Photo of Anne Zakaras, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Anne Zakaras
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Anne Zakaras, LCPC, ATR-BC is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Registered Board Certified Art Therapist. Her integrative, client-centered approach is rooted in evidence-based psychotherapeutic practices often but not always combined with art therapy techniques in order to treat a variety of mental health concerns.
Anne Zakaras, LCPC, ATR-BC is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Registered Board Certified Art Therapist. Her integrative, client-centered approach is rooted in evidence-based psychotherapeutic practices often but not always combined with art therapy techniques in order to treat a variety of mental health concerns.
(773) 923-1973 View (773) 923-1973
Photo of Rebecca Israilevich, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Rebecca Israilevich
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Art therapy is another mode of self-expression.
A positive connection with your therapist is one of the main contributors to your growth in therapy. I hope to meet you where you’re at, supporting you with empathy and understanding. Therapy may be for venting, working through a crisis, increasing self-confidence, managing anxiety or depression, identifying roadblocks, or processing trauma. My therapy practice facilitates emotional + cognitive awareness, and a biological understanding, learning how past experiences inform our present day selves. This translates into care: practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and identifying strengths that help carry you through times of change.
Art therapy is another mode of self-expression.
A positive connection with your therapist is one of the main contributors to your growth in therapy. I hope to meet you where you’re at, supporting you with empathy and understanding. Therapy may be for venting, working through a crisis, increasing self-confidence, managing anxiety or depression, identifying roadblocks, or processing trauma. My therapy practice facilitates emotional + cognitive awareness, and a biological understanding, learning how past experiences inform our present day selves. This translates into care: practicing mindfulness, self-compassion and identifying strengths that help carry you through times of change.
(847) 860-6549 View (847) 860-6549
Photo of Keisha J. Mathew, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Keisha J. Mathew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Art therapy, Crisis Management, Narrative Therapy, Anger Management, Motivation Interviewing, and Assertive Communication to name a few.
During my 20 years of servicing children and families, I have supported clients who were experiencing trauma related to grief and loss, sexual assault, first generation related responsibilities, low self-esteem, cultural expectations, dating violence, gun violence and major life transitions. Often, their goals were to manage their circumstances or become empowered to lift themselves out of their uncomfortable experience they were encountering. Their desire was to find tangible ways to not only cope with their stress, but to resolve the impact it had on their wellbeing and mental health.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Art therapy, Crisis Management, Narrative Therapy, Anger Management, Motivation Interviewing, and Assertive Communication to name a few.
During my 20 years of servicing children and families, I have supported clients who were experiencing trauma related to grief and loss, sexual assault, first generation related responsibilities, low self-esteem, cultural expectations, dating violence, gun violence and major life transitions. Often, their goals were to manage their circumstances or become empowered to lift themselves out of their uncomfortable experience they were encountering. Their desire was to find tangible ways to not only cope with their stress, but to resolve the impact it had on their wellbeing and mental health.
(773) 923-2673 View (773) 923-2673
Photo of Andrea Velasco Echeverri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Andrea Velasco Echeverri
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I am also a Registered Art Therapist.
Are you ready to stop giving your power away? Would you like practical help to deal with anxiety, self-defeating behavior patterns, depression, worry, shame, self-criticism, grief and loss.? My hope is that with support of therapy, you will gain self awareness and self trust by finding your own innate strength and resilience.
I am also a Registered Art Therapist.
Are you ready to stop giving your power away? Would you like practical help to deal with anxiety, self-defeating behavior patterns, depression, worry, shame, self-criticism, grief and loss.? My hope is that with support of therapy, you will gain self awareness and self trust by finding your own innate strength and resilience.
(872) 281-4404 View (872) 281-4404
Photo of Katie Reagan, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Katie Reagan
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. I help adults navigate various life challenges including anxiety, depression, life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, self-esteem, body image concerns, and more. My clinical approach is anchored in the belief that by inviting vulnerability into the therapeutic space, it becomes a cornerstone for profound personal growth. Each session with me is tailored to the present moment, embodying warmth, sincerity, and a safe atmosphere. Additionally, I am able to utilize art therapy directives as option for further exploration and expression in the therapy space.
