Female Therapists in Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA
![Photo of Mackenzie Stocum, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2520cb5-8a88-4d23-98c3-25864506d3ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Mackenzie Stocum
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Do you feel lost or overwhelmed about the direction of your life, relationships, or the state of the world? Is uncertainty or hopelessness making it hard to stay present and engaged? Is your connection with yourself and others suffering because of it? If you sense a need for change but feel stuck, anxious, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. I specialize in helping individuals through major life transitions, navigating relationship issues, and managing anxiety and depression. My relational approach focuses on building a trusting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that is essential for healing and meaningful change.
Do you feel lost or overwhelmed about the direction of your life, relationships, or the state of the world? Is uncertainty or hopelessness making it hard to stay present and engaged? Is your connection with yourself and others suffering because of it? If you sense a need for change but feel stuck, anxious, or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. I specialize in helping individuals through major life transitions, navigating relationship issues, and managing anxiety and depression. My relational approach focuses on building a trusting, non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that is essential for healing and meaningful change.
![Photo of Nikki Walter, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/adea5764-4e25-4dad-b6e9-9c9dd5fcb5aa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Walter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD using a relational lens. If you're looking for an authentic, transparent clinician who utilizes humor and compassion to help clients navigate the complexities of life, we'll likely be a great match.. My therapist vibe is "professional friend" and while we will explore heavy, painful topics, therapy is not going to be a huge bummer the whole time. We will joke, we will riff, we will come up for air. No matter what you're going through, or have faced in the past, I sincerely believe that healing is possible and would be honored to support you on that journey.
I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, and PTSD using a relational lens. If you're looking for an authentic, transparent clinician who utilizes humor and compassion to help clients navigate the complexities of life, we'll likely be a great match.. My therapist vibe is "professional friend" and while we will explore heavy, painful topics, therapy is not going to be a huge bummer the whole time. We will joke, we will riff, we will come up for air. No matter what you're going through, or have faced in the past, I sincerely believe that healing is possible and would be honored to support you on that journey.
![Photo of Elizabeth Cohane, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce2523e7-0ed8-4501-afca-96bf71f1dde8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Cohane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Sometimes it can feel like life is just passing us by, and we can't seem to find a rhythm; where we feel settled and satisfied. Life can feel really hard sometimes, and no one should have to struggle alone when things are overwhelming. My goal is to empower you, and help you break down the barriers that stand in the way of you living a happy and fulfilled life. I specialize in working with adolescence, young adults, and adults struggling with (but not limited to) life transitions, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and those experiencing relationship issues.
Sometimes it can feel like life is just passing us by, and we can't seem to find a rhythm; where we feel settled and satisfied. Life can feel really hard sometimes, and no one should have to struggle alone when things are overwhelming. My goal is to empower you, and help you break down the barriers that stand in the way of you living a happy and fulfilled life. I specialize in working with adolescence, young adults, and adults struggling with (but not limited to) life transitions, self-esteem issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and those experiencing relationship issues.
![Photo of Octavia Beyah, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f220644-9ba3-4c2b-9d8f-33e98d9e8ba1/3/320x400.jpeg)
Octavia Beyah
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Navigating the path to therapy or seeking a new therapist can feel like an overwhelming journey. My therapeutic approach begins with establishing a strong connection with my clients - fostering an environment where the healing process can organically unfold. My ultimate objective is to empower clients through self-motivation and self-awareness that leads to transformative changes and an enhanced quality of life. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults - my expertise includes a wide range of clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges and life transitions.
Navigating the path to therapy or seeking a new therapist can feel like an overwhelming journey. My therapeutic approach begins with establishing a strong connection with my clients - fostering an environment where the healing process can organically unfold. My ultimate objective is to empower clients through self-motivation and self-awareness that leads to transformative changes and an enhanced quality of life. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults - my expertise includes a wide range of clinical issues such as anxiety, depression, relationship challenges and life transitions.
