Female Therapists in Branchburg, NJ

Photo of Sharon D Anuario, MSW, LSW, LCSW, License, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon D Anuario
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW, License, LCADC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Along with my practice, I currently provide group therapy at Genpsych for adults (male and female) (Mental Health and Substance abuse, psychotherapy/coping strategies) I also currently provide group therapy for adolescents & adults ( DBT- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Process.
I am an experienced licensced clinical therapist providing counseling services to adults, adolescents & children. I will help give you the skills to improve your life and facilitate positive and effective changes. We will work together to understand and work through the issues. My work experience consists of providing individual, family & group therapy at Somerset Medical Center Outpatient Program (dual diagnosis) helping adults manage their illness. Also, was employed at Princeton Behavioral Health working with Trauma Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT & Process). I am currently seeing clients both in person and virtual.
Along with my practice, I currently provide group therapy at Genpsych for adults (male and female) (Mental Health and Substance abuse, psychotherapy/coping strategies) I also currently provide group therapy for adolescents & adults ( DBT- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Process.
I am an experienced licensced clinical therapist providing counseling services to adults, adolescents & children. I will help give you the skills to improve your life and facilitate positive and effective changes. We will work together to understand and work through the issues. My work experience consists of providing individual, family & group therapy at Somerset Medical Center Outpatient Program (dual diagnosis) helping adults manage their illness. Also, was employed at Princeton Behavioral Health working with Trauma Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT & Process). I am currently seeing clients both in person and virtual.
(908) 264-2899 View (908) 264-2899
Photo of Geraldine V. Oades-Sese, PhD, Psychologist
Geraldine V. Oades-Sese
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
Life is filled with many opportunities as well as challenges. My goal is to help children and adolescents recognize and seize those opportunities and overcome any challenges and obstacles that get in their way. By helping them create a positive mindset, build effective coping strategies, and expand their repertoire of problem-solving skills, they can live a healthy, satisfying, and successful social and academic life. The earlier these skills are cultivated within the child or adolescent, the greater the opportunities to practice and utilize them to their benefit.
(732) 993-7262 View (732) 993-7262
Photo of Bebe Brezanin-Brusky, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bebe Brezanin-Brusky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
We all experience anxiety from time to time. However, for some, anxiety seriously interferes with their lives - relationships, careers and ability to feel joy. Are you experiencing any of the following: excessive worries, inability to concentrate, muscle tension, restlessness, shortness of breath, fear of social situations, uncontrollable negative thoughts, upset stomach/nausea?
We all experience anxiety from time to time. However, for some, anxiety seriously interferes with their lives - relationships, careers and ability to feel joy. Are you experiencing any of the following: excessive worries, inability to concentrate, muscle tension, restlessness, shortness of breath, fear of social situations, uncontrollable negative thoughts, upset stomach/nausea?
(908) 279-0438 View (908) 279-0438
Photo of Kristy Fox-Berman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristy Fox-Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Do you have a history of trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, and/or unsatisfactory romantic relationships? Helping women to empower themselves through making healthy changes and achieving fulfilling relationships with themselves and others is my passion and expertise.
‘Be smart enough to know when you need help and brave enough to ask for it.' This quote describes you! I will work collaboratively with you to help you to empower yourself to lead a more fulfilling life and make the changes necessary to do so. The key to getting what you want starts with a healthy and reality-based self-esteem. I have great success at helping people cast- off their distorted core beliefs and see themselves for the valued and unique individuals they are. I am challenging, direct, honest, and genuine with my clients and am often told this is helpful and motivating.
Do you have a history of trauma, PTSD, low self-esteem, and/or unsatisfactory romantic relationships? Helping women to empower themselves through making healthy changes and achieving fulfilling relationships with themselves and others is my passion and expertise.
‘Be smart enough to know when you need help and brave enough to ask for it.' This quote describes you! I will work collaboratively with you to help you to empower yourself to lead a more fulfilling life and make the changes necessary to do so. The key to getting what you want starts with a healthy and reality-based self-esteem. I have great success at helping people cast- off their distorted core beliefs and see themselves for the valued and unique individuals they are. I am challenging, direct, honest, and genuine with my clients and am often told this is helpful and motivating.
