Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Jennifer Mostafa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Jennifer Mostafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
My Specialties include working with (but not limited to); LGBTQIA+ persons, couples work (traditional and non-traditional), Trans teens, Suicide prevention and intervention, bi-polar and identity challenges/transitions (ie.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
My Specialties include working with (but not limited to); LGBTQIA+ persons, couples work (traditional and non-traditional), Trans teens, Suicide prevention and intervention, bi-polar and identity challenges/transitions (ie.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
(202) 304-1180 View (202) 304-1180
Photo of Raquel Grigera, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Raquel Grigera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20003
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
Dr. Grigera is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, self-injury, suicidal ideation, trauma, and relationship concerns. She provides individualized evidence-based therapeutic services to children, adolescents, young adults, and families. She has extensive experience in conducting individual, group, and family therapy. Dr. Grigera has worked in a variety of settings, including private practices, public school systems, medical centers, and residential treatment centers.
(202) 831-2138 View (202) 831-2138
Photo of Jillian Meinhardt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Jillian Meinhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
We also offer suicide prevention trainings for clinicians.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
We also offer suicide prevention trainings for clinicians.
Are you a parent of a child, teen or young adult struggling with big emotions that take over your child's body? Does your child have trouble leaving the house, nervous about new situations, have excess energy, feel low or experience mood swings? Are you a young adult entering a new phase or overwhelmed with today's pressures of work, family, friends and relationships? Are you looking for a clinician that can connect with you and understands the pressures of today? With a background in therapeutic and specials education school settings, we use creative tools to connect with you and your child to support you.
(202) 875-6450 View (202) 875-6450
Photo of Stephanie Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Stephanie Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20032  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, life transitions, bereavement, etc.
Many times as People of Color we often feel alone with our situation or don’t feel understood. We may have thoughts that we are not good enough or that we are different. Is that you? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to suffer in silence anymore.  I recognize that our past has influenced our present-  but it does not need to dictate our future! I provide a warm, non-judgmental approach to help you reframe your story. I believe it is important to feel both seen and heard in therapy. With the right tools, emphatic support, knowledge and determination, everyone can heal, maximize their potential and enjoy life to the fullest.
I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, depression, suicidal ideations, life transitions, bereavement, etc.
Many times as People of Color we often feel alone with our situation or don’t feel understood. We may have thoughts that we are not good enough or that we are different. Is that you? I’m here to tell you that you don’t have to suffer in silence anymore.  I recognize that our past has influenced our present-  but it does not need to dictate our future! I provide a warm, non-judgmental approach to help you reframe your story. I believe it is important to feel both seen and heard in therapy. With the right tools, emphatic support, knowledge and determination, everyone can heal, maximize their potential and enjoy life to the fullest.
(914) 758-1419 View (914) 758-1419
Photo of Dr. Jeanne M. Miller, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeanne M. Miller
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20024  (Online Only)
I have experience with clinical issues including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, sexual/physical assault, childhood abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, military life, law enforcement, domestic violence, relationship issues, personality disorders, marriage issues, suicidal thoughts, internet pornography/compulsive sexual behaviors, physical illness and more.
Finding the right therapist can feel like an exhausting search. If you are depressed, anxious, troubled in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with past or current trauma, feeling hopeless or angry, or just trying to understand yourself better, I'm here to help. I believe we all have the answers we need inside us, but sometimes it takes working with a neutral observer to find those answers. Together you and I will work toward increased understanding of and ways to cope with whatever problems you would like to discuss. Therapy isn't necessarily easy, but it can help.
I have experience with clinical issues including, but not limited to: trauma/PTSD, sexual/physical assault, childhood abuse, depression, anxiety, LGBTQ, military life, law enforcement, domestic violence, relationship issues, personality disorders, marriage issues, suicidal thoughts, internet pornography/compulsive sexual behaviors, physical illness and more.
Finding the right therapist can feel like an exhausting search. If you are depressed, anxious, troubled in your relationships, coping with grief, struggling with past or current trauma, feeling hopeless or angry, or just trying to understand yourself better, I'm here to help. I believe we all have the answers we need inside us, but sometimes it takes working with a neutral observer to find those answers. Together you and I will work toward increased understanding of and ways to cope with whatever problems you would like to discuss. Therapy isn't necessarily easy, but it can help.