![Photo of Sharon Kopyc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6699fe6d-abec-4281-bb02-1d9ff63d5b8e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Kopyc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
I am a therapist with many years of experience and have several post-graduate certifications, but I understand very well that being an open and engaging professional is first most to help people feel comfortable to talk about how to untangle their issues. The therapeutic relationship is "a must" and I am often sought out because of my ability to connect easily with others. My speciality includes depression, anxiety, grief and trauma which so many individuals have experienced. Please give me a call and I'll be happy to answer any questions you have about therapy or about me. I am licensed in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
I am a therapist with many years of experience and have several post-graduate certifications, but I understand very well that being an open and engaging professional is first most to help people feel comfortable to talk about how to untangle their issues. The therapeutic relationship is "a must" and I am often sought out because of my ability to connect easily with others. My speciality includes depression, anxiety, grief and trauma which so many individuals have experienced. Please give me a call and I'll be happy to answer any questions you have about therapy or about me. I am licensed in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
![Photo of Jessica Renee Blanding-Coleman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53e1adf2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Renee Blanding-Coleman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
If only life were as easy as scrolling through counselor profiles. Let me help you bring healing and understanding to life's difficulties so you can move past them and into a better mind space. I am experienced in all areas of mental health, but I am highly effective in treating stress, anxiety, and depression. In addition to working with those experiencing difficult life transitions such as loss and divorce, I also enjoy working with women's issues such as infertility, postpartum conditions, parenting issues, and adjustments dealing with weight loss.
If only life were as easy as scrolling through counselor profiles. Let me help you bring healing and understanding to life's difficulties so you can move past them and into a better mind space. I am experienced in all areas of mental health, but I am highly effective in treating stress, anxiety, and depression. In addition to working with those experiencing difficult life transitions such as loss and divorce, I also enjoy working with women's issues such as infertility, postpartum conditions, parenting issues, and adjustments dealing with weight loss.
![Photo of Rachel Brookland, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d897b833-1f8c-46d3-96cf-00c68ba14abc/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel Brookland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Women experience very unique challenges, which influence overall well-being, contentedness, and connection. Together we will build awareness and understanding of your experiences. We will identify how thoughts, feeling, and behaviors influence each other and gain tools to foster growth and wellness. My therapeutic work includes working with individuals coping with women's health issues, including, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety. infertility, adjustment disorders, anxiety, work-life balance, stress management, and relationship/communication issues.
Women experience very unique challenges, which influence overall well-being, contentedness, and connection. Together we will build awareness and understanding of your experiences. We will identify how thoughts, feeling, and behaviors influence each other and gain tools to foster growth and wellness. My therapeutic work includes working with individuals coping with women's health issues, including, perinatal and postpartum depression/anxiety. infertility, adjustment disorders, anxiety, work-life balance, stress management, and relationship/communication issues.
![Photo of Megan Bousquet, MA, ATR, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a37a6b17-a9e6-4435-806e-d4f77876b4e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Bousquet
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Throughout a woman’s life there are many emotional shifts and it takes strength to reach out for support! I understand the many challenges and stress that sometimes might have you not feeling like yourself. Do you feel alone, anxious, tired, sad, angry, irritable, or stressed? I work with women who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief and loss, fertility, miscarriage, transition to motherhood, and other life changing events. I have specialized training in anxiety, maternal mental health (pregnancy, birth, postpartum, motherhood), child development, and eating disorders.
Throughout a woman’s life there are many emotional shifts and it takes strength to reach out for support! I understand the many challenges and stress that sometimes might have you not feeling like yourself. Do you feel alone, anxious, tired, sad, angry, irritable, or stressed? I work with women who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief and loss, fertility, miscarriage, transition to motherhood, and other life changing events. I have specialized training in anxiety, maternal mental health (pregnancy, birth, postpartum, motherhood), child development, and eating disorders.
![Photo of Johanna Dwinells, LPC, MA, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26fca470-f9ed-42f6-b1fa-c624206c50da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Johanna Dwinells
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Are you working towards self-acceptance? Are you tired of the roles and stigma that have been placed on you? Does a life worth of anxiety feel like a heavy load? Do you sometimes feel stuck, creatively, career wise, socially or emotionally? Do completing the smallest tasks seem monumental? Do you want to find and harness your potential? Have you struggled with mindfulness or meditation? Do you find that sometimes your emotions drive your decisions? Do you want to improve your life but don't know where to start?
Are you working towards self-acceptance? Are you tired of the roles and stigma that have been placed on you? Does a life worth of anxiety feel like a heavy load? Do you sometimes feel stuck, creatively, career wise, socially or emotionally? Do completing the smallest tasks seem monumental? Do you want to find and harness your potential? Have you struggled with mindfulness or meditation? Do you find that sometimes your emotions drive your decisions? Do you want to improve your life but don't know where to start?
