Feminist Therapists in Pittsburgh, PA

Photo of Elizabeth Christine Sammons, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Christine Sammons
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15211  (Online Only)
My practices are also informed by feminist & critical race theories.
Currently enrolling for Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents Book Study & Processing group for the Fall! I take a holistic approach to healing, because more often than not the environments that contribute to strife are all encompassing. The path to healing is not linear, I enjoy aiding clients through an eclectic approach tailored to fit their needs. It's not about what's wrong with you- it's about what happened to you. I do not view clients as a diagnosis, but dynamic individuals navigating the human experience.
My practices are also informed by feminist & critical race theories.
Currently enrolling for Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents Book Study & Processing group for the Fall! I take a holistic approach to healing, because more often than not the environments that contribute to strife are all encompassing. The path to healing is not linear, I enjoy aiding clients through an eclectic approach tailored to fit their needs. It's not about what's wrong with you- it's about what happened to you. I do not view clients as a diagnosis, but dynamic individuals navigating the human experience.
(412) 530-6737 View (412) 530-6737
Photo of Olivia Shine, BA, BS, LPC Intern
Olivia Shine
LPC Intern, BA, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
With a dedication to fostering collective healing and advancing social justice within the mental health sphere, I am committed to nurturing spaces where individuals can reclaim their sense of safety, dignity, and belonging. Grounded in insight-oriented and existential approaches, my practice is profoundly relational and informed by intersectional feminist theory. I believe in collaboratively unraveling the complexities of personal narratives and empowering individuals to navigate their lived experiences with agency and authenticity.
With a dedication to fostering collective healing and advancing social justice within the mental health sphere, I am committed to nurturing spaces where individuals can reclaim their sense of safety, dignity, and belonging. Grounded in insight-oriented and existential approaches, my practice is profoundly relational and informed by intersectional feminist theory. I believe in collaboratively unraveling the complexities of personal narratives and empowering individuals to navigate their lived experiences with agency and authenticity.
(412) 444-7361 View (412) 444-7361
Photo of LeeAnna Petrone, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
LeeAnna Petrone
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15219  (Online Only)
My approach is strengths-based and trauma-informed, using elements of mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), feminist, and holistic approaches.
I work with individuals and couples navigating a range of reproductive mental health issues, including but not limited to: infertility, abortion, challenges across pregnancy, early parenting support, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, reproductive grief and loss, and reproductive trauma. I also offer general life transition, anxiety, grief, trauma, neurodivergent support, and LGBTQIA+ support to teens and adults.
My approach is strengths-based and trauma-informed, using elements of mindfulness, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), feminist, and holistic approaches.
I work with individuals and couples navigating a range of reproductive mental health issues, including but not limited to: infertility, abortion, challenges across pregnancy, early parenting support, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, reproductive grief and loss, and reproductive trauma. I also offer general life transition, anxiety, grief, trauma, neurodivergent support, and LGBTQIA+ support to teens and adults.
(724) 932-6185 View (724) 932-6185
Photo of Leese Hartman, MA, CCTP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Leese Hartman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
I believe strongly in the mind-body connection, using tools and interventions from polyvagal theory, narrative therapy, relational-cultural, and feminist theory,.
If you've experienced trauma, if you are looking for relief from physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, or if you feel unseen or unheard in this world, I'd be honored to support you.
I believe strongly in the mind-body connection, using tools and interventions from polyvagal theory, narrative therapy, relational-cultural, and feminist theory,.
If you've experienced trauma, if you are looking for relief from physical symptoms of stress and anxiety, or if you feel unseen or unheard in this world, I'd be honored to support you.
(412) 516-2684 View (412) 516-2684
Photo of Liana Martina Maneese, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liana Martina Maneese
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I work through a lens of Somatic Abolitionism, structural oppression, racial formation, and intersectional feminist theories while implementing a wide range of techniques based on client needs through radical acceptance, stress management, mindfulness, work-life balance, anti-oppression-based psychoeducation, and psychedelic integration.
I am a mother, creative, historian, writer, and identity navigation specialist working in the clinical mental health space. I am passionate about our pasts, our brains, anti-racism, justice, relationships, and identity. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health and Applied Psychology from Antioch New England. I like to take big-picture societal and systemic issues and ground them down to our everyday experiences. I believe that building strong, equitable, and informed relationships, with ourselves first, can begin to shift toxic societal narratives that have created cycles of trauma and suffering for far too long.
