Photo of Caitlin Noelani Minniear, LMFT, CST, MDFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin Noelani Minniear
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, MDFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
I help individuals and couples navigate complex relational issues involving trauma, depression, anxiety, acculturation, chronic illness, and life transitions.
I believe that healing occurs when people are given the space to explore their unique emotional experience to better understand how it colors their worldview, sense of self, and relationships with others. Within a safe therapeutic relationship, I work with my clients to make meaning out of both mundane and extraordinary moments, unlocking their ability to live a more fully present, authentic life.
I help individuals and couples navigate complex relational issues involving trauma, depression, anxiety, acculturation, chronic illness, and life transitions.
I believe that healing occurs when people are given the space to explore their unique emotional experience to better understand how it colors their worldview, sense of self, and relationships with others. Within a safe therapeutic relationship, I work with my clients to make meaning out of both mundane and extraordinary moments, unlocking their ability to live a more fully present, authentic life.
(206) 895-0722 View (206) 895-0722
Photo of Jen Hutchinson, PsyD, LMHC, Counselor
Jen Hutchinson
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have counseled those with diagnoses such as Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Attachment Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Psychosis and Eating Disorders.
I believe that therapy can greatly encourage us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with college age individuals and adults of all ages. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which the client and the counselor work as a team to identify and define problems, develop future goals, and work toward achieving those goals. I utilize Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness approaches.
I have counseled those with diagnoses such as Depression, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorders, Attachment Disorders, OCD, PTSD, ADHD, Psychosis and Eating Disorders.
I believe that therapy can greatly encourage us to make healthy choices and better navigate life's obstacles. I specialize in working with college age individuals and adults of all ages. In one on one sessions, I strive to help individuals define their thoughts, identify important emotions, and express themselves in meaningful ways that bring about change. I view therapy as a collaborative process in which the client and the counselor work as a team to identify and define problems, develop future goals, and work toward achieving those goals. I utilize Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Narrative Therapy and Mindfulness approaches.
(425) 728-2522 View (425) 728-2522
Photo of Angela E Agelopoulos - Seattle Counseling and Wellness, PsyD, Psychologist
Seattle Counseling and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Sometimes life poses challenges, and we need some extra support to get us through. Are you wanting to make improvements in your relationship? Or maybe with yourself? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Depressed? Stuck? Therapists at SCAW bring a diverse range of academic and clinical training to their work with adults, teens, and children. We provide individual, couples counseling, family therapy, and psychological testing.
Sometimes life poses challenges, and we need some extra support to get us through. Are you wanting to make improvements in your relationship? Or maybe with yourself? Are you feeling overwhelmed? Depressed? Stuck? Therapists at SCAW bring a diverse range of academic and clinical training to their work with adults, teens, and children. We provide individual, couples counseling, family therapy, and psychological testing.
(206) 922-4437 View (206) 922-4437
Photo of Emily Taylor - Emily Taylor Counseling, MA, LMHC, SUDP, Counselor
Emily Taylor Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, SUDP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
I have experience with the following issues: depression, suicidality, and/or self-harm behaviors, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, disordered eating, anger, relational strife, family of origin issues, sexual trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, obssesive compulsive disorder, LGBTQ and sexual identity issues, and systems of oppression.
I am a queer relational psychotherapist with a focus of working with the LGBT/Queer community. I work primarily with folks in the queer/trans/poly/kink community. Whether you want to use therapy to talk specifically about issues related to these identities or just want a space where you don't have to define a lot of terms, I could be a good fit. I tend to work with folks on relationship issues, gender transitions, long term trauma, managing mental health diagnoses (like biploar) and substance use issues. My official training is in psychodynamic relational therapy, which is a depth-orientated way of working.
I have experience with the following issues: depression, suicidality, and/or self-harm behaviors, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, insomnia, disordered eating, anger, relational strife, family of origin issues, sexual trauma, addiction recovery, anxiety, obssesive compulsive disorder, LGBTQ and sexual identity issues, and systems of oppression.
I am a queer relational psychotherapist with a focus of working with the LGBT/Queer community. I work primarily with folks in the queer/trans/poly/kink community. Whether you want to use therapy to talk specifically about issues related to these identities or just want a space where you don't have to define a lot of terms, I could be a good fit. I tend to work with folks on relationship issues, gender transitions, long term trauma, managing mental health diagnoses (like biploar) and substance use issues. My official training is in psychodynamic relational therapy, which is a depth-orientated way of working.
