Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Photo of Lubov V Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lubov V Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
My training encompasses a diverse range of therapeutic methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and emotion-focused therapy.
My ideal client is any person who has the courage to reach out and to ask for help. It takes courage and bravery in the middle of darkness and desperation to do just that: to hold out hope against anxiety and hopelessness. It takes intelligence and wisdom to recognize that you cannot do it alone. I firmly believe that it’s not what happens to us, it’s what we do. And my promise is to help you, who reaches out and makes the call.
My training encompasses a diverse range of therapeutic methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, and emotion-focused therapy.
My ideal client is any person who has the courage to reach out and to ask for help. It takes courage and bravery in the middle of darkness and desperation to do just that: to hold out hope against anxiety and hopelessness. It takes intelligence and wisdom to recognize that you cannot do it alone. I firmly believe that it’s not what happens to us, it’s what we do. And my promise is to help you, who reaches out and makes the call.
(628) 215-6093 View (628) 215-6093
Photo of Wendy Von Wiederhold, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Wendy Von Wiederhold
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I work with adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of difficulties--anxiety, depression, mood swings, eating disorders, excessive fears, peer and relationship difficulties, behavioral changes, and academic problems.
Emotions can sometimes be difficult to bear-sadness, worries about yourself and others, fears, painful recurrent interactions and relationships. Working with an understanding professional to explore feelings and expectations about yourself and your relationships can be the key to clarifying troubling emotional states. These feelings can cause recurrent painful states, or push us toward repetitive or self-destructive behaviors. Exploring these feelings in a safe relationship can cause feelings about yourself and others to shift, opening to new ways of thinking and behaving. This allows for greater flexibility, enhanced creativity, a better relationship with yourself, and better connections and relationships.
I work with adults and adolescents experiencing a wide range of difficulties--anxiety, depression, mood swings, eating disorders, excessive fears, peer and relationship difficulties, behavioral changes, and academic problems.
Emotions can sometimes be difficult to bear-sadness, worries about yourself and others, fears, painful recurrent interactions and relationships. Working with an understanding professional to explore feelings and expectations about yourself and your relationships can be the key to clarifying troubling emotional states. These feelings can cause recurrent painful states, or push us toward repetitive or self-destructive behaviors. Exploring these feelings in a safe relationship can cause feelings about yourself and others to shift, opening to new ways of thinking and behaving. This allows for greater flexibility, enhanced creativity, a better relationship with yourself, and better connections and relationships.
(415) 322-0318 View (415) 322-0318
Photo of Diana Halfmann, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Diana Halfmann
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
We’ll work as partners to come up with new interventions & behavioral plans to help your child develop more skills.
I listen with the intent of thoroughly understanding your concerns, unhealthy patterns, what might be keeping you stuck, as well as your vision for what you want more of in your life. I'm trained in and offer mindfulness practices, somatic interventions, CBT, expressive arts, as well as have a deep understanding of family systems and attachment styles so you will be able to understand your adaptive strategies from the past and make the changes in order to live your highest potential. I'm gender affirming and LGBTQ+ ally.
We’ll work as partners to come up with new interventions & behavioral plans to help your child develop more skills.
I listen with the intent of thoroughly understanding your concerns, unhealthy patterns, what might be keeping you stuck, as well as your vision for what you want more of in your life. I'm trained in and offer mindfulness practices, somatic interventions, CBT, expressive arts, as well as have a deep understanding of family systems and attachment styles so you will be able to understand your adaptive strategies from the past and make the changes in order to live your highest potential. I'm gender affirming and LGBTQ+ ally.
(415) 524-7921 View (415) 524-7921
Photo of Beth Myler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Beth Myler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and received training in CBT from the Beck Institute in addition to my Master’s from University of Texas.