(908) 341-1772 View (908) 341-1772
Photo of Gwen Susan Bloom, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen Susan Bloom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Depression Anxiety Mood Disorders Eating Disorders Addictive Behaviors Personality Disorders PTSD / Trauma Women's Issues Issues of Adolescence Adjustment Disorders Life Transitions Couples Counseling Family Therapy ADHD Psycho-Education SERVICES OFFERED Dialectical Behavior Therapy Individual Therapy Couple / Marital Counseling Family Therapy Group Therapy Crisis Intervention.
I have been a Clinical Social Worker since 1985. During the last 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work in many clinical settings, in both the public and private sector specializing in adolescence, adults, couples and families. Additionally, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, in-home, nursing home and school settings. I have been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and implemented a DBT track at a therapeutic High School for Ed teens,. At this juncture, my focus is private practice and to continue specializing in DBT and traditional psychotherapy with teens, adults, couples and families.
Depression Anxiety Mood Disorders Eating Disorders Addictive Behaviors Personality Disorders PTSD / Trauma Women's Issues Issues of Adolescence Adjustment Disorders Life Transitions Couples Counseling Family Therapy ADHD Psycho-Education SERVICES OFFERED Dialectical Behavior Therapy Individual Therapy Couple / Marital Counseling Family Therapy Group Therapy Crisis Intervention.
I have been a Clinical Social Worker since 1985. During the last 30 years, I have had the opportunity to work in many clinical settings, in both the public and private sector specializing in adolescence, adults, couples and families. Additionally, I have worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, in-home, nursing home and school settings. I have been trained in DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and implemented a DBT track at a therapeutic High School for Ed teens,. At this juncture, my focus is private practice and to continue specializing in DBT and traditional psychotherapy with teens, adults, couples and families.
(732) 588-8206 View (732) 588-8206
Photo of Katie Meier, PsyD , LP, LCSW, Psychologist
Katie Meier
Psychologist, PsyD , LP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
My goal is to help you reach your goals, whether you are looking to reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, process traumatic experiences, or cope with life stressors. I am confident that by combining evidence-based cognitive-behavioral strategies with my clinical experience that we can work together to get you where you want to be. I am passionate about working with individuals who have binge-eating disorder or challenges with body image, to help you develop a peaceful relationship with food and your body. If you’re looking for a therapist to take your needs seriously, while cracking a few jokes along the way, let’s get started!
My goal is to help you reach your goals, whether you are looking to reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression, process traumatic experiences, or cope with life stressors. I am confident that by combining evidence-based cognitive-behavioral strategies with my clinical experience that we can work together to get you where you want to be. I am passionate about working with individuals who have binge-eating disorder or challenges with body image, to help you develop a peaceful relationship with food and your body. If you’re looking for a therapist to take your needs seriously, while cracking a few jokes along the way, let’s get started!
(732) 676-8181 View (732) 676-8181
Photo of Dawn Cautillo Ryalls, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Cautillo Ryalls
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for a person to feel heard, to be respected, and to be understood. Each individual is unique and therefore no one issue is ever the same among different people. I utilize an integrative approach to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". Trust is paramount in the therapeutic setting and I strive to create a safe and empathetic environment to facilitate growth.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for a person to feel heard, to be respected, and to be understood. Each individual is unique and therefore no one issue is ever the same among different people. I utilize an integrative approach to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". Trust is paramount in the therapeutic setting and I strive to create a safe and empathetic environment to facilitate growth.
(908) 905-0804 View (908) 905-0804
Photo of Ashley Appleton - CogniCare Psychological Services, LLC, LPC, NCC
CogniCare Psychological Services, LLC
LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
CogniCare= Caring for your thoughts. Here at Cognicare we believe that caring for your mental health is imperative. Whether you're motivated and ready to work on a specific goal or introspective and curious about further exploring yourself, mental health therapy may be right for you. Our therapists are multiculturally competent and identity affirming. We are interested in helping you to navigate the complexities of life and it's impact on your overall functioning. Our practice may be right for you if: you identify as a minority/multiple minorities ( female, race other than Caucasian, member of the LGBTQ+ community, etc.), if you are struggling with your sexual orientation or gender identity or just want to further unpack in this area, if you are a parent of a child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community, if you are a parent in general, couples (including LGBTQ+ couples and non-conventional relationships), if you are struggling to afford mental health care, and/or if you are just someone who would like to prioritize their mental health.
