Photo of Jenny Jackson, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Jenny Jackson
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2H
My special focuses include Somatic Experiencing, Parts work, attachment based counseling, structural concerns, feminist counseling and LGBTQ+ counseling.
I am a social worker who believes in the power of persons and peoples: I work with clients to create opportunities for healing and growth. I have a varied background including crisis intervention, addictions recovery, women's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, Parts work and Somatic Experiencing. I understand the importance of melding mindfulness techniques with talk therapy. In practice, I work to combine a solid knowledge of the roots of trauma while providing a safe and welcoming environment, creatively combining these aspects of care to customise healing journeys in partnership with clients.
My special focuses include Somatic Experiencing, Parts work, attachment based counseling, structural concerns, feminist counseling and LGBTQ+ counseling.
I am a social worker who believes in the power of persons and peoples: I work with clients to create opportunities for healing and growth. I have a varied background including crisis intervention, addictions recovery, women's issues, LGBTQ+ concerns, Parts work and Somatic Experiencing. I understand the importance of melding mindfulness techniques with talk therapy. In practice, I work to combine a solid knowledge of the roots of trauma while providing a safe and welcoming environment, creatively combining these aspects of care to customise healing journeys in partnership with clients.
(343) 503-0874 View (343) 503-0874
Photo of Jessica Raven, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jessica Raven
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N
Waitlist for new clients
I work from a trauma-informed, feminist, and anti-oppressive stance.
Hello and welcome. I am a Registered Psychotherapist who practices psychotherapy with an integrative, trauma-informed approach. I draw on attachment theory, emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic principles, neuroscience, and others to work with each client individually. My intention as a therapist is to address more than just symptom reduction; through the exploration of deep issues and concerns we can work together to encourage long-term change. Using somatic (body-based) approaches and the therapeutic technique of Brainspotting, I work with clients to reset the nervous system and tap into the brain's inherent ability to heal.
I work from a trauma-informed, feminist, and anti-oppressive stance.
Hello and welcome. I am a Registered Psychotherapist who practices psychotherapy with an integrative, trauma-informed approach. I draw on attachment theory, emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic principles, neuroscience, and others to work with each client individually. My intention as a therapist is to address more than just symptom reduction; through the exploration of deep issues and concerns we can work together to encourage long-term change. Using somatic (body-based) approaches and the therapeutic technique of Brainspotting, I work with clients to reset the nervous system and tap into the brain's inherent ability to heal.
(343) 309-5897 View (343) 309-5897
Photo of Markus McIntyre, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Markus McIntyre
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
My practice is grounded in queer, feminist, and anti-oppression theory and centres around the theme of resiliency.
Working with clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia - As a trans, non-binary, queer, neurodiverse, adoptee, living with disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to working with clients who are experiencing challenges regarding gender, sexual orientation, sexuality, disability, identity, relationships, and with people who have experience with adoption and/or the child welfare system. I work with adults and youth, their families, and social circles to provide support and guidance as they navigate transitions and challenges in their lives. I am a qualified secondary assessor for Transition-Related Surgeries for OHIP coverage.
My practice is grounded in queer, feminist, and anti-oppression theory and centres around the theme of resiliency.
Working with clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia - As a trans, non-binary, queer, neurodiverse, adoptee, living with disabilities, I bring a unique perspective to working with clients who are experiencing challenges regarding gender, sexual orientation, sexuality, disability, identity, relationships, and with people who have experience with adoption and/or the child welfare system. I work with adults and youth, their families, and social circles to provide support and guidance as they navigate transitions and challenges in their lives. I am a qualified secondary assessor for Transition-Related Surgeries for OHIP coverage.
(647) 372-1541 View (647) 372-1541
Photo of Hannah McGechie, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Hannah McGechie
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Hello, I’m Hannah! I am a queer, feminist, cisgender woman, and have been practicing social work with children, youth, adults, and families since 2007. I’ve spent the last fourteen years working with 2SLGBTQ+ communities all over Ontario, but my home base is the unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin territory of Odawa (Ottawa). My approach to therapy is grounded in social justice and anti-oppression, and guided by narrative, feminist, and somatic experiencing frameworks.