Currently accepting new clients in California and Texas. In addition to psychotherapy for anxiety and depression, I also provide counseling and coaching to clients managing various kinds of change in their lives. I help clients navigate challenges presented by relationships, career, and changes in their health status due to aging, illness or injury. I trained as a psychotherapist after a long career as a lawyer and enjoy helping clients focus on pragmatic goals as well as developing insight and personal growth.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and received training in CBT from the Beck Institute in addition to my Master’s from University of Texas.
Currently accepting new clients in California and Texas. In addition to psychotherapy for anxiety and depression, I also provide counseling and coaching to clients managing various kinds of change in their lives. I help clients navigate challenges presented by relationships, career, and changes in their health status due to aging, illness or injury. I trained as a psychotherapist after a long career as a lawyer and enjoy helping clients focus on pragmatic goals as well as developing insight and personal growth.
(415) 200-3465 View (415) 200-3465
Photo of Caroline Siu Chui, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Caroline Siu Chui
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
In supporting children, teens, and adults with emotional and behavioral challenges, I utilize a combination of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Parent Coaching interventions.
Are you looking for support for your child, family, or maybe you? I have experience working with children, teens, and families in Community and School-Based settings. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and who also may be experiencing a range of additional presenting concerns or diagnoses, such as ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, family or other relational challenges.
In supporting children, teens, and adults with emotional and behavioral challenges, I utilize a combination of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Parent Coaching interventions.
Are you looking for support for your child, family, or maybe you? I have experience working with children, teens, and families in Community and School-Based settings. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and who also may be experiencing a range of additional presenting concerns or diagnoses, such as ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, family or other relational challenges.
(415) 941-5937 View (415) 941-5937
Photo of Nicole Watts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nicole Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Nicole’s approach to clinical work is grounded heavily in Cognitive Behavioral Theory.
Nicole Danielle Watts, LCSW is an intuitive creative, public servant, and compassionate visionary possessing over 30 years of Clinical Social Work experience. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from The University of Maryland at College Park and her Master of Social Work Degree from Howard University in Washington, DC. She was credentialed as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the year 2000. Nicole has provided mental health treatment services in a myriad of settings. Her clinical work with youth, adults, couples, and families has spanned over three decades.
Nicole’s approach to clinical work is grounded heavily in Cognitive Behavioral Theory.
Nicole Danielle Watts, LCSW is an intuitive creative, public servant, and compassionate visionary possessing over 30 years of Clinical Social Work experience. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from The University of Maryland at College Park and her Master of Social Work Degree from Howard University in Washington, DC. She was credentialed as a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in the year 2000. Nicole has provided mental health treatment services in a myriad of settings. Her clinical work with youth, adults, couples, and families has spanned over three decades.
(415) 233-8675 View (415) 233-8675
Photo of Bonnie Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bonnie Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
My approach is targeted to each individual and uses a combination of EMDR and insight-oriented therapy, with attachment-focused and cognitive behavioral approaches.
Sometimes we need extra support to get through difficult times in our lives, or a sounding board when making difficult decisions. I am here to provide a safe space for you on your path towards positive change and healing. If you are looking for a change in your life or struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, grief or trauma, please reach out for a free consultation. If you are not sure if therapy is right for you, I am happy to discuss what you are looking for and support you wherever you are in this process.
My approach is targeted to each individual and uses a combination of EMDR and insight-oriented therapy, with attachment-focused and cognitive behavioral approaches.
Sometimes we need extra support to get through difficult times in our lives, or a sounding board when making difficult decisions. I am here to provide a safe space for you on your path towards positive change and healing. If you are looking for a change in your life or struggling with feelings of depression, anxiety, grief or trauma, please reach out for a free consultation. If you are not sure if therapy is right for you, I am happy to discuss what you are looking for and support you wherever you are in this process.
