Therapists in Santa Monica, CA

Photo of Sarah Dihmes, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
Sarah Dihmes
Psychologist, PhD, BCB
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
Dr. Dihmes is a licensed clinical psychologist one of the few board certified biofeedback psychologists in Northern California. With specialties in life stressors, executive coaching, psychophysiology, and teens, she has expertise in working with various psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, life transitions and chronic illness. Dr. Dihmes' integrates evidence-based treatments such as CBT and mindfulness-based interventions, with consideration for each patient’s unique cultural, biological, and psychological background. Dr. Dihmes is now accepting new clients in California and New York!
(415) 799-5164 View (415) 799-5164
Photo of Yoana Rivas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Yoana Rivas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
I have spent years working closely with adults and older adults and getting to know challenges that you might be facing: major life transitions, agism, dementia (person diagnosed + caregivers), chronic illness, facing life changing medical challenges (such as transplant) and overall challenges that come as we grow older.
Are you finding yourself navigating transitions as an adult or older adult? Perhaps you have family/friends but they are not supporting you in the way that you most need right now.
I have spent years working closely with adults and older adults and getting to know challenges that you might be facing: major life transitions, agism, dementia (person diagnosed + caregivers), chronic illness, facing life changing medical challenges (such as transplant) and overall challenges that come as we grow older.
Are you finding yourself navigating transitions as an adult or older adult? Perhaps you have family/friends but they are not supporting you in the way that you most need right now.
(310) 953-8474 View (310) 953-8474
Photo of Alison B Hatter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Alison B Hatter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I work collaboratively with clients to alleviate symptoms, change behavioral patterns and negative thinking, transform family-of-origin dynamics and improve relationships. For more than 20 years, I have helped clients with anxiety, depression, relationships, work stress/burnout, grief/loss, self-esteem, racial identity, chronic illness, postpartum, infertility and life/career transitions. I specialize in working with women at mid-life, new mothers and women in transition. I provide a supportive environment where clients learn to be present with their experience and explore emotions and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
I work collaboratively with clients to alleviate symptoms, change behavioral patterns and negative thinking, transform family-of-origin dynamics and improve relationships. For more than 20 years, I have helped clients with anxiety, depression, relationships, work stress/burnout, grief/loss, self-esteem, racial identity, chronic illness, postpartum, infertility and life/career transitions. I specialize in working with women at mid-life, new mothers and women in transition. I provide a supportive environment where clients learn to be present with their experience and explore emotions and thoughts with acceptance and non-judgment.
(310) 736-4819 View (310) 736-4819
Photo of Kristin Sheehan, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Santa Monica, CA
Kristin Sheehan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in patterns of anxious thoughts, disordered eating, or unhealthy relationships? Do you feel unsafe in your body due to trauma or chronic illness? I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Therapy to help clients get unstuck and reconnect to the wisdom and safety of their body. I use an attachment-based and trauma-informed approach to help clients identify their unhelpful narratives, challenge them, and take healthy risks. If you are ready to go deeper than traditional talk therapy and crave a healing connection with your mind, body, and spirit, I am here to help.
Do you feel stuck in patterns of anxious thoughts, disordered eating, or unhealthy relationships? Do you feel unsafe in your body due to trauma or chronic illness? I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Somatic Therapy to help clients get unstuck and reconnect to the wisdom and safety of their body. I use an attachment-based and trauma-informed approach to help clients identify their unhelpful narratives, challenge them, and take healthy risks. If you are ready to go deeper than traditional talk therapy and crave a healing connection with your mind, body, and spirit, I am here to help.
(415) 943-8338 View (415) 943-8338
Photo of Jamie Feldstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Jamie Feldstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
My specialties include Relationship Issues and Codependency, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Addiction, Chronic Illness and Life Transitions.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
My specialties include Relationship Issues and Codependency, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Addiction, Chronic Illness and Life Transitions.
Are you looking for a safe place where you can access and explore your emotions without shame or judgment? Are you feeling frustrated, stuck or disappointed with the quality of your life? I can help you learn how to access your inner wisdom, build and bolster resiliency and connect more effectively with yourself and others.