I am Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Art Therapist. I help adults navigate various life challenges including anxiety, depression, life transitions, interpersonal conflicts, self-esteem, body image concerns, and more. My clinical approach is anchored in the belief that by inviting vulnerability into the therapeutic space, it becomes a cornerstone for profound personal growth. Each session with me is tailored to the present moment, embodying warmth, sincerity, and a safe atmosphere. Additionally, I am able to utilize art therapy directives as option for further exploration and expression in the therapy space.
(708) 734-2735 View (708) 734-2735
Photo of Nefesh Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Nefesh Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, ATR-BC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
We offer traditional talk therapy, social work, art therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Dealing with a stressful situation at work or in a personal relationship can quickly overshadow every other area of your life. Nefesh Counseling therapists offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy for individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. You are not alone if you have trouble understanding your emotions or find it difficult to verbalize your inner thoughts. We work primarily with adults who are addressing a variety of issues including managing stress, improving self-esteem, coping with life transitions, and controlling addictions.
We offer traditional talk therapy, social work, art therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Dealing with a stressful situation at work or in a personal relationship can quickly overshadow every other area of your life. Nefesh Counseling therapists offer traditional talk therapy as well as art therapy for individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. You are not alone if you have trouble understanding your emotions or find it difficult to verbalize your inner thoughts. We work primarily with adults who are addressing a variety of issues including managing stress, improving self-esteem, coping with life transitions, and controlling addictions.
(872) 231-3241 View (872) 231-3241
Photo of Jessica S Ventura-Ewing, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jessica S Ventura-Ewing
Counselor, LCPC, IMH-E, PMH-C, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660  (Online Only)
I offer both traditional counseling methods as well as utilization of art therapy techniques.
Becoming a parent is one of the most transformative journeys a person will experience. For some it can be a time for self awareness, reflection and deepening of relationships. For others it may be a time filled with anxiety, fear and distress. After baby arrives the family will be in a time of transition, navigating new roles and how to care for and attune to baby. I am passionate about supporting parents and their babies to navigate the crucial time period.
I offer both traditional counseling methods as well as utilization of art therapy techniques.
Becoming a parent is one of the most transformative journeys a person will experience. For some it can be a time for self awareness, reflection and deepening of relationships. For others it may be a time filled with anxiety, fear and distress. After baby arrives the family will be in a time of transition, navigating new roles and how to care for and attune to baby. I am passionate about supporting parents and their babies to navigate the crucial time period.
(773) 377-3440 View (773) 377-3440
Photo of Milo Crosswhite, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Milo Crosswhite
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-C
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
I would like to share the power of art therapy to prepare for, process, and recover from birth.
My passion is to serve the perinatal population, women, and parents. The miracles of life are challenging whether you have a desire to become a parent, independently or partnered, and especially as a birthing parent. The perinatal period of our lives is one of the most challenging and dramatic times in which we are often at our most vulnerable. The journey of parenthood is a ride of joys, overcasts, detours, and surprises which shape us as people. I meet my clients at the intersection of counseling and art therapy using trauma-informed, positive, person-centered, expressive arts therapy to hear, validate, and empower.
I would like to share the power of art therapy to prepare for, process, and recover from birth.
My passion is to serve the perinatal population, women, and parents. The miracles of life are challenging whether you have a desire to become a parent, independently or partnered, and especially as a birthing parent. The perinatal period of our lives is one of the most challenging and dramatic times in which we are often at our most vulnerable. The journey of parenthood is a ride of joys, overcasts, detours, and surprises which shape us as people. I meet my clients at the intersection of counseling and art therapy using trauma-informed, positive, person-centered, expressive arts therapy to hear, validate, and empower.
(630) 283-7420 View (630) 283-7420
Photo of Mónica Guzmán, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mónica Guzmán
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bilingual Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a specialty in trauma-informed theories, EMDR, and relational therapeutic perspectives.
The clients I work alongside of often seek reflection and changes in their life. This can sometimes be scary, painful, intimidating and occasionally leading to leave things as they are. However in my experience, the thirst for a more fulfilling life is always present. Sometimes hiding behind a hobby or creative interest, music we listen to, places that make us feel at home or a certain moment of the year when we feel more hopeful. I deeply enjoy helping my clients find those special pieces of fulfillment together. With time and intention, these later become the foundation for healing, change, and deeper reflection.
