Photo of Dr Michele McCulley, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Dr Michele McCulley
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG5
Together, we will explore your challenges like depression, anxiety, compulsive behaviours, identity, self-esteem, relationship problems, sexuality and figure out why they exist, and thereafter support you as you experiment with trying to do things differently.
I am an integrative psychologist, psychotherapist and sexologist and my training has followed this route because I believe the way we come to understand ourselves develops dynamically in formative years in relationship with our parents, extended families and more broadly the cultures in which families are embedded. In short, we come to know who we are in relationship with other people. That also means that most of our difficulties and adaptive skills - which often cause difficulties later on are formed as we navigate the different demands of these environments too. Becoming aware of these challenge the way to improved mental health.
Together, we will explore your challenges like depression, anxiety, compulsive behaviours, identity, self-esteem, relationship problems, sexuality and figure out why they exist, and thereafter support you as you experiment with trying to do things differently.
I am an integrative psychologist, psychotherapist and sexologist and my training has followed this route because I believe the way we come to understand ourselves develops dynamically in formative years in relationship with our parents, extended families and more broadly the cultures in which families are embedded. In short, we come to know who we are in relationship with other people. That also means that most of our difficulties and adaptive skills - which often cause difficulties later on are formed as we navigate the different demands of these environments too. Becoming aware of these challenge the way to improved mental health.
020 3984 8247 View 020 3984 8247
Photo of Nichola Marchant, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Nichola Marchant
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9  (Online Only)
I am sex positive and kink friendly.
I work predominantly with adults who have experienced trauma or negative life experiences which have impacted on their sexual functioning, mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. I offer both short and long term therapy for clients wishing to gain a better understanding of their lives and experiences and provide strategies and interventions to enable my clients to live the lives they want to live. I work with people who have sexual problems and who wish to achieve a happy and healthy sexual identity.
I am sex positive and kink friendly.
I work predominantly with adults who have experienced trauma or negative life experiences which have impacted on their sexual functioning, mental health, emotional well-being and relationships. I offer both short and long term therapy for clients wishing to gain a better understanding of their lives and experiences and provide strategies and interventions to enable my clients to live the lives they want to live. I work with people who have sexual problems and who wish to achieve a happy and healthy sexual identity.
07771 391614 View 07771 391614
Photo of Natalie Brunning, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Natalie Brunning
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG11  (Online Only)
Hi my name is Natalie. I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor working in Nottingham. I offer a friendly, safe and confidential space to enable you to work through any difficulties you may be experiencing. I work within the Humanistic person centered approach and I believe that given the right conditions, through therapy, positive changes can be made. I offer counselling for all ages, individuals, couples, EAP, and group work. I work with both long and short term clients. I have extensive experience working with depression, complex mental health and PTSD
Hi my name is Natalie. I am an experienced BACP accredited counsellor working in Nottingham. I offer a friendly, safe and confidential space to enable you to work through any difficulties you may be experiencing. I work within the Humanistic person centered approach and I believe that given the right conditions, through therapy, positive changes can be made. I offer counselling for all ages, individuals, couples, EAP, and group work. I work with both long and short term clients. I have extensive experience working with depression, complex mental health and PTSD
0115 647 0413 View 0115 647 0413
Photo of Lisa D Burley, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Lisa D Burley
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG10
I am a counsellor and psychotherapist focusing my time, energy and considerations on the client and their needs. Being heard, trusted, understood, and feeling empathy without judgement are vital to the therapeutic relationship which we will build together. If you are feeling stressed, anxious or depressed or would like to work on your self-esteem, self-care or any other personal issues I am here for you. Bringing to light your hopes and goals in a personal, comfortable and non-judgemental space will give you the time and attention you need to focus on positive change.
I am a counsellor and psychotherapist focusing my time, energy and considerations on the client and their needs. Being heard, trusted, understood, and feeling empathy without judgement are vital to the therapeutic relationship which we will build together. If you are feeling stressed, anxious or depressed or would like to work on your self-esteem, self-care or any other personal issues I am here for you. Bringing to light your hopes and goals in a personal, comfortable and non-judgemental space will give you the time and attention you need to focus on positive change.
0115 697 2264 View 0115 697 2264
Photo of Tracy Rowberry, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Tracy Rowberry
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG4
As a therapist I have provided therapy that meets with clients differing needs, including what is causing their anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, feeling lost or low self-esteem, exploring their identity and otherness or the impact of their neurodiversity. Our sessions allow whatever is impacting you, or causing you distress, to be explored in a non-judgemental and accepting environment. With me alongside as your therapist, we can work together to make the space for you to consider you needs, be curious what could make a difference in your life, and give meaning to past experiences that influence and impact you in the present.