(805) 669-9917 View (805) 669-9917
Photo of Ida Vandaei, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Ida Vandaei
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
Are you hoping to find a solution out of a specific problem? Are you looking to make improvements in your life but just don't know where to start? Do you struggle coping with a chronic illness or chronic pain disorder? Do you find yourself feeling "stuck", unmotivated, or unable to experience the same joy as before? Are you constantly worried about something bad happening? Are you having difficulty sleeping? Have you experienced a loss, whether it's the death of a loved one or the loss of a future life you imagined? Is your relationship on the rocks or suffered broken trust? Is anxiety taking over your life?
Are you hoping to find a solution out of a specific problem? Are you looking to make improvements in your life but just don't know where to start? Do you struggle coping with a chronic illness or chronic pain disorder? Do you find yourself feeling "stuck", unmotivated, or unable to experience the same joy as before? Are you constantly worried about something bad happening? Are you having difficulty sleeping? Have you experienced a loss, whether it's the death of a loved one or the loss of a future life you imagined? Is your relationship on the rocks or suffered broken trust? Is anxiety taking over your life?
(818) 960-6045 View (818) 960-6045
Photo of www.Chelsea CanningLCSW.com, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
www.Chelsea CanningLCSW.com
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM, C-ASWCM
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
Specializing in Chronic Illness,Older Adults (& families) working thru life transition.
We all need a little help from time to time to pull ourselves out of our...grief, trauma, depression, confusing thoughts, self criticism, intense feelings, and improve our relationship with ourselves and others. Helping ease your painful moments is the most important work we can accomplish together. Sometimes we just need someone to stand by us, assure us that it's going to be okay and guide us through the tough parts. Please give me a call today, we can see how to work together for a better quality of life.
Specializing in Chronic Illness,Older Adults (& families) working thru life transition.
We all need a little help from time to time to pull ourselves out of our...grief, trauma, depression, confusing thoughts, self criticism, intense feelings, and improve our relationship with ourselves and others. Helping ease your painful moments is the most important work we can accomplish together. Sometimes we just need someone to stand by us, assure us that it's going to be okay and guide us through the tough parts. Please give me a call today, we can see how to work together for a better quality of life.
(424) 338-9400 View (424) 338-9400
Photo of Dr. Sarah DeMarco, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
Dr. Sarah DeMarco
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
Chronic pain/chronic illness/autoimmune: No matter where you are in your wellness journey, we address your symptoms from a mind-body approach to help manage and reduce the frequency and/or intensity of your symptoms.
Dr. Sarah DeMarco is a Licensed Psychologist: NJ, NY, CA (pending). Therapy: Using a holistic approach, we will work collaboratively to help you manage burnout, reduce fear and anxiety, perfectionism, or navigating life transitions. Empowerment, self-compassion, and mindfulness will be a foundational aspect of our work. Creating strong and healthy habits and means of coping can be highly supportive for a variety of difficult life experiences and changes. Note: I am seeing therapy clients online only until May (then in-person is available in LA). Assessments in-person in NJ only and CA remotely until May.
Chronic pain/chronic illness/autoimmune: No matter where you are in your wellness journey, we address your symptoms from a mind-body approach to help manage and reduce the frequency and/or intensity of your symptoms.
Dr. Sarah DeMarco is a Licensed Psychologist: NJ, NY, CA (pending). Therapy: Using a holistic approach, we will work collaboratively to help you manage burnout, reduce fear and anxiety, perfectionism, or navigating life transitions. Empowerment, self-compassion, and mindfulness will be a foundational aspect of our work. Creating strong and healthy habits and means of coping can be highly supportive for a variety of difficult life experiences and changes. Note: I am seeing therapy clients online only until May (then in-person is available in LA). Assessments in-person in NJ only and CA remotely until May.
(213) 263-6429 View (213) 263-6429
Photo of Megan Sherer in Santa Monica, CA
Megan Sherer
CCH, RTTP
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
My passion for these topics run deep as I draw from many years of profound personal experience, having recovered from eating disorders, anxiety and depression, toxic relationships, codependence, chronic illness, and childhood trauma.