I work through a lens of Somatic Abolitionism, structural oppression, racial formation, and intersectional feminist theories while implementing a wide range of techniques based on client needs through radical acceptance, stress management, mindfulness, work-life balance, anti-oppression-based psychoeducation, and psychedelic integration.
I am a mother, creative, historian, writer, and identity navigation specialist working in the clinical mental health space. I am passionate about our pasts, our brains, anti-racism, justice, relationships, and identity. I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health and Applied Psychology from Antioch New England. I like to take big-picture societal and systemic issues and ground them down to our everyday experiences. I believe that building strong, equitable, and informed relationships, with ourselves first, can begin to shift toxic societal narratives that have created cycles of trauma and suffering for far too long.
(412) 415-7864 View (412) 415-7864
Photo of Debra Flint - Quiet Retreat Therapy, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quiet Retreat Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
Theresa Buczek(she) is a PsyD student who offers feminist therapy to kids and adults.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
Theresa Buczek(she) is a PsyD student who offers feminist therapy to kids and adults.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
(724) 573-8992 View (724) 573-8992
Photo of Harmony Sullivan, PsyD, Psychologist
Harmony Sullivan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Not accepting new clients
I work primarily using Emotionally Focused Couples and Individual Therapy model of therapy as well as mindfulness and an Intersectional Feminist perspective.
I believe we are all capable of changing our lives to feel happier more of the time. Perhaps you are struggling with a big transition, such as the death of a loved one, getting married or divorced, having a child, changing careers, or coming out. Or maybe you just feel stuck and you're not sure why. New clients often say that they are frustrated because they would like to feel happier but can't seem to figure out how. Therapy helps people break out of the rut and find new ways to achieve contentment.
I work primarily using Emotionally Focused Couples and Individual Therapy model of therapy as well as mindfulness and an Intersectional Feminist perspective.
I believe we are all capable of changing our lives to feel happier more of the time. Perhaps you are struggling with a big transition, such as the death of a loved one, getting married or divorced, having a child, changing careers, or coming out. Or maybe you just feel stuck and you're not sure why. New clients often say that they are frustrated because they would like to feel happier but can't seem to figure out how. Therapy helps people break out of the rut and find new ways to achieve contentment.
(412) 685-4579 View (412) 685-4579
Photo of Daniel Gruner, PhD, Psychologist
Daniel Gruner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
I practice psychodynamic, feminist psychology.
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening, a process which facilitates growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to your self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
I practice psychodynamic, feminist psychology.
Many come to therapy to change patterns of relating to others and themselves that they feel no longer serve them. I believe that these patterns, hard as they may be now, likely played some important role for you in the past. Perhaps addictions, habits, or defenses met otherwise unmet needs in your life, but now have become limiting and compulsive. I see myself as your partner in a process of deep listening, a process which facilitates growth, healing, and new possibilities for relating to your self and others. Specialties and modalities include: Clinical Hypnosis, gender therapy, trauma, addictions. Also see my group therapy option.
(412) 207-3740 View (412) 207-3740
Photo of Sarah Rizzi, MA, ATR-P, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sarah Rizzi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I work from a humanistic, feminist, social-justice, trauma-informed framework, and cultural humility guides my practice.
I am pro-you in whatever way you show up–your gender identity, sexual orientation, justice system involvement, relationship style, body size and physical ability, race and ethnicity, and unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world are welcome and celebrated here! I am affirming of neurodiversity and dissociative identities, and I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your experiences. I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, dissociative systems, and people who have experienced trauma.
I work from a humanistic, feminist, social-justice, trauma-informed framework, and cultural humility guides my practice.
I am pro-you in whatever way you show up–your gender identity, sexual orientation, justice system involvement, relationship style, body size and physical ability, race and ethnicity, and unique way of experiencing and interacting with the world are welcome and celebrated here! I am affirming of neurodiversity and dissociative identities, and I believe that you are the expert on yourself and your experiences. I love working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folks, dissociative systems, and people who have experienced trauma.
(412) 376-4123 View (412) 376-4123
Photo of Charles Warren, MS, NCC, LAPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Charles Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems (IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
I use a trauma informed lens and a non-judgmental framework in therapy that can include mindfulness, internal family systems (IFS), compassion focused, and feminist based theories focused on empowerment.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
(412) 998-7334 View (412) 998-7334
Photo of Virginia Wendt, MSCP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Virginia Wendt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Not accepting new clients
My approach is grounded in building a genuine and compassionate relationship with each client, and I'm guided by feminist, person-centered principles that prioritize discussing how power, oppression, and intersecting identities play a role in our lives.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in community mental health, including over seven years as a psychotherapist. I believe that when we're able to live as authentically, honestly, and purposefully as we can, we feel more satisfaction, connection, and peace. I believe that awareness, curiosity, and self-compassion are powerful and necessary tools for growth, and that how we make meaning - of our lives, relationships, and the world - is deeply connected to our ability to live a fulfilling life.