![Photo of Susanna Baldwin Vargo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c16e9417-09c5-466c-8e2d-db36fe909792/3/320x400.jpeg)
Susanna Baldwin Vargo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Is this your first time seeking therapy? We may be a great fit! In therapy, we explore things that get in the way of your ability to connect to yourself or your relationships with others. We address the fullness of the human experience that can range from fears, losses, and heartbreak to success, well-being, and self-empowerment. We identify your personal strengths and develop tools together that enable you to better manage present and future changes and challenges as they arise. I also have experience working with healthcare providers.
Is this your first time seeking therapy? We may be a great fit! In therapy, we explore things that get in the way of your ability to connect to yourself or your relationships with others. We address the fullness of the human experience that can range from fears, losses, and heartbreak to success, well-being, and self-empowerment. We identify your personal strengths and develop tools together that enable you to better manage present and future changes and challenges as they arise. I also have experience working with healthcare providers.
![Photo of Danielle Marie Sullivan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfb06273-001e-4839-b3c3-1a05260bd4a7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Marie Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
We all experience hardship. I believe that counseling is a powerful tool to help us navigate our daily journey and grow. In the midst of adversity, we can cultivate strength and reach goals that may seem impossible. I partner with clients to identify their needs and strategies to reach their goals. My role is to help identify and cultivate these strengths through focusing on skills such as communication, emotional regulation, coping, feeling identification and self-advocacy. I believe that each individual has personal strengths and each family system has strengths and resources to meet their needs and reach their goals.
We all experience hardship. I believe that counseling is a powerful tool to help us navigate our daily journey and grow. In the midst of adversity, we can cultivate strength and reach goals that may seem impossible. I partner with clients to identify their needs and strategies to reach their goals. My role is to help identify and cultivate these strengths through focusing on skills such as communication, emotional regulation, coping, feeling identification and self-advocacy. I believe that each individual has personal strengths and each family system has strengths and resources to meet their needs and reach their goals.
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![Photo of Mal Ragunathan, LSW, EdM, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7d1f4ad-8ae3-4053-9020-ff9017d42f3d/1/320x400.png)
Mal Ragunathan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW, EdM, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with individuals and couples, who are seeking support with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, navigating parent-child relationships, and perinatal mental health. I work best with those who are committed to a process of turning inward - those who want to interrogate their familial systems and dynamics, unlearn harmful patterns of relating, and work with trans-generational patterns of trauma and healing. I am invested in centering your lived experience and how it impacts the way you move through the world as well as how you relate to yourself and others.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples, who are seeking support with anxiety, depression, complex trauma, navigating parent-child relationships, and perinatal mental health. I work best with those who are committed to a process of turning inward - those who want to interrogate their familial systems and dynamics, unlearn harmful patterns of relating, and work with trans-generational patterns of trauma and healing. I am invested in centering your lived experience and how it impacts the way you move through the world as well as how you relate to yourself and others.
![Photo of Linda Suzanne Elma - Life Skills Management Services LLC, MBA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91811fcb-702b-43ec-84a7-7ce75bca68d6/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life Skills Management Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
We are licensed in Oregon, Maine, Minnesota, Florida, Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, North Carolina and Colorado. We currently offer telehealth and virtual therapeutic services. We work with individuals with a wide range of concerns including depression, mood disorders, family relations issues, substance use disorders, and co-occurring disorders. We combine different therapeutic approaches based on client's presenting concerns, goals, and motivation, such as, cognitive-behavioral, brief therapy, mindfulness, client-centered, solution-focused therapy.
![Photo of Maddie Plummer, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f20c54e8-3c76-4b5a-8f82-9fc507c3cad8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Maddie Plummer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
I am a licensed therapist and provide individual therapy to adults. I offer a warm and supportive therapeutic approach during sessions in order to provide a space for clients to feel safe and comfortable. I encourage openness so that we can explore your thoughts and emotions together in session.
I am a licensed therapist and provide individual therapy to adults. I offer a warm and supportive therapeutic approach during sessions in order to provide a space for clients to feel safe and comfortable. I encourage openness so that we can explore your thoughts and emotions together in session.
![Photo of Francesca Papazis, LAPC, MPhilEd, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fafc8d3a-293f-4bd8-9b75-1815c9472cd3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Francesca Papazis
Pre-Licensed Professional, LAPC, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, past/childhood trauma, and attachment healing, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging them to work toward their individual goals and embrace their intuitive sense of self.
I believe you know yourself better than anyone else. I also believe humans are built for connection, and when you find a therapist that is the right fit for your needs, therapy can be healing. I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, sexuality/identity exploration, past/childhood trauma, and attachment healing, though I am here to support you with any topics you choose to bring to session. I encourage safety and empowerment with my clients, compassionately challenging them to work toward their individual goals and embrace their intuitive sense of self.