My mission is to help women connect to the most authentic expression of love in their lives in order to have more self-confidence, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose. My clients want to have a better relationship with themselves, as well as to attract and experience healthy romantic love, and to break any patterns, beliefs or habits that are standing in the way of that. As a Holistic Therapist who specializes in love, relationships/breakups, self-worth and personal health, my goal is to help you get there.
My passion for these topics run deep as I draw from many years of profound personal experience, having recovered from eating disorders, anxiety and depression, toxic relationships, codependence, chronic illness, and childhood trauma.
My mission is to help women connect to the most authentic expression of love in their lives in order to have more self-confidence, healthier relationships, and a stronger sense of purpose. My clients want to have a better relationship with themselves, as well as to attract and experience healthy romantic love, and to break any patterns, beliefs or habits that are standing in the way of that. As a Holistic Therapist who specializes in love, relationships/breakups, self-worth and personal health, my goal is to help you get there.
(206) 466-0370 View (206) 466-0370
Photo of Jordan Long, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Jordan Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401
My passion is to work with clients who suffer from or are impacted by physical difficulties such as cancer or chronic illness.
Individuals affected by cancer or other physical illnesses often do not realize the influence that the illness has on their mental health until the emotions are all consuming. This is where I step in: to help you deal with life-altering, overwhelming changes that come with the diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and grief of physical illness. I have a wealth of experience working with individuals, couples, and families impacted by physical illness, and believe that physical illness affects the entire family system in a multitude of ways. Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, are grieving, or in the midst of illness, you are not alone.
My passion is to work with clients who suffer from or are impacted by physical difficulties such as cancer or chronic illness.
Individuals affected by cancer or other physical illnesses often do not realize the influence that the illness has on their mental health until the emotions are all consuming. This is where I step in: to help you deal with life-altering, overwhelming changes that come with the diagnosis, treatment, recovery, and grief of physical illness. I have a wealth of experience working with individuals, couples, and families impacted by physical illness, and believe that physical illness affects the entire family system in a multitude of ways. Whether you are a survivor, caregiver, are grieving, or in the midst of illness, you are not alone.
(323) 693-7814 View (323) 693-7814
Photo of Lynn Northrop, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
Lynn Northrop
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
Anxiety, grief, chronic illness, depression, trauma, injustice & change can narrow our lives. They can cause us to lose joy, purpose & meaning. Dr. Northrop helps people grow, rebuild, & find their best life, even in the context of difficult experiences & emotions. She is committed to evidence-based treatment guided by values of authenticity, kindness, social justice, creativity, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, and patience. She has a special love for working with creatives – musicians, artists, actors. She is a staunch ally of the LGBTQI+ community. She has a passion for being a therapist for other therapists.
Anxiety, grief, chronic illness, depression, trauma, injustice & change can narrow our lives. They can cause us to lose joy, purpose & meaning. Dr. Northrop helps people grow, rebuild, & find their best life, even in the context of difficult experiences & emotions. She is committed to evidence-based treatment guided by values of authenticity, kindness, social justice, creativity, curiosity, collaboration, flexibility, and patience. She has a special love for working with creatives – musicians, artists, actors. She is a staunch ally of the LGBTQI+ community. She has a passion for being a therapist for other therapists.
(619) 404-1958 View (619) 404-1958
Photo of Denise Gallagher Hypnotherapy in Santa Monica, CA
Denise Gallagher Hypnotherapy
CHT, MPA, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404  (Online Only)
Whether it's social or exam anxiety, chronic illness, finances, or other challenges that are holding you back, I can help you create meaningful change.
If anxiety is keeping you from succeeding in your career or preventing you from finding fulfilling relationships, you may feel desperate to start seeing improvement. Perhaps you have a large project you need to tackle or are tired of feeling awkward and overwhelmed while dating or with coworkers, even though you know you have so much to offer. And while you would like to get to the root of this anxiety to manage it once and for all, you also need to make changes quickly. Hypnotherapy can do just that: provide short-term symptom relief and long-term change.
Whether it's social or exam anxiety, chronic illness, finances, or other challenges that are holding you back, I can help you create meaningful change.