(206) 222-5368 View (206) 222-5368
Photo of Sauda Porter, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sauda Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, racialized trauma or generational trauma that make it harder to function. For too long, the idea of mental wellness was viewed as a luxury only allotted to the few. Someone was considered “strong” if they endured a traumatic or life-changing event, regardless of functionality. We are now beginning to understand that those events can change the way we relate to everything. You may continue to engage in your day to day expectations like taking care of children, going to work, going to school, but you may not be sleeping well, may no longer enjoy things that brought you peace or happiness.
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, racialized trauma or generational trauma that make it harder to function. For too long, the idea of mental wellness was viewed as a luxury only allotted to the few. Someone was considered “strong” if they endured a traumatic or life-changing event, regardless of functionality. We are now beginning to understand that those events can change the way we relate to everything. You may continue to engage in your day to day expectations like taking care of children, going to work, going to school, but you may not be sleeping well, may no longer enjoy things that brought you peace or happiness.
(206) 278-3509 View (206) 278-3509
Photo of Mary Jayne Wykowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Jayne Wykowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It is my belief that loss, trauma, depression, and/or addiction often clouds our resiliency and wisdom.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step so that life may get different for you. The beauty and benefits of re-examining how we can make changes in our lives, continues to fuel my passion for therapeutic dialogue. The integrative nature of my work allows for us to look at family of origin explanations, without blaming, so that you can move toward change. When what feels like roadblocks comes up there are a number of tools that can help, like increasing mindfulness and learning more around boundaries and assertive communication.
It is my belief that loss, trauma, depression, and/or addiction often clouds our resiliency and wisdom.
Welcome and congratulations on taking the first step so that life may get different for you. The beauty and benefits of re-examining how we can make changes in our lives, continues to fuel my passion for therapeutic dialogue. The integrative nature of my work allows for us to look at family of origin explanations, without blaming, so that you can move toward change. When what feels like roadblocks comes up there are a number of tools that can help, like increasing mindfulness and learning more around boundaries and assertive communication.
(206) 558-1081 View (206) 558-1081
Photo of Sabrina Gardner, LSWAIC, MSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
I have experience in addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma and relational conflict.
So often we experience stress, fear, sadness, and other conflicting emotions that lead to the development of dysfunctional, maladaptive behaviors and emotions. These patterns influence our own self-worth and can influence our ability to form relationships with others. I work to foster a safe environment for you to be able to identify and process through your emotions and make changes in the way you cope with those emotions. Creating this clear understanding can help to strengthen your relationship with your inner self, and to better communicate with others to manage relational conflict.
I have experience in addressing anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma and relational conflict.
So often we experience stress, fear, sadness, and other conflicting emotions that lead to the development of dysfunctional, maladaptive behaviors and emotions. These patterns influence our own self-worth and can influence our ability to form relationships with others. I work to foster a safe environment for you to be able to identify and process through your emotions and make changes in the way you cope with those emotions. Creating this clear understanding can help to strengthen your relationship with your inner self, and to better communicate with others to manage relational conflict.
(206) 899-0472 View (206) 899-0472
Photo of Christine Ma, LSWAIC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Ma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98108  (Online Only)
As we face the challenges of life, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Old issues along with our current circumstances may collide. As a counselor, I work with you to explore these issues while acknowledging your strengths to develop coping skills. Issues common to my practice include anxiety, depression, difficulties managing emotions, grief and loss, issues of life transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, trauma, and work related stress. Telehealth only. Conversational proficiency in Cantonese and Toisanese.
As we face the challenges of life, it can sometimes feel overwhelming. Old issues along with our current circumstances may collide. As a counselor, I work with you to explore these issues while acknowledging your strengths to develop coping skills. Issues common to my practice include anxiety, depression, difficulties managing emotions, grief and loss, issues of life transitions, relationship issues, self-esteem, stress management, trauma, and work related stress. Telehealth only. Conversational proficiency in Cantonese and Toisanese.