My approach is grounded in building a genuine and compassionate relationship with each client, and I'm guided by feminist, person-centered principles that prioritize discussing how power, oppression, and intersecting identities play a role in our lives.
Hello! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years of experience working in community mental health, including over seven years as a psychotherapist. I believe that when we're able to live as authentically, honestly, and purposefully as we can, we feel more satisfaction, connection, and peace. I believe that awareness, curiosity, and self-compassion are powerful and necessary tools for growth, and that how we make meaning - of our lives, relationships, and the world - is deeply connected to our ability to live a fulfilling life.
(412) 660-6100 View (412) 660-6100
Photo of Lexi Pizzuto, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lexi Pizzuto
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I see individuals and couples 18+. My style both in session and in life is one of authenticity, humor, and empathetic directness. I believe in approaching one’s wounds and struggles with compassionate curiosity and remaining open to the idea that healing is a lifelong journey of evolving and getting connected with ourselves over and over as we navigate the many seasons of our lives. My work is grounded in Feminist and Attachment theory, and I believe that the power of a collaborative and client autonomy focused therapeutic relationship is the foundation upon which healing is facilitated.
I see individuals and couples 18+. My style both in session and in life is one of authenticity, humor, and empathetic directness. I believe in approaching one’s wounds and struggles with compassionate curiosity and remaining open to the idea that healing is a lifelong journey of evolving and getting connected with ourselves over and over as we navigate the many seasons of our lives. My work is grounded in Feminist and Attachment theory, and I believe that the power of a collaborative and client autonomy focused therapeutic relationship is the foundation upon which healing is facilitated.
(412) 388-2282 View (412) 388-2282
Photo of Ocean Capewell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ocean Capewell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I can help you navigate through change: job loss, grief, family estrangement, divorce/breakup, gender exploration, working on anxious attachment or people-pleasing. Together, we can work to integrate trauma, depression, anxiety and other symptoms into a life that feels worthwhile, however you define that. There's definitely more than one path for healing, and what can look like stability to some can be uncomfortably stifling to others. I will utilize a combination of narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT/CBT skills (very optional!), feminist therapy and insight-oriented therapy to help you find your way forward.
I can help you navigate through change: job loss, grief, family estrangement, divorce/breakup, gender exploration, working on anxious attachment or people-pleasing. Together, we can work to integrate trauma, depression, anxiety and other symptoms into a life that feels worthwhile, however you define that. There's definitely more than one path for healing, and what can look like stability to some can be uncomfortably stifling to others. I will utilize a combination of narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, DBT/CBT skills (very optional!), feminist therapy and insight-oriented therapy to help you find your way forward.
(412) 318-9314 View (412) 318-9314
Photo of Molly Silverman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Silverman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15218  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My approach is based in Gestalt Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Please Note: My caseload is currently full and I am unable to accept new clients at this time. I will update this page when I do have openings...........Welcome! My name is Molly (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) located in Western Pennsylvania. I provide individual, one-on-one therapy via telehealth to women and LGBTQ+ folks 18 years or older within the state of Pennsylvania. I enjoy working with clients within the neurodivergent and queer communities, as I am a member of these communities myself.
My approach is based in Gestalt Therapy, Feminist Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Please Note: My caseload is currently full and I am unable to accept new clients at this time. I will update this page when I do have openings...........Welcome! My name is Molly (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) located in Western Pennsylvania. I provide individual, one-on-one therapy via telehealth to women and LGBTQ+ folks 18 years or older within the state of Pennsylvania. I enjoy working with clients within the neurodivergent and queer communities, as I am a member of these communities myself.
(412) 618-0241 View (412) 618-0241
Photo of Alyssa Laughner, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa Laughner
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am honored to help you take the next step of your journey. I am interested and curious about your needs and areas of concern. We will create a treatment plan reflective of your current stage of growth. This might include developing concrete coping skills, exploring issues from your past, or identifying choice point for living differently. Through an empowering relationship, my hope is to help you gain self-acceptance and clarity about your life situation. I will integrate aspects of interpersonal, feminist, and acceptance commitment therapy.