(703) 997-6777 View (703) 997-6777
Photo of Madeleine E. Bertin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Madeleine E. Bertin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
I have expertise working with Eating Disorders, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, and the often co-occurring issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-worth, & interpersonal difficulties.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
I have expertise working with Eating Disorders, Mood & Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Dissociative Disorders, and the often co-occurring issues of self-harm, suicidal ideation, low self-worth, & interpersonal difficulties.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is the central component to successful psychotherapy and I bring special attention to the ongoing process of relational safety. I also believe that self-harmful behaviors always have roots in past experiences of threat and it can be life-changing to discover these connections. I work to help individuals establish goals, explore their experiences, gain self-awareness, develop resources and skills, cultivate self-compassion, and find greater self-empowerment so they can create a more fulfilling and meaningful life for themselves.
(206) 819-8042 View (206) 819-8042
Photo of Andrea Miller, Resident in Counseling in Washington, DC
Andrea Miller
Resident in Counseling, LGPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20002
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
Are you in search of support? Are you struggling with symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, personal growth, life transitions, relationship conflict, multicultural issues, religion, spirituality, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or bipolar/mood disorders?
(571) 946-6525 View (571) 946-6525
Photo of Lynn Lynes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lynn Lynes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
Hello! My name is Lynn Lynes and I am a psychotherapist licensed to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and DC. I have experience working with all ages, but my passion is working with teens and young adults; lots of young folks are experiencing Depression and suicide thoughts, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, substance abuse, PTSD, and/or Trauma. Most of us are resilient and can work through distressing events and overwhelming stress; however sometimes symptoms interfere with our ability to function to our full potential. That’s when it’s time to seek out an expert who can teach coping skills and provide a safe place to talk about stuff.
(703) 348-9734 View (703) 348-9734
Photo of Amber Marcelin-Flynn in Washington, DC
Amber Marcelin-Flynn
MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
The warmth of genuine connection transcends the traditional therapist-client dynamic. As an experienced Mental Health Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in the DMV area with nearly a decade of dedicated practice, I offer a comprehensive range of competencies to support individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans the following areas: Anxiety and Stress Management, Depression and Emotional Regulation, Self-Criticism and Inner Conflict Resolution, Suicidal Ideation and Crisis Intervention, Codependency and Boundary Setting, and Creativity and Authentic Connection.
The warmth of genuine connection transcends the traditional therapist-client dynamic. As an experienced Mental Health Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in the DMV area with nearly a decade of dedicated practice, I offer a comprehensive range of competencies to support individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans the following areas: Anxiety and Stress Management, Depression and Emotional Regulation, Self-Criticism and Inner Conflict Resolution, Suicidal Ideation and Crisis Intervention, Codependency and Boundary Setting, and Creativity and Authentic Connection.
(301) 690-8957 View (301) 690-8957
Photo of Dr. Lauren Colston, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Lauren Colston
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As the CEO and Founder of Coping Corners, LLC, I specialize in child and adolescent psychology, parent coaching, crisis prevention and response, suicidal ideation, self-injury, trauma, and psychological assessments.
I am Dr. Lauren, Clinical Psychologist licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Having over 17 years of clinical experience in a variety of treatment settings allows my clients to access tailored comprehensive psychological support derived from a culturally diverse and trauma-informed lens. I have in-depth experience and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as crisis response and prevention. My clinical abilities are available to individuals, families, groups, and organizations with the goal of strengthening the use of mental health practices.
As the CEO and Founder of Coping Corners, LLC, I specialize in child and adolescent psychology, parent coaching, crisis prevention and response, suicidal ideation, self-injury, trauma, and psychological assessments.
I am Dr. Lauren, Clinical Psychologist licensed in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington DC. Having over 17 years of clinical experience in a variety of treatment settings allows my clients to access tailored comprehensive psychological support derived from a culturally diverse and trauma-informed lens. I have in-depth experience and training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused-CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as crisis response and prevention. My clinical abilities are available to individuals, families, groups, and organizations with the goal of strengthening the use of mental health practices.
