Feminist Therapists in Annandale, VA

Photo of Allison Gasca-Backman, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Gasca-Backman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Many of my clients have internalized a belief system that they are not good enough, not loveable, not worthy of belonging, or broken in some way. These "core beliefs" are often a result of early life trauma or times when people or ideologies have harmed us. Oftentimes, clients of mine are struggling with body image concerns, disordered eating and exercise, chronic dieting, chronic health conditions and medical trauma, and gender/identity concerns, all of which crop up as ways that clients can "fix themselves" from these negative core beliefs. In my work with clients, I love to begin challenging some of those long-held beliefs.
Many of my clients have internalized a belief system that they are not good enough, not loveable, not worthy of belonging, or broken in some way. These "core beliefs" are often a result of early life trauma or times when people or ideologies have harmed us. Oftentimes, clients of mine are struggling with body image concerns, disordered eating and exercise, chronic dieting, chronic health conditions and medical trauma, and gender/identity concerns, all of which crop up as ways that clients can "fix themselves" from these negative core beliefs. In my work with clients, I love to begin challenging some of those long-held beliefs.
(703) 991-8952 View (703) 991-8952
Photo of Anna Katherine Smith, CSOTP, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Katherine Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, CSOTP, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients (feel free to make a free 15 minute initial consultation by reaching out via email or phone), Anna Smith takes a person-centered approach with all clients. This means working along side you to identify and work towards meeting your individual goals.
Currently accepting new clients (feel free to make a free 15 minute initial consultation by reaching out via email or phone), Anna Smith takes a person-centered approach with all clients. This means working along side you to identify and work towards meeting your individual goals.
(757) 799-4529 View (757) 799-4529
Photo of Jacqueline Lubovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Lubovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
As of 07/2024 I am accepting new clients. I recognize a very strong connection between body and mind. Primarily, I utilize techniques to help you gain awareness into your inner landscape of physical sensations, how these are connected to your emotions, and combine movement with talk therapy. We work with different somatic based tools to build capacity in managing different stressors and releasing past "stuck" experiences. Using what we learn from our body can often help us in navigating anxiety, depression, stress, difficult emotions, situations, life transitions and trauma stored in the body.
As of 07/2024 I am accepting new clients. I recognize a very strong connection between body and mind. Primarily, I utilize techniques to help you gain awareness into your inner landscape of physical sensations, how these are connected to your emotions, and combine movement with talk therapy. We work with different somatic based tools to build capacity in managing different stressors and releasing past "stuck" experiences. Using what we learn from our body can often help us in navigating anxiety, depression, stress, difficult emotions, situations, life transitions and trauma stored in the body.
(571) 982-8336 View (571) 982-8336
Photo of Casey Yenyo, Pre-Licensed Professional
Casey Yenyo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
Hello! If you are reading this, perhaps you are considering making a change in your life, or processing life experiences, and I commend you for taking this step! As a therapist, I value creating a space where you feel safe, at ease, and cared for. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where the best results happen when we work together to achieve your goals. It is hugely important to me to establish a trauma-informed space that is specific to your needs, so I always welcome and encourage your feedback!
Hello! If you are reading this, perhaps you are considering making a change in your life, or processing life experiences, and I commend you for taking this step! As a therapist, I value creating a space where you feel safe, at ease, and cared for. I believe therapy is a collaborative process where the best results happen when we work together to achieve your goals. It is hugely important to me to establish a trauma-informed space that is specific to your needs, so I always welcome and encourage your feedback!
(434) 423-5882 View (434) 423-5882
Photo of Erika Rodriguez - Kindred Tree Healing Center, llc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kindred Tree Healing Center, llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
At Kindred Tree Healing Center, we provide holistic psychotherapy, yoga, reiki, and other healing based services. We help individuals overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and other life stressors. We operate from an attachment based lens, and are a social justice allied practice.
At Kindred Tree Healing Center, we provide holistic psychotherapy, yoga, reiki, and other healing based services. We help individuals overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, and other life stressors. We operate from an attachment based lens, and are a social justice allied practice.
