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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Malik, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lomita, CA
Sarah Malik
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to guide clients to a better understanding of themselves. I work with individuals, couples, & families and provide a safe, judgement free, welcoming space to help clients navigate the various challenges in life. I strive to create an empowering environment which helps clients build healthy coping skills, develop independence, and resolve past issues and trauma through identifying patterns by assigning homework designed specifically for the client’s needs
My goal as a therapist is to guide clients to a better understanding of themselves. I work with individuals, couples, & families and provide a safe, judgement free, welcoming space to help clients navigate the various challenges in life. I strive to create an empowering environment which helps clients build healthy coping skills, develop independence, and resolve past issues and trauma through identifying patterns by assigning homework designed specifically for the client’s needs
(310) 455-8815 View (310) 455-8815
Photo of LBC Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
LBC Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90804  (Online Only)
Each therapist in the group has different specialties! Some of our specialties include trauma, anxiety, couples, adolescents, mood disorders, & phobias.
Are you happy? You certainly deserve to be. If your past and/or current life events prevent you from living the life you want, reach out to us today and let's see if we can help. We are a group practice comprised of both licensed clinicians and associates with eclectic backgrounds. We're dedicated to helping the lives of those in our community. We work with adolescents (12+), adults, and those in the LGBT community too, and we work with many different mental health issues. Our style is warm, inviting, collaborative, and judgement free. 100% virtual. We accept medi-cal that's managed by MHN/Healthnet but no other medi-cal plan.
Each therapist in the group has different specialties! Some of our specialties include trauma, anxiety, couples, adolescents, mood disorders, & phobias.
Are you happy? You certainly deserve to be. If your past and/or current life events prevent you from living the life you want, reach out to us today and let's see if we can help. We are a group practice comprised of both licensed clinicians and associates with eclectic backgrounds. We're dedicated to helping the lives of those in our community. We work with adolescents (12+), adults, and those in the LGBT community too, and we work with many different mental health issues. Our style is warm, inviting, collaborative, and judgement free. 100% virtual. We accept medi-cal that's managed by MHN/Healthnet but no other medi-cal plan.
(562) 414-5656 View (562) 414-5656
Photo of Samana Budhathoki, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lomita, CA
Samana Budhathoki
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Together we uncover the root of anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma by looking into the past to understand/manage the present while approaching the future in a meaningful & practical way.
We all try to cope with our wounds & stresses in the best way we can. Complex life experiences teach us complex ways to cope by perhaps— suppressing our feelings, staying hidden to avoid unwanted attention or punishment, acting out to explain the inexplicable, performing exceptionally & anxiously well to stand out or gain approval, or taking care of others at the expense of ourselves to compensate for our family legacies & cultural dynamics. Whatever the nature and range of your experiences, you may be struggling with your past and how it impacts your present, your work, your relationship with yourself, loved ones, & the world.
Together we uncover the root of anxiety, depression, stress, or trauma by looking into the past to understand/manage the present while approaching the future in a meaningful & practical way.
We all try to cope with our wounds & stresses in the best way we can. Complex life experiences teach us complex ways to cope by perhaps— suppressing our feelings, staying hidden to avoid unwanted attention or punishment, acting out to explain the inexplicable, performing exceptionally & anxiously well to stand out or gain approval, or taking care of others at the expense of ourselves to compensate for our family legacies & cultural dynamics. Whatever the nature and range of your experiences, you may be struggling with your past and how it impacts your present, your work, your relationship with yourself, loved ones, & the world.
(562) 257-3659 View (562) 257-3659
Photo of Sofia Subhan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lomita, CA
Sofia Subhan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90504
I enjoy working with young adults and women, who are going through depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions.
For over a decade I have been helping people grow, heal, learn about themselves and shift negative patterns in their life. If you or someone you know is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, having difficulty navigating relationships, or burdened by past traumas, I will work with you to better understand, process and resolve challenges in your life. Dealing with ongoing life stressors at home, school or work can be difficult to navigate and can leave you feeling hopeless at times. Based on my years of experience, I tailor my approach and techniques to best fit your unique hardships and goals.