As a therapist I have provided therapy that meets with clients differing needs, including what is causing their anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, feeling lost or low self-esteem, exploring their identity and otherness or the impact of their neurodiversity. Our sessions allow whatever is impacting you, or causing you distress, to be explored in a non-judgemental and accepting environment. With me alongside as your therapist, we can work together to make the space for you to consider you needs, be curious what could make a difference in your life, and give meaning to past experiences that influence and impact you in the present.
0115 647 6851 View 0115 647 6851
Photo of Anne - Marie Gardiner, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Anne - Marie Gardiner
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile, my guess is that you are reading this as you maybe currently struggling with issues/difficult life events which may feel like a heavy fog in which you can't see your way through. I'm here to offer a private, confidential and safe environment, without judgement in which you can talk openly to find different ways of thinking enabling you to gain clearer thoughts. I am respectful of all individuals life experiences as I have the understanding and experience to help you gain the most from our sessions. I have immediate availability so you can see me quickly, I offer a cuppa too.
Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile, my guess is that you are reading this as you maybe currently struggling with issues/difficult life events which may feel like a heavy fog in which you can't see your way through. I'm here to offer a private, confidential and safe environment, without judgement in which you can talk openly to find different ways of thinking enabling you to gain clearer thoughts. I am respectful of all individuals life experiences as I have the understanding and experience to help you gain the most from our sessions. I have immediate availability so you can see me quickly, I offer a cuppa too.
0115 697 1897 View 0115 697 1897
Photo of Sharon Campbell, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Sharon Campbell
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9
I provide a safe and confidential space for you to talk through whatever brings you to counselling. I believe that you have the full potential to overcome any emotional challenges you may be facing and that together we can untangle the busyness of your thoughts and make sense of everything. With growing awareness comes the element of choice - which in turn will open up a life you want to live. You may have a personal goal that you want to achieve from the sessions or it may just be about having a space to say things out loud and start to own how you are feeling. I will always be led by the client as you are the expert of you.
I provide a safe and confidential space for you to talk through whatever brings you to counselling. I believe that you have the full potential to overcome any emotional challenges you may be facing and that together we can untangle the busyness of your thoughts and make sense of everything. With growing awareness comes the element of choice - which in turn will open up a life you want to live. You may have a personal goal that you want to achieve from the sessions or it may just be about having a space to say things out loud and start to own how you are feeling. I will always be led by the client as you are the expert of you.
0115 647 3837 View 0115 647 3837
Photo of Andrea Mendes Freira, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Andrea Mendes Freira
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
Regardless of our background we all go through difficult moments in our lives, leaving us overwhelmed and often struggling with feelings that may be hard to understand. It could be because life events are hard to overcome, or you feel exploited and disempowered and would like that to change. Maybe you are sexually unfulfilled or dealing with sexual problems. It could be that you want to build the confidence to come out of the closet or just to find your sexual self and enjoy the intimacy you desire in your romantic relationships. Whatever the reason is that brings you to this point - it is ok to look for someone to talk to.
Regardless of our background we all go through difficult moments in our lives, leaving us overwhelmed and often struggling with feelings that may be hard to understand. It could be because life events are hard to overcome, or you feel exploited and disempowered and would like that to change. Maybe you are sexually unfulfilled or dealing with sexual problems. It could be that you want to build the confidence to come out of the closet or just to find your sexual self and enjoy the intimacy you desire in your romantic relationships. Whatever the reason is that brings you to this point - it is ok to look for someone to talk to.
0115 824 4053 View 0115 824 4053
Photo of harmonycouplestherapy.org, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
harmonycouplestherapy.org
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG9
Welcome to Harmony Couples Therapy, my name is Ellen, and I am an experienced relationship therapist at Relate with nearly 20 years experience, and I also work with private clients. I work in person on Wednesday and Thursday evenings in Derby, and sessions are also available online. I regularly work with clients to help them make sense of a wide variety of issues such as managing conflict, trauma, separation/divorce, infidelity, bereavement, addiction, mental health issues and I have specialist training in working with couples affected by Aspergers/Autism and depression/anxiety.
Welcome to Harmony Couples Therapy, my name is Ellen, and I am an experienced relationship therapist at Relate with nearly 20 years experience, and I also work with private clients. I work in person on Wednesday and Thursday evenings in Derby, and sessions are also available online. I regularly work with clients to help them make sense of a wide variety of issues such as managing conflict, trauma, separation/divorce, infidelity, bereavement, addiction, mental health issues and I have specialist training in working with couples affected by Aspergers/Autism and depression/anxiety.
