Feminist Therapists in Charlotte, NC
![Photo of Andrea Juarez, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c11827e-0aaf-4dab-a547-3b2f513a4116/3/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Juarez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28216 (Online Only)
My therapeutic style is guided by a trauma-informed lens, rooted in feminist multicultural therapy.
Life and change are hard. You are burdened by all of the expectations around you; work, family, and cultural pressures to act/live your life a certain way. Maybe you feel like you don’t fully belong and you’re stressed. I bet that you’re also having a hard time feeling happy. I help my clients live a more authentic life for themselves while also honoring their values and culture. My goal is to support you in gently peeling back the layers, navigating what life throws your way, and teaching you skills to manage all of the stress.
My therapeutic style is guided by a trauma-informed lens, rooted in feminist multicultural therapy.
Life and change are hard. You are burdened by all of the expectations around you; work, family, and cultural pressures to act/live your life a certain way. Maybe you feel like you don’t fully belong and you’re stressed. I bet that you’re also having a hard time feeling happy. I help my clients live a more authentic life for themselves while also honoring their values and culture. My goal is to support you in gently peeling back the layers, navigating what life throws your way, and teaching you skills to manage all of the stress.
![Photo of Charity E Matlock, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64df8fb6-1692-4b3b-b6f5-8592fd38ee65/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charity E Matlock
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Charity is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, and in her practice these modalities are informed by Multicultural and Feminist Therapies.
Charity is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who provides services in South Carolina via telehealth and North Carolina in person, or via telehealth. Charity loves seeing people not just heal, but thrive as they move forward and make changes in their lifestyles that reflect their happier and healthier mindstate. Charity believes life is about figuring out who you are, what you need, and learning how to get what you need – all while enjoying the process and maintaining that ever elusive “balance.” Charity is passionate about working with clients within the LGBTQ+ and Black, Brown, and Asian communities.
Charity is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing, and in her practice these modalities are informed by Multicultural and Feminist Therapies.
Charity is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who provides services in South Carolina via telehealth and North Carolina in person, or via telehealth. Charity loves seeing people not just heal, but thrive as they move forward and make changes in their lifestyles that reflect their happier and healthier mindstate. Charity believes life is about figuring out who you are, what you need, and learning how to get what you need – all while enjoying the process and maintaining that ever elusive “balance.” Charity is passionate about working with clients within the LGBTQ+ and Black, Brown, and Asian communities.
![Photo of Eve Rogerson, LCMHC, NCC, MA, PGDE, BSc](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fbf0b9e-cd24-426f-b809-a28174c1a3a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Eve Rogerson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, PGDE, BSc
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28270
Waitlist for new clients
I use feminist, person-centered, & psychodynamic approaches to support adolescents and adults identify barriers to growth and make meaningful changes.
You may be struggling with an important relationship; being overwhelmed by the impact of past trauma; exploring your sexuality or gender identity; navigating the world safely because of systemic oppression and injustice; facing financial hardship; feeling lost; learning to manage a health condition; feeling unable to connect with family; experiencing unexplained anger; or a thousand other things that there isn't room to list. It is my job and my hope to empower you by providing an empathic, safe, and supportive environment in which to explore struggles, pain, and roadblocks such that opportunities for help and growth can emerge.
I use feminist, person-centered, & psychodynamic approaches to support adolescents and adults identify barriers to growth and make meaningful changes.
You may be struggling with an important relationship; being overwhelmed by the impact of past trauma; exploring your sexuality or gender identity; navigating the world safely because of systemic oppression and injustice; facing financial hardship; feeling lost; learning to manage a health condition; feeling unable to connect with family; experiencing unexplained anger; or a thousand other things that there isn't room to list. It is my job and my hope to empower you by providing an empathic, safe, and supportive environment in which to explore struggles, pain, and roadblocks such that opportunities for help and growth can emerge.
![Photo of Kelsey Reep, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/85fa5898-320c-46f1-85e4-639b6e2da844/2/320x400.jpeg)
By offering a holistic, feminist, and reproductive wellness-informed approach to overall well-being, my clients strengthen their relationship self, gain more self-compassion, confidence, and direction—feeling better equipped and empowered to navigate life's transitions and challenges.