(301) 450-6482 View (301) 450-6482
Photo of Rebecca Durbahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rebecca Durbahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients! I would love to work with you as you navigate life's journey. What I can provide is a safe, non-judgmental space to support and walk along side you as we work together to reach your desired goals and outcomes. I want to be your ally, your champion, and one piece of your support network to alleviate the suffering, the depression, the anxiety, the stress associated with simply being human. My approach is collaborative, person centered, and real.
I am currently accepting new clients! I would love to work with you as you navigate life's journey. What I can provide is a safe, non-judgmental space to support and walk along side you as we work together to reach your desired goals and outcomes. I want to be your ally, your champion, and one piece of your support network to alleviate the suffering, the depression, the anxiety, the stress associated with simply being human. My approach is collaborative, person centered, and real.
(202) 301-3096 View (202) 301-3096
Photo of Hilary Katz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Hilary Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I have provided individual, group, couples and family therapy in both school settings as well as private practice settings since the onset of my career. I utilize behavioral management tools, cognitive behavioral therapy, and creative therapies to encourage and teach children as well as adults, how to increase their sense of self and learn how to celebrate their strengths and weaknesses. I feel strongly that children respond best when they are free to explore their feelings creatively as opposed to solely participating in talk therapy. I help clients feel accountable and more importantly, recognize they have the ability to grow.
I have provided individual, group, couples and family therapy in both school settings as well as private practice settings since the onset of my career. I utilize behavioral management tools, cognitive behavioral therapy, and creative therapies to encourage and teach children as well as adults, how to increase their sense of self and learn how to celebrate their strengths and weaknesses. I feel strongly that children respond best when they are free to explore their feelings creatively as opposed to solely participating in talk therapy. I help clients feel accountable and more importantly, recognize they have the ability to grow.
(844) 806-0055 View (844) 806-0055
Photo of Nicolle Castro Caroca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Nicolle Castro Caroca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Originally from Chile, I am a bilingual culturally-conscious and trauma-informed therapist helping individuals heal from intergenerational trauma, migratory and cultural issues, family dysfunction, sex and relational issues, and mood disorders. Whether this is your first time or not, if you’re here you’re taking an active step to dedicate time and invest in you and your wellbeing. That is AWESOME. I value the co-creation of a strong relationship that allows reconnection with your emotional self, all the intersections of your existence, and the life experiences that informed your view of self and the world.
Originally from Chile, I am a bilingual culturally-conscious and trauma-informed therapist helping individuals heal from intergenerational trauma, migratory and cultural issues, family dysfunction, sex and relational issues, and mood disorders. Whether this is your first time or not, if you’re here you’re taking an active step to dedicate time and invest in you and your wellbeing. That is AWESOME. I value the co-creation of a strong relationship that allows reconnection with your emotional self, all the intersections of your existence, and the life experiences that informed your view of self and the world.
(202) 846-2337 View (202) 846-2337
Photo of Joanne Zucchetto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Joanne Zucchetto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20015
My belief that the therapeutic relationship is the key element of successful treatment informs my practice. This working relationship, based on mutual trust and shared goals, allows for self-exploration and ultimately personal growth. In working with individuals, couples, families and/or groups I think that connecting the dots between past and present allows the client to have a better grasp on what is influencing her/his feelings and life choices leading to greater empowerment and life satisfaction.
My belief that the therapeutic relationship is the key element of successful treatment informs my practice. This working relationship, based on mutual trust and shared goals, allows for self-exploration and ultimately personal growth. In working with individuals, couples, families and/or groups I think that connecting the dots between past and present allows the client to have a better grasp on what is influencing her/his feelings and life choices leading to greater empowerment and life satisfaction.
(410) 988-2167 View (410) 988-2167
Photo of Taneasha Clark, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Taneasha Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! My name is Taneasha Clark and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. My passion is helping people navigate their unique journeys of self discovery and acceptance. I hold space for them to express their innermost feelings and facilitate processing them in a healthy way. We work collaboratively to develop and enhance skills to cope with depression, ADHD, anxiety, and other adversities. I am here to help you thrive. I specialize in working with adults, children/teens, and couples.