(571) 424-1189 View (571) 424-1189
Photo of Lakeisha Grayer - Modern Mind Therapy + Life Coaching, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Modern Mind Therapy + Life Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Modern Mind is a new approach to mental wellness focused on updating your mental consciousness in a way that frees you from negative thought patterns. By using an integrative approach that treats you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. The goal is to empower you by helping you to develop problem-solving and enhanced coping skills that create long-lasting, growth-oriented solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Modern Mind is a new approach to mental wellness focused on updating your mental consciousness in a way that frees you from negative thought patterns. By using an integrative approach that treats you as a whole person, not a diagnosis. The goal is to empower you by helping you to develop problem-solving and enhanced coping skills that create long-lasting, growth-oriented solutions tailored to your unique needs.
(571) 200-3932 View (571) 200-3932
Photo of Ebony Harrison, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ebony Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
Hello, I'm Ebony Harrison, a licensed professional counselor with more than 5 years of experience supporting diverse populations across different environments. My primary focus areas include anxiety, grief, death/dying, and trauma. I take pleasure in assisting individuals grappling with life's overwhelming stressors. Collaborating closely with my clients, I tailor care to prioritize their unique experiences. By offering perspective and gently encouraging growth through healthy challenges, I foster a safe and supportive environment for personal development.
Hello, I'm Ebony Harrison, a licensed professional counselor with more than 5 years of experience supporting diverse populations across different environments. My primary focus areas include anxiety, grief, death/dying, and trauma. I take pleasure in assisting individuals grappling with life's overwhelming stressors. Collaborating closely with my clients, I tailor care to prioritize their unique experiences. By offering perspective and gently encouraging growth through healthy challenges, I foster a safe and supportive environment for personal development.
(434) 336-3985 View (434) 336-3985
Photo of Dr. Helen Rathbun, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Helen Rathbun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003  (Online Only)
I see therapy as time dedicated to unpacking your thoughts and feelings. It's also a space to process past experiences that may have been confusing or painful. I believe it's crucial to have a trusting therapeutic relationship where you are genuinely seen and valued, allowing space for all your identities to be acknowledged and validated. Working with me, you will find an attentive, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist. My clinical foundation is psychodynamic, relational, cognitive behavioral, and culturally attuned.
I see therapy as time dedicated to unpacking your thoughts and feelings. It's also a space to process past experiences that may have been confusing or painful. I believe it's crucial to have a trusting therapeutic relationship where you are genuinely seen and valued, allowing space for all your identities to be acknowledged and validated. Working with me, you will find an attentive, compassionate, and non-judgmental therapist. My clinical foundation is psychodynamic, relational, cognitive behavioral, and culturally attuned.
(202) 798-3410 View (202) 798-3410

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Burgess, MEd
Catherine Burgess
Resident in Counseling, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22033  (Online Only)
I integrate harm reduction, relational cultural and feminist theories, alongside creative, solution-focused, and strength based interventions.
I am passionate working with folks who have experienced complex trauma or co-occurring diagnoses. I aim to help those I work with discover their inherent strengths and how to use those strengths to help facilitate their growth and healing. I often work folks at intersections of oppression helping them to navigate the challenges they experience while affirming their identites.
I integrate harm reduction, relational cultural and feminist theories, alongside creative, solution-focused, and strength based interventions.
I am passionate working with folks who have experienced complex trauma or co-occurring diagnoses. I aim to help those I work with discover their inherent strengths and how to use those strengths to help facilitate their growth and healing. I often work folks at intersections of oppression helping them to navigate the challenges they experience while affirming their identites.
(540) 781-0637 View (540) 781-0637
Photo of Kristel Byrd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristel Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I proudly identify as a feminist and supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi, My name is Kristel. I am an LCSW who provides talk therapy via Telehealth. I am a multifaceted individual with a deep well of life experiences that inform my perspective. As a former military brat and spouse, I've intimately understood the complexities of life's transitions. My journey has taken me from being a stay-at-home mom to transitioning back into the workforce, granting me a unique appreciation for both roles.
I proudly identify as a feminist and supporter of the LGBTQ+ community.