Do you know the real you? Are you acting based on who you've been told you should be? Truly knowing and loving yourself is especially challenging for women. We are pressured to fulfill many roles, our decisions are subjected to higher scrutiny, and our right to autonomy is not always in our own hands (e.g., abortion, reproductive rights). In trying to navigate all these moving pieces, we are often overcome by stress, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, frustrated, disonnected and inadequate. With all the noise, it becomes difficult to connect with the most important relationship in our lives—the one with ourselves.
By offering a holistic, feminist, and reproductive wellness-informed approach to overall well-being, my clients strengthen their relationship self, gain more self-compassion, confidence, and direction—feeling better equipped and empowered to navigate life's transitions and challenges.
Do you know the real you? Are you acting based on who you've been told you should be? Truly knowing and loving yourself is especially challenging for women. We are pressured to fulfill many roles, our decisions are subjected to higher scrutiny, and our right to autonomy is not always in our own hands (e.g., abortion, reproductive rights). In trying to navigate all these moving pieces, we are often overcome by stress, leaving us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, frustrated, disonnected and inadequate. With all the noise, it becomes difficult to connect with the most important relationship in our lives—the one with ourselves.
![Photo of Lauren Stevens, LCMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbd75783-e363-4083-8186-bdc01f775b57/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Stevens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215
To introduce myself, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor native to North Carolina. Throughout my years counseling I’ve gained experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I’m extremely passionate about helping my clients from ages 10 and up, and I look forward to providing you with healing, growth, and happiness. My specific areas of experience focus on working with adolescents, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ individuals, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship challenges.
To introduce myself, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor native to North Carolina. Throughout my years counseling I’ve gained experience working with individuals, couples, and families. I’m extremely passionate about helping my clients from ages 10 and up, and I look forward to providing you with healing, growth, and happiness. My specific areas of experience focus on working with adolescents, women’s issues, LGBTQ+ individuals, depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship challenges.
![Photo of Diamond Turner, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/821cc337-8520-4f7b-86d7-3e626bc0a30b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diamond Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277 (Online Only)
My training and education makes me a good fit for individuals, families, and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, grief, life stressors and parenting. Many of my clients tend to be women aged 29 to 55 seeking change in their lives - however, I also enjoy working with men, particularly if they have never done therapy before.
My training and education makes me a good fit for individuals, families, and couples experiencing depression, anxiety, self-esteem, family conflict, trauma, grief, life stressors and parenting. Many of my clients tend to be women aged 29 to 55 seeking change in their lives - however, I also enjoy working with men, particularly if they have never done therapy before.
![Photo of Kathryn Sain, MA, Psychological Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cef069d-7f68-4c42-897b-dc924e03f7d6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Based on a holistic approach that encourages a healthy lifestyle for overall physical and psychological well being, I help my clients access and harness their intrinsic power to achieve and maintain the meaningful and fulfilling lives they desire. Through talk therapy, I guide clients towards self-reflection and the internal curiosity required to facilitate healing , problem solving and resilience during difficult times.
Based on a holistic approach that encourages a healthy lifestyle for overall physical and psychological well being, I help my clients access and harness their intrinsic power to achieve and maintain the meaningful and fulfilling lives they desire. Through talk therapy, I guide clients towards self-reflection and the internal curiosity required to facilitate healing , problem solving and resilience during difficult times.
![Photo of Alyson Flint, MSW, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b40c1e06-779e-4dc3-95f5-ebf4e46da38f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alyson Flint
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204 (Online Only)
Hi there! I'm glad you're here. My goal is to provide a nonjudgemental, compassionate, and relaxed space for you, like going for coffee with a good listener (who offers skills, tips, and tricks when you need them). My focus areas include anxiety, depression, panic attacks and adjustment. I love working with all ages and genders but specialize in working with women in transitional times such as graduation, new adulthood/ motherhood, or life changes.
Hi there! I'm glad you're here. My goal is to provide a nonjudgemental, compassionate, and relaxed space for you, like going for coffee with a good listener (who offers skills, tips, and tricks when you need them). My focus areas include anxiety, depression, panic attacks and adjustment. I love working with all ages and genders but specialize in working with women in transitional times such as graduation, new adulthood/ motherhood, or life changes.
