Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Mili Tilahun, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Mili Tilahun
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
I am a bilingual therapist in English and Amheric with over 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in individual and group counseling settings. I have worked with a diverse population of ethnic minorities including Ethiopians. I specialize in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, self-esteem, substance use and addiction, pregnancy loss, fertility challenges, life transitions and stress, and grief and loss.
I am a bilingual therapist in English and Amheric with over 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families in individual and group counseling settings. I have worked with a diverse population of ethnic minorities including Ethiopians. I specialize in depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, self-esteem, substance use and addiction, pregnancy loss, fertility challenges, life transitions and stress, and grief and loss.
(202) 931-7997 View (202) 931-7997
Photo of Lindsay Tiell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lindsay Tiell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20016
My specialties include anxiety, life transitions, pregnancy and postpartum, emerging adulthood, parenting young children, career/school challenges, and relationship concerns.
I believe connection has a transformative power, allowing us to feel heard and understood as we navigate life. Using the power of relationships, it is my privilege to join clients on their personal journeys of looking within, which can lead to growth and healing. I create a safe space for my clients in which they are able to develop the insights and skills needed to enhance feelings of joy, self-compassion, and confidence. As a licensed therapist in the DC metro area, I work with teens, adults, parents, and women in the perinatal and postpartum period - offering a highly individualized approach during every stage.
My specialties include anxiety, life transitions, pregnancy and postpartum, emerging adulthood, parenting young children, career/school challenges, and relationship concerns.
I believe connection has a transformative power, allowing us to feel heard and understood as we navigate life. Using the power of relationships, it is my privilege to join clients on their personal journeys of looking within, which can lead to growth and healing. I create a safe space for my clients in which they are able to develop the insights and skills needed to enhance feelings of joy, self-compassion, and confidence. As a licensed therapist in the DC metro area, I work with teens, adults, parents, and women in the perinatal and postpartum period - offering a highly individualized approach during every stage.
(202) 796-7046 View (202) 796-7046
Photo of Modern Owl Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Modern Owl Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
Here is a sample of areas: couples, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, aging, coping with chronic illness, and children.
Welcome to Modern Owl Counseling. We are a group of Clinical Social Workers who believe that everyone deserves someone to talk to who is non-judgmental or biased. You are the expert on you! There are many different kinds of people and different kinds of therapists. It's most important that you and your therapist are a good fit and you feel comfortable opening up to them. Please see our website for therapist bio's and techniques used. We are here to work as a team with you to establish and meet your goals. Together we can create change and improve your symptoms.
Here is a sample of areas: couples, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief, trauma, aging, coping with chronic illness, and children.
Welcome to Modern Owl Counseling. We are a group of Clinical Social Workers who believe that everyone deserves someone to talk to who is non-judgmental or biased. You are the expert on you! There are many different kinds of people and different kinds of therapists. It's most important that you and your therapist are a good fit and you feel comfortable opening up to them. Please see our website for therapist bio's and techniques used. We are here to work as a team with you to establish and meet your goals. Together we can create change and improve your symptoms.
(202) 919-8790 View (202) 919-8790
Photo of Ariste Sallas-Brookwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Ariste Sallas-Brookwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
Welcome. I am glad you’re here. Finding a therapist is hard. I want to make it easy. When we feel stuck, burdened by unhealthy patterns, or are experiencing life transitions, we can feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed, and lost. You have come to the right place. Therapy is a tool, much like visiting a doctor for your physical health, that can help you get back on track. My style is warm, authentic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment by listening closely and responding with compassion. I will give you plenty of space to share, explore, and deepen your insight.
Welcome. I am glad you’re here. Finding a therapist is hard. I want to make it easy. When we feel stuck, burdened by unhealthy patterns, or are experiencing life transitions, we can feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed, and lost. You have come to the right place. Therapy is a tool, much like visiting a doctor for your physical health, that can help you get back on track. My style is warm, authentic, and non-judgmental. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment by listening closely and responding with compassion. I will give you plenty of space to share, explore, and deepen your insight.