0115 647 7349 View 0115 647 7349
Photo of Dr Lianne Beadsmoore, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Dr Lianne Beadsmoore
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
My name is Lianne and I am a Chartered and Registered Psychologist and a Qualified EMDR Therapist. I have a broad range of experience in helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being. I am committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
My name is Lianne and I am a Chartered and Registered Psychologist and a Qualified EMDR Therapist. I have a broad range of experience in helping individuals improve their mental health and well-being. I am committed to providing a supportive and empathetic environment where you can feel heard, understood, and empowered to make positive changes in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or any other mental health concern, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and emotions.
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Photo of Ailis Weir, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Ailis Weir
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1  (Online Only)
I am a person-centred counsellor who primarily works with members of the LGBTQ+ community. While mental health issues can be a huge barrier for anyone, for LGBTQ+ people these issues can be magnified. Often LGBTQ+ folks struggle to feel understood, to feel heard, and can suffer social isolation as a result. Coming out, again and again, to ourselves, our friends, our partners all while finding one’s true sense of self, can be a lifelong mission. My outlook on counselling is based on compassion and honesty, and I work to foster an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Find out more at my website www.beyondlineartherapy.com.
I am a person-centred counsellor who primarily works with members of the LGBTQ+ community. While mental health issues can be a huge barrier for anyone, for LGBTQ+ people these issues can be magnified. Often LGBTQ+ folks struggle to feel understood, to feel heard, and can suffer social isolation as a result. Coming out, again and again, to ourselves, our friends, our partners all while finding one’s true sense of self, can be a lifelong mission. My outlook on counselling is based on compassion and honesty, and I work to foster an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Find out more at my website www.beyondlineartherapy.com.
0113 519 4367 View 0113 519 4367
Photo of Dr Sheena Parmar, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Dr Sheena Parmar
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Nottingham NG1
Are you experiencing difficult thoughts and feelings such as anxiety, depression, anger and/or sadness? Do you perhaps find it hard to talk about what is going on for you with people around you including your loved ones? You may be noticing that the way you are coping is not helping you to feel better in the long term. I strongly believe that everyone deserves a chance to learn how to manage difficult things that are going on for them, and to move forward to a place where they can feel positive and their mind is at ease. I can work with you collaboratively, and help you to achieve your goals.
Are you experiencing difficult thoughts and feelings such as anxiety, depression, anger and/or sadness? Do you perhaps find it hard to talk about what is going on for you with people around you including your loved ones? You may be noticing that the way you are coping is not helping you to feel better in the long term. I strongly believe that everyone deserves a chance to learn how to manage difficult things that are going on for them, and to move forward to a place where they can feel positive and their mind is at ease. I can work with you collaboratively, and help you to achieve your goals.
01509 277629 View 01509 277629

Online Therapists

Photo of Miranda Christophers, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Miranda Christophers
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Beaconsfield HP9
I am the Clinical Director of The Therapy Yard www.thetherapyyard.co.uk. We are a team consisting of Relationship and Psychosexual Therapists, Psychotherapists, Counsellors and Coaches. We are a modern and forward-thinking practice providing a range of talking therapies and specialisms online and in-person. Diversity, inclusivity, and the therapeutic relationship are at the heart of our values so we warmly welcome all, and are committed to matching you with the right therapist for you. I am also an Accredited Relationship and Psychosexual (Sex) Therapist within the practice.
I am the Clinical Director of The Therapy Yard www.thetherapyyard.co.uk. We are a team consisting of Relationship and Psychosexual Therapists, Psychotherapists, Counsellors and Coaches. We are a modern and forward-thinking practice providing a range of talking therapies and specialisms online and in-person. Diversity, inclusivity, and the therapeutic relationship are at the heart of our values so we warmly welcome all, and are committed to matching you with the right therapist for you. I am also an Accredited Relationship and Psychosexual (Sex) Therapist within the practice.
01494 416280 View 01494 416280
Photo of Sally Redmond, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Sally Redmond
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Peterborough PE2
As a Sex and Relationship Trainee Therapist I am currently working with individuals who would like to work with sexual response, sexual function, painful sex, issues around desire and arousal, low sexual desire, gender, sexuality, sexual health and fertility.
I am a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor and a Sex and Relationship Trainee Therapist. The key to the way I work is in the relationship we build with each other, to facilitate exploring your thinking, feelings and experience. I work in a person centred way which is pluralistic, meaning I have a number of training and experience to draw upon and where I believe that you are the expert in your own feelings and experience, although you may not be feel like an expert in yourself at times.