I enjoy working with young adults and women, who are going through depression, trauma, anxiety, and life transitions.
For over a decade I have been helping people grow, heal, learn about themselves and shift negative patterns in their life. If you or someone you know is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, having difficulty navigating relationships, or burdened by past traumas, I will work with you to better understand, process and resolve challenges in your life. Dealing with ongoing life stressors at home, school or work can be difficult to navigate and can leave you feeling hopeless at times. Based on my years of experience, I tailor my approach and techniques to best fit your unique hardships and goals.
(310) 935-3687 View (310) 935-3687
Photo of Razdeep Kaur, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lomita, CA
Razdeep Kaur
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, ASW, MSW
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Hi! I'm Razdeep, South Asian therapist providing therapy in California. I work with heart-centered, sensitive, creative, or highly empathic teen and adult individuals who are experiencing stress, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, or struggling with ADHD symptoms. As a sensitive soul, your ability to feel so deeply is your greatest gift and superpower. Even though it may feel like a burden at times, please know that this is what makes you such a warm and wonderful. I invite you to unfasten your burdens and know it’s safe to take a deep breath. In therapy sessions with me, you will be seen and you are warmly welcomed to just BE.
Hi! I'm Razdeep, South Asian therapist providing therapy in California. I work with heart-centered, sensitive, creative, or highly empathic teen and adult individuals who are experiencing stress, life transitions, anxiety, trauma, or struggling with ADHD symptoms. As a sensitive soul, your ability to feel so deeply is your greatest gift and superpower. Even though it may feel like a burden at times, please know that this is what makes you such a warm and wonderful. I invite you to unfasten your burdens and know it’s safe to take a deep breath. In therapy sessions with me, you will be seen and you are warmly welcomed to just BE.
(626) 784-7364 View (626) 784-7364
Photo of Priyanka Pathak, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Lomita, CA
Priyanka Pathak
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266  (Online Only)
Hi I'm Priyanka - South Asian therapist here to help you to live more authentically. You may feel like everyone and everything around you is moving fast or moving on without you. You're feeling disconnected with your career, family, or relationship - something feels off. There's just a lot on your mind and you are trying to cope. You've reached the point when you’re done lugging around emotions from old, heavy memories and are ready to confront the stubborn worries, doubts, and fears that meddle in your intimate relationships and work.
Hi I'm Priyanka - South Asian therapist here to help you to live more authentically. You may feel like everyone and everything around you is moving fast or moving on without you. You're feeling disconnected with your career, family, or relationship - something feels off. There's just a lot on your mind and you are trying to cope. You've reached the point when you’re done lugging around emotions from old, heavy memories and are ready to confront the stubborn worries, doubts, and fears that meddle in your intimate relationships and work.
(424) 789-7383 View (424) 789-7383
Photo of Ektha Aggarwal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lomita, CA
Ektha Aggarwal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90505
Life can be isolating when it's only YOU vs. YOUR struggles. As YOUR therapist, I help YOU transform YOUR pain into personal power when YOUR anxiety or depression takes over at the worst possible moments. It's confusing wrestling with day-to-day anger, pain & loss. This time can feel overwhelming & crippling. It may affect YOUR relationships with family, friend colleagues, & mostly, yourself. As Alder says, “courage does not happen when YOU have all the answers. It happens when YOU are ready to face the questions YOU have been avoiding YOUR whole life! How do YOU courageously face the difficult questions & reclaim YOUR strength?
Life can be isolating when it's only YOU vs. YOUR struggles. As YOUR therapist, I help YOU transform YOUR pain into personal power when YOUR anxiety or depression takes over at the worst possible moments. It's confusing wrestling with day-to-day anger, pain & loss. This time can feel overwhelming & crippling. It may affect YOUR relationships with family, friend colleagues, & mostly, yourself. As Alder says, “courage does not happen when YOU have all the answers. It happens when YOU are ready to face the questions YOU have been avoiding YOUR whole life! How do YOU courageously face the difficult questions & reclaim YOUR strength?