(206) 681-2113 View (206) 681-2113
Photo of Heather Abbott, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Heather Abbott
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I have worked extensively with depression, adjusting to motherhood, body image issues, grief, and parenting concerns and helping families create a new pattern of interaction.
Hope often sounds like a wishful word in our culture - but I want you to leave therapy with more hope - the gritty, scrappy, resilient kind. This authentic hope grows as you embrace your life story with all its darkness and light. You don't need to talk about everything at once, but just give yourself a place and time to connect with your whole self and pay attention to your life as it is now. As you connect deeply with yourself you are able to carve out space to reimagine how your life and relationships could be.
I have worked extensively with depression, adjusting to motherhood, body image issues, grief, and parenting concerns and helping families create a new pattern of interaction.
Hope often sounds like a wishful word in our culture - but I want you to leave therapy with more hope - the gritty, scrappy, resilient kind. This authentic hope grows as you embrace your life story with all its darkness and light. You don't need to talk about everything at once, but just give yourself a place and time to connect with your whole self and pay attention to your life as it is now. As you connect deeply with yourself you are able to carve out space to reimagine how your life and relationships could be.
(206) 472-1302 View (206) 472-1302
Photo of Kristin Mendoza, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
You might be feeling stuck in your life, discouraged or dissatisfied. This can show up as uncertainty about yourself, feeling anxious or depressed, and having a hard time coping with life’s many challenges. The pain and fears that led you to seek out therapy come out of stories and experiences that shape how you view yourself and the world. I seek to help you connect with your experiences, stories, and emotions to deepen your understanding of your world, build self-trust and acceptance, and find ways to chart a path forward.
You might be feeling stuck in your life, discouraged or dissatisfied. This can show up as uncertainty about yourself, feeling anxious or depressed, and having a hard time coping with life’s many challenges. The pain and fears that led you to seek out therapy come out of stories and experiences that shape how you view yourself and the world. I seek to help you connect with your experiences, stories, and emotions to deepen your understanding of your world, build self-trust and acceptance, and find ways to chart a path forward.
(206) 895-6803 View (206) 895-6803
Photo of Gwen Wilson, MA, LMHC, MHP, ATR, Counselor
Gwen Wilson
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, ATR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133
By clarifying your core values and strengths, we can focus on current challenges and navigate life transitions including depression, anxiety, illness, menopause, aging, and disability.
Change happens! Maybe your life changed in a single event or slowly over time. It could be a loss of a person, a job, your health, or just the way things were. Sometimes the script of what you thought your world was about has flipped or no longer fits your new situation. We are in difficult times; our once reliable ways of coping and caring for ourselves may not work as well today. Even if you feel unsure of what’s possible, I can support you in finding new tools and revising your story to better fit your present needs and values. Let’s work together to discover what works best for you so you can get back to living your life.
By clarifying your core values and strengths, we can focus on current challenges and navigate life transitions including depression, anxiety, illness, menopause, aging, and disability.
Change happens! Maybe your life changed in a single event or slowly over time. It could be a loss of a person, a job, your health, or just the way things were. Sometimes the script of what you thought your world was about has flipped or no longer fits your new situation. We are in difficult times; our once reliable ways of coping and caring for ourselves may not work as well today. Even if you feel unsure of what’s possible, I can support you in finding new tools and revising your story to better fit your present needs and values. Let’s work together to discover what works best for you so you can get back to living your life.