As a Sex and Relationship Trainee Therapist I am currently working with individuals who would like to work with sexual response, sexual function, painful sex, issues around desire and arousal, low sexual desire, gender, sexuality, sexual health and fertility.
I am a fully qualified Integrative Counsellor and a Sex and Relationship Trainee Therapist. The key to the way I work is in the relationship we build with each other, to facilitate exploring your thinking, feelings and experience. I work in a person centred way which is pluralistic, meaning I have a number of training and experience to draw upon and where I believe that you are the expert in your own feelings and experience, although you may not be feel like an expert in yourself at times.
01733 964662 View 01733 964662
Photo of Leah Spasova, Psychologist in Nottingham, England
Leah Spasova
Psychologist, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Oxford OX3  (Online Only)
I offer sessions, webinars, sex-positive social events, and more.
Tired of finding yourself frustrated, lonely, unfulfilled and lost in your intimate life and relationships? Yes, spending life stuck and unhappy, feeling like a lab rat – trying to figure out a maze without a map can be soul destroying. I've been talking, teaching and helping people with their relationships and sexuality since 2007, and no story can faze me. You can feel safe - I'll get you. I will understand and not judge one bit. This is your journey. Are you struggling with intimacy and sexuality? Are you curious about kinky sex or swinging? Or maybe you want to open your relationship? Or to begin with - actually find a partner?
I offer sessions, webinars, sex-positive social events, and more.
Tired of finding yourself frustrated, lonely, unfulfilled and lost in your intimate life and relationships? Yes, spending life stuck and unhappy, feeling like a lab rat – trying to figure out a maze without a map can be soul destroying. I've been talking, teaching and helping people with their relationships and sexuality since 2007, and no story can faze me. You can feel safe - I'll get you. I will understand and not judge one bit. This is your journey. Are you struggling with intimacy and sexuality? Are you curious about kinky sex or swinging? Or maybe you want to open your relationship? Or to begin with - actually find a partner?
01865 638815 View 01865 638815
Photo of Victoria Kearns, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Victoria Kearns
Psychotherapist, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Watford WD18
I support couples and individuals with relationship conflict and communication difficulties, challenges with empathy and emotional availability and with a range of psychosexual issues including increasing eroticism in your relationship and reconnecting with your sexuality, sexual pain, desire discrepancy, erection and ejaculation issues,.
Welcome, I am Victoria Kearns (she/her), a COSRT and MBACP registered Integrative Psychotherapist with specialist training in supporting couples and individuals with relationship and psychosexual problems. I offer a confidential and compassionate space in which you can explore and reflect on your challenges, the way in which these affect you and your hopes for change. Sometimes the work will look backwards, reflecting on your past relationships or the dynamic between yourself and your partner, and at other times it will look forwards, and I may invite you to try different ways of connecting with yourself or others.
I support couples and individuals with relationship conflict and communication difficulties, challenges with empathy and emotional availability and with a range of psychosexual issues including increasing eroticism in your relationship and reconnecting with your sexuality, sexual pain, desire discrepancy, erection and ejaculation issues,.
Welcome, I am Victoria Kearns (she/her), a COSRT and MBACP registered Integrative Psychotherapist with specialist training in supporting couples and individuals with relationship and psychosexual problems. I offer a confidential and compassionate space in which you can explore and reflect on your challenges, the way in which these affect you and your hopes for change. Sometimes the work will look backwards, reflecting on your past relationships or the dynamic between yourself and your partner, and at other times it will look forwards, and I may invite you to try different ways of connecting with yourself or others.
01923 961497 View 01923 961497
Photo of Caz Perry, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Caz Perry
Counsellor, MSc, COSRT General
Verified Verified
Sheffield S2
I can help : people who want to work on their relationship(s), people who want to become more sensual/explorative/connected; people with low desire; people experiencing pain with sex; people struggling with porn use/ arousal response/ orgasms; + people who've had a big change happen which has impacted their relationship/sex.
I work with individuals, couples, and throuples, who are experiencing relationship and/or sexual issues. I am warm, present, and enjoy enabling people to more fully inhabit their relational and sexual selves. Alongside private practice, I work for Relate, and have over 15 years experience helping people to feel more comfortable talking about sex and relationships. I take a biopsychosocial approach, working with at the whole person/people and their relational dynamic. I welcome all sexualities, genders, neurodivergence, and faiths (or non).
