Female Therapists in West Loop, Chicago, IL
![Photo of Christine Aiello, MS, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530317e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Aiello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
I help individuals and couples with relationship conflict, sexual concerns, and adjustment to life transitions. Clients often come to therapy with some common issues: feeling disconnected in their relationship, having the same argument on repeat, unsatisfying sex, discomfort or awkwardness talking about sex and intimacy, mismatched desire, painful intercourse, wondering "is this normal?" and more. With advanced training in relationship and sex therapy, I’ll help you to identify your needs and goals, build skills and knowledge, and improve connection, trust, empathy, and intimacy in your life and relationships.
![Photo of Marta Jean von Rosenvinge, MA, LSW, E-RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/68ecd6ef-4f90-4727-9c07-d6898bd4879a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marta Jean von Rosenvinge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW, E-RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with adults and couples with anxiety, relationships challenges, and trauma. I also teach yoga and meditation and understand the role the body plays in holding trauma and how chronic stress can contribute to a disconnect between the mind/body. I am passionate about health and nutrition and believe that lifestyle has a strong impact on mood as do our thoughts and behaviors. I believe that it's universal to feel anxious, bad, stuck, and out of balance and to struggle through big and small life transitions. By being open to what's not working we can use awareness and make small shifts that have lasting impact.
I work collaboratively with adults and couples with anxiety, relationships challenges, and trauma. I also teach yoga and meditation and understand the role the body plays in holding trauma and how chronic stress can contribute to a disconnect between the mind/body. I am passionate about health and nutrition and believe that lifestyle has a strong impact on mood as do our thoughts and behaviors. I believe that it's universal to feel anxious, bad, stuck, and out of balance and to struggle through big and small life transitions. By being open to what's not working we can use awareness and make small shifts that have lasting impact.
![Photo of Emily Petroschuk, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/394cb017-1f6d-41ae-b74e-47c14fc00424/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Petroschuk
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Let’s be honest, life can be exhausting, unpredictable, and terrifying. It can also be full of pain and shit, things are always going to come up to derail us. I am here to get into all of it with you to figure it out, and help you find a life that brings some joy along with said shit. I greatly enjoy working with clients who have experienced a variety of struggles, and feel exhausted. I’m ready to sit with you and be present with you in your pain. I will work to see you and help you see yourself as the person you really are as we work to create change or process past pain.
Let’s be honest, life can be exhausting, unpredictable, and terrifying. It can also be full of pain and shit, things are always going to come up to derail us. I am here to get into all of it with you to figure it out, and help you find a life that brings some joy along with said shit. I greatly enjoy working with clients who have experienced a variety of struggles, and feel exhausted. I’m ready to sit with you and be present with you in your pain. I will work to see you and help you see yourself as the person you really are as we work to create change or process past pain.
![Photo of Natalie Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/759f8879-4e56-481d-be0a-db8915f1f019/2/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Are you in need of a dedicated professional to help you reach your full potential? Meet your new guide, a school counselor by day and a therapist for adults during evenings and weekends. Although the approaches to therapy may vary based on your individual needs, this counselor prides themselves on fostering an environment conducive to understanding one's emotions and thoughts, utilizing techniques from CBT, Humanistic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy as required.
Are you in need of a dedicated professional to help you reach your full potential? Meet your new guide, a school counselor by day and a therapist for adults during evenings and weekends. Although the approaches to therapy may vary based on your individual needs, this counselor prides themselves on fostering an environment conducive to understanding one's emotions and thoughts, utilizing techniques from CBT, Humanistic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy and Person-Centered Therapy as required.
![Photo of Maryrose Fernandes Bolgar, MS, MA, LPC, MCH, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/514e9108-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryrose Fernandes Bolgar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, MCH
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661
Usually, people look for help when they are faced with a situation that they are unable to find a satisfactory solution to either in their own repertoire of experiences or within their immediate environment. Situations can involve the loss of a loved one, or a marriage. It can also include a family crisis, anxiety, depression, difficulty connecting and maintaining a connection with others, work troubles, and illness and death.