(206) 752-5653 View (206) 752-5653
Photo of Liz Adcock, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Liz Adcock
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98136  (Online Only)
I specialize in ADHD, women's issues, career counseling, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and childhood trauma. When you encounter these things in adulthood, there's often no one to walk you through the difficulties they bring. You need help from someone who specializes in this, who understands how you're feeling and can be with you on your journey, and has tools to help. I'd love to hear how I might be able to support you. I offer Authentic + Empowering Therapy for Adults in Seattle, WA. Accepting New Clients (Updated 1/8/24)
I specialize in ADHD, women's issues, career counseling, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and childhood trauma. When you encounter these things in adulthood, there's often no one to walk you through the difficulties they bring. You need help from someone who specializes in this, who understands how you're feeling and can be with you on your journey, and has tools to help. I'd love to hear how I might be able to support you. I offer Authentic + Empowering Therapy for Adults in Seattle, WA. Accepting New Clients (Updated 1/8/24)
(206) 312-9334 View (206) 312-9334
Photo of Karlie Markendorf, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Karlie Markendorf
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Waitlist for new clients
During times of stress and transition, seeking therapy can be a source of support, comfort, and even inspiration. My experience has focused on creative and body-centered approaches to growth and healing, including art therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, dreamwork, and EMDR. This includes grief work and issues that accompany trauma-related treatment, such as anxiety, depression, and existential/spiritual issues. Additional themes in clients' healing work include explorations of relationships, sexuality, and identity. I love working co-creatively with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
During times of stress and transition, seeking therapy can be a source of support, comfort, and even inspiration. My experience has focused on creative and body-centered approaches to growth and healing, including art therapy, trauma-sensitive yoga, dreamwork, and EMDR. This includes grief work and issues that accompany trauma-related treatment, such as anxiety, depression, and existential/spiritual issues. Additional themes in clients' healing work include explorations of relationships, sexuality, and identity. I love working co-creatively with clients of all ages and backgrounds.
(206) 557-6657 View (206) 557-6657
Photo of Serena S Perry, MA, LMFTA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Serena S Perry
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I am particularly excited to work with individuals and couples grappling with sex and intimacy issues, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, shame, self-esteem, and trauma.
Therapy is an incredible tool for healing, exploration, and liberation. I am specially trained in lending a neutral ear as you navigate new truths and find growth in old wounds. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving the high quality of life that you deserve. My role is to help you gain confidence, truth, and a chance to re-author your life’s narrative. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples, spouses, polycules, etc.), and families of all kinds. I draw from a strengths-based narrative approach that is client-centered.
I am particularly excited to work with individuals and couples grappling with sex and intimacy issues, gender dysphoria, anxiety, depression, shame, self-esteem, and trauma.
Therapy is an incredible tool for healing, exploration, and liberation. I am specially trained in lending a neutral ear as you navigate new truths and find growth in old wounds. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving the high quality of life that you deserve. My role is to help you gain confidence, truth, and a chance to re-author your life’s narrative. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples, spouses, polycules, etc.), and families of all kinds. I draw from a strengths-based narrative approach that is client-centered.
(206) 672-2289 x228 View (206) 672-2289 x228
Photo of Morgan Watson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Morgan Watson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
My specialties are LGBTQIA2s+, empowerment, depression, anxiety, life transitions, intimacy issues, relationship concerns, relationship building, sexuality/gender issues, co-dependency, and family of origin relationships.
You’ve made it this far which lets me know you are brave and likely ready to make some changes in your life. Together we can explore your emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit your full potential, get in the way of your relationships, or keep you stuck. There are many things we can do on our own, but true self-discovery and positive, enduring change is more likely to occur within the context of a caring and committed therapeutic relationship. Together we can pay close attention to what’s bothering you, and to what you need, so that you can begin to develop a healthier self and more loving, fulfilling relationships.
My specialties are LGBTQIA2s+, empowerment, depression, anxiety, life transitions, intimacy issues, relationship concerns, relationship building, sexuality/gender issues, co-dependency, and family of origin relationships.
You’ve made it this far which lets me know you are brave and likely ready to make some changes in your life. Together we can explore your emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit your full potential, get in the way of your relationships, or keep you stuck. There are many things we can do on our own, but true self-discovery and positive, enduring change is more likely to occur within the context of a caring and committed therapeutic relationship. Together we can pay close attention to what’s bothering you, and to what you need, so that you can begin to develop a healthier self and more loving, fulfilling relationships.
(206) 203-8819 View (206) 203-8819
Photo of Patti Nequette, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Patti Nequette
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
My therapy practice is committed to helping people live happier, healthier, more joy filled lives. Every single moment of our lives can unfold in infinitely creative ways, yet sometimes our problems seem overwhelming, or we find ourselves repeating negative patterns and we can't see the solution. Are you suffering from anxiety or depression? Are you longing for emotional connection with those nearest to you? Does your life lack a sense of direction, meaning or purpose? Are you suffering a loss, going through a job or life transition?