(202) 519-4483 View (202) 519-4483
Photo of Diane Reis, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Diane Reis
Psychologist, PsyD, PLLC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
If you are feeling stuck but want to move forward in life, or are in emotional pain, or seeking to work on mental health issues, I am happy to speak with you about individual psychotherapy or couple's therapy. I work with adults of all ages and backgrounds on problems in their relationships, workplace, family life, and at times of difficult life transitions. I offer a safe environment to talk comfortably and work collaboratively to improve a client’s well-being. I specialize in helping lawyers and medical professionals under stress. And having had a past involvement in politics, I enjoy working with elected/government officials.
(202) 738-5745 View (202) 738-5745
Photo of Leila Barzegar, Counselor in Washington, DC
Leila Barzegar
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Other areas of expertise include addressing trauma and oppression due to intersecting identities, improving body image and letting go of diet culture, establishing healthier boundaries, navigating life transitions, interpersonal relationship concerns, 1st/2nd gen immigrant experiences, and discovering how to cultivate a more authentic and intentional life.
My approach is anchored in creating an identity-affirming, judgment-free space that fosters self-awareness, behavioral change, and personal growth. I offer a combination of traditional talk therapy and somatic work, empowering clients to understand their body's stress response and learn to regulate their emotions and nervous system. Drawing from a strength-based approach, I emphasize clients' resilience and unique strengths while acknowledging the enduring impact of early relationships and experiences. I specialize in supporting LGBTQIA+ adults on their journey of identity exploration, affirmation, and celebration.
Other areas of expertise include addressing trauma and oppression due to intersecting identities, improving body image and letting go of diet culture, establishing healthier boundaries, navigating life transitions, interpersonal relationship concerns, 1st/2nd gen immigrant experiences, and discovering how to cultivate a more authentic and intentional life.
My approach is anchored in creating an identity-affirming, judgment-free space that fosters self-awareness, behavioral change, and personal growth. I offer a combination of traditional talk therapy and somatic work, empowering clients to understand their body's stress response and learn to regulate their emotions and nervous system. Drawing from a strength-based approach, I emphasize clients' resilience and unique strengths while acknowledging the enduring impact of early relationships and experiences. I specialize in supporting LGBTQIA+ adults on their journey of identity exploration, affirmation, and celebration.
(202) 949-6723 View (202) 949-6723
Photo of Marcela Kepic, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Marcela Kepic
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC , ACS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
My expertise is two-fold: helping adults and couples to navigate through challenging relationships and life transitions, as well as helping children and adolescents improve their emotional and behavioral well-being.
Thanks for choosing this courageous step in your journey toward improvement. Life can be challenging and it might take some time to overcome obstacles in our way. I believe that everyone has a potential to learn, grow, improve, and heal no matter what circumstances one is facing. We are resilient beings so let's uncover what has been sitting dormant.
My expertise is two-fold: helping adults and couples to navigate through challenging relationships and life transitions, as well as helping children and adolescents improve their emotional and behavioral well-being.
Thanks for choosing this courageous step in your journey toward improvement. Life can be challenging and it might take some time to overcome obstacles in our way. I believe that everyone has a potential to learn, grow, improve, and heal no matter what circumstances one is facing. We are resilient beings so let's uncover what has been sitting dormant.
(551) 243-6337 View (551) 243-6337
Photo of Terah Ryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Terah Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Welcome— I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Terah Ryan, a Clinical Social Worker and therapist in Maryland and the District of Columbia. It’s my commitment to create a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, patterns, and relationships to create a more meaningful self. I work with adults of all ages experiencing concerns such as chronic illness, grief, loss, relationship or family issues, anxiety, and troublesome or stressful life transitions. My clients find me to be supportive, collaborative, and direct. I also have substantial experience working with healthcare professionals and supporting caregivers of loved ones.