![Photo of Rebecca Clarke, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5005af1f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123
I feel it is an honor and privilege to serve as a therapist. Creating a partnership with clients, I work to provide a safe, warm, nurturing and empathic space. My goal as an EMDR therapist is to work collaboratively with clients- creating transformative healing and change, and increasing self understanding and self compassion. I currently have availability for intensive EMDR- individually tailored (half, full or multi day therapy) in person at my Philadelphia location or online (PA and NJ residents).
I feel it is an honor and privilege to serve as a therapist. Creating a partnership with clients, I work to provide a safe, warm, nurturing and empathic space. My goal as an EMDR therapist is to work collaboratively with clients- creating transformative healing and change, and increasing self understanding and self compassion. I currently have availability for intensive EMDR- individually tailored (half, full or multi day therapy) in person at my Philadelphia location or online (PA and NJ residents).
![Photo of Sharea Farmer - RS Counseling & Wellness Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e68420b0-0a3a-48d9-afe0-e1c5fc2f9dc7/1/320x400.png)
RS Counseling & Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
We are a group practice with multiple approaches in helping clients recover from anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. We have therapist that have worked in a variety of clinical settings where they received specialized training in the following therapeutic practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and more. We are now accepting new clients for therapist with available space, we have a passion for working with individuals, couples, families and groups to improve their quality of life. Let us join you on your journey of healing and growth.
We are a group practice with multiple approaches in helping clients recover from anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. We have therapist that have worked in a variety of clinical settings where they received specialized training in the following therapeutic practices: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Theory, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and more. We are now accepting new clients for therapist with available space, we have a passion for working with individuals, couples, families and groups to improve their quality of life. Let us join you on your journey of healing and growth.
![Photo of Hilary Bayley Loielo, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50972902-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hilary Bayley Loielo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123
Struggling with mental health issues and life transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help you feel less alone and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I emphasize the therapeutic relationship and work from a place of empathy, authenticity and compassion for the self. My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, addiction, and PTSD. Additionally, I am experienced in postpartum and perinatal anxiety and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families.
Struggling with mental health issues and life transitions can feel isolating and overwhelming. My goal as a psychotherapist is to help you feel less alone and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life. I emphasize the therapeutic relationship and work from a place of empathy, authenticity and compassion for the self. My areas of experience include anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship issues, life transitions, addiction, and PTSD. Additionally, I am experienced in postpartum and perinatal anxiety and depression. I work with individuals, couples and families.
![Photo of Kara Lacey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18af8ef6-22fe-4a40-b0b2-7495b715adde/2/320x400.png)
Kara Lacey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123 (Online Only)
Being a human comes with all sorts of challenging and rewarding experiences. Sometimes, those experiences are overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally exhausting. I believe that people are resilient and have the ability for change. My approach to therapy is collaborative, with a focus on self-exploration, increasing insight, and empowering a person to be the best version of themselves.
Being a human comes with all sorts of challenging and rewarding experiences. Sometimes, those experiences are overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally exhausting. I believe that people are resilient and have the ability for change. My approach to therapy is collaborative, with a focus on self-exploration, increasing insight, and empowering a person to be the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Antonia Cianfrani, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a7529dd1-00f3-454a-a887-09e6521f2baa/1/320x400.jpeg)
Antonia Cianfrani
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northern Liberties, Philadelphia, PA 19123
As an art therapist, I value the innate creativity within each person, viewing art not only as a means of communication but also as a vehicle for self-discovery and growth. I approach healing through a feminist lens, recognizing and addressing the intersectional dynamics that influence mental health. I integrate CBT, mindfulness techniques, and talk therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your individual needs. Recognizing the potential intimidation and anxiety associated with therapy, I prioritize fostering a warm, non-judgmental environment where humor is not just welcomed but embraced.
As an art therapist, I value the innate creativity within each person, viewing art not only as a means of communication but also as a vehicle for self-discovery and growth. I approach healing through a feminist lens, recognizing and addressing the intersectional dynamics that influence mental health. I integrate CBT, mindfulness techniques, and talk therapy, tailoring my approach to meet your individual needs. Recognizing the potential intimidation and anxiety associated with therapy, I prioritize fostering a warm, non-judgmental environment where humor is not just welcomed but embraced.
See more therapy options for Northern Liberties, Philadelphia
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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.