(424) 625-7809 View (424) 625-7809
Photo of Kristy Verma (Doctoral Student), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Lomita, CA
Kristy Verma (Doctoral Student)
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
My name is Kristy Verma, LPCC 13286, and I am a doctoral student working towards a Doctoral degree (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership. I have a goal to increase mental health services at our educational institutions and to better support students’ educational journeys. Furthermore, I have experience working with teens, adults, and elderly clients from various cultural and professional backgrounds. I am a highly motivated mental health professional who is genuinely passionate about helping others heal and improve their mental health. I approach goal setting from a collaborative perspective.
My name is Kristy Verma, LPCC 13286, and I am a doctoral student working towards a Doctoral degree (Ed.D) in Educational Leadership. I have a goal to increase mental health services at our educational institutions and to better support students’ educational journeys. Furthermore, I have experience working with teens, adults, and elderly clients from various cultural and professional backgrounds. I am a highly motivated mental health professional who is genuinely passionate about helping others heal and improve their mental health. I approach goal setting from a collaborative perspective.
(209) 332-4647 View (209) 332-4647
Photo of Kash's Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
Kash's Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90802  (Online Only)
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this bio. I want to first congratulate in you on taking a step of putting yourself first. Taking that first step could have many mixed feelings of excitement, fear and uncertainty. I am here to be a support system for your self growth and development. Many things in life can occur which can hinder our growth. Such events can be disheartening (e.g. divorce, death of a loved one, stress in school or work, etc.) or even events that are normally viewed as positive (e.g. recently getting married, moving in together, getting a new job or promotion, children, etc).
Thank you so much for taking the time to read this bio. I want to first congratulate in you on taking a step of putting yourself first. Taking that first step could have many mixed feelings of excitement, fear and uncertainty. I am here to be a support system for your self growth and development. Many things in life can occur which can hinder our growth. Such events can be disheartening (e.g. divorce, death of a loved one, stress in school or work, etc.) or even events that are normally viewed as positive (e.g. recently getting married, moving in together, getting a new job or promotion, children, etc).
(510) 902-4118 View (510) 902-4118
Photo of Sanna Leghari, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
Sanna Leghari
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Sanna Leghari is a Licensed Marriage and Family, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She believes that our thoughts help shape and create our realities. Sanna is aware that from time to time, negative thoughts can infiltrate our psyche and cause bouts of depression, unbearable anxiety or leave us feeling "stuck. " Sanna believe these symptoms are not a reflection of our true selves and are indicators for areas where growth, change and adaptation are needed.
Sanna Leghari is a Licensed Marriage and Family, who has been practicing since 2016. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. She believes that our thoughts help shape and create our realities. Sanna is aware that from time to time, negative thoughts can infiltrate our psyche and cause bouts of depression, unbearable anxiety or leave us feeling "stuck. " Sanna believe these symptoms are not a reflection of our true selves and are indicators for areas where growth, change and adaptation are needed.
(424) 622-0515 View (424) 622-0515

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Rumana Mansur, Psychologist in Lomita, CA
Dr. Rumana Mansur
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Hi there - I'm Dr. Mansur, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, loss experiences or re-emerging past trauma? Are you experiencing stress from work, school or family? Are you looking for emotional relief or a path to achieve personal growth? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I could help you learn new ways to think and develop new skills. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to share challenges you may be facing. We start by identifying an attainable goal and understanding your distress in context.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Mansur, a licensed Clinical Psychologist. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, loss experiences or re-emerging past trauma? Are you experiencing stress from work, school or family? Are you looking for emotional relief or a path to achieve personal growth? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, I could help you learn new ways to think and develop new skills. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to share challenges you may be facing. We start by identifying an attainable goal and understanding your distress in context.
(657) 220-6216 View (657) 220-6216
Photo of Amina Choudhery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lomita, CA
Amina Choudhery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anaheim, CA 92801  (Online Only)
I have worked closely with young women/mothers experiencing various degrees of trauma, anxiety, and depression.
