses on utilizing the brain’s ability to adapt through neuroplasticity to develop resiliency over experienced trauma. I have provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of populations including foster children, adjudicated adolescents, victims of domestic violence, service members and their families. I am truly in awe of the ability of the mind to recover and grow beyond the effects of trauma throughout the lifespan. My passion for this process has inspired me to pursue my doctorate in clinical psychology, in order to offer evidence based approaches that encourage lasting life change.
![Photo of Carlise C. McLaughlin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/558de1f2-55f6-49b7-b75d-17fde4dde91f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carlise C. McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide Telehealth services via video and phone for people who live in the state of Florida. Active duty military, veterans, and their families are my passion. As a Navy veteran and military spouse, I offer a unique perspective on military issues including pre/post-deployment, marriage, trauma, secondary trauma, and family issues. Other issues I enjoy helping with include surviving infidelity, conscious uncoupling, LGBTQ relationships, caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder.
I provide Telehealth services via video and phone for people who live in the state of Florida. Active duty military, veterans, and their families are my passion. As a Navy veteran and military spouse, I offer a unique perspective on military issues including pre/post-deployment, marriage, trauma, secondary trauma, and family issues. Other issues I enjoy helping with include surviving infidelity, conscious uncoupling, LGBTQ relationships, caregiver fatigue, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders such as Borderline Personality Disorder.
![Photo of Kathlyn C White, MA, LMHC, LMFT, QS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f57d52e4-075c-4a13-a416-ec631bcb4735/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathlyn C White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579
I have been a practicing counselor since 1991. I am duly licensed as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My office is conveniently located in Niceville, FL. I have had great success in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, marital issues, adolescent issues, adultery, divorce recovery, and complex issues. I am also a Christian Counselor and can address spiritual issues others may not understand. Join me in exploring how we can, together, improve your and your family's quality of life. I am also a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC and LMFT Registered Interns.
I have been a practicing counselor since 1991. I am duly licensed as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My office is conveniently located in Niceville, FL. I have had great success in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, marital issues, adolescent issues, adultery, divorce recovery, and complex issues. I am also a Christian Counselor and can address spiritual issues others may not understand. Join me in exploring how we can, together, improve your and your family's quality of life. I am also a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC and LMFT Registered Interns.
![Photo of Colleen L Wenner, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22af7a41-2388-42d0-8d23-703338d58059/1/320x400.jpeg)
We want the most life has to offer. At times, circumstances, habits and trauma does not serve us well.... we wake up to find we aren't where we thought. If you're here, you are not alone. Colleen’s compassion, honesty, knowledge and transparency enables you to uncover your own abilities to cope, heal, and move through challenges. Colleen’s strengths include breaking down issues into manageable pieces to empower patients to move toward healing. She uses evidenced based methods like CBT and is also a Certified EMDR trauma-recovery therapist.
We want the most life has to offer. At times, circumstances, habits and trauma does not serve us well.... we wake up to find we aren't where we thought. If you're here, you are not alone. Colleen’s compassion, honesty, knowledge and transparency enables you to uncover your own abilities to cope, heal, and move through challenges. Colleen’s strengths include breaking down issues into manageable pieces to empower patients to move toward healing. She uses evidenced based methods like CBT and is also a Certified EMDR trauma-recovery therapist.
![Photo of Pamela Lee Downey - Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback , MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b13dd0c-1f3e-4d58-8ac7-a58659a138c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
![Photo of Earnestine Carswell, LMHC, CCTP, CRCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680525ee-b3b6-4328-a269-19922e0464a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Empowering Solutions (Y.E.S), every “YES” in your life is associated with demands of time, commitment, rest and focus. When we run into challenges it can be so tough to develop a plan that contains self-love, empowerment and confidence. For those who have been victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sex assault, survivor of childhood trauma or assault) or a traumatic experience. My 15 years of experience offers recognizing patterns, expressing emotions, communication skills and setting boundaries Together we will create a plan, of ways to cope, heal, and live a high performing life!
Your Empowering Solutions (Y.E.S), every “YES” in your life is associated with demands of time, commitment, rest and focus. When we run into challenges it can be so tough to develop a plan that contains self-love, empowerment and confidence. For those who have been victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sex assault, survivor of childhood trauma or assault) or a traumatic experience. My 15 years of experience offers recognizing patterns, expressing emotions, communication skills and setting boundaries Together we will create a plan, of ways to cope, heal, and live a high performing life!
![Photo of Jocelyn Aleiadih, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc0d4f4b-10e0-4585-b931-aa3c2ff76726/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jocelyn Aleiadih
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579
Accepting Medicaid/Medi-Cal! Telehealth in Colorado and In person/Tele Health in California! Living life as a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe you've been feeling depressed for a while and haven’t been able to find a way out of it. Maybe anxiety has been holding you back from really showing up in your life the way you want to for too long. Maybe you’re feeling stuck in life, have lost your sense of purpose, or can’t seem to find your path. Whatever it is that brings you here, we’re happy you found us.