My therapy practice is committed to helping people live happier, healthier, more joy filled lives. Every single moment of our lives can unfold in infinitely creative ways, yet sometimes our problems seem overwhelming, or we find ourselves repeating negative patterns and we can't see the solution. Are you suffering from anxiety or depression? Are you longing for emotional connection with those nearest to you? Does your life lack a sense of direction, meaning or purpose? Are you suffering a loss, going through a job or life transition?
(206) 535-1617 View (206) 535-1617
Photo of Steph Tigert, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Steph Tigert
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
My clinical experience includes: relational struggles, depression and loneliness, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, body image issues, questions of meaning, abuse, motherhood, and parenting concerns.
As human beings, we are prone to intense joy, deep sorrow and a wide spectrum of emotions in between. Therapy is a place to learn how to navigate these changing terrains of life. As a therapist, I will come alongside you to listen, reflect, speak to, and bear witness to your particular experiences in life. I believe many personal struggles are relational and that we experience healing through genuine connection with ourselves and others. I'm passionate about helping people move from a life of fear and feeling stuck to a life of freedom, feeling grounded, and developing a growing trust in yourself and others.
My clinical experience includes: relational struggles, depression and loneliness, stress and anxiety, grief and loss, body image issues, questions of meaning, abuse, motherhood, and parenting concerns.
As human beings, we are prone to intense joy, deep sorrow and a wide spectrum of emotions in between. Therapy is a place to learn how to navigate these changing terrains of life. As a therapist, I will come alongside you to listen, reflect, speak to, and bear witness to your particular experiences in life. I believe many personal struggles are relational and that we experience healing through genuine connection with ourselves and others. I'm passionate about helping people move from a life of fear and feeling stuck to a life of freedom, feeling grounded, and developing a growing trust in yourself and others.
(206) 457-1701 View (206) 457-1701
Photo of Candice M Small, PhD, Psychologist
Candice M Small
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Candice M. Small, PhD, is a licensed psychologist specializing in providing evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and trauma exposure in children and adolescents. She strives to work collaboratively with caregivers and families to identify strengths and challenges in order to help every child succeed. Dr. Small also specializes in comprehensive therapeutic psychological assessment, including diagnostic assessment for Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and other learning or executive functioning concerns.
Candice M. Small, PhD, is a licensed psychologist specializing in providing evidence-based treatments for anxiety, depression, and trauma exposure in children and adolescents. She strives to work collaboratively with caregivers and families to identify strengths and challenges in order to help every child succeed. Dr. Small also specializes in comprehensive therapeutic psychological assessment, including diagnostic assessment for Mood Disorders, Learning Disabilities, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and other learning or executive functioning concerns.
(206) 258-6957 View (206) 258-6957
Photo of Aneta Merlino, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Aneta Merlino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Hello, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, and work with kids, adolescents, families and couples from a wide range of backgrounds. I specialize in working with couples struggling with conflict patterns that are preventing them from experiencing closeness and connection and families who yearn to rebuild strong bonds. I also support individuals of all ages experiencing anxiety and/or depression and those looking to heal from the effects of trauma.
Hello, I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate, and work with kids, adolescents, families and couples from a wide range of backgrounds. I specialize in working with couples struggling with conflict patterns that are preventing them from experiencing closeness and connection and families who yearn to rebuild strong bonds. I also support individuals of all ages experiencing anxiety and/or depression and those looking to heal from the effects of trauma.
(206) 208-8982 View (206) 208-8982
Photo of Wendy E Smith, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Wendy E Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
If you are seeking to work through anxiety, depression, an identity issue, a life transition, a traumatic experience, or a loss, I may be the therapist to help you. As a Certified Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapist, I can also help couples deeply reconnect on the level of needs and feelings--as opposed to having that same unproductive argument over and over again. With individuals, I often work in the here-and-now. Additionally, I pay attention to your history in order to understand (together with you) how your past experiences might be affecting your capacity to live well in the present and imagine a future.
If you are seeking to work through anxiety, depression, an identity issue, a life transition, a traumatic experience, or a loss, I may be the therapist to help you. As a Certified Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapist, I can also help couples deeply reconnect on the level of needs and feelings--as opposed to having that same unproductive argument over and over again. With individuals, I often work in the here-and-now. Additionally, I pay attention to your history in order to understand (together with you) how your past experiences might be affecting your capacity to live well in the present and imagine a future.
(206) 745-0971 View (206) 745-0971
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.