Female Therapists in Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Reide Bibeau-Peper, MS, LPCC
Reide Bibeau-Peper
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task, especially if it's been difficult to find a good fit. I specialize in working with clients who experience complex trauma, DID, dissociative abilities, depression, suicidal ideation, addiction, neurodivergence, and relational/parenting concerns. Often, I hear from clients who haven't had their experiences fully understood or believed. Common interests are wanting a stronger sense of core self, increase distress tolerance, and dreaming of radical change. My personal interests are nature, the intersection of science and the unexplainable, music, and re-parenting/community care envisioning.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task, especially if it's been difficult to find a good fit. I specialize in working with clients who experience complex trauma, DID, dissociative abilities, depression, suicidal ideation, addiction, neurodivergence, and relational/parenting concerns. Often, I hear from clients who haven't had their experiences fully understood or believed. Common interests are wanting a stronger sense of core self, increase distress tolerance, and dreaming of radical change. My personal interests are nature, the intersection of science and the unexplainable, music, and re-parenting/community care envisioning.
(952) 248-8562 View (952) 248-8562
Photo of Rachel Hauschild, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Hauschild
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm so glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing remote, individual therapy for adults who are experiencing mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, and perinatal and postpartum mood & anxiety disorders (PMAD). I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where my clients can identify and work to achieve effective, sustainable, personal shifts in their lives. During our sessions, my clients learn more about themselves, and what is necessary for them to achieve the freedom to live their most truthful and meaningful lives.
Hello! I'm so glad you are here. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing remote, individual therapy for adults who are experiencing mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, adult ADHD, and perinatal and postpartum mood & anxiety disorders (PMAD). I provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment where my clients can identify and work to achieve effective, sustainable, personal shifts in their lives. During our sessions, my clients learn more about themselves, and what is necessary for them to achieve the freedom to live their most truthful and meaningful lives.
(952) 522-5302 View (952) 522-5302
Photo of Bridget McGuinness - City of Lakes Counseling LLC, MPS, LPCC, LADC
City of Lakes Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MPS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Hello! I am a Board Certified Clinical Supervisor and Psychotherapist with my LPCC and LADC. My work experience includes co-occurring populations, personality disorders, and PTSD/trauma disorders. I have worked within inpatient, intensive outpatient, and aftercare settings. Lately, I have been focused in the private practice setting. Are you looking for additional support in your life? Are you feeling disconnected or down? I'd love to work with you! GLBTQIA and BIPOC clients are especially encouraged to connect for services.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Clinical Supervisor and Psychotherapist with my LPCC and LADC. My work experience includes co-occurring populations, personality disorders, and PTSD/trauma disorders. I have worked within inpatient, intensive outpatient, and aftercare settings. Lately, I have been focused in the private practice setting. Are you looking for additional support in your life? Are you feeling disconnected or down? I'd love to work with you! GLBTQIA and BIPOC clients are especially encouraged to connect for services.
(651) 564-9279 View (651) 564-9279
Photo of Estefania Alvarez-Zumarraga, MA, ATR, Pre-Licensed Professional
Estefania Alvarez-Zumarraga
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
Creating art promotes emotional awareness, reflection and processing of the human experience. The beauty of using art therapeutically is that previous art experience is not required. I'm glad to work with clients who have never made art, or make it every day. Whether you want to work on processing experience and emotion, need mental health support, want to use an integrative mental health approach or just need some time to experience mindfulness and stress management tools, I am here to help you utilize art therapy.
Creating art promotes emotional awareness, reflection and processing of the human experience. The beauty of using art therapeutically is that previous art experience is not required. I'm glad to work with clients who have never made art, or make it every day. Whether you want to work on processing experience and emotion, need mental health support, want to use an integrative mental health approach or just need some time to experience mindfulness and stress management tools, I am here to help you utilize art therapy.
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Photo of Vanessa Marr, PhD, LICSW, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Marr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Thank you for being here and for taking this bold move toward your healing. As a somatic therapist, I practice from a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to connect mind, body, and soul. As one who values justice, I am aware of how environmental and societal factors impact our health. I meet people where they are, especially those coping with anxiety, shame, complex PTSD, life transitions, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and grief. Our work involves exploring where you have been and supporting the resilient person you desire to become. I'm deeply honored to work with those from BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ communities.