(415) 630-5734 View (415) 630-5734
Photo of Jessica Claire Lief, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jessica Claire Lief
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
My name is Jessica Lief. I have been practicing social work and working as a psychotherapist since 2014. I support individuals who are recovering from eating disorders, body image issues, substance use issues, trauma, self harm, prenatal and postpartum issues, miscarriage and fertility issues. I work with adults of all ages. My style has been described as nurturing, empathic, and empowering. I am direct and authentic; I will never blame you for your suffering. My approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, mindful self-compassion, dialectical behavior therapy, Seeking Safety, and mindfulness.
My name is Jessica Lief. I have been practicing social work and working as a psychotherapist since 2014. I support individuals who are recovering from eating disorders, body image issues, substance use issues, trauma, self harm, prenatal and postpartum issues, miscarriage and fertility issues. I work with adults of all ages. My style has been described as nurturing, empathic, and empowering. I am direct and authentic; I will never blame you for your suffering. My approach is primarily psychodynamic but combines aspects of self-psychology, mindful self-compassion, dialectical behavior therapy, Seeking Safety, and mindfulness.
(628) 265-8809 View (628) 265-8809
Photo of Honeycomb Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Our therapists have a variety of helpful certifications including and not limited to play therapy, parent child interactive therapy, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, psychodynamic.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
Our therapists have a variety of helpful certifications including and not limited to play therapy, parent child interactive therapy, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, psychodynamic.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
Photo of Kati Meyers, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kati Meyers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123  (Online Only)
I utilize client centered, solution oriented, cognitive behavioral, and strengths based modalities to assist you on your voyage to becoming the greatest expression of yourself.
What if I told you that your life and your reality are yours to curate? Let's envision the person you could become if you released excuses and embraced purposeful living. As a licensed clinical psychotherapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in empowering individuals to get out of their own way and be truly intentional in their lives. I am dedicated to guiding clients toward self-discovery and fostering growth. I'm particularly passionate about working with teens, younger and older adults, as well as clients navigating anxiety, panic attacks, and professional burnout.
I utilize client centered, solution oriented, cognitive behavioral, and strengths based modalities to assist you on your voyage to becoming the greatest expression of yourself.
What if I told you that your life and your reality are yours to curate? Let's envision the person you could become if you released excuses and embraced purposeful living. As a licensed clinical psychotherapist with over a decade of experience, I specialize in empowering individuals to get out of their own way and be truly intentional in their lives. I am dedicated to guiding clients toward self-discovery and fostering growth. I'm particularly passionate about working with teens, younger and older adults, as well as clients navigating anxiety, panic attacks, and professional burnout.
(415) 758-4051 View (415) 758-4051
Photo of Carmen Chow, MFT Private Practice SF, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Carmen Chow, MFT Private Practice SF
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
I am certified and well trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Psychotherapy has the ability to significantly improve your mental well being, treat mental illnesses and boost your overall social and psychological functionality. During therapy, we will explore life's challenges, thought patterns and behaviors that are hindering your well being within a very safe, supportive, and non-critical environment. The search for the right therapist can take time and courage. It's important that you find the right match. Let me share with you about my practice and see if I can be of help to you.
I am certified and well trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Psychotherapy has the ability to significantly improve your mental well being, treat mental illnesses and boost your overall social and psychological functionality. During therapy, we will explore life's challenges, thought patterns and behaviors that are hindering your well being within a very safe, supportive, and non-critical environment. The search for the right therapist can take time and courage. It's important that you find the right match. Let me share with you about my practice and see if I can be of help to you.
(650) 262-4800 View (650) 262-4800
Photo of Christy Tadros, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Christy Tadros
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
I am trained in approaches including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention.
During this challenging time it is normal to be experiencing some anxiety, nervousness or restlessness. Being home and having major changes in routines can be disorienting for many and trigger impairing mental health conditions. I am offering Telehealth sessions to support people in maintaining mental, emotional and physical health. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and multiculturally sensitive.
I am trained in approaches including, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention.