CogniCare= Caring for your thoughts. Here at Cognicare we believe that caring for your mental health is imperative. Whether you're motivated and ready to work on a specific goal or introspective and curious about further exploring yourself, mental health therapy may be right for you. Our therapists are multiculturally competent and identity affirming. We are interested in helping you to navigate the complexities of life and it's impact on your overall functioning. Our practice may be right for you if: you identify as a minority/multiple minorities ( female, race other than Caucasian, member of the LGBTQ+ community, etc.), if you are struggling with your sexual orientation or gender identity or just want to further unpack in this area, if you are a parent of a child who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community, if you are a parent in general, couples (including LGBTQ+ couples and non-conventional relationships), if you are struggling to afford mental health care, and/or if you are just someone who would like to prioritize their mental health.
(908) 332-9637 View (908) 332-9637
Photo of Cheryl Jensen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheryl Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
I believe that everyone has the strength to heal and live their best life. Mental health issues can be a daily struggle for many, and carrying that pain is exhausting. Just know that seeking treatment doesn't have to be. I am a dedicated professional and provide a calming and welcoming environment. Through support and education, you can develop insight, learn healthy skills and identify your inner strengths to live a happy and fulfilling life.
I believe that everyone has the strength to heal and live their best life. Mental health issues can be a daily struggle for many, and carrying that pain is exhausting. Just know that seeking treatment doesn't have to be. I am a dedicated professional and provide a calming and welcoming environment. Through support and education, you can develop insight, learn healthy skills and identify your inner strengths to live a happy and fulfilling life.
(732) 334-7499 View (732) 334-7499
Photo of Katherine McCooe - Katherine McCooe Psychotherapy LLC, MS, LPC, LCADC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine McCooe Psychotherapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCADC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Are you feeling burnt out with the responsibilities of every day life? Are you a mom navigating all the stressors and challenges that come with raising little ones such as juggling your career, the heavy mental load, lack of support, and finding time for yourself? Being a full-time working mom of two boys, I know first hand how challenging and exhausting the demands of life can be. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Together we can work on learning how to cope with daily stressors and decrease your suffering.
Are you feeling burnt out with the responsibilities of every day life? Are you a mom navigating all the stressors and challenges that come with raising little ones such as juggling your career, the heavy mental load, lack of support, and finding time for yourself? Being a full-time working mom of two boys, I know first hand how challenging and exhausting the demands of life can be. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, and hopelessness. Together we can work on learning how to cope with daily stressors and decrease your suffering.
(908) 224-6669 View (908) 224-6669
Photo of Megan Mormile, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Mormile
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Welcome! Therapy has the potential to positively change the direction of your life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked with both adults and adolescents for the past 25 years. My work with clients centers around dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, social issues, life transitions, as well as, school and work-related difficulties. I have extensive experience working with both undergraduate and graduate level college students. I offer a judgement-free atmosphere where individuals can feel validated and supported throughout the therapeutic process.
Welcome! Therapy has the potential to positively change the direction of your life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked with both adults and adolescents for the past 25 years. My work with clients centers around dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, social issues, life transitions, as well as, school and work-related difficulties. I have extensive experience working with both undergraduate and graduate level college students. I offer a judgement-free atmosphere where individuals can feel validated and supported throughout the therapeutic process.
(908) 386-4053 View (908) 386-4053
Photo of Deborah Kaschak, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Kaschak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
I am an EMDR and DBT trained therapist who has enjoyed working in the mental health field for 20 years. I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, adults, and couples. I am a licensed clinical social worker and hold graduate degrees in both Social Work and Psychology. My focus is mood disorders, panic disorder, stress and anxiety, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and general relationship issues. I have experience in the field of adoption, helping couples work through loss issues related to infertility and educating families about adoption and parenting issues.
I am an EMDR and DBT trained therapist who has enjoyed working in the mental health field for 20 years. I work with a diverse group of clients, including children, adults, and couples. I am a licensed clinical social worker and hold graduate degrees in both Social Work and Psychology. My focus is mood disorders, panic disorder, stress and anxiety, personality disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and general relationship issues. I have experience in the field of adoption, helping couples work through loss issues related to infertility and educating families about adoption and parenting issues.