Thank you for being here and for taking this bold move toward your healing. As a somatic therapist, I practice from a holistic and trauma-informed perspective to connect mind, body, and soul. As one who values justice, I am aware of how environmental and societal factors impact our health. I meet people where they are, especially those coping with anxiety, shame, complex PTSD, life transitions, chronic stress, relationship challenges, and grief. Our work involves exploring where you have been and supporting the resilient person you desire to become. I'm deeply honored to work with those from BIPOC and/or LGBTQIA+ communities.
(763) 373-4975 View (763) 373-4975
Photo of Leslie Levine Adler, PhD, LP, EMDR, Consult, Psychologist
Leslie Levine Adler
Psychologist, PhD, LP, EMDR, Consult
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
I am semi-retired, currently taking a few clients short-term on teletherapy, that is up to 10 sessions. Sessions are self-pay. For clients dealing with an acute situation or a past recent trauma, this can work very well. In our initial conversation, we will discuss whether short-term therapy would be appropriate for you. I use primarily EMDR and trauma informed therapy. In addition, I apply a strength-based model rooted in attachment theory and lessons learned from mindfulness, CBT and ACT. These are all therapies designed to empower the individual to cope with symptoms without being defined by them.
I am semi-retired, currently taking a few clients short-term on teletherapy, that is up to 10 sessions. Sessions are self-pay. For clients dealing with an acute situation or a past recent trauma, this can work very well. In our initial conversation, we will discuss whether short-term therapy would be appropriate for you. I use primarily EMDR and trauma informed therapy. In addition, I apply a strength-based model rooted in attachment theory and lessons learned from mindfulness, CBT and ACT. These are all therapies designed to empower the individual to cope with symptoms without being defined by them.
(952) 592-8047 View (952) 592-8047
Photo of Jodi Leirness, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Jodi Leirness
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self worth injuries, grief and loss issues, trauma, loneliness, existential issues, identity exploration, women's health, pregnancy, postpartum, and maternal mental health with a specific focus on well-being, balance, self-care, compassion, and self-acceptance.
Welcome to my practice. I am currently accepting new clients. My name is Dr. Jodi Leirness (she/her) and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota. My true passion is providing therapy services and walking alongside my clients as they search for and discover growth and healing in their lives. While life can bring joy, it can also brings stress, anxiety, depression, grief, pain and suffering. My goal is to create a safe and healing space where you can speak your truth alongside someone who truly cares about you, your wellness, your wholeness, and your authentic happiness.
My areas of specialty include managing stress, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self worth injuries, grief and loss issues, trauma, loneliness, existential issues, identity exploration, women's health, pregnancy, postpartum, and maternal mental health with a specific focus on well-being, balance, self-care, compassion, and self-acceptance.
Welcome to my practice. I am currently accepting new clients. My name is Dr. Jodi Leirness (she/her) and I am a licensed psychologist in the state of Minnesota. My true passion is providing therapy services and walking alongside my clients as they search for and discover growth and healing in their lives. While life can bring joy, it can also brings stress, anxiety, depression, grief, pain and suffering. My goal is to create a safe and healing space where you can speak your truth alongside someone who truly cares about you, your wellness, your wholeness, and your authentic happiness.
(651) 478-2321 View (651) 478-2321
Photo of Heather Johnson - Heather Johnson, PsyD, LP, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Heather Johnson, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
***Not taking new clients at this time.*** Beginning the process of self-exploration can feel overwhelming. I'm sensitive to each individual's needs, goals, and comfort with the therapeutic process. My philosophy around change includes looking at past relational and emotional experiences in the hopes of gaining insight into what might be creating barriers to a satisfying life. I offer this guidance in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. My hope is that we can work together to further your understanding of your internal world and build confidence around managing the inevitable ups and downs that life brings.
***Not taking new clients at this time.*** Beginning the process of self-exploration can feel overwhelming. I'm sensitive to each individual's needs, goals, and comfort with the therapeutic process. My philosophy around change includes looking at past relational and emotional experiences in the hopes of gaining insight into what might be creating barriers to a satisfying life. I offer this guidance in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. My hope is that we can work together to further your understanding of your internal world and build confidence around managing the inevitable ups and downs that life brings.
