Feminist Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of L Pearson, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
L Pearson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
My work is informed by an anti-oppressive, relational-cultural, sex-positive feminist lens.
There are many paths to wellness. People enter therapy to address a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, crisis, depression, trauma, and shame. Others are exploring more about themselves, relationships, reflecting upon past patterns, and developing new strategies for living. My intention is to create an authentic, non-judgmental, safe environment in which I can join you on your journey of self-compassion, exploration, and growth. I am passionate about living in a world that is safe for all. I strive in my practice to be sensitive to concerns regarding intersectionality, marginalization, and oppression.
My work is informed by an anti-oppressive, relational-cultural, sex-positive feminist lens.
There are many paths to wellness. People enter therapy to address a wide range of concerns, from anxiety, crisis, depression, trauma, and shame. Others are exploring more about themselves, relationships, reflecting upon past patterns, and developing new strategies for living. My intention is to create an authentic, non-judgmental, safe environment in which I can join you on your journey of self-compassion, exploration, and growth. I am passionate about living in a world that is safe for all. I strive in my practice to be sensitive to concerns regarding intersectionality, marginalization, and oppression.
(503) 754-8905 View (503) 754-8905
Photo of Mitzy King, LCSW, LSSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mitzy King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
I’m in your corner. Offering therapy that is relational, affirming and empathetic while grounded in feminist and social justice values. I use evidence based modalities and a bit of intuition to partner with you on your therapeutic journey. I foster a space where you can explore your identities, your values and life experiences.
I’m in your corner. Offering therapy that is relational, affirming and empathetic while grounded in feminist and social justice values. I use evidence based modalities and a bit of intuition to partner with you on your therapeutic journey. I foster a space where you can explore your identities, your values and life experiences.
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Photo of Jules Allison, MA, LPC, CADC II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jules Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC II
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
As a Queer and Non-binary supervisor I use feminist, mindfulness and strengths-based approaches to supervise from a social justice oriented lens. I also strive to help my supervisees in their own career development— especially as it concerns how to make a good living while keeping therapy accessible within the context of private practice.
As a Queer and Non-binary supervisor I use feminist, mindfulness and strengths-based approaches to supervise from a social justice oriented lens. I also strive to help my supervisees in their own career development— especially as it concerns how to make a good living while keeping therapy accessible within the context of private practice.
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Photo of Bethprana Novi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bethprana Novi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
I also bring a feminist perspective to my work.
I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My job as your therapist is to help you to find solutions and answers that work for you. I will walk beside you on your path, providing guidance, support and direction when needed. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where ideas, concepts, and problems can be examined without pressure. I would like for you to think of my expertise and the therapeutic experience as a tool you can use in order to achieve your goals and start to live the kind of positive life you have imagined.
I also bring a feminist perspective to my work.
I believe that you are the expert in your own life. My job as your therapist is to help you to find solutions and answers that work for you. I will walk beside you on your path, providing guidance, support and direction when needed. I provide a safe and non-judgmental space where ideas, concepts, and problems can be examined without pressure. I would like for you to think of my expertise and the therapeutic experience as a tool you can use in order to achieve your goals and start to live the kind of positive life you have imagined.
(503) 451-6738 View (503) 451-6738
Photo of Randi Wood, MS, QMHP
Randi Wood
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have a Social Justice/Sex-Positive/HAES/Feminist Lens.
Feel Overwhelmed? Find yourself feeling stuck in a cycle? Have you tried to work on this on your own, only to feel frustrated or defeated. You're not alone. It can be difficult navigating traumatic experiences, waves of grief, the depths of depression, and/or the sheer grip anxiety can have on us. Also sometimes our brains are just diverse within systems that aren't always supportive. Life can be really hard at times, even when you are trying your best. Yet, still there is hope. There are people that care & want to help support you in your journey. Change, healing, insight, and growth are all possible with collaboration & courage.
I have a Social Justice/Sex-Positive/HAES/Feminist Lens.
Feel Overwhelmed? Find yourself feeling stuck in a cycle? Have you tried to work on this on your own, only to feel frustrated or defeated. You're not alone. It can be difficult navigating traumatic experiences, waves of grief, the depths of depression, and/or the sheer grip anxiety can have on us. Also sometimes our brains are just diverse within systems that aren't always supportive. Life can be really hard at times, even when you are trying your best. Yet, still there is hope. There are people that care & want to help support you in your journey. Change, healing, insight, and growth are all possible with collaboration & courage.
(503) 506-2921 View (503) 506-2921
Photo of Diana Crane, MA, LPC-A
Diana Crane
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities depending on the client, though I most often use Humanistic and Person-Centered Therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Somatic Therapy and mindfulness practices.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles.
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities depending on the client, though I most often use Humanistic and Person-Centered Therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Somatic Therapy and mindfulness practices.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles.