Hi, My name is Kristel. I am an LCSW who provides talk therapy via Telehealth. I am a multifaceted individual with a deep well of life experiences that inform my perspective. As a former military brat and spouse, I've intimately understood the complexities of life's transitions. My journey has taken me from being a stay-at-home mom to transitioning back into the workforce, granting me a unique appreciation for both roles.
(804) 373-7631 View (804) 373-7631
Photo of Katy Miller, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katy Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22306  (Online Only)
She also uses feminist theory to understand how one's identity has been impacted by social constructs.
Katy Miller is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Relation Works, offering virtual services to residents throughout the United States. Katy specializes in coaching individuals who want to have healthy and safe interpersonal relationships. Whether it be navigating the dating world, creating a safe attachment to your child, or understanding the impact of domestic violence, Katy partners with those who want to carve out their future by taking a deep dive into the past.
She also uses feminist theory to understand how one's identity has been impacted by social constructs.
Katy Miller is a Licensed Professional Counselor and owner of Relation Works, offering virtual services to residents throughout the United States. Katy specializes in coaching individuals who want to have healthy and safe interpersonal relationships. Whether it be navigating the dating world, creating a safe attachment to your child, or understanding the impact of domestic violence, Katy partners with those who want to carve out their future by taking a deep dive into the past.
(703) 782-3864 View (703) 782-3864
Photo of Christian Greene - Eclectic DC, LICSW, PMH-C, WPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eclectic DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C, WPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as an ethicist; a Womanist who advocates and practices feminist ideals, cultural humility through continuous learning, bodily integrity, reproductive justice, sex work is work, pacifism by utilizing non-violent resistance techniques. I believe children have rights, whistleblowers are vital in society, I embrace LGBTQ+, Black Lives Matter is factual, and representation matters. I practice mindfulness with the philosophy of ‘margin to center’ action. I embody, advocate, and support activism in action and respect of human rights. Neither ever ends, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. We must remain firmly resolved
I identify as an ethicist; a Womanist who advocates and practices feminist ideals, cultural humility through continuous learning, bodily integrity, reproductive justice, sex work is work, pacifism by utilizing non-violent resistance techniques. I believe children have rights, whistleblowers are vital in society, I embrace LGBTQ+, Black Lives Matter is factual, and representation matters. I practice mindfulness with the philosophy of ‘margin to center’ action. I embody, advocate, and support activism in action and respect of human rights. Neither ever ends, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. We must remain firmly resolved
(202) 968-3652 View (202) 968-3652
Photo of Dr. Jenay Garrett, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Jenay Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a certified EMDR therapist, I utilize a trauma informed and integrative approach which includes EMDR, CBT, and Feminist Theory to help clients process through experiences of trauma, depression, racial issues, anxiety, and relationship issues in a healthy manner.
Life has a way to dealing certain cards that can have a huge impact how we see and interact with the world around us. Those experiences mixed with negative feelings/emotions can create disruptions or disharmony in our life's; leaving us feeling angry, depressed, anxious, ashamed, hurt, disappointed, confused, unbalance, or traumatized. Any issue left unresolved has the potential to create or continue an unhealthy cycle of functioning. Using therapy, I provide clients with the space/environment where they can explore and process past and present experiences that impact how they feel and function.
As a certified EMDR therapist, I utilize a trauma informed and integrative approach which includes EMDR, CBT, and Feminist Theory to help clients process through experiences of trauma, depression, racial issues, anxiety, and relationship issues in a healthy manner.
Life has a way to dealing certain cards that can have a huge impact how we see and interact with the world around us. Those experiences mixed with negative feelings/emotions can create disruptions or disharmony in our life's; leaving us feeling angry, depressed, anxious, ashamed, hurt, disappointed, confused, unbalance, or traumatized. Any issue left unresolved has the potential to create or continue an unhealthy cycle of functioning. Using therapy, I provide clients with the space/environment where they can explore and process past and present experiences that impact how they feel and function.
(757) 320-0703 View (757) 320-0703
Photo of Dr. K. Danise Mok, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. K. Danise Mok
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201  (Online Only)
My primary therapy approach integrates interpersonal, feminist, compassion-focused, psychodynamic, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) therapies.