(612) 712-4504 View (612) 712-4504
Photo of Leslie Root, LMFT, EMDR, Love-ad, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Root
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, Love-ad
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Feeling like your life and relationships are stuck? I want you to know change is possible. Through our work together, we will discover the reasons you continue to struggle, and map out a path to personal recovery. My desire is to help you, your partner, and your family, grow closer, and experience the love, and intimacy that is available to you. The secret to happiness is inside of you, just waiting to be acknowledged. Let me help you embrace emotional freedom by giving you the tools for success in love and life!
Sick and tired of being sick and tired? Feeling like your life and relationships are stuck? I want you to know change is possible. Through our work together, we will discover the reasons you continue to struggle, and map out a path to personal recovery. My desire is to help you, your partner, and your family, grow closer, and experience the love, and intimacy that is available to you. The secret to happiness is inside of you, just waiting to be acknowledged. Let me help you embrace emotional freedom by giving you the tools for success in love and life!
(651) 356-8476 View (651) 356-8476
Photo of Rachel Herr, MA, LPCC
Rachel Herr
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Evening Availability - We are currently accepting New Clients! Are you feeling like you're stuck in a relationship you want to enjoy being a part of again? Or feeling like parenting is so much more complicated than you had originally thought? If so, please don't wait any longer to reach out! As a Licensed Practicing Clinical Counselor, who is also a board approved Supervisor, I specialize in helping couples work through challenging seasons and find a life that sparks a new joy for both individuals. I also specialize in parenting, which often has a large impact on relational satisfaction. Together, we can build the life you desire.
Evening Availability - We are currently accepting New Clients! Are you feeling like you're stuck in a relationship you want to enjoy being a part of again? Or feeling like parenting is so much more complicated than you had originally thought? If so, please don't wait any longer to reach out! As a Licensed Practicing Clinical Counselor, who is also a board approved Supervisor, I specialize in helping couples work through challenging seasons and find a life that sparks a new joy for both individuals. I also specialize in parenting, which often has a large impact on relational satisfaction. Together, we can build the life you desire.
(952) 522-7170 View (952) 522-7170
Photo of Camille Jensen, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Camille Jensen
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Life can be difficult to navigate at times but you do not have to do it alone. In our work together I wont try to fix you, tell you what to do or assume what’s best for you. However, I will remind you that you aren't broken, give you room to access your own wisdom, support you in figuring out what to do, and collaborate with you on how to make the hard stuff easier to sit with. I believe that you are the expert on your own life and that it's my job to walk along side you and empower you to work with your own self knowledge during this process of growth and healing. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for this impactful work.
Life can be difficult to navigate at times but you do not have to do it alone. In our work together I wont try to fix you, tell you what to do or assume what’s best for you. However, I will remind you that you aren't broken, give you room to access your own wisdom, support you in figuring out what to do, and collaborate with you on how to make the hard stuff easier to sit with. I believe that you are the expert on your own life and that it's my job to walk along side you and empower you to work with your own self knowledge during this process of growth and healing. I provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for this impactful work.
(763) 220-6344 View (763) 220-6344
Photo of Trisha Hartmann, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trisha Hartmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
**CONTACT VIA WWW.THROUGHTHERAPY.COM FOR REFERRAL OPTIONS-- SOME OF OUR THERAPISTS HAVE OPENINGS** Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). My experience includes helping people with depressed mood, anxious feelings, life transitions, self-esteem, women's issues, family concerns, and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative; I enjoy helping people understand their needs, strengths, and how to pave the path towards feeling their best. I support ALL relationship types and orientations.
**CONTACT VIA WWW.THROUGHTHERAPY.COM FOR REFERRAL OPTIONS-- SOME OF OUR THERAPISTS HAVE OPENINGS** Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). My experience includes helping people with depressed mood, anxious feelings, life transitions, self-esteem, women's issues, family concerns, and relationship issues. My approach to therapy is collaborative; I enjoy helping people understand their needs, strengths, and how to pave the path towards feeling their best. I support ALL relationship types and orientations.
(612) 509-8629 View (612) 509-8629
Photo of Justine Uran, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Justine Uran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Now Accepting New Clients! Hope, insight, validation, and change are things I strive to provide the individuals that I work with. With over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with adults (18+) who experience PTSD, eating disorder, personality disorders and mood disorders, I believe it is crucial to create a safe, non-judgmental space to practice therapy. I approach therapy from a client centered approach to build a solid, therapeutic relationship and practice from a trauma-informed perspective.