Usually, people look for help when they are faced with a situation that they are unable to find a satisfactory solution to either in their own repertoire of experiences or within their immediate environment. Situations can involve the loss of a loved one, or a marriage. It can also include a family crisis, anxiety, depression, difficulty connecting and maintaining a connection with others, work troubles, and illness and death.
![Photo of Ashley Hunt, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b995788-db7e-4dde-aa1a-08703365974d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Hunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
As a Black woman, who is also a Single Mother by Choice (SMC/SMBC), I understand the adversity individuals of color face when attempting to access reproductive health services.
I am client-focused when working with individuals and families, providing space for them to openly discuss the impact family building has had on their mental health. I encourage clients to actively participate in their treatment and collaboratively work with each client to identify their therapeutic goals. I use a mixture of modalities, from cognitive-behavioral techniques to holistic and integrative approaches. I always strive to bring culture and identity into the therapy space as I believe one’s lived experiences are often shaped by their personal identities.
As a Black woman, who is also a Single Mother by Choice (SMC/SMBC), I understand the adversity individuals of color face when attempting to access reproductive health services.
I am client-focused when working with individuals and families, providing space for them to openly discuss the impact family building has had on their mental health. I encourage clients to actively participate in their treatment and collaboratively work with each client to identify their therapeutic goals. I use a mixture of modalities, from cognitive-behavioral techniques to holistic and integrative approaches. I always strive to bring culture and identity into the therapy space as I believe one’s lived experiences are often shaped by their personal identities.
![Photo of Deanna Marie Dotson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5980f749-cd48-4d9d-bc85-6a67dfa0f4c7/2/320x400.png)
Deanna Marie Dotson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Life can be difficult, but I believe that we were built to do and overcome difficult things, even when the task of healing seems impossible. Your feelings are important, and you have the power to transform and heal within a safe space.
Life can be difficult, but I believe that we were built to do and overcome difficult things, even when the task of healing seems impossible. Your feelings are important, and you have the power to transform and heal within a safe space.
![Photo of Alexandra Ciesla, Intern, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64f31719-b88e-4a41-98a2-d0406fe593c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Ciesla
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661
As a compassionate therapist, my mission is to provide support to individuals grappling with anxiety, life changes, disappointment, body image issues, stress, women's issues, and depression. I create a nurturing environment for all clients and offer Christian/Catholic counseling, incorporating faith-based perspectives for those seeking spiritual with their mental health journey. My aim is to empower individuals by aiding them in developing coping strategies and resilience. Whether you're facing mental health challenges or seeking faith-based support, I'm here to assist you on your journey to healing and personal growth.
As a compassionate therapist, my mission is to provide support to individuals grappling with anxiety, life changes, disappointment, body image issues, stress, women's issues, and depression. I create a nurturing environment for all clients and offer Christian/Catholic counseling, incorporating faith-based perspectives for those seeking spiritual with their mental health journey. My aim is to empower individuals by aiding them in developing coping strategies and resilience. Whether you're facing mental health challenges or seeking faith-based support, I'm here to assist you on your journey to healing and personal growth.
![Photo of Jennifer Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/987e6106-a87c-4d81-898c-721af7120610/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60617 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD and anxiety. Whether you are new or returning to therapy, I believe finding the right therapist is essential. Your reason(s) for seeking therapy are unique and deeply personal. If you are struggling with conflicting emotions and thoughts; experiencing anxiety or depression; feelings of self-doubt, hopelessness; or other life challenges; therapy can be helpful to gain clarity, resolution, and the skills to live a more fulfilled life. I believe healing is possible!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD and anxiety. Whether you are new or returning to therapy, I believe finding the right therapist is essential. Your reason(s) for seeking therapy are unique and deeply personal. If you are struggling with conflicting emotions and thoughts; experiencing anxiety or depression; feelings of self-doubt, hopelessness; or other life challenges; therapy can be helpful to gain clarity, resolution, and the skills to live a more fulfilled life. I believe healing is possible!