Hello, I’m Hannah! I am a queer, feminist, cisgender woman, and have been practicing social work with children, youth, adults, and families since 2007. I’ve spent the last fourteen years working with 2SLGBTQ+ communities all over Ontario, but my home base is the unceded and unsurrendered Algonquin territory of Odawa (Ottawa). My approach to therapy is grounded in social justice and anti-oppression, and guided by narrative, feminist, and somatic experiencing frameworks.
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Photo of Sophie Raniere, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sophie Raniere
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that you know yourself and what you need best. My role is simply to hold space for your thoughts to be expressed and your emotions to be processed so that you can feel capable of handling whatever life throws your way. I am a feminist counsellor who endeavours to create an egalitarian relationship (as much as is possible) with each client, but acknowledge that this desire is impacted by my own lived experience as a white settler on unceded Anishnaabeg territory. My ultimate goals are for clients to feel safe, heard, and empowered, and I have a particular affinity for working with queer and fat folks!
I believe that you know yourself and what you need best. My role is simply to hold space for your thoughts to be expressed and your emotions to be processed so that you can feel capable of handling whatever life throws your way. I am a feminist counsellor who endeavours to create an egalitarian relationship (as much as is possible) with each client, but acknowledge that this desire is impacted by my own lived experience as a white settler on unceded Anishnaabeg territory. My ultimate goals are for clients to feel safe, heard, and empowered, and I have a particular affinity for working with queer and fat folks!
(343) 306-5529 View (343) 306-5529
Photo of Kurt Steeves, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Kurt Steeves
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, SSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Queer, pagan, and polyamorous service provider at Pink Opal Counselling. I provide virtual services only. My services are trauma-informed, and grounded in anti-oppressive, feminist, and Queer theories. I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology. I hope to work with members of the Queer community, those engaged with ethical non-monogamy, and those who may practice alternative spiritualities.
Currently accepting new clients. I am a Queer, pagan, and polyamorous service provider at Pink Opal Counselling. I provide virtual services only. My services are trauma-informed, and grounded in anti-oppressive, feminist, and Queer theories. I have education and training specific to social services, SFBT, mental health, family studies, Queer studies, and psychology. I hope to work with members of the Queer community, those engaged with ethical non-monogamy, and those who may practice alternative spiritualities.
(782) 400-6214 View (782) 400-6214
Photo of Anne Walzak, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anne Walzak
Registered Social Worker, RSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Y  (Online Only)
Anne understands the transformative power of therapy, she is guided by feminist theories and anti-opression frameworks and truly feels honoured to listen to, and to guide, those she has the honour of working with.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of trauma counselling, Anne has amassed a rare skill set. She has expertise in a number of therapeutic disciplines including CBT and DBT . She has studied Somatic Experiencing, Sand tray-Worldplay and Play Therapy. She has worked with clients struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma. Anne works closely with clients to determine a personalized plan to unlock their inner resources and to help them find agency.
Anne understands the transformative power of therapy, she is guided by feminist theories and anti-opression frameworks and truly feels honoured to listen to, and to guide, those she has the honour of working with.
With over 30 years of experience in the field of trauma counselling, Anne has amassed a rare skill set. She has expertise in a number of therapeutic disciplines including CBT and DBT . She has studied Somatic Experiencing, Sand tray-Worldplay and Play Therapy. She has worked with clients struggling with addiction, depression, anxiety and trauma. Anne works closely with clients to determine a personalized plan to unlock their inner resources and to help them find agency.
(343) 307-7188 View (343) 307-7188
Photo of Josée Sovinsky, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Josée Sovinsky
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I'm here to provide compassionate and non-judgmental support as you navigate challenges. I can work with you to explore what is most important to you, to relate to yourself and the world differently, to explore your identity, and to draw on your strengths. My approach is gentle and collaborative and I see you as the expert of your own life. In our work together, I draw on my own humanity to help you feel heard, respected, and cared about. As a bi, genderqueer, neurodivergent, and feminist therapist, I tend to be a good fit for people who care about social justice and who embrace inclusive and progressive values.
As a therapist, I'm here to provide compassionate and non-judgmental support as you navigate challenges. I can work with you to explore what is most important to you, to relate to yourself and the world differently, to explore your identity, and to draw on your strengths. My approach is gentle and collaborative and I see you as the expert of your own life. In our work together, I draw on my own humanity to help you feel heard, respected, and cared about. As a bi, genderqueer, neurodivergent, and feminist therapist, I tend to be a good fit for people who care about social justice and who embrace inclusive and progressive values.