I am a bilingual Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a specialty in trauma-informed theories, EMDR, and relational therapeutic perspectives.
The clients I work alongside of often seek reflection and changes in their life. This can sometimes be scary, painful, intimidating and occasionally leading to leave things as they are. However in my experience, the thirst for a more fulfilling life is always present. Sometimes hiding behind a hobby or creative interest, music we listen to, places that make us feel at home or a certain moment of the year when we feel more hopeful. I deeply enjoy helping my clients find those special pieces of fulfillment together. With time and intention, these later become the foundation for healing, change, and deeper reflection.
(312) 248-9297 View (312) 248-9297
Photo of Clare Martin, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Clare Martin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
I have experience in Trauma-Focused, Existential, and Art Therapy and community based treatment working with the highest risk youth.
*Currently accepting new clients* Every person has their own story, own internal conflicts, relationships, and ways of making life meaningful. Therapy is a process of creating a trusting relationship, and creating space to explore and understand that story together. Through this process we can find ways to balance feelings of pain and conflict with the potential and desire for well-being.
I have experience in Trauma-Focused, Existential, and Art Therapy and community based treatment working with the highest risk youth.
*Currently accepting new clients* Every person has their own story, own internal conflicts, relationships, and ways of making life meaningful. Therapy is a process of creating a trusting relationship, and creating space to explore and understand that story together. Through this process we can find ways to balance feelings of pain and conflict with the potential and desire for well-being.
(339) 218-4776 View (339) 218-4776
Photo of Morgan Waggoner, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Morgan Waggoner
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I also specialize and have training in Art Therapy, which is a therapeutic model that focuses on visual expression.
Searching for a therapist and starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Whether you are experiencing stress related to work, life transitions, or relationships, the therapeutic process is here to provide an outlet and for you to process your emotions and find relief. My role is to provide you with a welcoming/ judgement-free space, where you can feel heard and understood. I will support you in overcoming adversity, strengthening relationships, and increasing self-awareness. I work with adolescents and adults, and I integrate a wide range of therapeutic methods so I can provide therapy that best fits your personal needs and strengths.
I also specialize and have training in Art Therapy, which is a therapeutic model that focuses on visual expression.
Searching for a therapist and starting therapy can feel overwhelming. Whether you are experiencing stress related to work, life transitions, or relationships, the therapeutic process is here to provide an outlet and for you to process your emotions and find relief. My role is to provide you with a welcoming/ judgement-free space, where you can feel heard and understood. I will support you in overcoming adversity, strengthening relationships, and increasing self-awareness. I work with adolescents and adults, and I integrate a wide range of therapeutic methods so I can provide therapy that best fits your personal needs and strengths.
(312) 273-5671 View (312) 273-5671
Photo of Kaori Wander, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kaori Wander
Counselor, LCPC, BSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Brainspotting, somatic archaeology, art therapy, ancestral-astral dreamwork, psychedelic integration, reiki, yoga, emdr.
I am a reiki attuned art therapist, certified Brainspotting consultant, death doula, yoga teacher. Embodiment, somatic work is a practice towards interpersonal and collective liberation that enriches our compassion for our bodies' personal, generational, collective stories. Neurophysiological states inform the stories we carry. I primarily practice Generational Brainspotting to build regulation, attentively uncover memories, honor grief and joy, with the goal of expanding your capacity for holding generative conflict, clarity, and creativity. It is your birthright to remember fully, your soul origin and purpose.
Brainspotting, somatic archaeology, art therapy, ancestral-astral dreamwork, psychedelic integration, reiki, yoga, emdr.
I am a reiki attuned art therapist, certified Brainspotting consultant, death doula, yoga teacher. Embodiment, somatic work is a practice towards interpersonal and collective liberation that enriches our compassion for our bodies' personal, generational, collective stories. Neurophysiological states inform the stories we carry. I primarily practice Generational Brainspotting to build regulation, attentively uncover memories, honor grief and joy, with the goal of expanding your capacity for holding generative conflict, clarity, and creativity. It is your birthright to remember fully, your soul origin and purpose.
View
Photo of Lindsey Szeszol, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Lindsey Szeszol
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Additionally, for those interested, I use the creative properties of art therapy to engage my clients in emotional expression, processing, and regulation.