Accepting Medicaid/Medi-Cal! Telehealth in Colorado and In person/Tele Health in California! Living life as a human can be really hard sometimes. Maybe you've been feeling depressed for a while and haven’t been able to find a way out of it. Maybe anxiety has been holding you back from really showing up in your life the way you want to for too long. Maybe you’re feeling stuck in life, have lost your sense of purpose, or can’t seem to find your path. Whatever it is that brings you here, we’re happy you found us.
![Photo of Katie O’Brien, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d755c6d4-9b25-44a4-b049-e0bf18742911/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie O’Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shalimar, FL 32579
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever wondered how you are going to get through something that feels so overwhelming, and you’re feeling unsure where to start to getting things back on track? The journey of Life often poses what feels like roadblocks, instead of road bumps. The power of therapy helps us to navigate uncertainties, while encouraging and experiencing our own personal development. Katie trusts in the therapeutic process that encourages self-growth, created from an accepting and collaborative experience. Katie received her Master of Social Work Degree with an emphasis in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University.
Have you ever wondered how you are going to get through something that feels so overwhelming, and you’re feeling unsure where to start to getting things back on track? The journey of Life often poses what feels like roadblocks, instead of road bumps. The power of therapy helps us to navigate uncertainties, while encouraging and experiencing our own personal development. Katie trusts in the therapeutic process that encourages self-growth, created from an accepting and collaborative experience. Katie received her Master of Social Work Degree with an emphasis in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University.
![Photo of Amanda L. Brunson, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce2cb87-8f37-4009-a9af-26a5f110dd98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda L. Brunson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579
Not accepting new clients
Have you ever responded to a situation that felt like it escalated too quickly or responded in a surprising way that wasn’t intended? Sometimes, the things we experience throughout life can impact the way that we respond to the situations we are currently going through. Opening up to someone can be challenging and leave you feeling vulnerable. Amanda focuses on building rapport to create a safe place for processing. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She specializes in working with military families and veterans. Amanda helps patients to identify their goals and learn to cope through life’s challenges in a healthy way.
Have you ever responded to a situation that felt like it escalated too quickly or responded in a surprising way that wasn’t intended? Sometimes, the things we experience throughout life can impact the way that we respond to the situations we are currently going through. Opening up to someone can be challenging and leave you feeling vulnerable. Amanda focuses on building rapport to create a safe place for processing. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She specializes in working with military families and veterans. Amanda helps patients to identify their goals and learn to cope through life’s challenges in a healthy way.
15 Second Videos
Stephanie Butler
Jessica M. Alea
Colleen L Wenner
Jocelyn Aleiadih
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kelly Micaela Mayor - Mayor Mental Health LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f816fae1-2191-4ddc-886c-2fe618a63fcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mayor Mental Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Welcome to Mayor Mental Health LLC! We are a mental health clinic in Fort Walton Beach, offering both virtual and in-person sessions. We are owned by a husband/wife team of licensed therapists- Robert Mayor, LMHC and Kelly Mayor, LCSW. Together we have 24 years combined experience in the mental health field. We have a few other clinicians on our staff as well. We provide high-quality and evidenced-based care to assist our clients with improving their mental health. We love watching our clients succeed in reaching their goals.
Welcome to Mayor Mental Health LLC! We are a mental health clinic in Fort Walton Beach, offering both virtual and in-person sessions. We are owned by a husband/wife team of licensed therapists- Robert Mayor, LMHC and Kelly Mayor, LCSW. Together we have 24 years combined experience in the mental health field. We have a few other clinicians on our staff as well. We provide high-quality and evidenced-based care to assist our clients with improving their mental health. We love watching our clients succeed in reaching their goals.
![Photo of Dr. Tonice Krueger, PsyD, MA, LCP, QS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5131d374-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm an Air Force Veteran and a military spouse. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I've been a mental health provider since 2010. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, binge eating, relationship issues, and more. I believe that in order to improve a person's overall health and wellness, we need to focus on healing the mind and body. In striving toward integrated healing, we will work together to tailor a treatment plan that fits your personal goals, needs, and pace. Additionally, I provide Psychological Assessments/Testing.
I'm an Air Force Veteran and a military spouse. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I've been a mental health provider since 2010. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, binge eating, relationship issues, and more. I believe that in order to improve a person's overall health and wellness, we need to focus on healing the mind and body. In striving toward integrated healing, we will work together to tailor a treatment plan that fits your personal goals, needs, and pace. Additionally, I provide Psychological Assessments/Testing.