Welcome— I’m so glad you’re here. I’m Terah Ryan, a Clinical Social Worker and therapist in Maryland and the District of Columbia. It’s my commitment to create a safe place for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, patterns, and relationships to create a more meaningful self. I work with adults of all ages experiencing concerns such as chronic illness, grief, loss, relationship or family issues, anxiety, and troublesome or stressful life transitions. My clients find me to be supportive, collaborative, and direct. I also have substantial experience working with healthcare professionals and supporting caregivers of loved ones.
(202) 883-4787 View (202) 883-4787
Photo of Melissa Williams, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Melissa Williams, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I have a passion for helping people gain freedom in their lives + thrive in their relationships. I do my best to compassionately understand where you are in this season of life and help you honestly identify where you want to be. I enjoy working with adult + adolescent clients in individual, couples and group therapy to identify & work through the barriers the get in the way of living a full and rich life, including past trauma, stress management, life transitions, attachment issues & self-esteem.
I have a passion for helping people gain freedom in their lives + thrive in their relationships. I do my best to compassionately understand where you are in this season of life and help you honestly identify where you want to be. I enjoy working with adult + adolescent clients in individual, couples and group therapy to identify & work through the barriers the get in the way of living a full and rich life, including past trauma, stress management, life transitions, attachment issues & self-esteem.
(202) 972-4757 View (202) 972-4757
Photo of Sarah Dougans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sarah Dougans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I work with adults and adolescents (14+) who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, postpartum depression/anxiety, infertility, and life transitions (such as career changes, going to college, or becoming parents). My practice is a safe space to help you understand how past experiences shape your relationships, thoughts and feelings. Through this exploration, we can work together to better manage the pressure you place on yourself and feel more secure, confident and accepted.
I work with adults and adolescents (14+) who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, postpartum depression/anxiety, infertility, and life transitions (such as career changes, going to college, or becoming parents). My practice is a safe space to help you understand how past experiences shape your relationships, thoughts and feelings. Through this exploration, we can work together to better manage the pressure you place on yourself and feel more secure, confident and accepted.
(202) 836-8701 View (202) 836-8701
Photo of Sevilla King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sevilla King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
I specialize in life transitions and addressing the internal struggles that stand in your way.
Are you new to the area and feel overwhelmed starting a new life? Are you ready to find love in your life, or breaking up/divorcing, or are you and you partner ready to repair and grow your relationship? Are you looking to find a new job, move up the ladder, or change professions completely? Did you just graduate from College or Grad school and feel lost as to what career aligns with your interests and values? Or maybe you're struggling with the death of a loved one and are wondering how to fill the void. Perhaps you've decided to investigate your spirituality or change your religious affiliation.
I specialize in life transitions and addressing the internal struggles that stand in your way.
Are you new to the area and feel overwhelmed starting a new life? Are you ready to find love in your life, or breaking up/divorcing, or are you and you partner ready to repair and grow your relationship? Are you looking to find a new job, move up the ladder, or change professions completely? Did you just graduate from College or Grad school and feel lost as to what career aligns with your interests and values? Or maybe you're struggling with the death of a loved one and are wondering how to fill the void. Perhaps you've decided to investigate your spirituality or change your religious affiliation.
(202) 759-6446 View (202) 759-6446
Photo of Elizabeth Crunk, Counselor in Washington, DC
Elizabeth Crunk
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I have experience supporting clients through diverse aspects of grief and loss, from “common” grief to complications in grieving and anticipatory grief, as well as relationship loss, pet loss, family estrangement, and life transitions.
I help adults navigate the challenging experience of coping with grief. Loss is often highly distressing and there is not a duration of time that grieving should take. However, we sometimes feel stuck in our grief or desire support. Because grief is a natural response to loss, the goal of our work together is not to "cure" your grief, but to help you find ways to adjust to your loss and cope with the stressors that accompany it. I also work with clients experiencing relationship and family-of-origin concerns and with individuals who would like to live more authentically and develop greater self-compassion and healthier boundaries.
