Photo of Sushma Cheturvedula, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sushma Cheturvedula
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
There comes a time in each of our lives where we feel inadequate, anxious, depressed, heartbroken, lonely, confused, and in need of a helping hand. If your ultimate goal is to strengthen your emotional wellbeing, find peace with your past, and live the life you always wanted, you have found the right Therapist. Whatever is overwhelming you today, whether it’s a tough breakup, grief, abuse, work related stress, relationship issues, past trauma, or simply finding the motivation to get out of bed and have a productive day, help is a phone call away. My role is to listen, empower growth, and help you become the best version of yourself.
(773) 915-0573 View (773) 915-0573
Photo of Yadira Garcia in Chicago, IL
Yadira Garcia
LSW, MSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60617  (Online Only)
My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma/ptsd, life transitions, grief/loss, behavioral issues, domestic violence counseling, self-esteem, and more.
“Prioritizing self care means prioritizing inner peace”. I am a bilingual licensed social worker who is passionate about helping others create a positive connection between body and mind. I am here to provide you with unconditional support and work alongside you to achieve your goals. Even through the hardships of life, there is always room for resiliency, growth, and self-care. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and non-judgemental.
My specialties include depression, anxiety, trauma/ptsd, life transitions, grief/loss, behavioral issues, domestic violence counseling, self-esteem, and more.
“Prioritizing self care means prioritizing inner peace”. I am a bilingual licensed social worker who is passionate about helping others create a positive connection between body and mind. I am here to provide you with unconditional support and work alongside you to achieve your goals. Even through the hardships of life, there is always room for resiliency, growth, and self-care. My approach is collaborative, holistic, and non-judgemental.
(773) 243-4781 View (773) 243-4781
Photo of Inna Popko, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Inna Popko
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Inna’s experience encompasses assignments in crisis counseling for a social service agency, serving as substance abuse counselor providing DUI evaluations, conducting groups, and assessing risk.
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
Inna’s experience encompasses assignments in crisis counseling for a social service agency, serving as substance abuse counselor providing DUI evaluations, conducting groups, and assessing risk.
Using an eclectic psychotherapy approach to address unique client needs, Inna helps clients and their families overcome impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. Her strategies enable people to better manage anger, cope with depression and anxiety, overcome addiction, promote personal growth, and exude higher levels of self-esteem while living happier, more successful lives. Inna integrates cultural fluency, her diverse understanding of cultural intelligence and interpersonal communications in multiple languages allows her to conquer barriers associated with cross-cultural differences.
(847) 443-5471 View (847) 443-5471
Photo of Nicole Lucy Thompson, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Nicole Lucy Thompson
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60636  (Online Only)
My clients have presented with a variety of concerns and issues including substance use disorders, domestic violence, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
I am a psychotherapist who is interested in working with clients who are striving to become their authentic/best selves. The counseling process is one that looks the holistic needs of the individual (i.e. society, family, personal narrative/story) to promote personal growth and development. Therefore, I am a multicultural and gestalt therapist who is committed to the process of understanding and addressing societal issues that impact clients' emotional and psychological health. I work collaboratively with clients to connect to their authentic selves, step into their power, and set goals to achieve their desired holistic needs.
My clients have presented with a variety of concerns and issues including substance use disorders, domestic violence, mood disorders, and anxiety disorders.
I am a psychotherapist who is interested in working with clients who are striving to become their authentic/best selves. The counseling process is one that looks the holistic needs of the individual (i.e. society, family, personal narrative/story) to promote personal growth and development. Therefore, I am a multicultural and gestalt therapist who is committed to the process of understanding and addressing societal issues that impact clients' emotional and psychological health. I work collaboratively with clients to connect to their authentic selves, step into their power, and set goals to achieve their desired holistic needs.
(773) 985-3857 View (773) 985-3857
Photo of Jenny Choi LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jenny Choi LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
I have specific credentials and experiences relative to today's complicated situations, including; family genograms, marital/intimate and workplace relationships and conflicts, sexual identity, racial equality/intolerance, cross-cultural stigmas, abuse/battering, bullying, alcohol and substance abuse, legal/court intervention, play therapy, neurofeedback, adolescence/young adult guidance, and grief counseling.
I passionately and compassionately care for the emotional well-being and behavioral health of my individual, couple, family and group clients for over 20 years. I draw upon unique combinations of clinical principals and innovative methods to best support all people within our vastly diverse community. I draw upon my deep understanding of culture, age, gender, race, class, family structure, and the type of or the lack of a support system can have on most all situations. I always provide a totally non-judgmental, safe, and confidential space to help my clients deal with their problems, issues or crisis.