Welcome! I am honored to help you take the next step of your journey. I am interested and curious about your needs and areas of concern. We will create a treatment plan reflective of your current stage of growth. This might include developing concrete coping skills, exploring issues from your past, or identifying choice point for living differently. Through an empowering relationship, my hope is to help you gain self-acceptance and clarity about your life situation. I will integrate aspects of interpersonal, feminist, and acceptance commitment therapy.
(412) 946-0834 View (412) 946-0834
Photo of Susie J. Balcom, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie J. Balcom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15233  (Online Only)
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand how our relationships and society affect our healing and connections. I have experience treating those with complex trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues, and life transitions. I've worked extensively with survivors of sexual/gender-based violence, C/PTSD, workplace harassment, and those with re-traumatizing legal experiences. I'm proficient in working with those in sex work, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those exploring late-diagnosis neurodivergence.
(412) 520-3576 View (412) 520-3576
Photo of Abby Middleton, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Middleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My practice is relational, trauma-focused and is rooted in Feminist, Relational-Cultural, and Attachment Theories.
I see psychotherapy as an opportunity to explore the stories of our lives with the hope of finding healing in our ability to connect more deeply with ourselves and one another other, gain insight, flexibility, compassion, and freedom. I specialize in working with individuals who are looking to heal from trauma, past or ongoing traumatic stress, sexual and gender-based violence, spiritual abuse, and grief.
My practice is relational, trauma-focused and is rooted in Feminist, Relational-Cultural, and Attachment Theories.
I see psychotherapy as an opportunity to explore the stories of our lives with the hope of finding healing in our ability to connect more deeply with ourselves and one another other, gain insight, flexibility, compassion, and freedom. I specialize in working with individuals who are looking to heal from trauma, past or ongoing traumatic stress, sexual and gender-based violence, spiritual abuse, and grief.
(412) 723-8467 View (412) 723-8467
Photo of Madison Krull, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madison Krull
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I integrate Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal, Feminist, and Acceptance Commitment Therapies in my work.
INSTANT availability for Aetna and self-pay clients! Weekend morning appointments available! As your therapist, I recognize thoughts, feelings and emotions as a complex and natural part of the human experience. When we are able to respond to and understand these experiences as such, it is possible to become mindfully present, focused, and to cultivate healthy relationships. In our work together, I will help you explore the many parts of yourself and identify necessary tools to navigate life’s circumstances.
I integrate Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal, Feminist, and Acceptance Commitment Therapies in my work.
INSTANT availability for Aetna and self-pay clients! Weekend morning appointments available! As your therapist, I recognize thoughts, feelings and emotions as a complex and natural part of the human experience. When we are able to respond to and understand these experiences as such, it is possible to become mindfully present, focused, and to cultivate healthy relationships. In our work together, I will help you explore the many parts of yourself and identify necessary tools to navigate life’s circumstances.
(412) 910-2994 View (412) 910-2994
Photo of Molly Gorzelsky, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly Gorzelsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15220
I use some elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), feminist theories, solution focused therapy, and the exploration of relationships and attachments.
My goal is for you to feel like you can be open & honest without fear of being judged, so that we may process your issues safely in a welcoming, empathetic, & accepting environment. Counseling with me is very collaborative and integrative. I am looking to work with people who want to make changes in their lives but need some guidance. In therapy we can explore how your experiences, relationships, thoughts, & feelings are impacting your daily functioning. I like honest communication about what you are or aren't getting out of therapy so we can address your needs & be sure we are meeting expectations.
I use some elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), feminist theories, solution focused therapy, and the exploration of relationships and attachments.
My goal is for you to feel like you can be open & honest without fear of being judged, so that we may process your issues safely in a welcoming, empathetic, & accepting environment. Counseling with me is very collaborative and integrative. I am looking to work with people who want to make changes in their lives but need some guidance. In therapy we can explore how your experiences, relationships, thoughts, & feelings are impacting your daily functioning. I like honest communication about what you are or aren't getting out of therapy so we can address your needs & be sure we are meeting expectations.
(412) 324-7353 View (412) 324-7353
Photo of Megan Zurasky, MSCP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Megan Zurasky
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSCP
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15226
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
If you experienced sexual violence in the state of PA, ask me about ways to help cover your costs. I use a relational and feminist framework to help clients understand the role of relationships, culture, and society in their path to find healing and joy. My past clinical experience includes complex trauma treatment, crisis management, community mental health, survivor advocacy, group psychotherapy, late diagnosis neurodivergence, chronic pain and illness, anxiety/depression, burnout & vicarious trauma, and disordered eating/body image work.
(412) 838-4052 View (412) 838-4052
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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.