I have experience supporting clients through diverse aspects of grief and loss, from “common” grief to complications in grieving and anticipatory grief, as well as relationship loss, pet loss, family estrangement, and life transitions.
I help adults navigate the challenging experience of coping with grief. Loss is often highly distressing and there is not a duration of time that grieving should take. However, we sometimes feel stuck in our grief or desire support. Because grief is a natural response to loss, the goal of our work together is not to "cure" your grief, but to help you find ways to adjust to your loss and cope with the stressors that accompany it. I also work with clients experiencing relationship and family-of-origin concerns and with individuals who would like to live more authentically and develop greater self-compassion and healthier boundaries.
(240) 702-2393 View (240) 702-2393
Photo of Jennifer Bakalar, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jennifer Bakalar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I specialize in treating concerns related to trauma, grief, loss, life transitions, and chronic stress.
Our connections with ourselves, others, and our communities can bring tremendous joy, meaning, and fulfillment. In contrast, experiences of disconnection and loss can elicit profound anguish. A crucial step toward relief and enduring growth in psychotherapy starts with an affirming connection with your therapist. Beyond the reasons that bring you in, I am committed to listening to your life story and learning about you as a whole, imperfect person who deserves unconditional care and respect. From there, we can identify opportunities to relate to yourself and others in new ways.
I specialize in treating concerns related to trauma, grief, loss, life transitions, and chronic stress.
Our connections with ourselves, others, and our communities can bring tremendous joy, meaning, and fulfillment. In contrast, experiences of disconnection and loss can elicit profound anguish. A crucial step toward relief and enduring growth in psychotherapy starts with an affirming connection with your therapist. Beyond the reasons that bring you in, I am committed to listening to your life story and learning about you as a whole, imperfect person who deserves unconditional care and respect. From there, we can identify opportunities to relate to yourself and others in new ways.
(202) 849-9198 View (202) 849-9198
Photo of Nicole Moore, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Nicole Moore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I enjoy and look forward to working with individuals in therapy who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, behavioral issues, difficulties with self-esteem, painful family dynamics, relational challenges, navigating life transitions, feeling ‘stuck,’ making meaning of mixed race identity, and with those who wish to know more about themselves.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
I enjoy and look forward to working with individuals in therapy who are experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, behavioral issues, difficulties with self-esteem, painful family dynamics, relational challenges, navigating life transitions, feeling ‘stuck,’ making meaning of mixed race identity, and with those who wish to know more about themselves.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who believes that everyone possesses the strengths and resources to overcome life’s challenges- even if sometimes we need a little assistance. I view seeking help as a sign of great strength. My role as a therapist is to help you better know and understand yourself. We will use this insight to build upon your innate abilities and strengths to understand obstacles, overcome challenges, and pave a way forward. I work with a Service Dog, Finn, who provides a gentle, loving presence that can be very comforting, anxiety reducing, and uplifting in sessions.
(202) 915-5676 View (202) 915-5676
Photo of Giselle Ruzany, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Giselle Ruzany
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
My goal is to facilitate your healing with joy. I come from a trauma-informed, body-centered, and experiential training. So, my ideal clients are often open-minded and interested in mindful movement practices and the arts. I work with individuals seeking transformation, recovering from trauma, interested in embodied healing, working through life transitions, and unpacking family and relationship dynamics. I help individuals heal from traumatic events, panic, insomnia, grief, boundary ruptures, depression, and blocks in creativity. Together, we will be having laughter and tears while discovering new paths that are healing and whole.
(703) 468-8906 View (703) 468-8906
Photo of Dawn Johnson, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dawn Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20006
I have extensive experience with college students, young adults and mid-career professionals, with a particular focus on individuals navigating life transitions such as the postpartum period, relationship changes and moves.
If you feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed or stuck, if you are frustrated by your family or relationships, navigating a challenging life transition or are worn out by disordered eating, my practice may be a good fit for you. My therapy style is collaborative, warm, and nonjudgmental, with room for humor. Together, we will work to improve your symptoms, gain a deeper understanding of your concerns and bring about lasting change.