![Photo of Kelly Mayor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eac68e69-7126-45c0-bbc9-d0834d39e53f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Mayor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547 (Online Only)
If you are experiencing anxiety, obsessive thinking, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, difficulty coping, or uncontrollable compulsions, there is hope. I have advanced training in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. I really enjoy helping my clients to challenge their anxious thoughts and overcome any compulsions that they may have. I have experience working with many different OCD subtypes, such as contamination, sexual, aggressive, intrusive thoughts, postpartum, religious/scrupulosity, sensiormotor, "just right", and checking obsessions. I love helping this population to reduce suffering and overcome their OCD.
If you are experiencing anxiety, obsessive thinking, panic attacks, intrusive thoughts, difficulty coping, or uncontrollable compulsions, there is hope. I have advanced training in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. I really enjoy helping my clients to challenge their anxious thoughts and overcome any compulsions that they may have. I have experience working with many different OCD subtypes, such as contamination, sexual, aggressive, intrusive thoughts, postpartum, religious/scrupulosity, sensiormotor, "just right", and checking obsessions. I love helping this population to reduce suffering and overcome their OCD.
![Photo of Alisha Greenlaw, MS, CSTIP](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de70c00e-17ba-4e83-9a71-7eaa88446267/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alisha Greenlaw
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CSTIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
The therapeutic process is a collaborative journey, and my passion is helping others identify and achieve their goals in a safe, inclusive environment while also individualizing treatment plans to each client’s unique needs. Life's journey can be challenging for each of us in many different ways, so equipping clients with tools to heal and grow is what fuels my passion to continue helping others. My office provides a safe space to explore identities, heal from trauma, and foster resilience.
The therapeutic process is a collaborative journey, and my passion is helping others identify and achieve their goals in a safe, inclusive environment while also individualizing treatment plans to each client’s unique needs. Life's journey can be challenging for each of us in many different ways, so equipping clients with tools to heal and grow is what fuels my passion to continue helping others. My office provides a safe space to explore identities, heal from trauma, and foster resilience.
![Photo of Christina Patterson, MS, RMHCI, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6b616bf-3a50-40c8-bbc0-b83b5b80bfe7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Patterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Please know you do not have to go through this alone. In my role as a mental health counselor, my approach to building trust is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and collaborative engagement. I recognize that the therapeutic relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership, and my commitment to fostering trust is paramount. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Ultimately, my goal is to build trusting alliance that empowers clients to explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards positive change.
Please know you do not have to go through this alone. In my role as a mental health counselor, my approach to building trust is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and collaborative engagement. I recognize that the therapeutic relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership, and my commitment to fostering trust is paramount. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Ultimately, my goal is to build trusting alliance that empowers clients to explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards positive change.
![Photo of Becky Patterson, RCSWI, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0be9bab8-ec36-4699-95e4-edd4e6b9165d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Becky Patterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCSWI, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
I became a Social Worker because your life is worth my time! I have experience in and enjoy working with all different ages as well as all different types of issues. You are not alone in your journey and I am here to help! I specialize in Substance Use and can help you on your journey to sobriety.
I became a Social Worker because your life is worth my time! I have experience in and enjoy working with all different ages as well as all different types of issues. You are not alone in your journey and I am here to help! I specialize in Substance Use and can help you on your journey to sobriety.
![Photo of Shareen Ancog, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26574d3b-376d-4cf5-8c67-b6bdeaea0830/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shareen Ancog
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
![Photo of Alina Griffith, MS, CCTP, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f0ba45f-a63e-429c-8c8a-d39b8e657cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Griffith
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Waitlist for new clients
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
![Photo of Stephanie Guise, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6163254d-8c10-422e-9811-db01dbab0f27/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Guise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
"Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our life,"-Brene Brown. Does it feel that you are trying to keep your head above water while others are swimming past? Do you find yourself needing assistance in an area of your life? Are you looking to increase your self awareness and personal empowerment? If so, I am here to listen, support, and guide you to successfully deal with life’s everyday challenges. Together, we can foster change and take the steps necessary to meet your goals. I will show you how to become your best self. It's time to be brave and take charge of your life!
"Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our life,"-Brene Brown. Does it feel that you are trying to keep your head above water while others are swimming past? Do you find yourself needing assistance in an area of your life? Are you looking to increase your self awareness and personal empowerment? If so, I am here to listen, support, and guide you to successfully deal with life’s everyday challenges. Together, we can foster change and take the steps necessary to meet your goals. I will show you how to become your best self. It's time to be brave and take charge of your life!
See more therapy options for Shalimar
Nearby Female Therapists Searches for Shalimar
- Baker
- Crestview
- Destin
- Fort Walton Beach
- Freeport
- Gulf Breeze
- Mary Esther
- Miramar Beach
- Navarre
- Niceville
- Santa Rosa Beach
- Valparaiso
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.