If anxiety is keeping you from succeeding in your career or preventing you from finding fulfilling relationships, you may feel desperate to start seeing improvement. Perhaps you have a large project you need to tackle or are tired of feeling awkward and overwhelmed while dating or with coworkers, even though you know you have so much to offer. And while you would like to get to the root of this anxiety to manage it once and for all, you also need to make changes quickly. Hypnotherapy can do just that: provide short-term symptom relief and long-term change.
(310) 361-1297 View (310) 361-1297
Photo of Nicole Zokaeem, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
Nicole Zokaeem
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90402
I am especially versed in supporting those who care for or are a person with health concerns, chronic illness, or disability.
Most people are struggling to adjust to COVID-19 life right now. Or, things have felt "off" for a while and quarantine has exacerbated some of your thoughts and feelings. Perhaps you feel confused and stressed about what the future will look like for you, your career, relationships, and life as a whole. You notice you’re unhappy, lonely, and stuck. Whether you are seeking therapy for a specific issue or to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, I am here to help.
I am especially versed in supporting those who care for or are a person with health concerns, chronic illness, or disability.
Most people are struggling to adjust to COVID-19 life right now. Or, things have felt "off" for a while and quarantine has exacerbated some of your thoughts and feelings. Perhaps you feel confused and stressed about what the future will look like for you, your career, relationships, and life as a whole. You notice you’re unhappy, lonely, and stuck. Whether you are seeking therapy for a specific issue or to gain a deeper understanding of yourself, I am here to help.
(424) 532-8923 View (424) 532-8923
Photo of Michael O'Hara, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Michael O'Hara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking help shows how strong you already are. Your story, experiences, struggles, pain, and resiliency are welcome here. Psychotherapy is a collaborative and relational process. My goal is to highlight your potential and strengths. Together we can find ways to honor your journey and encourage growth. I specialize in working with individuals navigating chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, perinatal mental health, and parenting stressors. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health. I am passionate about supporting parents, and caregivers who are navigating postpartum. I also offer couples counseling.
Seeking help shows how strong you already are. Your story, experiences, struggles, pain, and resiliency are welcome here. Psychotherapy is a collaborative and relational process. My goal is to highlight your potential and strengths. Together we can find ways to honor your journey and encourage growth. I specialize in working with individuals navigating chronic illness, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, loss, perinatal mental health, and parenting stressors. I have specialized training in perinatal mental health. I am passionate about supporting parents, and caregivers who are navigating postpartum. I also offer couples counseling.
(213) 320-5063 View (213) 320-5063
Photo of Hannah Bystritsky Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Hannah Bystritsky Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404
My clinical focus is on treating individuals with health anxiety, OCD, chronic illness/pain, and addiction.
Life is filled with challenges that can sometimes feel like too much for any one person to manage on their own. If you’re struggling with rumination, anxiety or overwhelming sadness, you may also be feeling alone with it. Maybe you’re starting to feel like you have a problem that cannot be solved. I’m here to walk along side you and provide a safe place to explore what is underneath. Together we will work towards reaching your goals. My passion is helping others maximize their strengths, enhance their well-being, and learn tools for coping with life's challenges.
My clinical focus is on treating individuals with health anxiety, OCD, chronic illness/pain, and addiction.
Life is filled with challenges that can sometimes feel like too much for any one person to manage on their own. If you’re struggling with rumination, anxiety or overwhelming sadness, you may also be feeling alone with it. Maybe you’re starting to feel like you have a problem that cannot be solved. I’m here to walk along side you and provide a safe place to explore what is underneath. Together we will work towards reaching your goals. My passion is helping others maximize their strengths, enhance their well-being, and learn tools for coping with life's challenges.
(310) 929-6279 View (310) 929-6279
Photo of Envision Wellness Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Envision Wellness Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
We are passionate about helping women who are faced with various challenges related to infertility, postpartum, women's health, and chronic illness. Our team of therapists uses their specialized training and lived experience to customize ways to best support you during this time.