(908) 845-8411 View (908) 845-8411
Photo of Margarita Kushner, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margarita Kushner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08853  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Margarita, whether this is your first time in therapy or have decided to continue I am here to support you in your mental health journey. Therapy can be a space for yourself to reinforce the changes you've made or to continue learning of ways to overcome life stressors. I'm a firm believer that if something keeps coming up or that you're not happy with a particular aspect of your life, we can look at it together with kindness and patience. This way we learn more about it.
Hello, my name is Margarita, whether this is your first time in therapy or have decided to continue I am here to support you in your mental health journey. Therapy can be a space for yourself to reinforce the changes you've made or to continue learning of ways to overcome life stressors. I'm a firm believer that if something keeps coming up or that you're not happy with a particular aspect of your life, we can look at it together with kindness and patience. This way we learn more about it.
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Photo of Ruxandra Ritter, PhD, LPC, Psychologist
Ruxandra Ritter
Psychologist, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08876
I also work with women who are confronted with medical conditions that affect body image and intimacy.
Whether you feel burdened by sadness or stress, worried about your personal relationships, or puzzled by sexual difficulties, there is hope. Over the years, I have seen many people enter the therapeutic journey with doubt and hesitancy, and emerge with a renewed sense of meaning and joy in connecting with others. I am passionate about what I do and I deeply believe that good psychotherapy can transform lives. I hold a doctorate degree in clinical psychology and have post-graduate training, as well as special interest, in addressing sexual issues, relationship difficulties, and struggles with life transitions.
I also work with women who are confronted with medical conditions that affect body image and intimacy.
Whether you feel burdened by sadness or stress, worried about your personal relationships, or puzzled by sexual difficulties, there is hope. Over the years, I have seen many people enter the therapeutic journey with doubt and hesitancy, and emerge with a renewed sense of meaning and joy in connecting with others. I am passionate about what I do and I deeply believe that good psychotherapy can transform lives. I hold a doctorate degree in clinical psychology and have post-graduate training, as well as special interest, in addressing sexual issues, relationship difficulties, and struggles with life transitions.
(908) 842-0295 View (908) 842-0295
Photo of Cristina Varriale, LAC, Counselor
Cristina Varriale
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08876
You’re here because your middle schooler or high schooler is struggling. Friendships, academics, relationships, maybe even bullying, has them overwhelmed and over stressed. Sometimes school challenges can become home challenges and your relationship becomes strained. I spent decades in the school environment as a counselor, here in the US and abroad. I am drawn to working hands-on with parents and kids to problem solve, and also make the most of this exciting, albeit stressful, time in their lives. Imagine your child navigating life’s ups and downs with confidence.
You’re here because your middle schooler or high schooler is struggling. Friendships, academics, relationships, maybe even bullying, has them overwhelmed and over stressed. Sometimes school challenges can become home challenges and your relationship becomes strained. I spent decades in the school environment as a counselor, here in the US and abroad. I am drawn to working hands-on with parents and kids to problem solve, and also make the most of this exciting, albeit stressful, time in their lives. Imagine your child navigating life’s ups and downs with confidence.
(908) 271-5814 View (908) 271-5814
Photo of Melissa Kleiman - Stepping Into The Moment, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Kleiman - Stepping Into The Moment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08853
Change your life!! Learn to build self value through positive thinking and increased self awareness. Become empowered to make positive changes in your life and enjoy healthy relationships with improved communication and understanding of self and others. Find happiness and peace in your life through mindfulness, meditation and healthy coping techniques. Our practice, Stepping into the Moment, has a group of excellent well-trained therapists: Ms. Melissa Kleiman LCSW, Ms.Cristina Primerano LCSW, Ms.Nancy Baldwin LCSW, Ms. Lori Fortunato LCSW, Ms.Joanne Bistany LCSW and Mr. Elizan Morales, LCSW.
Change your life!! Learn to build self value through positive thinking and increased self awareness. Become empowered to make positive changes in your life and enjoy healthy relationships with improved communication and understanding of self and others. Find happiness and peace in your life through mindfulness, meditation and healthy coping techniques. Our practice, Stepping into the Moment, has a group of excellent well-trained therapists: Ms. Melissa Kleiman LCSW, Ms.Cristina Primerano LCSW, Ms.Nancy Baldwin LCSW, Ms. Lori Fortunato LCSW, Ms.Joanne Bistany LCSW and Mr. Elizan Morales, LCSW.
