Photo of Kelly Warren, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Kelly Warren
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
In addition, I also work assisting those with depression, anxiety, phobias, eating disorders, ADHD, LGBTQ identity issues, chemical dependency, anger management, divorce, sexuality, and relationship issues.
Everyone has within them the ability to attain personal growth by gaining insight into their unique strengths. During times of stress, this inner resilience can be called upon to guide them in discovering purpose and meaning in their lives, improving interpersonal relationships, and adapting to healthier patterns of relating to others. I take a collaborative, yet challenging approach in assisting children, adults, couples, and families on their path towards positive change. I use a solution-focused exploration of current struggles to help them break unhealthy patterns and develop coping skills and a sense of hope and strength.
In addition, I also work assisting those with depression, anxiety, phobias, eating disorders, ADHD, LGBTQ identity issues, chemical dependency, anger management, divorce, sexuality, and relationship issues.
Everyone has within them the ability to attain personal growth by gaining insight into their unique strengths. During times of stress, this inner resilience can be called upon to guide them in discovering purpose and meaning in their lives, improving interpersonal relationships, and adapting to healthier patterns of relating to others. I take a collaborative, yet challenging approach in assisting children, adults, couples, and families on their path towards positive change. I use a solution-focused exploration of current struggles to help them break unhealthy patterns and develop coping skills and a sense of hope and strength.
(424) 425-3710 View (424) 425-3710
Photo of Julia Herrera, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Julia Herrera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I am passionate and highly experienced working with adolescents 10 & up and adults that struggle with anxiety, depression, divorce, ADHD, relationship struggles, and big life transitions.
Seeking out therapy and finding the right therapist can feel daunting, frustrating, and extremely vulnerable. Knowing this, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative relationship with my clients. I want my clients to know they are not alone in their struggles. I not only understand and validate but also help empower them to create both emotional and behavioral changes that will lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. My goal is to have my client become more self-aware, identify and implement their strengths, and have tools they can apply outside of the therapy room.
I am passionate and highly experienced working with adolescents 10 & up and adults that struggle with anxiety, depression, divorce, ADHD, relationship struggles, and big life transitions.
Seeking out therapy and finding the right therapist can feel daunting, frustrating, and extremely vulnerable. Knowing this, I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative relationship with my clients. I want my clients to know they are not alone in their struggles. I not only understand and validate but also help empower them to create both emotional and behavioral changes that will lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. My goal is to have my client become more self-aware, identify and implement their strengths, and have tools they can apply outside of the therapy room.
(626) 551-4897 View (626) 551-4897
Photo of Erin Rieger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Erin Rieger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LEP
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I have successfully worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma, Autism, ADHD and educational difficulties.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
I have successfully worked with clients with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, domestic violence, trauma, Autism, ADHD and educational difficulties.
You have taken the brave first step towards feeling better and I am here to support you every step of the way. Clients report that they feel safe, understood and cared about when working with me. I provide an empathetic, non-judgmental space in which my clients can express their feelings, make positive change, gain keen insight into themselves, improve their self-esteem and create the life they want. After working together, clients report improved mood and increased self-worth.
(424) 285-1688 View (424) 285-1688
Photo of Brooke M. Sklar, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Brooke M. Sklar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
From your first session we will work on your resources - how have you coped up to now? We'll add and practice healthy, adaptive resources and take an honest look at those coping skills, usually developed early in life, that are holding you back from leading your best life.
I work with adults, teens and couples suffering with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, intimate relationship difficulties and more. I strive to provide a safe space where you can heal and grow. My approach is holistic and strength based. I have advanced training in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
From your first session we will work on your resources - how have you coped up to now? We'll add and practice healthy, adaptive resources and take an honest look at those coping skills, usually developed early in life, that are holding you back from leading your best life.
I work with adults, teens and couples suffering with depression, anxiety, childhood trauma, OCD, grief, life transitions, intimate relationship difficulties and more. I strive to provide a safe space where you can heal and grow. My approach is holistic and strength based. I have advanced training in EMDR and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
(310) 773-0569 View (310) 773-0569
Photo of Corrine Gach, Pre-Licensed Professional in 90254, CA
Corrine Gach
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I provide individual therapy supporting individuals and their families navigating life's challenges including those with difficulties related to ADHD, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and perfectionism.