(805) 800-8278 View (805) 800-8278
Photo of Los Angeles Therapy Network (Santa Monica), Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Los Angeles Therapy Network (Santa Monica)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Are you struggling with sexual trauma, a history of childhood abuse, extreme forms of abuse, cult abuse, LGBTQI related issues or needing a therapist whose focus in on empowering you in your life? If so, I am the therapist for you! Feminist Therapist, Board Certified Expert in Treatment of Trauma/PTSD. If life is throwing you a curve ball, let me see if either I or one of the therapists who work with me can help! Special focus in tx sexual trauma & victims of violent crimes. Help with gay/lesbian & transgendered issues. Call me, I can help!
Are you struggling with sexual trauma, a history of childhood abuse, extreme forms of abuse, cult abuse, LGBTQI related issues or needing a therapist whose focus in on empowering you in your life? If so, I am the therapist for you! Feminist Therapist, Board Certified Expert in Treatment of Trauma/PTSD. If life is throwing you a curve ball, let me see if either I or one of the therapists who work with me can help! Special focus in tx sexual trauma & victims of violent crimes. Help with gay/lesbian & transgendered issues. Call me, I can help!
(424) 363-8289 View (424) 363-8289
Photo of Blythe Million, Psychologist in Santa Monica, CA
Blythe Million
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90404  (Online Only)
It is the goal of us all to have the chance to live in the wonder of our real selves. But we often find ourselves in an outside life that doesn't match the inside one. We can spend years struggling with making decisions, dealing with sadness and anger, anxiety and grief, as well as distrust, fear and longing, all overwhelming feelings and the behavior that goes with them, not knowing how to change but knowing we must. My job is to help you get back to and live the wonder that is the real you.
It is the goal of us all to have the chance to live in the wonder of our real selves. But we often find ourselves in an outside life that doesn't match the inside one. We can spend years struggling with making decisions, dealing with sadness and anger, anxiety and grief, as well as distrust, fear and longing, all overwhelming feelings and the behavior that goes with them, not knowing how to change but knowing we must. My job is to help you get back to and live the wonder that is the real you.
(310) 359-9380 View (310) 359-9380
Photo of Chloe D Brooks-Lao, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Chloe D Brooks-Lao
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90403
Welcome to my practice. My approach as a therapist is collaborative, blending psychodynamic and client-centered therapies with mindfulness. This foundation allows me to deeply understand and connect with you as a whole person, beyond the surface of the issues at hand. When immediate concerns arise, I am equipped to utilize behavioral and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address acute issues effectively. I view therapy as a shared journey, grounded in mutual trust and openness. Together, we'll delve into your experiences and emotions to foster not only insight but also personal growth and a deeper sense of well-being.
Welcome to my practice. My approach as a therapist is collaborative, blending psychodynamic and client-centered therapies with mindfulness. This foundation allows me to deeply understand and connect with you as a whole person, beyond the surface of the issues at hand. When immediate concerns arise, I am equipped to utilize behavioral and cognitive-behavioral techniques to address acute issues effectively. I view therapy as a shared journey, grounded in mutual trust and openness. Together, we'll delve into your experiences and emotions to foster not only insight but also personal growth and a deeper sense of well-being.
(424) 722-8551 View (424) 722-8551
Photo of Sheila K Bost, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Monica, CA
Sheila K Bost
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90403
A warm welcome to individuals, couples & families! I specialize in helping you move from emotional distress & confusion to enhanced well being. Old family wounds or traumas, small or large, may be holding you back from your full life. You may have only a smidgen of hope. We can build on that hope. Perhaps you gained insight into yourself and your relationships from the on Enneagram or Myers-Briggs. We can build on your insights. You have lived in emotional turmoil way too long! Make one small step forward now! I have witnessed people moving from a place of hopelessness to freedom & deliverance from old lies.
A warm welcome to individuals, couples & families! I specialize in helping you move from emotional distress & confusion to enhanced well being. Old family wounds or traumas, small or large, may be holding you back from your full life. You may have only a smidgen of hope. We can build on that hope. Perhaps you gained insight into yourself and your relationships from the on Enneagram or Myers-Briggs. We can build on your insights. You have lived in emotional turmoil way too long! Make one small step forward now! I have witnessed people moving from a place of hopelessness to freedom & deliverance from old lies.
(424) 484-3329 View (424) 484-3329

See more therapy options for Santa Monica


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.