I can help : people who want to work on their relationship(s), people who want to become more sensual/explorative/connected; people with low desire; people experiencing pain with sex; people struggling with porn use/ arousal response/ orgasms; + people who've had a big change happen which has impacted their relationship/sex.
I work with individuals, couples, and throuples, who are experiencing relationship and/or sexual issues. I am warm, present, and enjoy enabling people to more fully inhabit their relational and sexual selves. Alongside private practice, I work for Relate, and have over 15 years experience helping people to feel more comfortable talking about sex and relationships. I take a biopsychosocial approach, working with at the whole person/people and their relational dynamic. I welcome all sexualities, genders, neurodivergence, and faiths (or non).
0114 697 4905 View 0114 697 4905
Photo of Marzena Penfold, Counsellor in Nottingham, England
Marzena Penfold
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High Wycombe HP13
I also support sex-related issues, sexual identity, sexuality and women's issues, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, emotional neglect, addictive or habitual behaviours, gender and identity, grief or loss.
Thank you for considering my services. I understand you may be reading this because you're currently facing a challenging time or perhaps dealing with an ongoing difficulty. Whatever your situation may be, I welcome you. Each person who seeks my help brings their unique experiences and concerns. As we work together, we will develop a working relationship that recognises your qualities and responds to your present needs. I work with individuals from diverse ethnic, racial, sexual, and gender identities and different social and cultural backgrounds. I offer a caring space where you can explore all your feelings.
I also support sex-related issues, sexual identity, sexuality and women's issues, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma, emotional neglect, addictive or habitual behaviours, gender and identity, grief or loss.
Thank you for considering my services. I understand you may be reading this because you're currently facing a challenging time or perhaps dealing with an ongoing difficulty. Whatever your situation may be, I welcome you. Each person who seeks my help brings their unique experiences and concerns. As we work together, we will develop a working relationship that recognises your qualities and responds to your present needs. I work with individuals from diverse ethnic, racial, sexual, and gender identities and different social and cultural backgrounds. I offer a caring space where you can explore all your feelings.
01491 523730 View 01491 523730
Photo of Shannon Louise - Individual & Couples Therapist, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Shannon Louise - Individual & Couples Therapist
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Leeds LS4
I work with individuals & couples. All genders, identities & backgrounds are welcome. I'm passionate about empowerment and improving overall self-confidence to help you develop a positive relationship with yourself and others. I use range of techniques from different approaches to ensure I work in a way that suits you personally. I am happy to work with a range of different concerns within therapy. For couples we can work through issues such as communication difficulties, problem solving, lack of intimacy, sex drive, feeling disconnected, financial worries, work stress, infidelity, trust and more
I work with individuals & couples. All genders, identities & backgrounds are welcome. I'm passionate about empowerment and improving overall self-confidence to help you develop a positive relationship with yourself and others. I use range of techniques from different approaches to ensure I work in a way that suits you personally. I am happy to work with a range of different concerns within therapy. For couples we can work through issues such as communication difficulties, problem solving, lack of intimacy, sex drive, feeling disconnected, financial worries, work stress, infidelity, trust and more
0113 519 0388 View 0113 519 0388
Photo of Samantha Oliver, Psychotherapist in Nottingham, England
Samantha Oliver
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Newcastle ST5
This may be for Compulsive behaviour around : seeing sex workers, pornography, hook ups, fetish, kinks, infidelity (cheating).
I'm Sam (or Samantha, I don't mind either), I've gained experience working in the third sector supporting survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence in multiple roles such as a counsellor, group facilitator, and assessing client needs. I've also gained experience working in a sexual health clinic that support the LGBTQ+ community - working with a variety of issues and presentations such as  GSRD, Disabilities, Neurodiversity, ADHD, Sexual health, Sexual problems, and Gender dysphoria, compulsive sexual behaviour (sex addiction). I have an interest in dissociative disorders and working with 'parts' of people to create synthesis.
This may be for Compulsive behaviour around : seeing sex workers, pornography, hook ups, fetish, kinks, infidelity (cheating).
I'm Sam (or Samantha, I don't mind either), I've gained experience working in the third sector supporting survivors of sexual abuse and sexual violence in multiple roles such as a counsellor, group facilitator, and assessing client needs. I've also gained experience working in a sexual health clinic that support the LGBTQ+ community - working with a variety of issues and presentations such as  GSRD, Disabilities, Neurodiversity, ADHD, Sexual health, Sexual problems, and Gender dysphoria, compulsive sexual behaviour (sex addiction). I have an interest in dissociative disorders and working with 'parts' of people to create synthesis.
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See more therapy options for Nottingham

Female Counsellors

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.