I conceptualize psychotherapy from a humanistic approach, which entails holistically understanding your background, identities, strengths, growth areas, interpersonal relationships, goals, values, etc. I strive to create a culturally sensitive, inclusive, and affirming space to facilitate growth and insights. This allows you to implement what you have gained in therapy in your everyday life. I specialize in trauma treatment and empowerment, identity exploration and integration, and working with folx from marginalized communities (i.e. LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, faith crisis/transition, immigrant/international background, etc. )
My primary therapy approach integrates interpersonal, feminist, compassion-focused, psychodynamic, and acceptance and commitment (ACT) therapies.
I conceptualize psychotherapy from a humanistic approach, which entails holistically understanding your background, identities, strengths, growth areas, interpersonal relationships, goals, values, etc. I strive to create a culturally sensitive, inclusive, and affirming space to facilitate growth and insights. This allows you to implement what you have gained in therapy in your everyday life. I specialize in trauma treatment and empowerment, identity exploration and integration, and working with folx from marginalized communities (i.e. LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, faith crisis/transition, immigrant/international background, etc. )
(703) 440-7822 View (703) 440-7822
Photo of Tessa Wimberley, PhD, Psychologist
Tessa Wimberley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Waitlist for new clients
I tend to integrate interpersonal, psychodynamic, multicultural-feminist, mindfulness-based, and some cognitive-behavioral approaches in my work.
I offer compassionate counseling services that help you to access greater wellness in life. I enjoy supporting my clients in navigating a range of life stages and transitions. I believe deeply in the healing role of an authentic and warm therapeutic relationship. I have a passion for helping my clients to gain new levels of insight, collaborating around creative and compassionate ways to address personal and professional concerns, facilitating a safe space to explore important identities and cultural experiences, as well as supporting my clients' development of healthy relationships with others that can foster long-term growth.
I tend to integrate interpersonal, psychodynamic, multicultural-feminist, mindfulness-based, and some cognitive-behavioral approaches in my work.
I offer compassionate counseling services that help you to access greater wellness in life. I enjoy supporting my clients in navigating a range of life stages and transitions. I believe deeply in the healing role of an authentic and warm therapeutic relationship. I have a passion for helping my clients to gain new levels of insight, collaborating around creative and compassionate ways to address personal and professional concerns, facilitating a safe space to explore important identities and cultural experiences, as well as supporting my clients' development of healthy relationships with others that can foster long-term growth.
(240) 349-7384 View (240) 349-7384
Photo of Dr. Delishia Pittman, PhD, MPH, ABPP, LPC, NCC, Psychologist
Dr. Delishia Pittman
Psychologist, PhD, MPH, ABPP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Delishia Pittman, Founder & Clinical Director of The Wellness Collective. I applaud you for taking this brave step toward finding support to work through the issues that concern you most. It is my personal belief that humans have an innate capacity to heal and orientation toward growth. I subscribe to an integrative multicultural orientation and rely heavily on the language and interventions of relational cultural, feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to establish a sense of felt security and empowerment with the goal of managing presenting concerns and fostering growth and wellbeing.
I'm Dr. Delishia Pittman, Founder & Clinical Director of The Wellness Collective. I applaud you for taking this brave step toward finding support to work through the issues that concern you most. It is my personal belief that humans have an innate capacity to heal and orientation toward growth. I subscribe to an integrative multicultural orientation and rely heavily on the language and interventions of relational cultural, feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to establish a sense of felt security and empowerment with the goal of managing presenting concerns and fostering growth and wellbeing.
(202) 930-9820 View (202) 930-9820
Photo of Ayelet Silberberg, PhD, Psychologist
Ayelet Silberberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22203  (Online Only)
I work through a racially aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, feminist, fat-accepting, neurodiversity-affirming, and disability justice lens.
Accepting new clients. I am a trauma-informed psychologist with over 12 years of experience. I work with adults who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their worlds, and those who want to heal from relational wounds or complicated childhoods. As a relational therapist, I value getting to know my clients as human beings first and foremost, while supporting them in creating a path towards authentic healing and growth. I see clients with depression, anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), relationship issues, and experiences around gender, sexuality, and identity, among other concerns.