Now Accepting New Clients! Hope, insight, validation, and change are things I strive to provide the individuals that I work with. With over 15 years of experience as a therapist working with adults (18+) who experience PTSD, eating disorder, personality disorders and mood disorders, I believe it is crucial to create a safe, non-judgmental space to practice therapy. I approach therapy from a client centered approach to build a solid, therapeutic relationship and practice from a trauma-informed perspective.
(612) 439-3776 View (612) 439-3776
Photo of Jane A Legwold, APRN, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane A Legwold
Marriage & Family Therapist, APRN, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Not accepting new clients
Here are 3 things I want you to know if we are to work together: 1) I care about my clients. In my 20 years I've seen a lot & with your inherent strengths & wisdom & my experience, we can deal with whatever you bring. 2) Our sessions will be about change. What we talk about will have a purpose. We will explore where you learned beliefs about yourself, patterns of behavior and ways you do relationships that impact the issues holding you back. We will also develop a vision for change and work together to get you there.
Here are 3 things I want you to know if we are to work together: 1) I care about my clients. In my 20 years I've seen a lot & with your inherent strengths & wisdom & my experience, we can deal with whatever you bring. 2) Our sessions will be about change. What we talk about will have a purpose. We will explore where you learned beliefs about yourself, patterns of behavior and ways you do relationships that impact the issues holding you back. We will also develop a vision for change and work together to get you there.
(952) 373-0459 View (952) 373-0459
Photo of Katy M Christensen, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Katy M Christensen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Lynnhurst, Minneapolis, MN 55419
Not accepting new clients
I have over 15 years of experience working with men and women struggling with anxiety and depression, substance use disorders, trauma/PTSD and eating disorders.
**Not currently taking new clients** I work with clients experiencing life-interfering symptoms such as anxiety, depression/despair, compulsivity, loneliness, relationship distress, uncertainty, fear and hopelessness. Causes may include traumatic events, addiction, psychosocial stressors, and serious and persistent mental illness. Ineffective coping and ultimately a breakdown in the balanced quality of life and freedom that each of us deserve is often the result. My approach is to join with you in the areas where compassionate understanding, intention, and work are needed to live the most optimal life possible.
I have over 15 years of experience working with men and women struggling with anxiety and depression, substance use disorders, trauma/PTSD and eating disorders.
**Not currently taking new clients** I work with clients experiencing life-interfering symptoms such as anxiety, depression/despair, compulsivity, loneliness, relationship distress, uncertainty, fear and hopelessness. Causes may include traumatic events, addiction, psychosocial stressors, and serious and persistent mental illness. Ineffective coping and ultimately a breakdown in the balanced quality of life and freedom that each of us deserve is often the result. My approach is to join with you in the areas where compassionate understanding, intention, and work are needed to live the most optimal life possible.
(612) 324-7326 View (612) 324-7326

Online Therapists

Photo of Sarah Mathews - Sarah Mathews MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Mathews MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! Being human is a beautiful and vulnerable experience that doesn't always have directions or clear answers. You may be here because you feel struck in patterns that are holding you back or feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed in your daily life. You may be seeking help because you feel stuck in your relationship(s) or want to feel more free in your sexuality or sexual identity and are unsure how to proceed. And if you are a highly sensitive and/or nuero-diverse person, the world can feel complicated! If you are longing to live authentically and experience meaningful relationships, you've come to the right place!
Welcome! Being human is a beautiful and vulnerable experience that doesn't always have directions or clear answers. You may be here because you feel struck in patterns that are holding you back or feel overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed in your daily life. You may be seeking help because you feel stuck in your relationship(s) or want to feel more free in your sexuality or sexual identity and are unsure how to proceed. And if you are a highly sensitive and/or nuero-diverse person, the world can feel complicated! If you are longing to live authentically and experience meaningful relationships, you've come to the right place!