(613) 704-0470 View (613) 704-0470
Photo of Danya Daccash, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Danya Daccash
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Telephone Counselling for Women: I am a cross-cultural feminist therapist, weaving together ancient wisdom such as mindfulness, modern scientific discoveries, & a grassroots feminist approach. We both bring something special to the counselling relationship; you bring wisdom about yourself, I offer expertise on healing. Together we build a compassionate connection, & as a team we focus bringing balance into your life. As a telephone counsellor, I work with women across the globe. Research shows that telephone counselling is as effective as in-person support; it is convenient for women with time constraints, mobility issues, & those with limited access to quality therapy.
Telephone Counselling for Women: I am a cross-cultural feminist therapist, weaving together ancient wisdom such as mindfulness, modern scientific discoveries, & a grassroots feminist approach. We both bring something special to the counselling relationship; you bring wisdom about yourself, I offer expertise on healing. Together we build a compassionate connection, & as a team we focus bringing balance into your life. As a telephone counsellor, I work with women across the globe. Research shows that telephone counselling is as effective as in-person support; it is convenient for women with time constraints, mobility issues, & those with limited access to quality therapy.
(613) 701-9688 View (613) 701-9688
Photo of Sarah Crosby, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Sarah Crosby
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
My approach to therapy is feminist and anti-oppressive, drawing from narrative, psychodynamic, and existential therapies.
Just existing in today's world can feel overwhelming on top of whatever unique stressors you may be facing. While it might be tempting to downplay your challenges as insignificant or "not that bad", everyone deserves a space to be seen and understood. As a therapist, my job is not to to analyze, diagnose, or pathologize you. Instead, I approach our sessions with genuine curiosity, aiming to understand the meaning you attach to your experiences and ask questions that may help to shift your outlook on the challenges you’re facing.
My approach to therapy is feminist and anti-oppressive, drawing from narrative, psychodynamic, and existential therapies.
Just existing in today's world can feel overwhelming on top of whatever unique stressors you may be facing. While it might be tempting to downplay your challenges as insignificant or "not that bad", everyone deserves a space to be seen and understood. As a therapist, my job is not to to analyze, diagnose, or pathologize you. Instead, I approach our sessions with genuine curiosity, aiming to understand the meaning you attach to your experiences and ask questions that may help to shift your outlook on the challenges you’re facing.
(343) 500-6435 View (343) 500-6435
Photo of Marie Robertson in Ottawa, ON
Marie Robertson
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I work from a feminist, client-centred, anti-oppression framework that allows you to see that you are not simply an isolated individual with problems.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
I work from a feminist, client-centred, anti-oppression framework that allows you to see that you are not simply an isolated individual with problems.
The counselling process is similar to carefully peeling back the layers of an onion. You need to feel safe and in control as the layers of your story are revealed. Together, we uncover deeper parts of the self that may be hidden from conscious thought ... old scripts and tapes that are still playing today and causing you pain and anxiety. You can change your life by bringing these old patterns and voices into the light of day for examination. My work is to support, guide, and challenge you so you can empower yourself to deal with past issues and present concerns.
(877) 370-8838 View (877) 370-8838
Photo of Christiane Lafleche, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Christiane Lafleche
Registered Social Worker, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1Z
I am a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and feminist therapist.
Accepting new clients! Dear life-giver, you have been endowed with a great ability, the ability to bring life through time. While this can bring great joy, it can also be the cause of loss, guilt, shame and overwhelm. From termination of pregnancy, miscarriage, birth trauma, and perinatal anxiety and depression, I am here to support you so that you can start feeling uplifted, at peace and simply well. Life-giving is hard! You deserve to find empowerment and joy within it.
I am a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive and feminist therapist.
Accepting new clients! Dear life-giver, you have been endowed with a great ability, the ability to bring life through time. While this can bring great joy, it can also be the cause of loss, guilt, shame and overwhelm. From termination of pregnancy, miscarriage, birth trauma, and perinatal anxiety and depression, I am here to support you so that you can start feeling uplifted, at peace and simply well. Life-giving is hard! You deserve to find empowerment and joy within it.