During this challenging time it is normal to be experiencing some anxiety, nervousness or restlessness. Being home and having major changes in routines can be disorienting for many and trigger impairing mental health conditions. I am offering Telehealth sessions to support people in maintaining mental, emotional and physical health. I provide evidence-based therapeutic approaches that are holistic and multiculturally sensitive.
(628) 266-4174 View (628) 266-4174
Photo of Nina Atanassova, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nina Atanassova
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112  (Online Only)
My approach integrates scientifically validated cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems theories and considers both biological and psychological factors contributing to your experience.
In my practice, I believe that the process of change requires an approach that is tailored to each individual's unique style and needs. I strive to create a collaborative, caring, and supportive atmosphere that will assist you in identifying and changing the thoughts, the behaviors, and the interpersonal styles that are no longer effective for you. I offer confidential, supportive and caring environment free of judgment that will facilitate your journey through difficulties and challenges.
My approach integrates scientifically validated cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and family systems theories and considers both biological and psychological factors contributing to your experience.
In my practice, I believe that the process of change requires an approach that is tailored to each individual's unique style and needs. I strive to create a collaborative, caring, and supportive atmosphere that will assist you in identifying and changing the thoughts, the behaviors, and the interpersonal styles that are no longer effective for you. I offer confidential, supportive and caring environment free of judgment that will facilitate your journey through difficulties and challenges.
(628) 244-9011 View (628) 244-9011
Photo of Brittany Olsen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brittany Olsen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I generally employ a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) orientation which focuses on identifying and changing faulty thinking patterns.
I work with clients to collaboratively develop a plan that addresses your needs, incorporates your strengths, and alleviates your symptoms in the most timely way possible. My approach is compassionate, solution-focused, and pragmatic. I believe that my clients ultimately know what is best for them, and it is my job to facilitate improvement through a empathic yet challenging therapeutic environment.
I generally employ a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) orientation which focuses on identifying and changing faulty thinking patterns.
I work with clients to collaboratively develop a plan that addresses your needs, incorporates your strengths, and alleviates your symptoms in the most timely way possible. My approach is compassionate, solution-focused, and pragmatic. I believe that my clients ultimately know what is best for them, and it is my job to facilitate improvement through a empathic yet challenging therapeutic environment.
(415) 799-8100 View (415) 799-8100
Photo of Tracy Chu-Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Tracy Chu-Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132  (Online Only)
I view my clients with a strength-based lens and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person-centered approaches.
During our lifetime we may come across struggles that require us to reach out for support outside of our regular networks. These struggles increase stress, depression, anxiety, and negative emotions that make daily life difficult. We have roles in our professions, school, social circles, parenting (just to name a few!) that are impacted by our inability to manage our emotions. But what feels like the impossible, is not. With therapeutic support, we can overcome our situations and discover new hope for ourselves.
I view my clients with a strength-based lens and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, person-centered approaches.
During our lifetime we may come across struggles that require us to reach out for support outside of our regular networks. These struggles increase stress, depression, anxiety, and negative emotions that make daily life difficult. We have roles in our professions, school, social circles, parenting (just to name a few!) that are impacted by our inability to manage our emotions. But what feels like the impossible, is not. With therapeutic support, we can overcome our situations and discover new hope for ourselves.
(415) 360-8277 View (415) 360-8277
Photo of Erika Garcia Rangel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Erika Garcia Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
Finding a therapist you trust is a challenge and scheduling your first session takes courage. You’ve taken the first step toward healing and personal growth. I’m offering you a safe, nurturing and accepting place to freely express your feelings, thoughts and experiences. My vocation is to guide and support individuals like yourself to better understand themselves at a deeper level through the transformative power of compassion and empathy. With commitment to therapy, we will explore your relationship with yourself and your relationships with others, addressing behavioral and emotional issues that are potentially holding you back.
(650) 679-7286 View (650) 679-7286
Photo of Ali Gunsberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ali Gunsberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I specialize in providing play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, behavioral modification and/or cognitive behavioral therapy for children, teens and families.