(917) 563-4037 View (917) 563-4037
Photo of Diandra Entler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Diandra Entler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, CCLS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
I have dedicated my practice to supporting children, adolescents and individuals impacted by complex circumstances. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced adverse experiences and supporting their healing in ways that reflect their personal goals. I specialize in supporting children when addressing medical diagnosis and treatment, trauma, or grief. Additionally, I work with clients of all ages who have experienced violence or abuse. It is my priority to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental space for us to work together to help you achieve the future you want for yourself and your child.
I have dedicated my practice to supporting children, adolescents and individuals impacted by complex circumstances. I am passionate about working with those who have experienced adverse experiences and supporting their healing in ways that reflect their personal goals. I specialize in supporting children when addressing medical diagnosis and treatment, trauma, or grief. Additionally, I work with clients of all ages who have experienced violence or abuse. It is my priority to offer you a safe and nonjudgmental space for us to work together to help you achieve the future you want for yourself and your child.
(872) 206-9408 View (872) 206-9408
Photo of Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Andrea Gaspar Gonzalez
Psychologist, PsyD, PsyPact
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
While I am a generalist and work with a variety of presenting issues, my specialties include complex trauma, sexual abuse/assault, self-harm, pregnancy/miscarriage/abortion/postpartum care, relationship concerns, and cultural dynamics.
Therapy can be a radical process of transformation providing healing, greater sense of belonging, emotional freedom, and hope. I view therapy as a dynamic collaboration that allows for the exploration of current circumstances as well as the discovery of underlying personal and cultural patterns. In addressing your full individual self within your cultural context, we can find not only easing or resolution of symptoms but also a fuller and more meaningful life.
(224) 970-2471 View (224) 970-2471
Photo of Christina Hoffstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Christina Hoffstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
Waitlist for new clients
Christina also works with children and teens recovering from trauma, including domestic violence, grief and loss, and physical and sexual abuse.
Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.
Christina also works with children and teens recovering from trauma, including domestic violence, grief and loss, and physical and sexual abuse.
Christina is a passionate advocate for children, teens, and adolescents in need. By using techniques like Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, Christina helps clients develop a diverse tool kit to achieve their goals. Christina creates unique treatment plans for each client, providing therapy specific to their personal concerns such as anxiety, depression, school struggles, behavioral concerns, or family conflicts. Clients working with Christina find her to be warm, easy to connect with and flexible. Christina also takes a compassionate and non-judgmental approach to psychotherapy, allowing clients to feel safe to explore and grow.
(773) 830-3608 View (773) 830-3608
Photo of Oli Soto, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Oli Soto
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
I have a background in working with family, marriage, couple’s therapy, caregivers, immigrants, gender identity, eating disorders, self-esteem, domestic and sexual abuse, work-related issues, aging, and life transitions.
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
I have a background in working with family, marriage, couple’s therapy, caregivers, immigrants, gender identity, eating disorders, self-esteem, domestic and sexual abuse, work-related issues, aging, and life transitions.
Hi, my name is Oli Soto, and I am the Clinical Director at Latinx Talk Therapy. I am a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, adults, children, and groups on issues related to depression, stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, and loss. I believe that psychotherapy is a gift to the self and should be accessible to all. Therapy is also a tool for personal growth, and I will guide you in applying what you learn in our sessions to your everyday life. I am bilingual (English/Spanish) and bicultural.
(312) 554-3466 x1 View (312) 554-3466 x1
Photo of Lynnare Isabel Deutsch-Ortiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lynnare Isabel Deutsch-Ortiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
I have experience with the following: Divorce related issues, Family Conflict, Trauma/PTSD, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety. Relationship Issues, Parenting, Life Transitions, Sexual Abuse, Early childhood trauma, and Spanish speaking clients.
I have experience with the following: Divorce related issues, Family Conflict, Trauma/PTSD, Domestic Violence, Depression, Anxiety. Relationship Issues, Parenting, Life Transitions, Sexual Abuse, Early childhood trauma, and Spanish speaking clients.
(312) 465-4901 View (312) 465-4901
Photo of Tania Sepulveda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Tania Sepulveda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646
My specialties revolve around survivors of domestic violence, LGBTQ+ individuals, and first/second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences in their family systems.
Often times our small wins and progress gets overshadowed by life’s stressors and chaos. In the space I provide for clients, we will always acknowledge and identify all wins and strengths in hopes to build up self-esteem, confidence, and motivation to move towards goals you may have, as well as developing a healthier thought process. If you’re looking for a space free of judgment, a space to make sense of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (all while sharing some good laughs!), I encourage you to take the first step towards investing into your mental health. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.