(651) 401-8279 View (651) 401-8279
Photo of Chantelle Jordan, MA, LPCC
Chantelle Jordan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55430  (Online Only)
I work with my clients at their own pace. I am here to help guide you and walk beside you on your journey to mental wellness. Our life experiences can leave us feeling broken, rejected, lonely, and searching for answers. But, through this brokenness we can begin to discover who we want to be, bringing us the emotional healing we desire. Through self-exploration we can begin to understand how these events impact how we treat ourselves, interact with others and create meaning in our lives. Chantelle believes that change occurs when we begin to truly accept ourselves as we are. Non-judgement, radical self-love and forgiveness are key.
I work with my clients at their own pace. I am here to help guide you and walk beside you on your journey to mental wellness. Our life experiences can leave us feeling broken, rejected, lonely, and searching for answers. But, through this brokenness we can begin to discover who we want to be, bringing us the emotional healing we desire. Through self-exploration we can begin to understand how these events impact how we treat ourselves, interact with others and create meaning in our lives. Chantelle believes that change occurs when we begin to truly accept ourselves as we are. Non-judgement, radical self-love and forgiveness are key.
(763) 297-2406 View (763) 297-2406
Photo of Reema Bhattacharya - Holistic Psychotherapy Practice, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holistic Psychotherapy Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55439  (Online Only)
You are facing some challenges in your life like trauma, mood disorders, chronic health or pain issues, perhaps with co-occurring diagnoses of mental health & addiction. You might be struggling in your relationships as a spouse, partner or parent. You need a collaborative partnership with a trauma-informed therapist who will customize their approach towards your care, work with you to understand your needs, recognize your strengths and learn to address your challenges. You are looking for a therapist who is responsive to your culture, sexuality & uniqueness. You could work with the therapist as an individual, a couple or a family.
You are facing some challenges in your life like trauma, mood disorders, chronic health or pain issues, perhaps with co-occurring diagnoses of mental health & addiction. You might be struggling in your relationships as a spouse, partner or parent. You need a collaborative partnership with a trauma-informed therapist who will customize their approach towards your care, work with you to understand your needs, recognize your strengths and learn to address your challenges. You are looking for a therapist who is responsive to your culture, sexuality & uniqueness. You could work with the therapist as an individual, a couple or a family.
(763) 265-6352 View (763) 265-6352
Photo of Bravada M Garrett-Akinsanya, PhD, LP, LICSW, Psychologist
Bravada M Garrett-Akinsanya
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55411
My expertise is in treating African Americans, bi-racial, and female clients.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 40+ years of experience. I have written, presented, and consulted extensively about diversity, developmental psychology, multiculturalism, severe psychopathology, childhood abuse, trauma, sexual assault, community/domestic violence and African-American mental health. I believe everyone has a right to wellness & use strategies that promote humor, hard work, experiential learning resilience. There is a saying: "You do not have to teach a cut how to heal, you just have to create the best environment for healing to take place." My goal is to create a loving space for healing to take place.
My expertise is in treating African Americans, bi-racial, and female clients.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 40+ years of experience. I have written, presented, and consulted extensively about diversity, developmental psychology, multiculturalism, severe psychopathology, childhood abuse, trauma, sexual assault, community/domestic violence and African-American mental health. I believe everyone has a right to wellness & use strategies that promote humor, hard work, experiential learning resilience. There is a saying: "You do not have to teach a cut how to heal, you just have to create the best environment for healing to take place." My goal is to create a loving space for healing to take place.
(612) 302-3140 View (612) 302-3140
Photo of Carter Hunt, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carter Hunt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55415
Accepting NEW clients for Telehealth and in-person! I enjoy working with people of all ages (pre-teen+) and helping them work through where they feel stuck with relationship issues, trauma, and abuse. I help them engage in healing, and living life authentically. I work with clients from an array of various backgrounds and presenting concerns - including doctors, single parents, individuals without housing, students, professional athletes, veterans, retirees, inmates, disabled individuals, homemakers, business owners, teachers, and so forth. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where they can express openly.
Accepting NEW clients for Telehealth and in-person! I enjoy working with people of all ages (pre-teen+) and helping them work through where they feel stuck with relationship issues, trauma, and abuse. I help them engage in healing, and living life authentically. I work with clients from an array of various backgrounds and presenting concerns - including doctors, single parents, individuals without housing, students, professional athletes, veterans, retirees, inmates, disabled individuals, homemakers, business owners, teachers, and so forth. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where they can express openly.
(651) 240-5912 View (651) 240-5912

See more therapy options for Lynnhurst, Minneapolis

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.