Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Jillian King, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Jillian King
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and life transitions.
By utilizing a warm and understanding approach, Jill focuses on addressing unhealthy behaviors and patterns which may prevent awareness and growth for her clients.
Areas of specialization include the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use, and life transitions.
By utilizing a warm and understanding approach, Jill focuses on addressing unhealthy behaviors and patterns which may prevent awareness and growth for her clients.
(331) 321-4235 View (331) 321-4235
Photo of Wendy Pawelski, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Wendy Pawelski
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, EMDR, CISD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Wendy founded Ivy Lane Counseling, and personally hand selected therapists that collectively have over 50 years experience working with all ranges of ages and cases, including chronic addiction, suicidal ideation, trauma, abuse, executive functioning, and also reunification therapy.
Wendy understands that choosing to begin therapy can be a vulnerable time and respects that each person has a story that brought them to this point. She is skilled at encouraging each client to explore their individual journey of personal goals and tailors their treatment to what they are looking to accomplish. Wendy will meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be. Wendy is personable, and easy to relate to. She is passionate about empowering her clients, very optimistic, upbeat, direct, and a creative individual who strives to meet each client’s specific needs. Tired? Wendy will find the root of your issues.
Wendy founded Ivy Lane Counseling, and personally hand selected therapists that collectively have over 50 years experience working with all ranges of ages and cases, including chronic addiction, suicidal ideation, trauma, abuse, executive functioning, and also reunification therapy.
Wendy understands that choosing to begin therapy can be a vulnerable time and respects that each person has a story that brought them to this point. She is skilled at encouraging each client to explore their individual journey of personal goals and tailors their treatment to what they are looking to accomplish. Wendy will meet you where you are and get you to where you want to be. Wendy is personable, and easy to relate to. She is passionate about empowering her clients, very optimistic, upbeat, direct, and a creative individual who strives to meet each client’s specific needs. Tired? Wendy will find the root of your issues.
(331) 701-2989 View (331) 701-2989
Photo of Allison Byrne, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Naperville, IL
Allison Byrne
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and young adults as they work through anxiety, depression, life transitions, substance use, self esteem, relational issues and the everyday challenges.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a specialization in school social work, and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor within the state of Illinois. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Substance Abuse Counseling at the University of St. Francis and my Master’s Degree in Social Work with specialization in schools from Aurora University. In addition to being a therapist, I also currently work as a school social worker at the high school level.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents and young adults as they work through anxiety, depression, life transitions, substance use, self esteem, relational issues and the everyday challenges.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a specialization in school social work, and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor within the state of Illinois. I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Substance Abuse Counseling at the University of St. Francis and my Master’s Degree in Social Work with specialization in schools from Aurora University. In addition to being a therapist, I also currently work as a school social worker at the high school level.
(630) 349-5901 View (630) 349-5901
Caroline W Smith
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I work with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings and addiction.
Life doesn't always go the way we plan. Sometimes we need help. I work with my clients to gain an understanding of their needs and to establish a relationship based on trust and empathy. This relationship between counselor and client is basic to the clients' growth and success in finding solutions to the pain and stress in their personal lives and careers.
I work with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, mood swings and addiction.
Life doesn't always go the way we plan. Sometimes we need help. I work with my clients to gain an understanding of their needs and to establish a relationship based on trust and empathy. This relationship between counselor and client is basic to the clients' growth and success in finding solutions to the pain and stress in their personal lives and careers.
(630) 504-7402 View (630) 504-7402
Photo of Valerie A Jencks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Naperville, IL
Valerie A Jencks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Valerie takes a collaborative and direct approach to effectively create a safe space for families who face issues associated with chronic illness, divorce, eating disorders and addiction recovery. Some situations are best handled with traditional “talk” therapies, while other concerns may need more active interventions to modify an unproductive behavior pattern or lifestyle.
With over 30 years of clinical experience, Valerie takes a collaborative and direct approach to effectively create a safe space for families who face issues associated with chronic illness, divorce, eating disorders and addiction recovery. Some situations are best handled with traditional “talk” therapies, while other concerns may need more active interventions to modify an unproductive behavior pattern or lifestyle.