I work through a racially aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, feminist, fat-accepting, neurodiversity-affirming, and disability justice lens.
Accepting new clients. I am a trauma-informed psychologist with over 12 years of experience. I work with adults who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their worlds, and those who want to heal from relational wounds or complicated childhoods. As a relational therapist, I value getting to know my clients as human beings first and foremost, while supporting them in creating a path towards authentic healing and growth. I see clients with depression, anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), relationship issues, and experiences around gender, sexuality, and identity, among other concerns.
(202) 217-0741 View (202) 217-0741
Photo of Madeline Tanouye, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madeline Tanouye
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 20301
Along with person-centered theory, I also pull techniques from CBT, DBT, Feminist, and mindfulness theories.
Life throws a lot at us. Sometimes it’s a recurring problem and sometimes it’s a totally new and unexpected problem. I have experience working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence, eating disorders, sexuality and gender exploration, trauma, relational issues, life transition difficulties, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I also enjoy working with clients who share multiracial, Hispanic, or Asian backgrounds. Whatever the concern is, it’s my privilege to walk alongside my client as they navigate a path forward.
Along with person-centered theory, I also pull techniques from CBT, DBT, Feminist, and mindfulness theories.
Life throws a lot at us. Sometimes it’s a recurring problem and sometimes it’s a totally new and unexpected problem. I have experience working with survivors of sexual and domestic violence, eating disorders, sexuality and gender exploration, trauma, relational issues, life transition difficulties, anxiety, depression, and other concerns. I also enjoy working with clients who share multiracial, Hispanic, or Asian backgrounds. Whatever the concern is, it’s my privilege to walk alongside my client as they navigate a path forward.
(757) 540-4575 View (757) 540-4575
Photo of Tiffany E Wicks, EdD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tiffany E Wicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301
I'm so glad you're here and I hope you can be proud of taking this next step for yourself. I see clients 14 and up in individual and family therapy. I work with the LGBTQIA2s+ population and specialize in queer clients who have mood disorders, religious trauma, trans clients, family therapy, or relationship issues. I am an anti-racist, radically inclusive therapist that works through a queer, feminist, and attachment theory framework to support clients and give them a non-judgmental, safe and affirming space to be themselves. Your healing matters to me!
I'm so glad you're here and I hope you can be proud of taking this next step for yourself. I see clients 14 and up in individual and family therapy. I work with the LGBTQIA2s+ population and specialize in queer clients who have mood disorders, religious trauma, trans clients, family therapy, or relationship issues. I am an anti-racist, radically inclusive therapist that works through a queer, feminist, and attachment theory framework to support clients and give them a non-judgmental, safe and affirming space to be themselves. Your healing matters to me!
(833) 322-6173 View (833) 322-6173
Photo of Dr. Ashley Sweet - Dr. Ashley Sweet, Certified Sex Therapist, PhD, LPC, LMHC, CST, CCHt, Counselor
Dr. Ashley Sweet, Certified Sex Therapist
Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMHC, CST, CCHt
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22207  (Online Only)
As a clinical sexologist, I help folks explore pleasure and better communicate in intimate relationships. As a relationship counselor, I work with couples and poly folks to improve their communication and connection. As a feminist therapist, I help clients dig deep to uncover their personal power, untangle anxiety and heal from trauma. I'm pro-choice, queer/bisexual identified, and welcome LGBTQ+ clients. I'm a curious counselor, and I help people dig to the roots of their pain. Fees are $200/session for individuals and $250 for couples (self-pay only, but can provide superbill for OON benefits).
As a clinical sexologist, I help folks explore pleasure and better communicate in intimate relationships. As a relationship counselor, I work with couples and poly folks to improve their communication and connection. As a feminist therapist, I help clients dig deep to uncover their personal power, untangle anxiety and heal from trauma. I'm pro-choice, queer/bisexual identified, and welcome LGBTQ+ clients. I'm a curious counselor, and I help people dig to the roots of their pain. Fees are $200/session for individuals and $250 for couples (self-pay only, but can provide superbill for OON benefits).
(757) 720-2613 View (757) 720-2613
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.