My specialties revolve around survivors of domestic violence, LGBTQ+ individuals, and first/second-generation Latinx individuals navigating generational differences in their family systems.
Often times our small wins and progress gets overshadowed by life’s stressors and chaos. In the space I provide for clients, we will always acknowledge and identify all wins and strengths in hopes to build up self-esteem, confidence, and motivation to move towards goals you may have, as well as developing a healthier thought process. If you’re looking for a space free of judgment, a space to make sense of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors (all while sharing some good laughs!), I encourage you to take the first step towards investing into your mental health. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.
(708) 726-8123 x502 View (708) 726-8123 x502
Photo of Kate Dawson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Kate Dawson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Kate has experience working with survivors of trauma, domestic violence, and crisis intervention. She understands the complexities of the legal system, and compassionately supports families through reunification and high-conflict divorce. Kate works with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a variety of challenges, including family conflict, relationship issues, and life transitions. She honors the diverse lived experiences of her clients, and understands the ways in which chronic stress and trauma are held in the body, often using movement, mindfulness, and expression to promote holistic healing.
Kate has experience working with survivors of trauma, domestic violence, and crisis intervention. She understands the complexities of the legal system, and compassionately supports families through reunification and high-conflict divorce. Kate works with children, adolescents, and adults navigating a variety of challenges, including family conflict, relationship issues, and life transitions. She honors the diverse lived experiences of her clients, and understands the ways in which chronic stress and trauma are held in the body, often using movement, mindfulness, and expression to promote holistic healing.
(773) 850-3544 View (773) 850-3544
Photo of Michelle Cutler, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Michelle Cutler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I have specialized training and passion for working with children who have experienced abuse, neglect, grief, or other trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children ages 3-18, with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. I specialize in working with children who have experienced trauma, particularly abuse and attachment trauma. I have a nurturing, yet directive style that helps children and families to feel at ease, as I believe that safety in the therapeutic relationship is most important. My passion lies in helping children emotionally heal, and helping parents to play an integral role in this process. I know that it is difficult to ask for help for your child, and feel privileged to do so.
I have specialized training and passion for working with children who have experienced abuse, neglect, grief, or other trauma.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience working with children ages 3-18, with a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. I specialize in working with children who have experienced trauma, particularly abuse and attachment trauma. I have a nurturing, yet directive style that helps children and families to feel at ease, as I believe that safety in the therapeutic relationship is most important. My passion lies in helping children emotionally heal, and helping parents to play an integral role in this process. I know that it is difficult to ask for help for your child, and feel privileged to do so.
(224) 366-9448 x2005 View (224) 366-9448 x2005
Photo of Sara Heidbreder (Ogawa), Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sara Heidbreder (Ogawa)
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641
I also specialize in working with survivors of domestic violence, having completed a 40-hour domestic violence training certificate.
In a time of struggles or life transition, you may feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed. I believe in your resiliency being within you, sitting within your body, and I will guide you in exploring your inner power with compassion, safety, and empowerment. I value cultural humility and believe in a holistic approach that is centered on you and your experiences in our therapy sessions. I integrate collaborative insight-driven discussion and movement-based interventions, which helps me to address both your physical (body) and emotional (mind) needs in a neutral and non-judgmental manner.
I also specialize in working with survivors of domestic violence, having completed a 40-hour domestic violence training certificate.
In a time of struggles or life transition, you may feel stuck, unsure, or overwhelmed. I believe in your resiliency being within you, sitting within your body, and I will guide you in exploring your inner power with compassion, safety, and empowerment. I value cultural humility and believe in a holistic approach that is centered on you and your experiences in our therapy sessions. I integrate collaborative insight-driven discussion and movement-based interventions, which helps me to address both your physical (body) and emotional (mind) needs in a neutral and non-judgmental manner.
(872) 228-2272 View (872) 228-2272
Photo of Martina Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Martina Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
As a clinical therapist, my main passion is in working with children and families, to help them overcome barriers and live their most meaningful lives. I work with clients of all ages, but love working with children and families in particular. I can help you and your child with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, building self esteem, coping with loss/grief, challenging behaviors, exposure to trauma, and attachment trauma. As a certified drug and alcohol counselor (CADC), I have specialized experience and training working with substance abuse, and can also help in this area.