(630) 946-6715 View (630) 946-6715
Photo of Amber Burchett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Amber Burchett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Throughout her career, Amber Burchett, LPC, worked in outpatient and residential programs treating issues such as mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, anger management, and more. She is also a volunteer at PAWWs, where dogs are trained to assist veterans struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. In therapy, Amber takes a holistic approach and uses whatever methods necessary to assist the client. She is skilled in CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused / Positive Psychology, and more. No matter the method, Amber focuses on building rapport and offers an unbiased, non-judgmental stance to help
Throughout her career, Amber Burchett, LPC, worked in outpatient and residential programs treating issues such as mood disorders, substance abuse, eating disorders, trauma, anger management, and more. She is also a volunteer at PAWWs, where dogs are trained to assist veterans struggling with PTSD and traumatic brain injuries. In therapy, Amber takes a holistic approach and uses whatever methods necessary to assist the client. She is skilled in CBT, DBT, ACT, Solution Focused / Positive Psychology, and more. No matter the method, Amber focuses on building rapport and offers an unbiased, non-judgmental stance to help
(331) 210-9654 View (331) 210-9654
Photo of Lupe Blanco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Lupe Blanco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
This has included immigrants adapting to new lives, parents managing family dynamics, young adults, and those with substance use disorders, complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting, and stress.
¡Hola! My name is Lupe Blanco, I am a Bilingual, English/Spanish, Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I am a proud Latina, bridging the gap for access to culturally informed mental health services within our communities of color. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. I believe that at the core of a healthy therapeutic relationship acknowledging myself as a human first and a therapist second plays a key role. I take steps to create a safe space for clients to show up as their true authentic selves and feel comfortable opening up about their experiences.
This has included immigrants adapting to new lives, parents managing family dynamics, young adults, and those with substance use disorders, complex trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, parenting, and stress.
¡Hola! My name is Lupe Blanco, I am a Bilingual, English/Spanish, Licensed Social Worker (LSW). I am a proud Latina, bridging the gap for access to culturally informed mental health services within our communities of color. My educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Human Services. I believe that at the core of a healthy therapeutic relationship acknowledging myself as a human first and a therapist second plays a key role. I take steps to create a safe space for clients to show up as their true authentic selves and feel comfortable opening up about their experiences.
(815) 597-0697 x923 View (815) 597-0697 x923
Photo of Sharon L Heath, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Sharon L Heath
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
In addition, I have worked for over 18 years with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, and emotional management difficulties.
We all need help at times - someone to talk to and/or someone to help us learn better ways to achieve the life we want, whether it's to cope with depression, anxiety or past traumas, or learn better ways to communicate. I will provide a safe, supportive environment in which you can talk about your thoughts and feelings, and also learn healthy skills to better manage your emotions and have better relationships. I will provide you with caring feedback and perspective. I will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, caring relationship because I know that the relationship between the therapist and the client is an important one.
In addition, I have worked for over 18 years with individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, and emotional management difficulties.
We all need help at times - someone to talk to and/or someone to help us learn better ways to achieve the life we want, whether it's to cope with depression, anxiety or past traumas, or learn better ways to communicate. I will provide a safe, supportive environment in which you can talk about your thoughts and feelings, and also learn healthy skills to better manage your emotions and have better relationships. I will provide you with caring feedback and perspective. I will provide a non-judgmental, compassionate, caring relationship because I know that the relationship between the therapist and the client is an important one.
(331) 305-6682 View (331) 305-6682
Photo of Apolonia Kasprzyk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Apolonia Kasprzyk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Apolonia Kasprzyk, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor who primarily works with individuals of all ages. Apolonia is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, thus reflecting her additional training in working with substance use disorders and dual diagnoses. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Apolonia specializes in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, substance abuse, dual diagnoses, and trauma.
Apolonia Kasprzyk, LPC, is a licensed professional counselor who primarily works with individuals of all ages. Apolonia is also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, thus reflecting her additional training in working with substance use disorders and dual diagnoses. She has worked in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Apolonia specializes in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, depression, stress management, substance abuse, dual diagnoses, and trauma.
(224) 308-1814 View (224) 308-1814
Photo of Kathleen Monroe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Kathleen Monroe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Hello and Welcome! My name is Kathleen Monroe and I possess a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and am licensed in Clinical Social Work in the state of Illinois. In addition; I hold a Certification as an Alcohol and other Drug Abuse Counselor. Clients that I have worked with struggled in areas of mental health and substance abuse ranging in a diagnosis of Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem and feelings of self-worth concerns, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Addiction related disorders, Learning disabilities, behavioral spectrum disorders, Autism, Adjustment Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders.
Hello and Welcome! My name is Kathleen Monroe and I possess a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago and am licensed in Clinical Social Work in the state of Illinois. In addition; I hold a Certification as an Alcohol and other Drug Abuse Counselor. Clients that I have worked with struggled in areas of mental health and substance abuse ranging in a diagnosis of Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem and feelings of self-worth concerns, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Addiction related disorders, Learning disabilities, behavioral spectrum disorders, Autism, Adjustment Disorders, and Psychotic Disorders.