Hi there, I'm Lindsey. I work with folks ages 12 and up on goals related to depression, anxiety, trauma, complex trauma, body liberation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ identities. My work is centered around creating a warm, accepting space that promotes safety and connection to my clients. I believe healing happens through a collaborative relationship between you and myself, while emphasizing your autonomy and self-knowledge. Together we will work toward your current goals while also acknowledging the impact your past and the world around you has on your journey.
Additionally, for those interested, I use the creative properties of art therapy to engage my clients in emotional expression, processing, and regulation.
Hi there, I'm Lindsey. I work with folks ages 12 and up on goals related to depression, anxiety, trauma, complex trauma, body liberation, gender identity, and LGBTQIA+ identities. My work is centered around creating a warm, accepting space that promotes safety and connection to my clients. I believe healing happens through a collaborative relationship between you and myself, while emphasizing your autonomy and self-knowledge. Together we will work toward your current goals while also acknowledging the impact your past and the world around you has on your journey.
(312) 663-8475 View (312) 663-8475
Photo of Bailey Bostler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Bailey Bostler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I am passionate about incorporating mindfulness meditation and art into therapy.
Are you someone experiencing anxiety, struggling to set boundaries, coping with an adjustment, and/or dealing with complex trauma? It can be hard to move forward from feeling like you are alone. I am here to support individuals wanting to achieve their goals and feel empowered. I cultivate a non-judgmental environment where you can feel like you can be yourself and feel safe. I work from a collaborative approach where we will work together to find the best individualized path for you and what you would like to achieve.
I am passionate about incorporating mindfulness meditation and art into therapy.
Are you someone experiencing anxiety, struggling to set boundaries, coping with an adjustment, and/or dealing with complex trauma? It can be hard to move forward from feeling like you are alone. I am here to support individuals wanting to achieve their goals and feel empowered. I cultivate a non-judgmental environment where you can feel like you can be yourself and feel safe. I work from a collaborative approach where we will work together to find the best individualized path for you and what you would like to achieve.
(773) 797-9542 View (773) 797-9542
Photo of Alyssa Steinke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Alyssa Steinke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
As a registered art therapist, I’m trained in providing art-based and traditional therapy sessions.
Currently offering day and evening appointments Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The first step to seeking help can be intimidating and the most difficult. Therapy can bring clarity and an expanded view of what’s possible. As your therapist, I will support you in navigating difficult emotions, better understanding yourself and accessing your strengths so you can feel like yourself again. When we understand ourselves, and our experiences, we have more control in creating a life that reflects who we are.
As a registered art therapist, I’m trained in providing art-based and traditional therapy sessions.
Currently offering day and evening appointments Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The first step to seeking help can be intimidating and the most difficult. Therapy can bring clarity and an expanded view of what’s possible. As your therapist, I will support you in navigating difficult emotions, better understanding yourself and accessing your strengths so you can feel like yourself again. When we understand ourselves, and our experiences, we have more control in creating a life that reflects who we are.
(312) 313-5632 View (312) 313-5632
Photo of Kathrine Brunhaver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kathrine Brunhaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAATC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Kat believes that when people feel lost or stuck, creating art can point us in the direction of new solutions, highlighting untapped internal resources.
Kat works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and young adults using the creative process to support young people to understand themselves and the world around them. In sessions, she tunes into strengths and interests that are untapped resources for understanding and coping with the world around us. She has seen clients increase their comfort with embracing emotions, riding the emotional wave, and problem solving to get what they need in difficult situations. She has experience teaching executive functioning skills and combating emotional barriers to support neurodivergent people to take charge of their story.
Kat believes that when people feel lost or stuck, creating art can point us in the direction of new solutions, highlighting untapped internal resources.
Kat works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and young adults using the creative process to support young people to understand themselves and the world around them. In sessions, she tunes into strengths and interests that are untapped resources for understanding and coping with the world around us. She has seen clients increase their comfort with embracing emotions, riding the emotional wave, and problem solving to get what they need in difficult situations. She has experience teaching executive functioning skills and combating emotional barriers to support neurodivergent people to take charge of their story.