In our work together, I will help you identify your individual needs, find effective ways to prioritize your mental health, and guide you towards becoming the healthiest version of yourself. Together, we will find those pockets of peace to make everyday a little lighter and brighter while still honoring your cultural, religious, and spiritual principles so that you may continue to give to others and prioritize your emotional well-being. My professional background is enriched with a diverse range of experiences allowing me to tailor therapeutic interventions to the unique needs of each individual.
I have worked closely with young women/mothers experiencing various degrees of trauma, anxiety, and depression.
In our work together, I will help you identify your individual needs, find effective ways to prioritize your mental health, and guide you towards becoming the healthiest version of yourself. Together, we will find those pockets of peace to make everyday a little lighter and brighter while still honoring your cultural, religious, and spiritual principles so that you may continue to give to others and prioritize your emotional well-being. My professional background is enriched with a diverse range of experiences allowing me to tailor therapeutic interventions to the unique needs of each individual.
(657) 837-2194 View (657) 837-2194
Photo of Laraib Saeed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lomita, CA
Laraib Saeed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing treatment for a wide variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, grief, & cultural/family conflicts.
Therapy begins with a safe and trusting environment where your needs are collaboratively addressed. As your clinician, my goal is to encourage and support your healing, and to be a cheerleader through your recovery journey. With empathy and compassion, I want to help you find your power so you can trust yourself to handle life’s challenges with more confidence and ease.
I specialize in providing treatment for a wide variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger, grief, & cultural/family conflicts.
Therapy begins with a safe and trusting environment where your needs are collaboratively addressed. As your clinician, my goal is to encourage and support your healing, and to be a cheerleader through your recovery journey. With empathy and compassion, I want to help you find your power so you can trust yourself to handle life’s challenges with more confidence and ease.
(657) 216-7137 View (657) 216-7137
Photo of Hina Javaid-Camua, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Lomita, CA
Hina Javaid-Camua
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361  (Online Only)
I'm glad you are here. Your story matters. It's unique and it deserves to be embraced. Therapy can be a place to heal from mental health issues but it's also where you can have meaningful life conversations to heal, grow, and understand how to care for you. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health issues but I also focus on trauma, breakups/divorce, lack of motivation, and setting boundaries in essential life relationships. With a deep focus on empowering individuals from all cultures, I am committed to giving you solace while providing a safe space for you to share your experiences and be heard without judgment.
I'm glad you are here. Your story matters. It's unique and it deserves to be embraced. Therapy can be a place to heal from mental health issues but it's also where you can have meaningful life conversations to heal, grow, and understand how to care for you. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health issues but I also focus on trauma, breakups/divorce, lack of motivation, and setting boundaries in essential life relationships. With a deep focus on empowering individuals from all cultures, I am committed to giving you solace while providing a safe space for you to share your experiences and be heard without judgment.
(310) 907-7747 View (310) 907-7747
Photo of Yashwanthi Mirji, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
Yashwanthi Mirji
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, relationship issues as well as depression and anxiety.
Are you anxious, depressed or sad? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you finding yourself stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships/career ? Recognizing that you need help, can be difficult as well as intimidating. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have had extensive training and experience working with adults (individuals and couples), children and adolescents for over 10 years.
I specialize in treating unresolved trauma, complex grief, chronic stress, relationship issues as well as depression and anxiety.
Are you anxious, depressed or sad? Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you finding yourself stuck in unhealthy patterns in your relationships/career ? Recognizing that you need help, can be difficult as well as intimidating. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I have had extensive training and experience working with adults (individuals and couples), children and adolescents for over 10 years.
(805) 262-9147 View (805) 262-9147
Photo of Sana Sarfaraz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
Sana Sarfaraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
In my practice, I have helped adults, adolescents and children deal with a wide range of issues including grief, loss trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, multicultural issues, self-esteem issues, personal growth, and workplace growth.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
In my practice, I have helped adults, adolescents and children deal with a wide range of issues including grief, loss trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, multicultural issues, self-esteem issues, personal growth, and workplace growth.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
(408) 351-4053 View (408) 351-4053
Photo of Aisha Ishtiaq, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
Aisha Ishtiaq
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Montebello, CA 90640  (Online Only)
I work from the lens of Trauma-Informed Care and Childhood Attachment.