(630) 557-8363 View (630) 557-8363
Photo of Kathleen M. Sherlock, Licensed Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Kathleen M. Sherlock
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CTP
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Life today can be VERY tough to navigate, but can seem overwhelming when you constantly feel stressed out, discouraged, or simply "not enough." Or, maybe you didn’t get off to a good start in life and believe that your chances for something better are slim…or you feel so worn down by the challenges of painful emotions, chronic illness, or addiction--or more than one of these--that you wonder “Is this all there is?” Well, the good news is that your best life is waiting for you, and as a therapist it is my honor to support you in taking the steps to reclaim your dreams, heal your past, grow your strength, and build your future!
Life today can be VERY tough to navigate, but can seem overwhelming when you constantly feel stressed out, discouraged, or simply "not enough." Or, maybe you didn’t get off to a good start in life and believe that your chances for something better are slim…or you feel so worn down by the challenges of painful emotions, chronic illness, or addiction--or more than one of these--that you wonder “Is this all there is?” Well, the good news is that your best life is waiting for you, and as a therapist it is my honor to support you in taking the steps to reclaim your dreams, heal your past, grow your strength, and build your future!
(331) 207-1727 View (331) 207-1727
Photo of Jennifer DiCostanzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Jennifer DiCostanzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
As a therapist, I want to ensure that I provide a safe space that allows my clients to express themselves and feel comfortable. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at and letting the client guide the journey as their own experts. My style of therapy is to provide empathy and compassion combined with humor and honesty in order to help my clients achieve their goals. Whether you are affected by trauma, struggling with an addiction or are just feeling "stuck", I want to use my skills to help you move forward with your journey and live your best life possible.
As a therapist, I want to ensure that I provide a safe space that allows my clients to express themselves and feel comfortable. I believe in meeting my clients where they are at and letting the client guide the journey as their own experts. My style of therapy is to provide empathy and compassion combined with humor and honesty in order to help my clients achieve their goals. Whether you are affected by trauma, struggling with an addiction or are just feeling "stuck", I want to use my skills to help you move forward with your journey and live your best life possible.
(630) 318-2027 View (630) 318-2027
Photo of Brittany M. Roback, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Brittany M. Roback
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I offer playful interventions to children and teens, ages 4 and up. I really enjoy working with parents on how to communicate more effectively with their child/teen and how to build positive healthy relationships. Another population I am passionate about working with is those struggling with addiction. Addiction can be observed in many forms from video gaming, eating disorders to substances. Whether struggling with addictions to school homework, I look at the family system as a whole. This allows me to evaluate the individual needs of the client and identify what is needed to assist the client to grow into their best self.
I offer playful interventions to children and teens, ages 4 and up. I really enjoy working with parents on how to communicate more effectively with their child/teen and how to build positive healthy relationships. Another population I am passionate about working with is those struggling with addiction. Addiction can be observed in many forms from video gaming, eating disorders to substances. Whether struggling with addictions to school homework, I look at the family system as a whole. This allows me to evaluate the individual needs of the client and identify what is needed to assist the client to grow into their best self.
(630) 473-3481 View (630) 473-3481
Photo of Cynthia Koskiewicz, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Cynthia Koskiewicz
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
My expertise is helping clients manage mood disorders (anxiety and depression), overcome their substance abuse and really anchor their recovery, and assisting with major life transitions (including dealing with a spouse or family member who struggles with chemical dependence, divorce, empty-nesters, grief and loss of life partners, career changes, etc).
Your healing can begin right now when you make the brave decision to choose a therapist who will listen deeply, seek to understand your feelings, and help you create a new and empowering story about who you truly are. That is my approach to therapy. My aim is to teach my clients how to identify old, limiting beliefs that interfere with their relationships, their sense of purpose, and inner peace. Together, we can work on healing the unhealthy relationship you have with yourself if you are willing to shed that old identity to embrace one that is whole, genuine, and resilient.
My expertise is helping clients manage mood disorders (anxiety and depression), overcome their substance abuse and really anchor their recovery, and assisting with major life transitions (including dealing with a spouse or family member who struggles with chemical dependence, divorce, empty-nesters, grief and loss of life partners, career changes, etc).
Your healing can begin right now when you make the brave decision to choose a therapist who will listen deeply, seek to understand your feelings, and help you create a new and empowering story about who you truly are. That is my approach to therapy. My aim is to teach my clients how to identify old, limiting beliefs that interfere with their relationships, their sense of purpose, and inner peace. Together, we can work on healing the unhealthy relationship you have with yourself if you are willing to shed that old identity to embrace one that is whole, genuine, and resilient.
