Therapists in Merritt Island, FL

Photo of Counseling-Consulting-Coaching of Brevard, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Counseling-Consulting-Coaching of Brevard
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Sherry is a mental health counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working in grief and addiction counseling with both individuals and in family settings. Sherry works with both children and adults who are working through post-traumatic stress, attachment disorders, and ADHD management.
Sherry is a mental health counselor who works with children, adolescents, and adults. She has experience working in grief and addiction counseling with both individuals and in family settings. Sherry works with both children and adults who are working through post-traumatic stress, attachment disorders, and ADHD management.
(407) 760-6939 View (407) 760-6939
Photo of Lauren Ashley Timney, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Lauren Ashley Timney
Counselor, LMH-QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
My goal as your counselor is to provide you and/or family members with the best quality and most comforting service I can provide.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have many years of clinical and private practice experience with children and adults. I counsel individuals, couples, families, and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, families, and groups develop a personal and/or developmental plan to implement positive influences in their life, while evaluating broad or specific issues such as: addictions, substance abuse, family dynamics, parenting, marital problems, stress management, self-esteem, aging, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
My goal as your counselor is to provide you and/or family members with the best quality and most comforting service I can provide.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I have many years of clinical and private practice experience with children and adults. I counsel individuals, couples, families, and groups to promote optimum mental and emotional health. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, families, and groups develop a personal and/or developmental plan to implement positive influences in their life, while evaluating broad or specific issues such as: addictions, substance abuse, family dynamics, parenting, marital problems, stress management, self-esteem, aging, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
(904) 447-8391 View (904) 447-8391
Photo of LaKenya H McCallister, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merritt Island, FL
LaKenya H McCallister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Finding solutions is not always easy to do alone. Counseling is the perfect tool to help gain perspective of the challenges that you face. Our hope at McCallister Family Counseling is to provide a safe place for you or your family to feel supported while navigating your way towards positive outcomes. Have you or your family member been depressed, acting out, anxious, or even attempted suicide? Are you unhappy at home, school, or work? Are your days plagued by managing power struggles, constant yelling, and everyone is stressed? Your story does not end here. Let us help you write the next chapter.
Finding solutions is not always easy to do alone. Counseling is the perfect tool to help gain perspective of the challenges that you face. Our hope at McCallister Family Counseling is to provide a safe place for you or your family to feel supported while navigating your way towards positive outcomes. Have you or your family member been depressed, acting out, anxious, or even attempted suicide? Are you unhappy at home, school, or work? Are your days plagued by managing power struggles, constant yelling, and everyone is stressed? Your story does not end here. Let us help you write the next chapter.
(321) 617-5290 View (321) 617-5290
Photo of Genger Kaye Benson Perez, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Genger Kaye Benson Perez
Counselor, MS, LMHC, KAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Many of the issues I have experience in helping include: anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, self-improvement, divorce, step-parenting and blended family issues.
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
Many of the issues I have experience in helping include: anxiety, depression, stress, grief, trauma, self-improvement, divorce, step-parenting and blended family issues.
Do you sometimes feel alone, stressed, anxious or overwhelmed with your current life situation? I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I enjoy helping individuals and couples who realize that it's ok to ask for help during these times. My mission is to help you work through any road blocks that are holding you back from moving forward on your path to a brighter day. I am an EMDREA approved EMDR therapist, an Informed IFS Therapist, call me to set a free 30 minute consult to see if we are a good fit. Ketamine Assisted Therapy consultation available in collaboration with Journey Clinical available upon request.
(321) 204-8435 View (321) 204-8435
Photo of Laketra Chick, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Merritt Island, FL
Laketra Chick
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952  (Online Only)
I have a Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work, and some of the areas I have been certified and/or trained in include child welfare, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, family systems work, and trauma therapy.