(872) 529-3547 View (872) 529-3547
Photo of Jodi A. Bova, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jodi A. Bova
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643  (Online Only)
My use of psychotherapy integrates various treatments, such as, but not limited to, traditional Talk Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused, Trauma Informed, Mindfulness and Art Therapy practices.
I understand the vulnerabilities that come with seeking psychological services. I believe that within a safe, supportive, educational and reciprocal environment we can learn new and effective coping skills. Together we will explore identified problems/challenges and work towards finding coping strategies that are a good fit for you.
My use of psychotherapy integrates various treatments, such as, but not limited to, traditional Talk Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution Focused, Trauma Informed, Mindfulness and Art Therapy practices.
I understand the vulnerabilities that come with seeking psychological services. I believe that within a safe, supportive, educational and reciprocal environment we can learn new and effective coping skills. Together we will explore identified problems/challenges and work towards finding coping strategies that are a good fit for you.
(312) 379-8781 View (312) 379-8781
Photo of Claudia Angel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Claudia Angel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60637
Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, ACT, BSF and a specialty in Art Therapy will inform my suggestions and interventions.
My hope for clients in therapy is that they develop a greater sense of agency, resourcefulness and fulfillment. I strongly believe in a collaborative approach in which shared efforts to elaborate insight, problem solve and build coping skills, promote change and a deeper alignment with personal purposes and values. If you have been struggling with feeling mild or severely anxious or depressed, and if you want to understand how you can take care of yourself better and increase your sense of wellness and connectedness to life, I can be a good fit for you.
Mindfulness, DBT, CBT, ACT, BSF and a specialty in Art Therapy will inform my suggestions and interventions.
My hope for clients in therapy is that they develop a greater sense of agency, resourcefulness and fulfillment. I strongly believe in a collaborative approach in which shared efforts to elaborate insight, problem solve and build coping skills, promote change and a deeper alignment with personal purposes and values. If you have been struggling with feeling mild or severely anxious or depressed, and if you want to understand how you can take care of yourself better and increase your sense of wellness and connectedness to life, I can be a good fit for you.
(872) 266-8502 x228 View (872) 266-8502 x228
Photo of Bri Beck, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Bri Beck
Counselor, LCPC, ATR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
As a therapist, my goal is to co-create an authentic, safe, and courageous relationship with each unique individual. I firmly believe that within a strong therapeutic bond, beautiful transformations can unfold. My approach to therapy is characterized by openness, collaboration, affirmation, and honesty. I bring my full humanity into the therapeutic space and encourage each client to do the same. I utilize a blend of theoretical frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatically-Integrated Therapy, Art Therapy, "parts" work, and Feminist Therapy.
As a therapist, my goal is to co-create an authentic, safe, and courageous relationship with each unique individual. I firmly believe that within a strong therapeutic bond, beautiful transformations can unfold. My approach to therapy is characterized by openness, collaboration, affirmation, and honesty. I bring my full humanity into the therapeutic space and encourage each client to do the same. I utilize a blend of theoretical frameworks such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatically-Integrated Therapy, Art Therapy, "parts" work, and Feminist Therapy.
(312) 262-2873 View (312) 262-2873
Photo of Dr. Mrnalini Rao, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Dr. Mrnalini Rao
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I also enjoy using art in therapy.
I believe therapy is a journey of healing, understanding one’s self and creating ways to overcome challenges together. My clinical approach includes being supportive, collaborative, understanding each individual’s unique experience and creating a warm, safe and non-judgmental space. I embrace diversity, authenticity and am committed to being culturally sensitive and sex and gender affirming. I approach therapy from a variety of perspectives to accommodate needs of each individual using psychodynamic, process oriented, feminist, decolonizing therapy, social justice and multicultural models.
I also enjoy using art in therapy.
I believe therapy is a journey of healing, understanding one’s self and creating ways to overcome challenges together. My clinical approach includes being supportive, collaborative, understanding each individual’s unique experience and creating a warm, safe and non-judgmental space. I embrace diversity, authenticity and am committed to being culturally sensitive and sex and gender affirming. I approach therapy from a variety of perspectives to accommodate needs of each individual using psychodynamic, process oriented, feminist, decolonizing therapy, social justice and multicultural models.
(773) 923-3649 View (773) 923-3649
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.