(908) 731-5929 View (908) 731-5929
Photo of Stacey A. Ehrhard, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey A. Ehrhard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Life can be highly complex, with obstacles overwhelming the healthiest of minds. The decision to seek counseling is often not an easy one. Successful therapy is more than the absence of symptoms or issues, it is a life enriched with increased self-awareness/compassion/empowerment. I will help you recognize and build upon your strengths, challenging restrictive/limiting beliefs/behaviors, and grow toward wholeness, confidence, and joy. Healing happens in relationships when there's true and honest connections with others, but more importantly within oneself. Finding and using your "inner voice" is often the key needed to begin meaningful change.
Life can be highly complex, with obstacles overwhelming the healthiest of minds. The decision to seek counseling is often not an easy one. Successful therapy is more than the absence of symptoms or issues, it is a life enriched with increased self-awareness/compassion/empowerment. I will help you recognize and build upon your strengths, challenging restrictive/limiting beliefs/behaviors, and grow toward wholeness, confidence, and joy. Healing happens in relationships when there's true and honest connections with others, but more importantly within oneself. Finding and using your "inner voice" is often the key needed to begin meaningful change.
(908) 349-1247 View (908) 349-1247
Photo of Stephanie Haymaker, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie Haymaker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876  (Online Only)
I believe that psychotherapy is a process that affords the opportunity to reflect on what is and what is not working in your life. My approach is tailored to the individual. I will take an active role in working to identify what your issues are and what may be helpful to address them. The therapeutic relationship is a central part of my work and I emphasize creating a safe and comfortable environment in which self-exploration may flourish. My patients find me to be accessible, easy to talk to, and well-equipped to accompany them on their therapuetic journey.
I believe that psychotherapy is a process that affords the opportunity to reflect on what is and what is not working in your life. My approach is tailored to the individual. I will take an active role in working to identify what your issues are and what may be helpful to address them. The therapeutic relationship is a central part of my work and I emphasize creating a safe and comfortable environment in which self-exploration may flourish. My patients find me to be accessible, easy to talk to, and well-equipped to accompany them on their therapuetic journey.
(908) 520-0577 View (908) 520-0577
Photo of Melissa Donahue - New Jersey Center for Sexual Wellness, MSW, LCSW, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Jersey Center for Sexual Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08853
Welcome to the New Jersey Center for Sexual Wellness, central New Jersey's only comprehensive resource for men, women, and teens seeking to enhance their sexual health, relationships, pleasure and knowledge. We provide evaluation of sexual problems, dysfunctions and concerns of both women and men. In addition to specialized and expert medical and psychological treatment, we offer educational consulting and programs on topics related to sexuality.
Welcome to the New Jersey Center for Sexual Wellness, central New Jersey's only comprehensive resource for men, women, and teens seeking to enhance their sexual health, relationships, pleasure and knowledge. We provide evaluation of sexual problems, dysfunctions and concerns of both women and men. In addition to specialized and expert medical and psychological treatment, we offer educational consulting and programs on topics related to sexuality.
(201) 817-6523 View (201) 817-6523
Photo of Katharine Mary Bergacs - My Place for Peace, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
My Place for Peace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08853
No matter how strong we are, we all need help sometimes. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for months, even years. We’re so glad you’ve taken this courageous step and found us. We’re confident that together we can develop the tools to help you overcome whatever challenges you face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety and/or depression interfering in your life, trauma and loss, or life transitions, it is important that you know you don’t have to go it alone. We have the experience to help you face your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
No matter how strong we are, we all need help sometimes. We know it can be hard to ask for help. Maybe you’ve been thinking about it for months, even years. We’re so glad you’ve taken this courageous step and found us. We’re confident that together we can develop the tools to help you overcome whatever challenges you face. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety and/or depression interfering in your life, trauma and loss, or life transitions, it is important that you know you don’t have to go it alone. We have the experience to help you face your challenges, achieve your goals, and live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(908) 628-0108 View (908) 628-0108
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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.