I hold a deep passion for assisting individuals of all ages, including adolescents, teens, and adults looking to find more enjoyment and connection in their lives. Maybe you are feeling a bit stuck, unmotivated, or easily overwhelmed by day-to-day life. Maybe you know you'd be happier if you made changes but it feels safer and more comfortable to stay the same. It is my goal to not only understand the challenges you face but help you rise above them and start moving towards your ideal life with less fear and more confidence.
I provide individual therapy supporting individuals and their families navigating life's challenges including those with difficulties related to ADHD, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, and perfectionism.
I hold a deep passion for assisting individuals of all ages, including adolescents, teens, and adults looking to find more enjoyment and connection in their lives. Maybe you are feeling a bit stuck, unmotivated, or easily overwhelmed by day-to-day life. Maybe you know you'd be happier if you made changes but it feels safer and more comfortable to stay the same. It is my goal to not only understand the challenges you face but help you rise above them and start moving towards your ideal life with less fear and more confidence.
(310) 776-6108 View (310) 776-6108
Photo of Michelle Parker, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 90254, CA
Michelle Parker
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I provide individual therapy for young adults, teens, and children navigating issues related to anxiety, depression, issues related to ADHD/Autism Spectrum Disorder/neuro-divergence, life transitions, family conflict, school or career-related stress, identity-related matters, perfectionism, self-esteem, people-pleasing, relationships, and friendships.
Hello and welcome! Is your child struggling to navigate high school or middle school? Are you a 20-something overwhelmed with all the uncertainty that comes with this phase of life? I love working with tweens, teens, and young adults in their journey toward wellness and wholeness. I take a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach rooted in respect and a sense of humor. Whether you are brand new to therapy or have tried it out before, it is so important to connect with someone who feels like the right fit for you - for more info about myself and my style, feel free to check out my website at michelleparkertherapy.com.
I provide individual therapy for young adults, teens, and children navigating issues related to anxiety, depression, issues related to ADHD/Autism Spectrum Disorder/neuro-divergence, life transitions, family conflict, school or career-related stress, identity-related matters, perfectionism, self-esteem, people-pleasing, relationships, and friendships.
Hello and welcome! Is your child struggling to navigate high school or middle school? Are you a 20-something overwhelmed with all the uncertainty that comes with this phase of life? I love working with tweens, teens, and young adults in their journey toward wellness and wholeness. I take a warm, non-judgmental, and collaborative approach rooted in respect and a sense of humor. Whether you are brand new to therapy or have tried it out before, it is so important to connect with someone who feels like the right fit for you - for more info about myself and my style, feel free to check out my website at michelleparkertherapy.com.
(707) 993-0869 View (707) 993-0869
Photo of Yukari Makino, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Yukari Makino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, PhD, AMFT, APCC, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I am a Somatic Psychotherapist from Japan. I have worked for Simple Trauma / PTSD and Complex Trauma / Complex PTSD. I will work through the trauma behind your current problems, depression, panic, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and so on, by reading the signs and noticing the unspoken voice and exploring the unknown self with your curiosity. You become aware of yourself that you have not been aware of before. I am here to support you.
I am a Somatic Psychotherapist from Japan. I have worked for Simple Trauma / PTSD and Complex Trauma / Complex PTSD. I will work through the trauma behind your current problems, depression, panic, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, and so on, by reading the signs and noticing the unspoken voice and exploring the unknown self with your curiosity. You become aware of yourself that you have not been aware of before. I am here to support you.
(310) 929-6340 View (310) 929-6340
Photo of Sarah Tuberman-Green, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Sarah Tuberman-Green
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I provide individual, group and family therapy, as well as comprehensive psychological and psycho-educational evaluations for ADHD and learning disabilities.
I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing a wide variety of presenting problems. My approach to therapy is supportive, genuine, and collaborative, which allows children and adolescents to reach their fullest potential. I have worked with children and teens for over ten years across a number of settings, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice.
I provide individual, group and family therapy, as well as comprehensive psychological and psycho-educational evaluations for ADHD and learning disabilities.
I work with children, adolescents, and families who are experiencing a wide variety of presenting problems. My approach to therapy is supportive, genuine, and collaborative, which allows children and adolescents to reach their fullest potential. I have worked with children and teens for over ten years across a number of settings, including community mental health centers, psychiatric hospitals, schools, and private practice.
(424) 999-4789 View (424) 999-4789
Photo of Hypnotherapist & Life Coach, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Hypnotherapist & Life Coach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CHT, CLC
Not Verified Not Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience using a unique combination of Mental Health Coaching, Hypnotherapy, and Counseling for individuals, couples, and kids struggling with challenges such as: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Vaping or Smoking to name a few.