This sucks. Everything is so expensive. Things are moving so fast, I can't keep up. I don't get it. When I look at social media everyone has it all together, but I'm drowning. What's wrong with me? Have you seen the world? I'm so scared. I'm trying hard to keep it together but it feels like society standards, my past, life stressors and other uncontrollable factors have the upper hand. I can't do this. I'm so tired. I should be better than this. How can I be at peace when the triggers are always there? Be seen when others misunderstand me? Be a good mom when parenting feels impossible? Be unapologetically me?
I have a Bachelors and Masters degree in Social Work, and some of the areas I have been certified and/or trained in include child welfare, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, family systems work, and trauma therapy.
This sucks. Everything is so expensive. Things are moving so fast, I can't keep up. I don't get it. When I look at social media everyone has it all together, but I'm drowning. What's wrong with me? Have you seen the world? I'm so scared. I'm trying hard to keep it together but it feels like society standards, my past, life stressors and other uncontrollable factors have the upper hand. I can't do this. I'm so tired. I should be better than this. How can I be at peace when the triggers are always there? Be seen when others misunderstand me? Be a good mom when parenting feels impossible? Be unapologetically me?
(321) 233-9491 View (321) 233-9491
Photo of Elizabeth Wester Owner At Peace Counseling And Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merritt Island, FL
Elizabeth Wester Owner At Peace Counseling And Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952  (Online Only)
As a clinical social worker my approach to therapy is rooted in a client-centered philosophy, where your unique needs and experiences are at the forefront of our work together. Through collaboration, empathy, and active listening we create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Life transitions, family/ relationship dynamics, mental health challenges or any other situation that you have found yourself in. I am committed to empowering you so you can make positive changes in your life, improve emotional well-being and have a more fulfilling future.
As a clinical social worker my approach to therapy is rooted in a client-centered philosophy, where your unique needs and experiences are at the forefront of our work together. Through collaboration, empathy, and active listening we create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings openly. Life transitions, family/ relationship dynamics, mental health challenges or any other situation that you have found yourself in. I am committed to empowering you so you can make positive changes in your life, improve emotional well-being and have a more fulfilling future.
(321) 323-9096 View (321) 323-9096
Photo of Kerry Berner, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Kerry Berner
Counselor, BSW, MA, EdS, LMHC-QS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
If you or someone in your family is hurting or struggling with pain & you feel you are ready for counseling, we are here for you! Call our office for a FREE phone consultation and our compassionate counselors will take the time with you to talk about the counseling process & making sure we have the right counselor for YOU! .
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
If you or someone in your family is hurting or struggling with pain & you feel you are ready for counseling, we are here for you! Call our office for a FREE phone consultation and our compassionate counselors will take the time with you to talk about the counseling process & making sure we have the right counselor for YOU! .
Now accepting Counselor Supervision and Play Therapy Supervision! At Brevard Counseling, we have counselors who work with CHILDREN as young as 4 using Play Therapy in our Play Therapy Rooms, ADOLESCENTS (struggling with peer pressure, anxiety, divorce, and school issues), INDIVIDUALS (with grief, anxiety, depression, substance issues), and COUPLES/MARRIAGE utilizing the Gottman Method. We have 2 locations! Merritt Island (4 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room) Rockledge (2 counseling rooms & 1 Play Therapy room). We offer many different rate plans including sliding fees if needed and some insurance plans.
(321) 274-4817 View (321) 274-4817
Photo of Nicolle Conley, Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern in Merritt Island, FL
Nicolle Conley
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MC, MEd
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32952  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a diverse range of clients, including those dealing with struggles related to school success, anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and life transitions.
Experience and education have taught me to sit along side... and to listen to the needs of my clients. Allow me the opportunity to share in your experience. Through conversation, activities, and warmth, I will help you move through barriers to find your joy! As a counselor, my primary focus is to help individuals overcome their personal challenges and achieve their goals. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards developing a better understanding of themselves. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and supportive, yet also challenging when needed.
I have experience working with a diverse range of clients, including those dealing with struggles related to school success, anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and life transitions.