(503) 647-4154 View (503) 647-4154
Photo of Mariah L Beltran, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Mariah L Beltran
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
As a Chicana feminist psychologist, my specialty is working with clients on their relationships with their body, themselves, & others as they navigate life changes.
Now accepting new clients! I'm a psychology resident at Avid Counseling under the supervision of Dr. Thaen Saelee. I have experience working with individuals seeking support for disordered eating behaviors, body-image concerns, trauma-related concerns, identity development, & the spectrum of relationship concerns. I am passionate about supporting women of color, in particular – Latina/e women & women who are of mixed race/ethnicities. My philosophy is that clients are the experts on their lives & I am honored to walk alongside them as they find their optimal health.
As a Chicana feminist psychologist, my specialty is working with clients on their relationships with their body, themselves, & others as they navigate life changes.
Now accepting new clients! I'm a psychology resident at Avid Counseling under the supervision of Dr. Thaen Saelee. I have experience working with individuals seeking support for disordered eating behaviors, body-image concerns, trauma-related concerns, identity development, & the spectrum of relationship concerns. I am passionate about supporting women of color, in particular – Latina/e women & women who are of mixed race/ethnicities. My philosophy is that clients are the experts on their lives & I am honored to walk alongside them as they find their optimal health.
(503) 966-3858 View (503) 966-3858
Photo of Marena Passarelli, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marena Passarelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I am passionate about treating individuals impacted by eating disorders, body liberation, anxiety, and those struggling with emotion regulation. My individual therapy approach stems from feminist theory, as well as a DBT and CBT perspective. It is my goal to support you in connecting with yourself and your body, as well as connecting with others through self-exploration and acceptance. I have worked in various treatment settings, including residential and intensive outpatient treatment for eating disorders, and community/school mental health. Please explore more about me on my website.
I am passionate about treating individuals impacted by eating disorders, body liberation, anxiety, and those struggling with emotion regulation. My individual therapy approach stems from feminist theory, as well as a DBT and CBT perspective. It is my goal to support you in connecting with yourself and your body, as well as connecting with others through self-exploration and acceptance. I have worked in various treatment settings, including residential and intensive outpatient treatment for eating disorders, and community/school mental health. Please explore more about me on my website.
(310) 359-8795 View (310) 359-8795
Photo of Elizabeth Sumpf, LCSW, RYT-200, TCYM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Sumpf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200, TCYM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
We’ll explore this through somatic therapy, parts work, tapping, mindfulness, self-compassion and spirituality along with a feminist and cultural framework.
Does it feel like you wear a mask in everyday life? As if there’s a disconnect between your true self and what you show to others. Maybe you feel disconnected from yourself and uncertain what it even means to feel connected to your body and aligned with your soul. Do you want to be guided by your intuition but feel it’s clouded by fear and shame? Does a judgmental inner critic control most of your thoughts and you don’t know how to stop it? You have awareness that things need to change and now it’s exploring how to make these changes. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, “Mindfulness must be engaged. Once there is seeing, there must be acting."
We’ll explore this through somatic therapy, parts work, tapping, mindfulness, self-compassion and spirituality along with a feminist and cultural framework.
Does it feel like you wear a mask in everyday life? As if there’s a disconnect between your true self and what you show to others. Maybe you feel disconnected from yourself and uncertain what it even means to feel connected to your body and aligned with your soul. Do you want to be guided by your intuition but feel it’s clouded by fear and shame? Does a judgmental inner critic control most of your thoughts and you don’t know how to stop it? You have awareness that things need to change and now it’s exploring how to make these changes. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, “Mindfulness must be engaged. Once there is seeing, there must be acting."
(954) 715-6050 View (954) 715-6050
Photo of Lark Ryan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lark Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a sex positive feminist therapist.
Ready for change? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears, and work to release you from the wounds of the past. I tailor therapy to each unique individual to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
I'm a sex positive feminist therapist.
Ready for change? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears, and work to release you from the wounds of the past. I tailor therapy to each unique individual to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
(503) 461-7663 View (503) 461-7663
Photo of Rachel Burk, PCA
Rachel Burk
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I use an Existential Therapy approach to counseling, with influences of Feminist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques.
Life is challenging, and for some, it feels impossible. Unwelcome and harmful thoughts and feelings make happiness a task that seems far out of reach. It can be overwhelming, and it can negatively affect the way we function in our day to day lives. If this speaks to you, I want you to know that you are not alone, and I would be honored to help you work toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
I use an Existential Therapy approach to counseling, with influences of Feminist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques.