As a clinical therapist, my main passion is in working with children and families, to help them overcome barriers and live their most meaningful lives. I work with clients of all ages, but love working with children and families in particular. I can help you and your child with a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, anger and stress management, building self esteem, coping with loss/grief, challenging behaviors, exposure to trauma, and attachment trauma. As a certified drug and alcohol counselor (CADC), I have specialized experience and training working with substance abuse, and can also help in this area.
(773) 694-4224 View (773) 694-4224
Photo of Yani Roman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Yani Roman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Therapy is scary, but it doesn't have to be. As a Queer Latinx therapist, I've been where you're at right now, looking to make sense of how you feel, looking for guidance and healing. I have worked along side and supported individuals with complexities in their lives that have chronic stress, anxiety, depression, as well as individuals that have been affected by violence in or outside of their home, and those who have been greatly impacted by generational trauma, and community violence. My approach is to meet you were you're at and setting goals together to meet your needs.
Therapy is scary, but it doesn't have to be. As a Queer Latinx therapist, I've been where you're at right now, looking to make sense of how you feel, looking for guidance and healing. I have worked along side and supported individuals with complexities in their lives that have chronic stress, anxiety, depression, as well as individuals that have been affected by violence in or outside of their home, and those who have been greatly impacted by generational trauma, and community violence. My approach is to meet you were you're at and setting goals together to meet your needs.
(773) 917-3165 View (773) 917-3165
Photo of Cynthia Cruz, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Cynthia Cruz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
All families experience difficulties, however when emotional and behaviors cause conflicts seeking support can sometimes be difficult and intimidating. My experience working with families provide me with the expertise to help families find ways to best meet the family and individual needs. I have experienced working with school age children and adolescents. I also have experience with working with adult and families who are survivor(s) of sexual trauma and or domestic abuse/violence. I also have experience with working with adults who experience anger difficulties, anxiety and depression. I am also fluent in Spanish.
All families experience difficulties, however when emotional and behaviors cause conflicts seeking support can sometimes be difficult and intimidating. My experience working with families provide me with the expertise to help families find ways to best meet the family and individual needs. I have experienced working with school age children and adolescents. I also have experience with working with adult and families who are survivor(s) of sexual trauma and or domestic abuse/violence. I also have experience with working with adults who experience anger difficulties, anxiety and depression. I am also fluent in Spanish.
(773) 839-0247 View (773) 839-0247
Photo of Courtney Berry, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Courtney Berry
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
My experience also includes helping parent child relationships, eating disorders, and those who have been impacted by domestic violence or sexual abuse.
As a licensed therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I believe in using therapy as a collaborative experience so that clients feel they have a comfortable and safe place to heal. My style is direct and compassionate while providing guidance and feedback so that client’s feel empowered to utilize healthy coping skills to best manage their stressors and symptoms.
My experience also includes helping parent child relationships, eating disorders, and those who have been impacted by domestic violence or sexual abuse.
As a licensed therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I believe in using therapy as a collaborative experience so that clients feel they have a comfortable and safe place to heal. My style is direct and compassionate while providing guidance and feedback so that client’s feel empowered to utilize healthy coping skills to best manage their stressors and symptoms.
(815) 683-0707 View (815) 683-0707
Photo of Clair Miller, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Clair Miller
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60642
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
There is hope and healing; even though it might not feel like it. I have experience working with children, teens, and young adults dealing with everything from anxiety and relationship issues to trauma and sexual abuse. It would be a privilege to work with you or your child towards healing, tailoring the counseling process to best fit your needs.
(312) 471-0315 x705 View (312) 471-0315 x705
Photo of Anne Elyse Morrill-Ploum, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Anne Elyse Morrill-Ploum
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60643
Hi, I am a child, adolescent and young adult therapist. I see clients from 3-25 years. I have a strong passion for working with adoptive families and all the challenges that this brings, and I also treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, kids and teens with huge behaviors, ADHD and executive skills deficits, learning disabilities, attachment, trauma, domestic abuse, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, developmental issues. I also do a lot of parenting work, and I teach Robyn Gobbel's parenting course. I work with a parent in the room for children under 12, as parents become my co-therapist, carrying on the work at home.
Hi, I am a child, adolescent and young adult therapist. I see clients from 3-25 years. I have a strong passion for working with adoptive families and all the challenges that this brings, and I also treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, kids and teens with huge behaviors, ADHD and executive skills deficits, learning disabilities, attachment, trauma, domestic abuse, sexual, emotional and physical abuse, developmental issues. I also do a lot of parenting work, and I teach Robyn Gobbel's parenting course. I work with a parent in the room for children under 12, as parents become my co-therapist, carrying on the work at home.
(773) 923-1874 View (773) 923-1874
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.