Experience and education have taught me to sit along side... and to listen to the needs of my clients. Allow me the opportunity to share in your experience. Through conversation, activities, and warmth, I will help you move through barriers to find your joy! As a counselor, my primary focus is to help individuals overcome their personal challenges and achieve their goals. I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients to explore their thoughts and feelings, and work towards developing a better understanding of themselves. My counseling style is warm, empathetic, and supportive, yet also challenging when needed.
(321) 415-3431 View (321) 415-3431
Photo of Nicole M Charara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merritt Island, FL
Nicole M Charara
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32953  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I am currently licensed in California and Florida. I have over 15 years of experience in providing services to children, adults, and families. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, as well as, adult anxiety, depression, infertility/pre and post partum issues, PTSD, trauma, and family relationship issues. I am also bilingual and able to conduct sessions in Spanish. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR and am currently available for online therapy services only. Please see my website at www.nicolecharara.com for more information regarding my services.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I am currently licensed in California and Florida. I have over 15 years of experience in providing services to children, adults, and families. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, as well as, adult anxiety, depression, infertility/pre and post partum issues, PTSD, trauma, and family relationship issues. I am also bilingual and able to conduct sessions in Spanish. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and EMDR and am currently available for online therapy services only. Please see my website at www.nicolecharara.com for more information regarding my services.
(858) 707-7512 View (858) 707-7512
Photo of Saffrone G Emerson, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Saffrone G Emerson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
As a Christian mother of four gifted ADHD diagnosed children, I find my life work to be an excellent investment; providing our world with the very best research & awareness about ADHD family systems.
Become the Best YOU! Are you prepared to improve the overall quality of your life & make choices to CHANGE & GROW? Then allow Dr. Saffrone to assist you in creating a path. Dr. S is dedicated to assisting patients in improving themselves. The lives of students, couples, families, 1st Responders & professionals are enhanced using CBT & solution focused therapeutic interventions. While addressing the complex life dynamics individuals experience, her goal is to assist & facilitate the changes needed to live your best life. Reach your potential, overcome difficult life transitions, & challenges by implementing new skills & techniques.
As a Christian mother of four gifted ADHD diagnosed children, I find my life work to be an excellent investment; providing our world with the very best research & awareness about ADHD family systems.
Become the Best YOU! Are you prepared to improve the overall quality of your life & make choices to CHANGE & GROW? Then allow Dr. Saffrone to assist you in creating a path. Dr. S is dedicated to assisting patients in improving themselves. The lives of students, couples, families, 1st Responders & professionals are enhanced using CBT & solution focused therapeutic interventions. While addressing the complex life dynamics individuals experience, her goal is to assist & facilitate the changes needed to live your best life. Reach your potential, overcome difficult life transitions, & challenges by implementing new skills & techniques.
(321) 320-6747 View (321) 320-6747
Photo of Fresh Start Behavioral Counseling in Merritt Island, FL
Fresh Start Behavioral Counseling
MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32952
I offer individual counseling as well as family therapy.
If you are seeking a therapist to help with life's problems, let me help you. The counseling process is about your journey to healing, which can seem overwhelming. Mental Health is a process, and I am professional trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Living in your thoughts and not being able to regulate emotions can lead to destructive behavior patterns. My goal for your therapy is to help you discover the mental health tools to improve relationships and increase your quality of life. We will meet and determine which treatment and modality works the best for your situation and presenting issues
I offer individual counseling as well as family therapy.
If you are seeking a therapist to help with life's problems, let me help you. The counseling process is about your journey to healing, which can seem overwhelming. Mental Health is a process, and I am professional trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. Living in your thoughts and not being able to regulate emotions can lead to destructive behavior patterns. My goal for your therapy is to help you discover the mental health tools to improve relationships and increase your quality of life. We will meet and determine which treatment and modality works the best for your situation and presenting issues
(321) 848-8420 View (321) 848-8420
Photo of Holly Champa, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Holly Champa
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and women using a range of cognitive, behavioral, and family therapy approaches.
When anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or other struggles take over your life, asking for help can be intimidating and scary. You are taking the first step now, probably after receiving a lot of advice and feeling uncertain. I am here to help you using evidenced based interventions that will give you the tools and resources that are the most authentic to your life. After all, you are the expert on you. As a strength and solutions based therapist, my approach is to listen without judging, and to meet you where you are. You do not have to suffer alone.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and women using a range of cognitive, behavioral, and family therapy approaches.
When anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, or other struggles take over your life, asking for help can be intimidating and scary. You are taking the first step now, probably after receiving a lot of advice and feeling uncertain. I am here to help you using evidenced based interventions that will give you the tools and resources that are the most authentic to your life. After all, you are the expert on you. As a strength and solutions based therapist, my approach is to listen without judging, and to meet you where you are. You do not have to suffer alone.
(321) 985-5043 View (321) 985-5043
Photo of Ashley Robertson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merritt Island, FL
Ashley Robertson
Pre-Licensed Professional, RCSWI, MSW
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Ashley obtained her Bachelor of Science in Family and Child Sciences and a Master’s degree in Social Work.
Ready for positive changes in your life? Ashley provides compassionate care towards people who are suffering from trauma, stress, relationship challenges, depression, and anxiety. Ashley’s focus is to facilitate each individual’s growth and development personally, as well as improving relational issues. She favors a holistic approach to assist in the healing process by addressing the whole person where they are physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
Ashley obtained her Bachelor of Science in Family and Child Sciences and a Master’s degree in Social Work.
Ready for positive changes in your life? Ashley provides compassionate care towards people who are suffering from trauma, stress, relationship challenges, depression, and anxiety. Ashley’s focus is to facilitate each individual’s growth and development personally, as well as improving relational issues. She favors a holistic approach to assist in the healing process by addressing the whole person where they are physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually.
(321) 334-3258 View (321) 334-3258
Photo of Lana Beasley, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Lana Beasley
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32952
Friends and family can be invaluable supports.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, communication problems, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, adjustment challenges, parenting, codependency or aging parents? I can help you to be healthier and happier individually and in your relationships. Respect, openness, honesty and a commitment to actively work to make positive changes are required for successful therapy. I have 27 years experience providing individual, couples & family therapy in FL. Therapy is worth the time and effort to feel better, stronger and to have positive relationships with yourself and others. You're definitely worth it!
Friends and family can be invaluable supports.
Are you struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, relationship issues, communication problems, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, adjustment challenges, parenting, codependency or aging parents? I can help you to be healthier and happier individually and in your relationships. Respect, openness, honesty and a commitment to actively work to make positive changes are required for successful therapy. I have 27 years experience providing individual, couples & family therapy in FL. Therapy is worth the time and effort to feel better, stronger and to have positive relationships with yourself and others. You're definitely worth it!
(321) 775-9875 View (321) 775-9875
Photo of Sherrie Kaelin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Sherrie Kaelin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, LCPC, CMNCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32953  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS) and enjoy working with all clients but have a specific interest in working with people who want are struggling with anxiety, chronic illness and weight loss and want to align their physical and mental health through nutrition, proper sleep and self care. I also have experience working with people who have suffered from narcisstic abuse and are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and the daily stresses of life. I also enjoy working with seniors and people with disabilities,
I am a Certified Mental Health & Nutrition Clinical Specialist (CMNCS) and enjoy working with all clients but have a specific interest in working with people who want are struggling with anxiety, chronic illness and weight loss and want to align their physical and mental health through nutrition, proper sleep and self care. I also have experience working with people who have suffered from narcisstic abuse and are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma and the daily stresses of life. I also enjoy working with seniors and people with disabilities,
(520) 436-7673 View (520) 436-7673
Photo of Jessica Stebbins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merritt Island, FL
Jessica Stebbins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Do you or your teenager suffer from feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious all the time? Does it keep you from living the life that you always dreamed? Have you experienced trauma? With over 10 years experience, I can help you find your peace and strength! I specialize in working with teenagers and adults to overcome anxiety and trauma and live a meaningful life. I collaborate with clients to help them determine their own goals and identify ways that they can reach those goals.