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Photo of Gundel Lake, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Gundel Lake
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
My approach to psychotherapy is deeply rooted in feminist and structural analyses that contextualize individual "problems" in our social environments. My therapeutic orientation is comprised of an eclectic mix of theoretical models that guide my work, including emotion focused therapy, psychodynamic therapy, and somatic therapy. While I don't practice exclusively from one perspective, I believe that it is my role to be constantly assessing whether or not the work we are doing appears to be helping you to achieve your therapeutic goals. I offer psychological services under the supervision of Dr. Leigh Karos, C. Psych.
(855) 798-7280 View (855) 798-7280
Photo of Samantha Whittle, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Samantha Whittle
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Waitlist for new clients
I also work from a feminist, anti-racist, and trauma-informed framework, and integrate somatic and strengths-based approaches in my work.
Hi, I'm Sam! I got my start in the social services world over a decade ago working with survivors of sexualized violence and assault. I continue to be incredibly passionate about supporting people as they heal from trauma and the effects that it has, including triggers and dissociation. I am also a sex therapist with a strong background in the world of sexual health. I believe that sex, at its best, is about connection, play, and liberation, and that most of us could use more of all those things in our lives.
I also work from a feminist, anti-racist, and trauma-informed framework, and integrate somatic and strengths-based approaches in my work.
Hi, I'm Sam! I got my start in the social services world over a decade ago working with survivors of sexualized violence and assault. I continue to be incredibly passionate about supporting people as they heal from trauma and the effects that it has, including triggers and dissociation. I am also a sex therapist with a strong background in the world of sexual health. I believe that sex, at its best, is about connection, play, and liberation, and that most of us could use more of all those things in our lives.
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Photo of Reesa Packard, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Reesa Packard
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD, RP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
Treatment areas: anxiety, depression, emotions, grief, burnout, ADHD, relationships of all kinds, families, healing trauma, developmental abuse/neglect, intimacy/authenticity, meaning & purpose, sexuality, women's issues, feminist & anti-oppression, LGBTQ+/queer, cancer, chronic illness, existential, yoga & martial arts-informed.
I am a Ph.D. Registered Psychotherapist practicing at, and directing, Ottawa Psychotherapy Center (ottawapsychotherapycenter.com). I use evidence-based interventions to resolve difficulties in the now, while promoting growth overall. I see myself make the most meaningful contributions in Crisis & Trauma, which first called me to the profession over a decade ago, and for advancing Self-Growth & Self-Development through emotional, relational, professional, somatic, spiritual, or sexual focus. I also research, teach & train so that I, too, can continue to grow.
Treatment areas: anxiety, depression, emotions, grief, burnout, ADHD, relationships of all kinds, families, healing trauma, developmental abuse/neglect, intimacy/authenticity, meaning & purpose, sexuality, women's issues, feminist & anti-oppression, LGBTQ+/queer, cancer, chronic illness, existential, yoga & martial arts-informed.
I am a Ph.D. Registered Psychotherapist practicing at, and directing, Ottawa Psychotherapy Center (ottawapsychotherapycenter.com). I use evidence-based interventions to resolve difficulties in the now, while promoting growth overall. I see myself make the most meaningful contributions in Crisis & Trauma, which first called me to the profession over a decade ago, and for advancing Self-Growth & Self-Development through emotional, relational, professional, somatic, spiritual, or sexual focus. I also research, teach & train so that I, too, can continue to grow.
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Photo of Laurinda Cheng, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Laurinda Cheng
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I work from an anti-oppressive, feminist, and multicultural stance.
I believe it takes great courage to explore our experiences, confront our problems, and dare to change ourselves. I aim to provide a warm, non-judgemental space where we can deeply engage with the issues you have brought to therapy. I am based in Ottawa providing individual counselling/psychotherapy services virtually in English to individuals 18 years of age and older in Ontario. I welcome clients of all backgrounds. I am allied to the BIPOC, LGBTQ, non-monogamous, and kink communities. I am also a provider for the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program for First Nations and Inuit.
I work from an anti-oppressive, feminist, and multicultural stance.