I have extensive experience with college students, young adults and mid-career professionals, with a particular focus on individuals navigating life transitions such as the postpartum period, relationship changes and moves.
If you feel anxious, sad, overwhelmed or stuck, if you are frustrated by your family or relationships, navigating a challenging life transition or are worn out by disordered eating, my practice may be a good fit for you. My therapy style is collaborative, warm, and nonjudgmental, with room for humor. Together, we will work to improve your symptoms, gain a deeper understanding of your concerns and bring about lasting change.
(202) 858-2559 View (202) 858-2559
Photo of Krystin Harper, Counselor in Washington, DC
Krystin Harper
Counselor, MA, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20037
I have a special interest in anxiety, parenthood, relationships, and life transitions.
Life can feel so hard sometimes - that is ok! Often the most challenging moments provide the space to slow down, appreciate all you have endured, and take steps to create truly meaningful and lasting change. Together, with kindness and a bit of humor, I will help to empower your resilience and capacity to live a joyful and fulfilling life. I am passionate about supporting both individuals and couples. My work is rooted in a holistic, person-centered approach to healing. I will treat you with empathy, create a non-judgmental environment in which you feel safe and heard, and work to understand your lived experiences.
I have a special interest in anxiety, parenthood, relationships, and life transitions.
Life can feel so hard sometimes - that is ok! Often the most challenging moments provide the space to slow down, appreciate all you have endured, and take steps to create truly meaningful and lasting change. Together, with kindness and a bit of humor, I will help to empower your resilience and capacity to live a joyful and fulfilling life. I am passionate about supporting both individuals and couples. My work is rooted in a holistic, person-centered approach to healing. I will treat you with empathy, create a non-judgmental environment in which you feel safe and heard, and work to understand your lived experiences.
(202) 866-5172 x2 View (202) 866-5172 x2
Photo of Carolyn Hoffmann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Carolyn Hoffmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced relationship trauma. I also have a passion for working with adults & couples who feel stuck or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities & life transitions. I'm a true believer in the therapeutic power of dialogue. Life can often be complex & messy, but with a supportive environment to talk things through, it can feel much easier to tackle. I strive to provide an inclusive, empathic, & non-judgmental space to manage your emotions & stressors as we work to nurture your personal relationships.
I specialize in working with individuals of all ages who have experienced relationship trauma. I also have a passion for working with adults & couples who feel stuck or overwhelmed by daily responsibilities & life transitions. I'm a true believer in the therapeutic power of dialogue. Life can often be complex & messy, but with a supportive environment to talk things through, it can feel much easier to tackle. I strive to provide an inclusive, empathic, & non-judgmental space to manage your emotions & stressors as we work to nurture your personal relationships.
(202) 519-8318 View (202) 519-8318
Photo of Binita Amin, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Binita Amin
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I work with individuals who experience a wide range of challenges. My primary specialties include depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I also address job stress, relationships, grief/loss, and sleep concerns. My approach to therapy is integrative and collaborative. I primarily incorporate education with a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness approach.
I work with individuals who experience a wide range of challenges. My primary specialties include depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I also address job stress, relationships, grief/loss, and sleep concerns. My approach to therapy is integrative and collaborative. I primarily incorporate education with a cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, and mindfulness approach.
(202) 759-5435 View (202) 759-5435
Photo of Madeleine Lawrence, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Madeleine Lawrence
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20012
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
I am a Masters-level counselor-in-training through Northwestern University currently offering counseling services at The Imago Center of Washington, DC. I am accepting clients with sliding scale pricing/low fee. Together, we can work on areas such as life transitions, grief and loss, self-esteem regulation, sexuality, anxiety, and depression. Using an integrative approach, I hope to work with young adults and couples in exploring areas such as sexual orientation, healthy relationship development, and positive sexuality as well as anxiety regulation and adjustment strategies.
(202) 930-8979 View (202) 930-8979
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.