![Photo of Patrice Henderson, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccfa93fc-87e5-439c-b4ae-7cdede420565/1/320x400.jpeg)
Patrice Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
Are you a woman of color dealing with anxiety or trauma? You may be navigating feelings of isolation, discrimination, or questioning your sense of belonging. I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and identity, heal from trauma, and manage anxiety. Together, we’ll build resilience and create a path toward personal growth and connection.
Are you a woman of color dealing with anxiety or trauma? You may be navigating feelings of isolation, discrimination, or questioning your sense of belonging. I’m here to provide a safe, supportive space where you can explore your emotions and identity, heal from trauma, and manage anxiety. Together, we’ll build resilience and create a path toward personal growth and connection.
![Photo of Carmella Crawford, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/989fb9d8-8bde-45ce-b215-79ea8aa800bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carmella Crawford
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Imagine navigating life's challenges, feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or self-esteem issues. You seek a compassionate, safe space to explore your feelings and experiences. You want to be heard, understood, and empowered. Your goal is to build emotional resilience and self-acceptance while developing healthier thought patterns. You deserve to thrive and live authentically. I am here to walk alongside you, providing the support, empathy, and collaboration needed to help you flourish. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, empowering you to live a more fulfilling life.
Imagine navigating life's challenges, feeling overwhelmed by trauma, anxiety, or self-esteem issues. You seek a compassionate, safe space to explore your feelings and experiences. You want to be heard, understood, and empowered. Your goal is to build emotional resilience and self-acceptance while developing healthier thought patterns. You deserve to thrive and live authentically. I am here to walk alongside you, providing the support, empathy, and collaboration needed to help you flourish. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, empowering you to live a more fulfilling life.
15 Second Videos
Ashley Hunt
Erica Haynes
Suzie Thomas
Maria Catanzaro
Kate Kelley-Schneider
Rebecca Balch
Becky Beaulieu
Nikki Diaz
Shirley Khong
Missy Williams
Simran Rathod
Kara Thompson-Miller
Lindsay Sherman
Grace Hicks
Georgia Samantha Boxer
Samantha Skvaril
Jessica Guha
Sophia Jelsma
Elizabeth Miller
Maureen D. Zigulich
Zoe Weinstein
Celeste Jackson
Sara Stumpos
Kyra Ehrlich
Carolyn Alter
Nicole Scatchell
Catherine Meili
Julie Thomas
Sarah Novak
Kristi Machica
Camille Lester
Courtney Forbes
Celia Zanayed
Lucy Steven
Michelle Elijah
Sarah Newhall Harty
Maribeth Germino
Patricia Lutz
Alyssa Steinke
Laura Elizabeth Foster
Lauren Rzepka
Nicole Meyer Klarich, LCPC & Associates
Terrez Gordon
Lauren Daniels
Clara Donaldson
Andrea Santiago
Silvia Amor Armas
Erika Koch-Weser | Narcissistic Abuse Recovery
Cami K McBride
Evette Addai
![Photo of Kathleen O'Connor, LCPC, CEDS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/033781cb-41b7-4903-8bcb-cc85c4c76286/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen O'Connor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661
My clinical focus lies with eating disorders and body image issues. I have worked in the eating disorder treatment community for 7+ years in a variety of capacities including inpatient, residential, and crisis stabilization programs. I am passionate about eating disorder recovery and collaborating with patients to find balance in their lives. I am anti-diet and HAES aligned. Therapy provides a safe space to be yourself in a supportive environment, helping to meet you where you’re at and work towards creating lasting change.
My clinical focus lies with eating disorders and body image issues. I have worked in the eating disorder treatment community for 7+ years in a variety of capacities including inpatient, residential, and crisis stabilization programs. I am passionate about eating disorder recovery and collaborating with patients to find balance in their lives. I am anti-diet and HAES aligned. Therapy provides a safe space to be yourself in a supportive environment, helping to meet you where you’re at and work towards creating lasting change.