(630) 984-1610 View (630) 984-1610
Photo of Alexandra Kutnick, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Alexandra Kutnick
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
I provide therapy that is collaborative, understanding and humanistic, where I work together with patients to customize therapy so it is tailored to the patient's unique needs and goals. I work with people to address a range of issues, including depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, problematic substance use, shame, loss and grief, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity issues, job and academic stress, adjustment challenges to situations such as divorce, new parenthood, stepparenting, adoption and challenges managing and coping with serious health conditions such as infertility, autoimmune disease and cancer.
(872) 228-2144 View (872) 228-2144
Photo of Michelle Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Naperville, IL
Michelle Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
(815) 390-9023 View (815) 390-9023
Photo of Christy Meyer, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Christy Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I specialize in all types of complex/acute trauma, dissociative disorders, anxiety, depression, relationships, family issues, parenting issues, addiction, and life adjustments.
*Waitlist* Therapy can be empowering. There are times when everything in life feels daunting and chaotic. Life's challenges can be temporary or chronic and having someone "on your side" can go a long way. I get it - we have all been there at some point. My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgable. Together we will begin at a pace suitable for you to focus on YOUR needs ...changing, improving and/or healing. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. You can do this!
I specialize in all types of complex/acute trauma, dissociative disorders, anxiety, depression, relationships, family issues, parenting issues, addiction, and life adjustments.
*Waitlist* Therapy can be empowering. There are times when everything in life feels daunting and chaotic. Life's challenges can be temporary or chronic and having someone "on your side" can go a long way. I get it - we have all been there at some point. My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgable. Together we will begin at a pace suitable for you to focus on YOUR needs ...changing, improving and/or healing. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. You can do this!
(630) 948-5578 View (630) 948-5578
Photo of Elizabeth House, Counselor in Naperville, IL
Elizabeth House
Counselor, MS, MAT, MEL, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
Other mental health experiences include groups for disordered eating, substance/addictive behaviors, bariatric supports, and clients with chronic illnesses.
Every client is unique and deserves an individualized approach to help them live meaningful and purposeful lives. This will result in emotional wellbeing and happiness that may be missing. In my office, you will be met with a non-judgemental, honest, and safe space to be yourself. I have been working with individuals and groups for years.  While working as an educator for 14 years, I advocated for diverse populations, assisted with IEP/504s, completed assessments, and coached parents.  I am a member of ACACI, IMHCA, ICA and the ACA.
Other mental health experiences include groups for disordered eating, substance/addictive behaviors, bariatric supports, and clients with chronic illnesses.
Every client is unique and deserves an individualized approach to help them live meaningful and purposeful lives. This will result in emotional wellbeing and happiness that may be missing. In my office, you will be met with a non-judgemental, honest, and safe space to be yourself. I have been working with individuals and groups for years.  While working as an educator for 14 years, I advocated for diverse populations, assisted with IEP/504s, completed assessments, and coached parents.  I am a member of ACACI, IMHCA, ICA and the ACA.
(630) 394-8712 View (630) 394-8712
Photo of Talvir Shahi, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Naperville, IL
Talvir Shahi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Hello! I am the Co-Director and Psychotherapist with The Naperville Counseling Center. My clinical experience focus on working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, work-life balance, stress, anxiety, depression, mood management, cultural identity issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I also speak Punjabi and have full comprehension of Hindi/ Urdu and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
Hello! I am the Co-Director and Psychotherapist with The Naperville Counseling Center. My clinical experience focus on working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with substance abuse, relationship issues, work-life balance, stress, anxiety, depression, mood management, cultural identity issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with individuals from various backgrounds and cultures. I also speak Punjabi and have full comprehension of Hindi/ Urdu and provide bilingual counseling services to my clients.
(847) 383-0561 x103 View (847) 383-0561 x103
Photo of Fox Valley Institute, Psychologist in Naperville, IL
Fox Valley Institute
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Burke has experience in working with clients with chronic mental illnesses, alcohol and drug addiction(s), trauma histories, anxiety, and general life stressors.
Dr. Burke develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients by providing a safe and nurturing environment. She strives to be empathic and genuine so that clients feel empowered and supportive as they navigate life challenges and explore new methods for managing stressors effectively. Her style is compassionate, relaxed, and direct when necessary to guide clients to achieve personal growth.
Burke has experience in working with clients with chronic mental illnesses, alcohol and drug addiction(s), trauma histories, anxiety, and general life stressors.
Dr. Burke develops a therapeutic relationship with her clients by providing a safe and nurturing environment. She strives to be empathic and genuine so that clients feel empowered and supportive as they navigate life challenges and explore new methods for managing stressors effectively. Her style is compassionate, relaxed, and direct when necessary to guide clients to achieve personal growth.
(331) 249-4923 View (331) 249-4923
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.