![Photo of Di'Aundrea T. (Motherhood And Wellbeing Specialist), LCMHCA, NCC, MEd, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cef7086f-dbf6-4c06-bdda-7cc9fb8eb10f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Di'Aundrea T. (Motherhood And Wellbeing Specialist)
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
As a parent, you find yourself constantly exhausted and overwhelmed. You feel like your child(ren) has been your only priority. You feel like everyone around you is an expert at parenthood. However, you now realize that you need to make time for yourself and your personal interests. This has left you feeling conflicted. You may feel guilty about this desire. But you no longer want to allow outside expectations of motherhood to hold you back and leave you feeling hopeless. You’re ready to live on your own terms. Together, let's make this possible!
As a parent, you find yourself constantly exhausted and overwhelmed. You feel like your child(ren) has been your only priority. You feel like everyone around you is an expert at parenthood. However, you now realize that you need to make time for yourself and your personal interests. This has left you feeling conflicted. You may feel guilty about this desire. But you no longer want to allow outside expectations of motherhood to hold you back and leave you feeling hopeless. You’re ready to live on your own terms. Together, let's make this possible!
![Photo of Dr. Jabari Q. Adams, PhD, LCMHC, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e330835e-2040-4f5f-b22b-b89127cce295/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jabari Q. Adams
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28215 (Online Only)
WHAT IS YOUR STORY?? How do you want to grow? What is still hurting you or holding you back? Hi, my name is Jabari Adams and I am a clinical counselor that works with my clients to promote positive and healthy outcomes. I tend to focus on the holistic health of my clients, encouraging them to prioritize their mental, physical, spiritual and emotional health. I have done extensive work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and adjustment related disorders. I also work well with clients that have survived significant trauma in their lives. You have come so far! I know that you are ready to begin living your best life!
WHAT IS YOUR STORY?? How do you want to grow? What is still hurting you or holding you back? Hi, my name is Jabari Adams and I am a clinical counselor that works with my clients to promote positive and healthy outcomes. I tend to focus on the holistic health of my clients, encouraging them to prioritize their mental, physical, spiritual and emotional health. I have done extensive work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression and adjustment related disorders. I also work well with clients that have survived significant trauma in their lives. You have come so far! I know that you are ready to begin living your best life!
![Photo of Ginelle Wolfe, PhD, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2986bcc0-b489-42de-8b15-652fcc37c802/2/320x400.jpeg)
You’re feeling stuck. The life you are living doesn’t feel authentic to your genuine self, and you’re ready for a change. I'm Dr. Wolfe, a psychologist who helps people figure out their goals and make progress towards them. I specialize in getting folks unstuck, whether they're dealing with depression, anxiety, adjusting to big life changes, or just feeling overwhelmed by stress. I also assist with managing stress, sorting out relationship issues, tackling body image struggles, and breaking unhealthy habits. My goal is to support you in leading a happier, more fulfilling life by providing practical guidance and support.
You’re feeling stuck. The life you are living doesn’t feel authentic to your genuine self, and you’re ready for a change. I'm Dr. Wolfe, a psychologist who helps people figure out their goals and make progress towards them. I specialize in getting folks unstuck, whether they're dealing with depression, anxiety, adjusting to big life changes, or just feeling overwhelmed by stress. I also assist with managing stress, sorting out relationship issues, tackling body image struggles, and breaking unhealthy habits. My goal is to support you in leading a happier, more fulfilling life by providing practical guidance and support.