![Photo of Julia Tehovnik, LCPC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7223c834-6c88-470d-a516-3b78d6278f51/2/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Tehovnik
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth Appointments Only: Do you feel anxious or have doubts that hold you back from achieving more in life? Perhaps you feel like a failure for not having met high expectations, those of yourself or of others. Maybe you have met those expectations and are doing all the "right" things, but still feel unfulfilled. Or maybe you've accomplished a goal and don't know what to do next, but feel like you're supposed to figure it out quickly so you don't fall behind.
Accepting New Clients, Telehealth Appointments Only: Do you feel anxious or have doubts that hold you back from achieving more in life? Perhaps you feel like a failure for not having met high expectations, those of yourself or of others. Maybe you have met those expectations and are doing all the "right" things, but still feel unfulfilled. Or maybe you've accomplished a goal and don't know what to do next, but feel like you're supposed to figure it out quickly so you don't fall behind.
![Photo of Heather Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d028c5f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
Seeking therapy is an important decision that shows personal strength and motivation. Therapy can be a reflective, confidential space to explore issues that are important to you, and to pursue goals you have for yourself and your life. I have a deep respect for the strengths you bring to the therapeutic work, and my approach to therapy involves building on these strengths to support you in reaching your goals. I believe strongly in a non-judgmental approach to therapy, and I strive to build emotional safety in our time together to allow space for you to explore important life issues in an authentic way.
Seeking therapy is an important decision that shows personal strength and motivation. Therapy can be a reflective, confidential space to explore issues that are important to you, and to pursue goals you have for yourself and your life. I have a deep respect for the strengths you bring to the therapeutic work, and my approach to therapy involves building on these strengths to support you in reaching your goals. I believe strongly in a non-judgmental approach to therapy, and I strive to build emotional safety in our time together to allow space for you to explore important life issues in an authentic way.
![Photo of Kirsty MacPherson, MA, LCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30d76ab6-8366-4812-8fc1-e0d590fa7837/2/320x400.png)
Kirsty MacPherson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661 (Online Only)
I offer individual psychotherapy as well as family therapy in-office or through tele-health. I also offer equine therapy. The bond between humans and horses, under my guidance, becomes a gateway to healing and personal growth. I am deeply passionate about this profession and feel privileged to witness the positive impact it has on the lives of those I work with.
I offer individual psychotherapy as well as family therapy in-office or through tele-health. I also offer equine therapy. The bond between humans and horses, under my guidance, becomes a gateway to healing and personal growth. I am deeply passionate about this profession and feel privileged to witness the positive impact it has on the lives of those I work with.
![Photo of Cara McCanse, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5474ccd-fa10-4ad6-a070-82ad8b7a8942/1/320x400.jpeg)
A fundamental human need is to feel emotionally close to others. Difficulty connecting in a platonic or romantic way can leave one feeling sad, anxious, and lonely. Often, we retreat from attempted connection to avoid potential pain. Alternately, because we don't know any different or don't want to feel disconnected, we become involved with others who cause us more interpersonal stress. But isolating or engaging with harmful others can cause us to feel vulnerable, damaged, and upset with ourselves. This pattern often leads us to question if we are capable and deserving of joining and creating mutually beneficial relationships.
A fundamental human need is to feel emotionally close to others. Difficulty connecting in a platonic or romantic way can leave one feeling sad, anxious, and lonely. Often, we retreat from attempted connection to avoid potential pain. Alternately, because we don't know any different or don't want to feel disconnected, we become involved with others who cause us more interpersonal stress. But isolating or engaging with harmful others can cause us to feel vulnerable, damaged, and upset with ourselves. This pattern often leads us to question if we are capable and deserving of joining and creating mutually beneficial relationships.