Do you or your teenager suffer from feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or anxious all the time? Does it keep you from living the life that you always dreamed? Have you experienced trauma? With over 10 years experience, I can help you find your peace and strength! I specialize in working with teenagers and adults to overcome anxiety and trauma and live a meaningful life. I collaborate with clients to help them determine their own goals and identify ways that they can reach those goals.
(321) 348-9735 View (321) 348-9735
Photo of Dr. Andrea L. Coverman, Psychologist in Merritt Island, FL
Dr. Andrea L. Coverman
Psychologist, PsyD, CAP, CADAC
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32953
My professional career spans more than 15 years’ experience providing direct bio-psycho-social-diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning client/patient-centered services with clinical practice specialties that include: integrative assessment, addiction(s) & substance abuse screening/treatment/relapse-prevention, dual-diagnosis treatment, psychoeducation, and psychotherapeutic services representing multiculturally diverse adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population(s). I am CAP/CADAC Certified and a National Health Service Psychologist.
My professional career spans more than 15 years’ experience providing direct bio-psycho-social-diagnostic evaluation and treatment planning client/patient-centered services with clinical practice specialties that include: integrative assessment, addiction(s) & substance abuse screening/treatment/relapse-prevention, dual-diagnosis treatment, psychoeducation, and psychotherapeutic services representing multiculturally diverse adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population(s). I am CAP/CADAC Certified and a National Health Service Psychologist.
(321) 248-1685 View (321) 248-1685
Photo of Stephanie Spain Anderson, Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Stephanie Spain Anderson
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32953
Compassionate, cognitive-behavioral and solutions-oriented counselor dedicated to providing exceptional care and devising creative treatment plans for children, adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of issues.
Compassionate, cognitive-behavioral and solutions-oriented counselor dedicated to providing exceptional care and devising creative treatment plans for children, adolescents and adults dealing with a variety of issues.
(321) 204-2954 View (321) 204-2954
Photo of Anna Moir, Pre-Licensed Professional in Merritt Island, FL
Anna Moir
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merritt Island, FL 32952  (Online Only)
Everyone carries a story worth telling and deserves a listening ear. Let's forge a relationship where we collaborate to achieve your aspirations. Taking the first step toward personal growth requires bravery, and I'm here to offer support and guidance through life's toughest moments. While you are the authority on your life, I can assist you in gaining insights and skills for positive transformation. Remember, you're not walking this path alone.
Everyone carries a story worth telling and deserves a listening ear. Let's forge a relationship where we collaborate to achieve your aspirations. Taking the first step toward personal growth requires bravery, and I'm here to offer support and guidance through life's toughest moments. While you are the authority on your life, I can assist you in gaining insights and skills for positive transformation. Remember, you're not walking this path alone.
(321) 353-6321 View (321) 353-6321
Photo of Kimberly Tomlinson - Peace Place Wellness, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Merritt Island, FL
Kimberly Tomlinson - Peace Place Wellness
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Merritt Island, FL 32952
At its root, therapy is about awareness and using new awareness to make healthy changes. As a professional counselor, my desire is to inspire and empower clients to optimally manage their spiritual, mental, and physical health individually and relationally. As a survivor, I support a survivor mentality, acknowledging and honoring negative life experiences and feelings yet consistently seeking solutions rather than existing in problems. I enjoy pursuing innovative therapeutic techniques and proactively employing these techniques to support my clients' ultimate health and wellness. I appreciate the value of counseling but I also work to make counseling affordable and accessible.
At its root, therapy is about awareness and using new awareness to make healthy changes. As a professional counselor, my desire is to inspire and empower clients to optimally manage their spiritual, mental, and physical health individually and relationally. As a survivor, I support a survivor mentality, acknowledging and honoring negative life experiences and feelings yet consistently seeking solutions rather than existing in problems. I enjoy pursuing innovative therapeutic techniques and proactively employing these techniques to support my clients' ultimate health and wellness. I appreciate the value of counseling but I also work to make counseling affordable and accessible.
(321) 800-4683 View (321) 800-4683

See more therapy options for Merritt Island

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.