Greetings! My name is Taneasha Clark and I am a psychotherapist at Revo Well. We are a tribe of extraordinary clinicians dedicated to REVOlutionizing WELLness in the BIPOC community. My passion is helping people navigate their unique journeys of self discovery and acceptance. I hold space for them to express their innermost feelings and facilitate processing them in a healthy way. We work collaboratively to develop and enhance skills to cope with depression, ADHD, anxiety, and other adversities. I am here to help you thrive. I specialize in working with adults, children/teens, and couples.
(202) 933-6770 View (202) 933-6770
Photo of Sarah Holland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sarah Holland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults process the unique challenges of their age, tame their inner critic and self-doubt, and heal from trauma. Together we will get really curious about what makes you tick and how your current patterns and coping mechanisms came to be. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies in my work.
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults process the unique challenges of their age, tame their inner critic and self-doubt, and heal from trauma. Together we will get really curious about what makes you tick and how your current patterns and coping mechanisms came to be. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies in my work.
(202) 890-1828 View (202) 890-1828
Photo of Andrea Florez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Andrea Florez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
I focus on creating a supportive and safe therapeutic environment where I can help clients identify opportunities for change and growth, cope with difficult emotions and experiences, and approach and resolve problems in more constructive ways that brings the opportunity to heal emotional wounds. I believe therapy is collaborative and I support my clients to build lives that feel meaningful and authentic. I incorporate different therapeutic approaches to help clients achieve their treatment goals and meet their individual needs
I focus on creating a supportive and safe therapeutic environment where I can help clients identify opportunities for change and growth, cope with difficult emotions and experiences, and approach and resolve problems in more constructive ways that brings the opportunity to heal emotional wounds. I believe therapy is collaborative and I support my clients to build lives that feel meaningful and authentic. I incorporate different therapeutic approaches to help clients achieve their treatment goals and meet their individual needs
(202) 949-5971 View (202) 949-5971
Photo of Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Therapeutic Links Behavioral Health Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
Have you experienced a recent or past traumatic event? Do you have trouble expressing how you feel? I have advanced training in working with survivors of trauma, and extensive experience working with families who struggle to communicate effectively. I use the therapeutic relationship to create a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings in order to set goals and move forward. Primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness techniques, individuals are able to heal from past experiences and to lead satisfying and productive lives.
Have you experienced a recent or past traumatic event? Do you have trouble expressing how you feel? I have advanced training in working with survivors of trauma, and extensive experience working with families who struggle to communicate effectively. I use the therapeutic relationship to create a safe space for clients to explore thoughts and feelings in order to set goals and move forward. Primarily using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness techniques, individuals are able to heal from past experiences and to lead satisfying and productive lives.
(202) 915-3349 x1 View (202) 915-3349 x1
Photo of Bloomed Within LLC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Bloomed Within LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, ABD, RYT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
I love to partner with folx who are struggling with symptoms of trauma. We will begin by assessing how the trauma is impacting your daily life and then introducing coping strategies to decrease the symptoms.
I love to partner with folx who are struggling with symptoms of trauma. We will begin by assessing how the trauma is impacting your daily life and then introducing coping strategies to decrease the symptoms.
(202) 929-5290 View (202) 929-5290
Photo of Joy Natwick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Joy Natwick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I'm a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for fostering growth and resilience in individuals and families. My aim is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where clients of all ages can explore their inner worlds, overcome challenges, and discover their innate potential for healing and transformation. Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your child, adolescent, or family unit, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, drug and alcohol use and more.
I'm a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for fostering growth and resilience in individuals and families. My aim is to provide a nurturing and supportive environment where clients of all ages can explore their inner worlds, overcome challenges, and discover their innate potential for healing and transformation. Whether you're seeking therapy for yourself or your child, adolescent, or family unit, I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, low self-esteem, trauma, drug and alcohol use and more.
(202) 810-1153 View (202) 810-1153
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.