![Photo of Stephanie Korpal, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bed97b5-f35a-4756-8ba0-8ab7c60cf79c/2/320x400.png)
Stephanie Korpal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661
You feel like you're barely hanging in there. Like you've lost your way, or maybe even yourself. You just can't seem to get back on solid footing-emotionally OR mentally. You’ve tried your usual tips and tricks to feel better, but they’ve barely moved the needle. Your brain feels like it's not your friend and it's tough to find happiness in the things that usually bring you joy. Your confidence has been knocked down a few pegs. You either feel keyed up with constant worry or knocked flat, laying on the couch or your bed without the energy to do anything. And now you've decided: it's time for a change.
You feel like you're barely hanging in there. Like you've lost your way, or maybe even yourself. You just can't seem to get back on solid footing-emotionally OR mentally. You’ve tried your usual tips and tricks to feel better, but they’ve barely moved the needle. Your brain feels like it's not your friend and it's tough to find happiness in the things that usually bring you joy. Your confidence has been knocked down a few pegs. You either feel keyed up with constant worry or knocked flat, laying on the couch or your bed without the energy to do anything. And now you've decided: it's time for a change.
![Photo of Alexis Santiago, LPC, MA, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d12b5909-f478-4c3d-93a9-65bdee3c6073/2/320x400.png)
Alexis Santiago
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MS
Verified Verified
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607
I work with children and adults to help them understand themselves in relationships, healing, and growth. Clients that I have served work on a variety of concerns: agency in life, healthy boundary setting, socio-emotional wellness, exploration of gender and sexual identity, cultural and/or racial identity, anxious & depressive symptoms, sexual assault/abuse survival, navigating racism/oppression, avoidant behavior, disordered eating, and pandemic fatigue.
I work with children and adults to help them understand themselves in relationships, healing, and growth. Clients that I have served work on a variety of concerns: agency in life, healthy boundary setting, socio-emotional wellness, exploration of gender and sexual identity, cultural and/or racial identity, anxious & depressive symptoms, sexual assault/abuse survival, navigating racism/oppression, avoidant behavior, disordered eating, and pandemic fatigue.
![Photo of Lola Shaoxuan Wang - Psychological Evaluations for Immigration, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52b893ce-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Psychological Evaluations for Immigration
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60661
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand these services can be expensive and that is why we offer affordable fees. We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Cancellation, and N-648 cases. Our evaluations are completed in a timely fashion by a bilingual (Chinese)Licensed Therapist. We also work with clients who speak other languages, including Spanish, Russian, French, Arabic, Cambodian, Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, Vietnamese, Kirundi, and Farsi through professional interpreters.
Do you need an affordable psychological evaluation for your immigration case? We understand these services can be expensive and that is why we offer affordable fees. We specialize in conducting Immigration Evaluations for Hardship Waiver, VAWA, U Visa, T Visa, Cancellation, and N-648 cases. Our evaluations are completed in a timely fashion by a bilingual (Chinese)Licensed Therapist. We also work with clients who speak other languages, including Spanish, Russian, French, Arabic, Cambodian, Urdu, Telugu, Gujarati, Vietnamese, Kirundi, and Farsi through professional interpreters.
![Photo of Beth Rubin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8b293544-09f3-4967-87fc-8819c88f08ce/2/320x400.jpeg)
Beth Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Loop, Chicago, IL 60607 (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe environment where my clients feel accepted as they are, while also supported in moving towards the growth and change they are seeking. I work with young adults and adults seeking support with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, life transitions, relationship difficulties, identity, and self-esteem concerns, among others. I have over ten years of clinical experience, working in public school, college counseling center, and outpatient practice settings.
My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe environment where my clients feel accepted as they are, while also supported in moving towards the growth and change they are seeking. I work with young adults and adults seeking support with stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting, life transitions, relationship difficulties, identity, and self-esteem concerns, among others. I have over ten years of clinical experience, working in public school, college counseling center, and outpatient practice settings.
See more therapy options for West Loop, Chicago
Nearby Female Therapists Searches for West Loop, Chicago
- Greektown
- Little Italy
- Loop
- Near North Side
- Near West Side
- Noble Square
- Printers Row
- River North
- River West
- South Loop
- Streeterville
- University Village
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.