Do you feel as if every effort you make is never enough, that you are always striving for something bigger and better? Are you struggling in your relationship or marriage and cannot break the unhealthy patterns of how you and your partner relate to each other? As your therapist, I support individuals and couples to begin to heal from past traumas and learn to accept and love themselves. I help couples to break free from unhealthy patterns to truly enjoy each other's company and love.
I work from the lens of Trauma-Informed Care and Childhood Attachment.
Do you feel as if every effort you make is never enough, that you are always striving for something bigger and better? Are you struggling in your relationship or marriage and cannot break the unhealthy patterns of how you and your partner relate to each other? As your therapist, I support individuals and couples to begin to heal from past traumas and learn to accept and love themselves. I help couples to break free from unhealthy patterns to truly enjoy each other's company and love.
(323) 765-3101 x808 View (323) 765-3101 x808
Photo of Gunjani Patel Oza, Counselor in Lomita, CA
Gunjani Patel Oza
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, CISM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92121  (Online Only)
I also have 15+ years of experience in treating trauma (EMDR), depression, anxiety, grief, loss and addiction.
Welcome! I am passionate about my work and take great pride in the therapeutic relationships I have built overtime with my clients, which is why I believe in tailoring counseling to each individuals unique needs. Therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor & the client. Some relationships hurt us while others are meant to heal. I believe that my job isn't to tell you what to do or how you live your life but to provide a safe, trusting environment where you express yourself & have an experience of being listened to without judgment & together we come up with creative solutions.
I also have 15+ years of experience in treating trauma (EMDR), depression, anxiety, grief, loss and addiction.
Welcome! I am passionate about my work and take great pride in the therapeutic relationships I have built overtime with my clients, which is why I believe in tailoring counseling to each individuals unique needs. Therapy is most effective when a trusting relationship exists between a counselor & the client. Some relationships hurt us while others are meant to heal. I believe that my job isn't to tell you what to do or how you live your life but to provide a safe, trusting environment where you express yourself & have an experience of being listened to without judgment & together we come up with creative solutions.
(619) 949-3174 View (619) 949-3174
Photo of Pinkal Shah, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lomita, CA
Pinkal Shah
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orange, CA 92868  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide safe, accepting, and mindful environment as well as culturally sensitive services for children, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with emotional stress such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioral issues such as ADHD, defiant, and oppositional behaviors, culture-related stress such as immigration and issues regarding identity including gender variant clients.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide safe, accepting, and mindful environment as well as culturally sensitive services for children, adults, and families who are experiencing difficulties with emotional stress such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, behavioral issues such as ADHD, defiant, and oppositional behaviors, culture-related stress such as immigration and issues regarding identity including gender variant clients.
(661) 231-3212 View (661) 231-3212
Photo of Niyati Roy, Psychologist in Lomita, CA
Niyati Roy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886  (Online Only)
Using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and trauma-focused interventions, I provide a safe and supportive space.
Are you navigating life's unexpected twists and turns? Feeling overwhelmed by past experiences that continue to affect your present? I provide guidance on how to navigate life's transitions and traumas. I also understand social media's impact on mental health, including feelings of isolation and loneliness. I provide a safe space where your cultural background is understood, including pressures of familial expectations, identity struggles, and acculturation challenges. Through our work, I aim to cultivate inner strength and find resilience amid modern pressures.
Using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based techniques, and trauma-focused interventions, I provide a safe and supportive space.
Are you navigating life's unexpected twists and turns? Feeling overwhelmed by past experiences that continue to affect your present? I provide guidance on how to navigate life's transitions and traumas. I also understand social media's impact on mental health, including feelings of isolation and loneliness. I provide a safe space where your cultural background is understood, including pressures of familial expectations, identity struggles, and acculturation challenges. Through our work, I aim to cultivate inner strength and find resilience amid modern pressures.
(657) 837-2883 View (657) 837-2883

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.