Life is challenging, and for some, it feels impossible. Unwelcome and harmful thoughts and feelings make happiness a task that seems far out of reach. It can be overwhelming, and it can negatively affect the way we function in our day to day lives. If this speaks to you, I want you to know that you are not alone, and I would be honored to help you work toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
(503) 855-6903 View (503) 855-6903
Photo of Emma Knighton, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Emma Knighton
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I will work with you to attend to your mind, body, & spirit. It is common for people who have experienced significant life changes, challenging relationship dynamics, or trauma to feel a sense of disconnection from their inner self, their bodies, & their relationships. It often feels as if the weight of your experiences are blocking you from fully engaging in your present life. I specialize in helping you heal these barriers to growth & building unity within yourself & your relationships. My approach is grounded in anti-oppression, queer, feminist, & consent theories and is poly, kink, sex-worker, & gender-identity affirming.
I will work with you to attend to your mind, body, & spirit. It is common for people who have experienced significant life changes, challenging relationship dynamics, or trauma to feel a sense of disconnection from their inner self, their bodies, & their relationships. It often feels as if the weight of your experiences are blocking you from fully engaging in your present life. I specialize in helping you heal these barriers to growth & building unity within yourself & your relationships. My approach is grounded in anti-oppression, queer, feminist, & consent theories and is poly, kink, sex-worker, & gender-identity affirming.
(503) 436-6402 View (503) 436-6402
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Sauber, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Elizabeth Sauber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I also draw upon the wisdoms of feminist, queer, and liberation psychologies to explore the struggle of being human from a social justice lens.
I see therapy as a place for people to be deeply understood and gently challenged to take action on what they value most. I use a collaborative, strengths-based approach to help folks connect with the resilience and knowledge that has already been working for them, as well as to target areas where they’ve been struggling. While I was trained as a generalist at the University of Maryland, I later specialized in supporting those with histories of grief and loss, identity related stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I particularly enjoy working with young adults, older adults, Veterans, and queer folks.
I also draw upon the wisdoms of feminist, queer, and liberation psychologies to explore the struggle of being human from a social justice lens.
I see therapy as a place for people to be deeply understood and gently challenged to take action on what they value most. I use a collaborative, strengths-based approach to help folks connect with the resilience and knowledge that has already been working for them, as well as to target areas where they’ve been struggling. While I was trained as a generalist at the University of Maryland, I later specialized in supporting those with histories of grief and loss, identity related stress, trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance use. I particularly enjoy working with young adults, older adults, Veterans, and queer folks.
(503) 713-6753 View (503) 713-6753
Photo of Katie A Diershaw, PsyD, Psychologist
Katie A Diershaw
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Waitlist for new clients
Not taking new clients until Sept 2023. Therapy is an inherently collaborative process. Effective therapy begins by building a foundation of trust, understanding, and compassion. I see my clients as experts on their experience, their values, and their goals. My role is to work with individuals to identify and develop creative strategies, tools, insights, etc., to support their growth and healing. As an integrative therapist, my work is primarily based in Gestalt, CBT/DBT, Mindfulness-based therapies, and is neuropsychologically informed. My work is grounded in feminist/intersectional frameworks with an emphasis on cultural humility.
Not taking new clients until Sept 2023. Therapy is an inherently collaborative process. Effective therapy begins by building a foundation of trust, understanding, and compassion. I see my clients as experts on their experience, their values, and their goals. My role is to work with individuals to identify and develop creative strategies, tools, insights, etc., to support their growth and healing. As an integrative therapist, my work is primarily based in Gestalt, CBT/DBT, Mindfulness-based therapies, and is neuropsychologically informed. My work is grounded in feminist/intersectional frameworks with an emphasis on cultural humility.
(971) 803-5804 View (971) 803-5804
Photo of Emily Ardent, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Ardent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I view therapy as a collaborative, unfolding process that considers clients holistically. I draw from feminist and somatic approaches, using IFS to help you reconnect with your centered-self, those around you, and broader structures of support and thriving. You can expect a safe and nonjudgmental space - I strive to incorporate anti-oppressive frameworks into my practice, attending to your social and cultural context. I believe that many challenges are related to structural violence and that we hold this trauma in our bodies. I enjoy helping clients tune into their embodied experience to release pain and find understanding.
I view therapy as a collaborative, unfolding process that considers clients holistically. I draw from feminist and somatic approaches, using IFS to help you reconnect with your centered-self, those around you, and broader structures of support and thriving. You can expect a safe and nonjudgmental space - I strive to incorporate anti-oppressive frameworks into my practice, attending to your social and cultural context. I believe that many challenges are related to structural violence and that we hold this trauma in our bodies. I enjoy helping clients tune into their embodied experience to release pain and find understanding.
(971) 290-1182 View (971) 290-1182
Photo of Sofia Khan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Khan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
I offer individual therapy working from an intersectional feminist multicultural lens to adolescents and adults.