One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Whether they feel the pain of depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, divorce or social and academic pressure, my expertise is in helping children connect with their inner strength and confidence. I support families in developing the communication skills necessary to allow children to grow and move forward in healthy ways. I believe all children are unique, and my goal is to help bring out the best in your child.
I specialize in providing play therapy, psychodynamic therapy, behavioral modification and/or cognitive behavioral therapy for children, teens and families.
One of the most difficult aspects of being a parent is seeing your child in pain and feeling like there is nothing that you can do to help. Whether they feel the pain of depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, divorce or social and academic pressure, my expertise is in helping children connect with their inner strength and confidence. I support families in developing the communication skills necessary to allow children to grow and move forward in healthy ways. I believe all children are unique, and my goal is to help bring out the best in your child.
(415) 295-4664 View (415) 295-4664
Photo of Mountain Bloom Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mountain Bloom Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94121  (Online Only)
I work with motivated people who have perhaps come to realize that they are stuck in fight or flight, always feel “on”, stressed, or frozen in their lives. People seek me out to work on anxiety, depression, and complex traumatic issues like abuse, neglect, and suicidality. Many clients simply seek balance in their lives and to feel connected to themselves and others again. I also work with those in/or seeking recovery or harm reduction from substance use and/or behavioral addictions. While I am not a substance use counselor, I can work as a part of your recovery team to help strengthen your recovery and reduce relapses.
I work with motivated people who have perhaps come to realize that they are stuck in fight or flight, always feel “on”, stressed, or frozen in their lives. People seek me out to work on anxiety, depression, and complex traumatic issues like abuse, neglect, and suicidality. Many clients simply seek balance in their lives and to feel connected to themselves and others again. I also work with those in/or seeking recovery or harm reduction from substance use and/or behavioral addictions. While I am not a substance use counselor, I can work as a part of your recovery team to help strengthen your recovery and reduce relapses.
(628) 250-3679 View (628) 250-3679
Photo of Radhika Reddy, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Radhika Reddy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I love using therapies based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness (e.
Welcome! Thank you for checking out my page, and more importantly, for taking this step to invest in yourself! You likely are struggling significantly with something and looking for guidance. You may be wondering if I could be the therapist by your side on this journey. Here's a little about me to help you make an informed decision: My style of therapy is thoughtful, warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, highly collaborative, and results-driven. You are the expert on you (your child), and are likely coming to me for expertise in specific therapies to help you get to where you are heading. As a team we can get there quicker!
I love using therapies based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness (e.
Welcome! Thank you for checking out my page, and more importantly, for taking this step to invest in yourself! You likely are struggling significantly with something and looking for guidance. You may be wondering if I could be the therapist by your side on this journey. Here's a little about me to help you make an informed decision: My style of therapy is thoughtful, warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, highly collaborative, and results-driven. You are the expert on you (your child), and are likely coming to me for expertise in specific therapies to help you get to where you are heading. As a team we can get there quicker!
(650) 727-1805 View (650) 727-1805
Photo of Maureen K Fisher, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Maureen K Fisher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I treat clients whose daily functioning, self image and way of relating to others has been negatively impacted by anxiety, depression, and various external or situational stressors. Compassion and collaboration are crucial in facilitating healing and creating a functional therapeutic rapport that allows for increasingly greater presence of mind. Education and 15 years of clinical experience underscore my belief that people can feel better as they practice more adaptive thinking and behavior in the present.
I treat clients whose daily functioning, self image and way of relating to others has been negatively impacted by anxiety, depression, and various external or situational stressors. Compassion and collaboration are crucial in facilitating healing and creating a functional therapeutic rapport that allows for increasingly greater presence of mind. Education and 15 years of clinical experience underscore my belief that people can feel better as they practice more adaptive thinking and behavior in the present.
(415) 423-1152 View (415) 423-1152

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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.