Have you spent time in traditional talk therapy and still feel stuck? Are you repeating old negative patterns in your life that you want to change? Choosing toxic relationships, career challenges, weight loss, the list is endless. You may consciously understand the root cause of many of your problems, yet aren't thinking, feeling and behaving the way you desire. Our subconscious old limiting belief systems take charge much of the time. I provide Hypnotherapy and Life Coaching, and have 20 years of experience as a talk therapist. I'm confident I will help you overcome any problems you're having using this powerful combination.
I have over 20 years of experience using a unique combination of Mental Health Coaching, Hypnotherapy, and Counseling for individuals, couples, and kids struggling with challenges such as: anxiety, depression, ADHD, Vaping or Smoking to name a few.
Have you spent time in traditional talk therapy and still feel stuck? Are you repeating old negative patterns in your life that you want to change? Choosing toxic relationships, career challenges, weight loss, the list is endless. You may consciously understand the root cause of many of your problems, yet aren't thinking, feeling and behaving the way you desire. Our subconscious old limiting belief systems take charge much of the time. I provide Hypnotherapy and Life Coaching, and have 20 years of experience as a talk therapist. I'm confident I will help you overcome any problems you're having using this powerful combination.
(310) 480-8362 View (310) 480-8362
Photo of Crystal Quarry, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 347-1691 View (424) 347-1691
Photo of Sara Sedlik Haynes, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Sara Sedlik Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I specialize in couple counseling, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, communication issues, and other issues like trauma, anxiety and ADHD. I work with adults and older teens who feel ready to do deep work. The problem is that most people wait, hoping things will shift on their own...but that rarely works. Therapy is effective because it moves us from a state of dysregulation to regulation; when the brain-body connection is in balance, our whole life from decision-making, performance and relationships are easier and more fulfilling. If your goal is to feel more in control and less frustrated, I will help you.
I specialize in couple counseling, relationship dynamics, self-esteem, communication issues, and other issues like trauma, anxiety and ADHD. I work with adults and older teens who feel ready to do deep work. The problem is that most people wait, hoping things will shift on their own...but that rarely works. Therapy is effective because it moves us from a state of dysregulation to regulation; when the brain-body connection is in balance, our whole life from decision-making, performance and relationships are easier and more fulfilling. If your goal is to feel more in control and less frustrated, I will help you.
(310) 341-4761 View (310) 341-4761
Photo of Crystal Quarry, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Crystal Quarry
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
(424) 216-5575 View (424) 216-5575
Photo of Anna Pirkl, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Anna Pirkl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ATR, LAADC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
If you are someone looking to deal with challenges related to anxiety, ADHD, substance use, traumatic experiences or want to work on parenting, relationships or family healing, I have specific training and expertise in these areas.
You might be looking for support to manage a challenge that has come your way. This is a wise and life affirming choice. I find that obstacles arise as a way of offering an invitation to develop as human beings. It definitely doesn’t look and feel that way at first, but, as we look back on experiences, we know this is so. Meeting that invitation head on by having the neutral and clear guidance of a trained third party can make all the difference.
If you are someone looking to deal with challenges related to anxiety, ADHD, substance use, traumatic experiences or want to work on parenting, relationships or family healing, I have specific training and expertise in these areas.
You might be looking for support to manage a challenge that has come your way. This is a wise and life affirming choice. I find that obstacles arise as a way of offering an invitation to develop as human beings. It definitely doesn’t look and feel that way at first, but, as we look back on experiences, we know this is so. Meeting that invitation head on by having the neutral and clear guidance of a trained third party can make all the difference.
(424) 377-7417 View (424) 377-7417
Photo of Sarah Raike in 90254, CA
Sarah Raike
PA-C
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and panic attacks.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT ONLY-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. You enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Exclusively focused on mental health issues, Bonmente treats a myriad of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep disorders, postpartum depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and panic attacks.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS FOR MEDICATION MANAGEMENT ONLY-Bonmente knows asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. You enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(310) 929-6394 View (310) 929-6394
Photo of Megan Glotz, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Megan Glotz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I work with a diverse client population but I specialize in helping clients with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, interpersonal conflict, relationship issues, infidelity, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
I truly believe that the most positive outcomes in therapy happen when the therapeutic relationship is a good fit. With this core value in mind, I work with you to help you feel safe, understood, and supported, throughout our time together. I provide a calming environment where you can take time out of your busy week and focus on yourself and your unique goals. I work collaboratively with you to create positive change within yourself and your relationships. My goal is to help you improve your life and happiness, lower stress and negative feelings, and identify negative patterns or behaviors that are no longer serving you.