I am passionate about empowering folks to gain awareness into their own lives so that they can learn to support themselves while navigating life’s challenges. I strive to help people live in a way that invites deeper fulfillment and balance by harnessing their natural ability to cope with stress, emotional pain, and trauma. My therapeutic style incorporates warmth, humor, honest feedback, and values respect and creativity. I prioritize creating a space to safely experiment with sincere ways of being. My goal is to help people create meaningful and positive changes to their lives.
I offer individual therapy working from an intersectional feminist multicultural lens to adolescents and adults.
I am passionate about empowering folks to gain awareness into their own lives so that they can learn to support themselves while navigating life’s challenges. I strive to help people live in a way that invites deeper fulfillment and balance by harnessing their natural ability to cope with stress, emotional pain, and trauma. My therapeutic style incorporates warmth, humor, honest feedback, and values respect and creativity. I prioritize creating a space to safely experiment with sincere ways of being. My goal is to help people create meaningful and positive changes to their lives.
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Photo of Erin VanVoorhies, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin VanVoorhies
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Working within a feminist and anti-oppressive framework, I am attentive to the intersecting identities and social contexts that shape each individual’s experience and am committed to providing culturally responsive care.
I specialize in working with young adults with a range of concerns, including trauma, adult ADHD, relationships, anxiety, depression, and gender/sexual identity concerns. My style is warm, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for healing and growth, thus I strive to create an empathically attuned environment that facilitates deeper self-understanding, emotional awareness and acceptance, and creative problem-solving to help you move forward.
Working within a feminist and anti-oppressive framework, I am attentive to the intersecting identities and social contexts that shape each individual’s experience and am committed to providing culturally responsive care.
I specialize in working with young adults with a range of concerns, including trauma, adult ADHD, relationships, anxiety, depression, and gender/sexual identity concerns. My style is warm, collaborative, and strength-based. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for healing and growth, thus I strive to create an empathically attuned environment that facilitates deeper self-understanding, emotional awareness and acceptance, and creative problem-solving to help you move forward.
(503) 461-6844 View (503) 461-6844
Photo of Jona Behrer, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jona Behrer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
My approach to counseling is experiential, trauma informed, humanistic, feminist and sex positive.
Life is both beauty and pain. You don't have to bear it alone. Therapy can help! I help my clients move from survival to growth. We'll work together to process and release emotions, increase self awareness, and gain insight for change. Through this process you'll build empowerment and resilience which will help you to cope with life's challenges and strive toward a happier and healthier life. I specialize in trauma, women's issues, & grief. I help clients as they navigate difficulties with anxiety, attachment, depression, loss, low self esteem, the patriarchy, pregnancy, postpartum, relationships and trauma.
My approach to counseling is experiential, trauma informed, humanistic, feminist and sex positive.
Life is both beauty and pain. You don't have to bear it alone. Therapy can help! I help my clients move from survival to growth. We'll work together to process and release emotions, increase self awareness, and gain insight for change. Through this process you'll build empowerment and resilience which will help you to cope with life's challenges and strive toward a happier and healthier life. I specialize in trauma, women's issues, & grief. I help clients as they navigate difficulties with anxiety, attachment, depression, loss, low self esteem, the patriarchy, pregnancy, postpartum, relationships and trauma.
(971) 599-2826 View (971) 599-2826
Photo of Naomi Baker, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Naomi Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I offer individual therapy, consultation, and clinical supervision for MFT and professional counseling associates. As a neurodivergent, feminist, depth-oriented therapist I value curiosity, kindness and creative exploration as ways to help you deepen your relationship with your inner way of knowing and navigating our world in a troubled time.
I offer individual therapy, consultation, and clinical supervision for MFT and professional counseling associates. As a neurodivergent, feminist, depth-oriented therapist I value curiosity, kindness and creative exploration as ways to help you deepen your relationship with your inner way of knowing and navigating our world in a troubled time.
(503) 455-7595 View (503) 455-7595
Photo of Ari Kramer, PsyD, Psychologist
Ari Kramer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Creating change in our minds, our relationships, and our society takes internal work. Without self-care, we can get burned out from feeling anxious about the world around us, coping with internalized oppression,or struggling with self-esteem. We are shaped by our feelings about ourselves and our surroundings. I use a multicultural feminist approach to explore these feelings, relationships, and process the effects of your social context. Therapy can be a safe space to support, challenge, and motivate you while you're doing the brave work of learning, growing and healing.
Creating change in our minds, our relationships, and our society takes internal work. Without self-care, we can get burned out from feeling anxious about the world around us, coping with internalized oppression,or struggling with self-esteem. We are shaped by our feelings about ourselves and our surroundings. I use a multicultural feminist approach to explore these feelings, relationships, and process the effects of your social context. Therapy can be a safe space to support, challenge, and motivate you while you're doing the brave work of learning, growing and healing.
(503) 213-9173 View (503) 213-9173
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.