I believe it takes great courage to explore our experiences, confront our problems, and dare to change ourselves. I aim to provide a warm, non-judgemental space where we can deeply engage with the issues you have brought to therapy. I am based in Ottawa providing individual counselling/psychotherapy services virtually in English to individuals 18 years of age and older in Ontario. I welcome clients of all backgrounds. I am allied to the BIPOC, LGBTQ, non-monogamous, and kink communities. I am also a provider for the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Program for First Nations and Inuit.
(613) 801-8374 View (613) 801-8374
Photo of Clare Glassco, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Clare Glassco
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
I am a therapist providing individual care for individuals (12+) out of Ottawa, Ontario, the unceded and unsurrendered traditional territories of the Algonquin nation. In my work, I provide a trauma-informed space for people to unpack their stories, so that together we can create new paths forward. I approach therapeutic relationships from a feminist, anti-racist, anti-oppressive perspective that is rooted in a deep understanding of the structural causes of individual pain and suffering.
I am a therapist providing individual care for individuals (12+) out of Ottawa, Ontario, the unceded and unsurrendered traditional territories of the Algonquin nation. In my work, I provide a trauma-informed space for people to unpack their stories, so that together we can create new paths forward. I approach therapeutic relationships from a feminist, anti-racist, anti-oppressive perspective that is rooted in a deep understanding of the structural causes of individual pain and suffering.
(343) 304-5682 View (343) 304-5682
Photo of Erika McDonnell, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Erika McDonnell
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
Working from an intersectional, feminist, and humanist approach, my goal and purpose is to support you in coping with the challenges, pain, and suffering you might be currently experiencing.
The challenges we face in life are unpredictable and, at times, feel insurmountable. You are looking for support, for that shoulder you can lean on, for those times where it seems there is no way out. You are seeking to rise above the suffering and pain you might be experiencing so that you can spread your wings and achieve those ambitions you have set for yourself. I can tell you that, having been in those same shoes myself, there is the opportunity to flourish from the challenges faced in life.
Working from an intersectional, feminist, and humanist approach, my goal and purpose is to support you in coping with the challenges, pain, and suffering you might be currently experiencing.
The challenges we face in life are unpredictable and, at times, feel insurmountable. You are looking for support, for that shoulder you can lean on, for those times where it seems there is no way out. You are seeking to rise above the suffering and pain you might be experiencing so that you can spread your wings and achieve those ambitions you have set for yourself. I can tell you that, having been in those same shoes myself, there is the opportunity to flourish from the challenges faced in life.
(867) 670-5138 View (867) 670-5138
Photo of Caroline Escobar, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Caroline Escobar
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K0A
I practice from a culturally sensitive, intersectional feminist, and trauma-informed perspective.
Are you struggling with low desire? Do you want to improve your sex life and communication with your partner? Do you experience sexual pain? Exploring intimacy and sex can be scary! You deserve a helping hand to unpack the problem at hand and move towards a hopeful future. Whether with a partner or by yourself, I’m here to co-create your path forward. Whatever issues you (and your partner) face, you deserve healing and health. You are not the problem – your problem is the problem.
I practice from a culturally sensitive, intersectional feminist, and trauma-informed perspective.
Are you struggling with low desire? Do you want to improve your sex life and communication with your partner? Do you experience sexual pain? Exploring intimacy and sex can be scary! You deserve a helping hand to unpack the problem at hand and move towards a hopeful future. Whether with a partner or by yourself, I’m here to co-create your path forward. Whatever issues you (and your partner) face, you deserve healing and health. You are not the problem – your problem is the problem.
(226) 918-5723 View (226) 918-5723
Photo of Emma Nys, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Emma Nys
Registered Social Worker, BSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a bachelor's degree in social work from UQAM and curently doing my master degree in sexology. I also have a major in feminist studies from Concordia University. I have worked for more than 15 years in the community sector, particularly with victims of sexual and domestic violence. I have also worked with LGBTQ community and immigrants people.
I have a bachelor's degree in social work from UQAM and curently doing my master degree in sexology. I also have a major in feminist studies from Concordia University. I have worked for more than 15 years in the community sector, particularly with victims of sexual and domestic violence. I have also worked with LGBTQ community and immigrants people.
(450) 300-2440 View (450) 300-2440

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Feminist Counsellors

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.