15 Second Videos
Andrea Juarez
Eve Rogerson
Jenna Brunner
Jourdan Brickey
Maria Dimova
A. Maurice Harvey
Karen McKinney
Danaan Yo
Lauren Barker
Matthew House Counseling Center/Anthony Redfearn
Kristin Dickie
Erica Lima
Kristen Lynn McClure
Shay Danielle Reeves
Brittany Coulsting
Megan Draughn Anguiano
Matthew Cyr
Madison Gabriel
Jenna Bock
Madeline Cohen
Claudia Ribas
Rise Up Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Hannah Smith Adult Asd And Sex Therapist
Annie Day (Elizabeth Day)
Jody Friedman LCSW, Certified Psychoanalyst
Grace Tucker
Katie Parenti
Leah Donatelli
Amber Wood
Michael Burroughs, PLLC
Chloe Fedor-Locklear
Nakita Robinson
Paulina Mendez
Aileen Lassiter
Jamie Siegel
Matthew S. Beal
Kristel Byrd
Casey Kelly
Jonah Woodsong Leslie
Louise Carter
Meredith Staley
Ginelle E. Krummey
Brooke Stevenson
Betty Flores
Adrienne Claire Jeffries
![Photo of Zaire E King, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6870827f-e168-4f37-9395-a560800b157b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zaire E King
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! I’ve studied a multitude of counseling approaches for individuals, marriage and family systems. With over 15 years as a mental health provider, I understand the importance of destigmatizing mental health, and embodying social justice practice by serving marginalized communities and families. Utilizing a collaborative, person centered treatment approach, I focus on developing healthy coping skills and providing psychoeducation on your personal difficulties. Additionally, I believe in creating a warm and attuned environment where you feel heard, accepted and valued.
Greetings! I’ve studied a multitude of counseling approaches for individuals, marriage and family systems. With over 15 years as a mental health provider, I understand the importance of destigmatizing mental health, and embodying social justice practice by serving marginalized communities and families. Utilizing a collaborative, person centered treatment approach, I focus on developing healthy coping skills and providing psychoeducation on your personal difficulties. Additionally, I believe in creating a warm and attuned environment where you feel heard, accepted and valued.
![Photo of Cassandra Sigler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35521026-f50d-4e58-ab55-8b26c8821a57/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra Sigler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in North Carolina. I have largely worked with adults, providing support services during times of transition or loss, processing past trauma, anger management, among others. I also have a passion in working with veterans and their families. My ultimate goal is to help you become a happier and more connected individual, both internally and with the important people in your life.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist in North Carolina. I have largely worked with adults, providing support services during times of transition or loss, processing past trauma, anger management, among others. I also have a passion in working with veterans and their families. My ultimate goal is to help you become a happier and more connected individual, both internally and with the important people in your life.
![Photo of Jenna Brunner, LCMHCA, CRC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10ef26fe-e3a7-4a60-8a49-834e6b64c9a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
You’ve tried to push down painful experiences from your past for years now, but they just keep rising to the surface. You may feel powerless – like the part of you that feels hurt, worried, guilty, or ashamed is in control. The exhaustion from it all is overwhelming. And you recognize that it’s taking a toll on your wellbeing and impacting the relationships you care about most. But you don’t know what to do. Fortunately, change is possible. I am here to sit alongside and support you as you face this new experience head on, at your own pace. You are resilient and worthy of healing.
You’ve tried to push down painful experiences from your past for years now, but they just keep rising to the surface. You may feel powerless – like the part of you that feels hurt, worried, guilty, or ashamed is in control. The exhaustion from it all is overwhelming. And you recognize that it’s taking a toll on your wellbeing and impacting the relationships you care about most. But you don’t know what to do. Fortunately, change is possible. I am here to sit alongside and support you as you face this new experience head on, at your own pace. You are resilient and worthy of healing.
![Photo of Jourdan Brickey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62a847ac-46fa-4a7e-8fe8-37740b82df37/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jourdan Brickey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262 (Online Only)
Does it feel like you're constantly in a pattern of being misunderstood, undervalued, and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you know “better” but don't always "do better?" Does it feel like no matter how well you are doing in one part of your life, others are chaotic? Starting therapy doesn't always have to be done while in crisis. I know firsthand what it feels like to show up for myself, even when I don’t feel it. I specialize in working to support clients in developing a sense of stability and confidence, self-esteem and personal growth, overcoming intimacy issues, and becoming the best version of themselves.
Does it feel like you're constantly in a pattern of being misunderstood, undervalued, and overwhelmed? Do you feel like you know “better” but don't always "do better?" Does it feel like no matter how well you are doing in one part of your life, others are chaotic? Starting therapy doesn't always have to be done while in crisis. I know firsthand what it feels like to show up for myself, even when I don’t feel it. I specialize in working to support clients in developing a sense of stability and confidence, self-esteem and personal growth, overcoming intimacy issues, and becoming the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Sherry Lyerly-Tarner, MS, LCMHC, RT, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43bff0f9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sherry Lyerly-Tarner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, RT, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Therapy is a healing and transformative process, and it takes courage to seek help with the issues often brought to counseling. I believe healing involves looking at the whole person, and it is important to me to provide a safe environment for my clients where they can explore their challenges without judgment, and share with honesty and openness. I work with children, adolescents, teens & adults who want to become their best selves! Many are seeking greater self-awareness & guidance on their path, & many struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, body image, relationships, family stress & life transitions.