I work with a diverse client population but I specialize in helping clients with anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, interpersonal conflict, relationship issues, infidelity, life transitions, grief and loss, and trauma.
I truly believe that the most positive outcomes in therapy happen when the therapeutic relationship is a good fit. With this core value in mind, I work with you to help you feel safe, understood, and supported, throughout our time together. I provide a calming environment where you can take time out of your busy week and focus on yourself and your unique goals. I work collaboratively with you to create positive change within yourself and your relationships. My goal is to help you improve your life and happiness, lower stress and negative feelings, and identify negative patterns or behaviors that are no longer serving you.
(424) 371-7697 View (424) 371-7697
Photo of Marisa Burke, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Marisa Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My areas of experience include: ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, as well as self-esteem and social skills.
I am a child therapist who utilizes play as a natural method of communication with your child who is experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, anxiety, or depressive disorders. I provide a confidential, safe, and caring environment for your child to play and explore both conscious and unconscious thoughts and feelings. I will work with your child to empower them to express their needs and make use of their newly learned coping strategies.
My areas of experience include: ADHD, Autism, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, as well as self-esteem and social skills.
I am a child therapist who utilizes play as a natural method of communication with your child who is experiencing social, emotional, behavioral, anxiety, or depressive disorders. I provide a confidential, safe, and caring environment for your child to play and explore both conscious and unconscious thoughts and feelings. I will work with your child to empower them to express their needs and make use of their newly learned coping strategies.
(310) 956-4076 View (310) 956-4076
Photo of Sierra Rose Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Sierra Rose Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
I specialize in working with people who have a desire to improve their daily functioning and quality of life. I want to work with clients to determine what will work best for them and their unique circumstances. I offer therapy for children, adolescents, adults and elders alike.
(424) 383-5128 View (424) 383-5128
Photo of Alicia MacGowan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90254, CA
Alicia MacGowan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAADC, CAI
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Trusting therapy is an opportunity to improve your life with the assistance of a Therapist who has been practicing since 1992 will ensure your ability to achieve success. Deciding to make changes can leave you feeling overwhelmed. I have created a safe and welcoming space which allows you to feel comfortable and at ease.
Trusting therapy is an opportunity to improve your life with the assistance of a Therapist who has been practicing since 1992 will ensure your ability to achieve success. Deciding to make changes can leave you feeling overwhelmed. I have created a safe and welcoming space which allows you to feel comfortable and at ease.
(424) 645-5156 View (424) 645-5156
Photo of Macy Grim, Licensed Professional Counselor in 90254, CA
Macy Grim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My group practice provides services for families of children and teens to help mitigate the negative impact of social isolation, anxiety, and disconnectedness. We provide tools for parents to immediately implement at home while also working one on one with the child/teen to teach emotional regulation, coping mechanisms, social connectedness, and an overall safe space to process feelings. We work mostly with kids, preteens, teens, and young adults.
My group practice provides services for families of children and teens to help mitigate the negative impact of social isolation, anxiety, and disconnectedness. We provide tools for parents to immediately implement at home while also working one on one with the child/teen to teach emotional regulation, coping mechanisms, social connectedness, and an overall safe space to process feelings. We work mostly with kids, preteens, teens, and young adults.
(424) 216-5867 View (424) 216-5867
Photo of Jane Amling-Heiken, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Jane Amling-Heiken
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
In psychotherapy, my hope is to help you learn to manage your life with less stress, anxiety & depression; learn to relax & discover your own unique transformation; quiet your mind & learn to enjoy each day of your life. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & a mindfulness based approach, I work with individuals (adults and adolescents) and couples addressing depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, substance abuse, divorce & major life transitions. My experience includes working in an adult & family clinic, a substance abuse clinic, as a clinical manager in a Fresno based adult/child clinic and in my private practice. I have completed Gottman Couples Training Levels I, II and III.
In psychotherapy, my hope is to help you learn to manage your life with less stress, anxiety & depression; learn to relax & discover your own unique transformation; quiet your mind & learn to enjoy each day of your life. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & a mindfulness based approach, I work with individuals (adults and adolescents) and couples addressing depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, substance abuse, divorce & major life transitions. My experience includes working in an adult & family clinic, a substance abuse clinic, as a clinical manager in a Fresno based adult/child clinic and in my private practice. I have completed Gottman Couples Training Levels I, II and III.
(310) 589-3613 View (310) 589-3613
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.