Therapy is a healing and transformative process, and it takes courage to seek help with the issues often brought to counseling. I believe healing involves looking at the whole person, and it is important to me to provide a safe environment for my clients where they can explore their challenges without judgment, and share with honesty and openness. I work with children, adolescents, teens & adults who want to become their best selves! Many are seeking greater self-awareness & guidance on their path, & many struggle with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, trauma, body image, relationships, family stress & life transitions.
![Photo of William Etheridge, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34adf908-90c1-473f-bc0d-d2543cd7fc75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) from North Carolina. I received my masters in 2019, and have been working in the field since 2020 professionally. I primarily work with adults 18+ but I do have experience working with teens and couples as well.
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) from North Carolina. I received my masters in 2019, and have been working in the field since 2020 professionally. I primarily work with adults 18+ but I do have experience working with teens and couples as well.
![Photo of Bonnie Anderson, MSW, LCSWA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca0fde50-27ea-421f-82d1-9486393bb95b/2/320x400.jpeg)
In getting to know me, you must know that, above all, I am a peddler of hope, a tireless advocate for the limitless capabilities and resilience of human beings. If you are struggling, I’m here for you. I use a person-centered, strengths-based, and solution-focused approach, utilizing the past to inform the present and move you towards the future you want to create. I’m trained in several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, allowing me to create a unique strategy for your healing.
In getting to know me, you must know that, above all, I am a peddler of hope, a tireless advocate for the limitless capabilities and resilience of human beings. If you are struggling, I’m here for you. I use a person-centered, strengths-based, and solution-focused approach, utilizing the past to inform the present and move you towards the future you want to create. I’m trained in several treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, allowing me to create a unique strategy for your healing.
![Photo of Simone B., M Ed, PSC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530b810c-2f4e-42e3-b0ec-a278ffae4dac/1/320x400.jpeg)
Simone B.
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, PSC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Are you overwhelmed with the day to day mess? Are you still recovering from the impact of the pandemic? Perhaps you are a recovering overachiever, looking to set boundaries, or undergoing complex family dynamics. Did you think that being an adult would be easier?! As a person who is learning & growing as an adult daily, it's easy to feel bogged down. Do you want to be more emotionally aware & compassionate to yourself and others but don't know where to start? Life doesn't have to feel like this and I'm here to help! Let's work together so the load can get lighter. Change is right around the corner.
Are you overwhelmed with the day to day mess? Are you still recovering from the impact of the pandemic? Perhaps you are a recovering overachiever, looking to set boundaries, or undergoing complex family dynamics. Did you think that being an adult would be easier?! As a person who is learning & growing as an adult daily, it's easy to feel bogged down. Do you want to be more emotionally aware & compassionate to yourself and others but don't know where to start? Life doesn't have to feel like this and I'm here to help! Let's work together so the load can get lighter. Change is right around the corner.
![Photo of Malia Suhren, MSW, LCSWA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f2e074e-66a9-4321-85d4-4ee5d47e724a/1/320x400.jpeg)
It is a privilege to walk alongside individuals who are willing to trust me to assist them as they grapple with depression, anxiety, grief, or other major life events. I like to approach all my clients with a genuine curiosity and collaborate with them to tailor our sessions towards your goals.
It is a privilege to walk alongside individuals who are willing to trust me to assist them as they grapple with depression, anxiety, grief, or other major life events. I like to approach all my clients with a genuine curiosity and collaborate with them to tailor our sessions towards your goals.
See more therapy options for Charlotte
Nearby Feminist Therapists Searches for Charlotte
- Belmont
- Concord
- Cornelius
- Davidson
- Gastonia
- Huntersville
- Kannapolis
- Matthews
- Mint Hill
- Mooresville
- Pineville
- Waxhaw
Feminist Therapists
How does feminist therapy work?
Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.
What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?
Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.
How long does feminist therapy last?
As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.
Does feminist therapy work?
As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.