Photo of Barcelona Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Barcelona Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123
Neurofeedback, EMDR, Trauma Treatment, Stress, Anxiety and Distress, Depression, Grief, Obsessions, Psychological Abuse, Self-esteem, Sexuality , Relationship Conflicts, Parenting Management, Anger Management, Behavior Modification, Self-Esteem Issues, Weight Loss, Adjustment Disorders, and Family Counseling.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We have experience working with individuals, couples, and families from different backgrounds and needs. We use different and personalized techniques/strategies to help you get to the root of the problem, make conscious change to find stability, growth, problem resolution, and emotional relief. NEUROFEEDBACK and EMDR modalities to address many issues. Please visit our webpage at www.barcelonacounseling.org
Neurofeedback, EMDR, Trauma Treatment, Stress, Anxiety and Distress, Depression, Grief, Obsessions, Psychological Abuse, Self-esteem, Sexuality , Relationship Conflicts, Parenting Management, Anger Management, Behavior Modification, Self-Esteem Issues, Weight Loss, Adjustment Disorders, and Family Counseling.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We have experience working with individuals, couples, and families from different backgrounds and needs. We use different and personalized techniques/strategies to help you get to the root of the problem, make conscious change to find stability, growth, problem resolution, and emotional relief. NEUROFEEDBACK and EMDR modalities to address many issues. Please visit our webpage at www.barcelonacounseling.org
(503) 308-7483 View (503) 308-7483
Photo of Ashley Terry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Ashley Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC, LMHC, CADC
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
Hello I am Ashley it is nice to meet you. I am currently taking new clients in OR and WA. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor in the State of Oregon, as well as a License Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington. I have provided treatment to individuals suffering from eating disorders, substance use disorders, severe and persistent mental illness, marital and relational issues, grief and loss, as well as all forms of anxiety disorders, mood disorders and a vast range of substance, sex and gambling disorders.
(503) 217-2751 View (503) 217-2751
Photo of Holly K Severson Herzog, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Holly K Severson Herzog
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97124  (Online Only)
I have training in sex therapy as well.
Are you in the midst of a major life transition, like a divorce or job loss, and feel confused about how to move forward? Do you struggle with relationship issues like how to communicate better with a loved one, have trouble navigating conflicts, or have a desire to have more joy-filled relationships? Not only do I have book knowledge about these issues, I have lived many of them, just like you. I believe that we all need a little coaching and encouragement at times. I have a direct, compassionate and solution focused style and have 30 years experience in the field.
I have training in sex therapy as well.
Are you in the midst of a major life transition, like a divorce or job loss, and feel confused about how to move forward? Do you struggle with relationship issues like how to communicate better with a loved one, have trouble navigating conflicts, or have a desire to have more joy-filled relationships? Not only do I have book knowledge about these issues, I have lived many of them, just like you. I believe that we all need a little coaching and encouragement at times. I have a direct, compassionate and solution focused style and have 30 years experience in the field.
(971) 407-5253 View (971) 407-5253
Photo of Wendy Riggs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Wendy Riggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97006  (Online Only)
Life is just getting too hard. The nightmares, the memories, the sleepless nights, the triggers, what do I do with it all? Will it always be this way for me? Trauma, CPTSD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming, frustrating and isolating. It's possible nobody around you understands, or they are telling you that you should "get over it", or that you should have been able to move on by now, and you want to. You want to be able to connect with people again, to feel safe in your environment and in your body. You want to feel better, and you want to thrive.
Life is just getting too hard. The nightmares, the memories, the sleepless nights, the triggers, what do I do with it all? Will it always be this way for me? Trauma, CPTSD, and PTSD can feel overwhelming, frustrating and isolating. It's possible nobody around you understands, or they are telling you that you should "get over it", or that you should have been able to move on by now, and you want to. You want to be able to connect with people again, to feel safe in your environment and in your body. You want to feel better, and you want to thrive.
(971) 298-9304 View (971) 298-9304
Photo of Lori M. Severson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Lori M. Severson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsboro, OR 97123
Not accepting new clients
I have also trained with Martha Kauppi, a nationally recognized therapist and educator on treating and assessing client issues around sex, sexual health, and other relational intimacy challenges.
I am passionate about helping clients find the help they need. My work is for individuals and couples from all backgrounds, whether they are in traditional or non-traditional partnerships. While I provide therapy for a wide variety of issues, my focus is on relationships, life transitions and women's issues. I want to help individuals and couples find new ways to see, experience and respond to those parts of themselves or their partner that may be challenging. My goal is that you will find my therapeutic style to be very caring, collaborative, supportive, individual and unique to your personal and cultural needs.
I have also trained with Martha Kauppi, a nationally recognized therapist and educator on treating and assessing client issues around sex, sexual health, and other relational intimacy challenges.
I am passionate about helping clients find the help they need. My work is for individuals and couples from all backgrounds, whether they are in traditional or non-traditional partnerships. While I provide therapy for a wide variety of issues, my focus is on relationships, life transitions and women's issues. I want to help individuals and couples find new ways to see, experience and respond to those parts of themselves or their partner that may be challenging. My goal is that you will find my therapeutic style to be very caring, collaborative, supportive, individual and unique to your personal and cultural needs.
(503) 837-8284 View (503) 837-8284

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hanna Zipes Basel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Hanna Zipes Basel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Narrative therapist and Certified Sex Therapist.
Couples therapy is my passion. Given the chaos and the way in which human relationships are being undermined in our world today, I feel this work is particularly needed. As far as human happiness goes, I see time and time again that it is the quality of a person’s relationships that makes it or breaks it. This is really the foundation of my couples therapy practice. More than ever, the world needs couples who have each other’s backs, and can bring empathy and intelligent action into the world.
Additionally, I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Narrative therapist and Certified Sex Therapist.
Couples therapy is my passion. Given the chaos and the way in which human relationships are being undermined in our world today, I feel this work is particularly needed. As far as human happiness goes, I see time and time again that it is the quality of a person’s relationships that makes it or breaks it. This is really the foundation of my couples therapy practice. More than ever, the world needs couples who have each other’s backs, and can bring empathy and intelligent action into the world.
(503) 300-2720 View (503) 300-2720
Photo of Diana Groener, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Diana Groener
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005
Note: Please don't use the phone number provided by Psychology Today, I never get those messages. Email me instead or call 503-626-6226 ext 104 to leave a private voicemail. These last few years have been hard on everyone, changing relationships, priorities, and perspectives. I am honored to be your guide to building greater connection and meaning in your life. I work with individuals and couples on issues of sexuality, intimacy, and emotional expression. I also work with issues of vicarious trauma and burnout. I can help you reduce the conflict and stress in your life, developing greater resilience in the process.
Note: Please don't use the phone number provided by Psychology Today, I never get those messages. Email me instead or call 503-626-6226 ext 104 to leave a private voicemail. These last few years have been hard on everyone, changing relationships, priorities, and perspectives. I am honored to be your guide to building greater connection and meaning in your life. I work with individuals and couples on issues of sexuality, intimacy, and emotional expression. I also work with issues of vicarious trauma and burnout. I can help you reduce the conflict and stress in your life, developing greater resilience in the process.
(971) 273-5187 x104 View (971) 273-5187 x104
Photo of Jennifer M Besst, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Jennifer M Besst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97006
My goal as a therapist is to help people deepen their understanding of themselves and their unique struggles. Building a trusting and compassionate therapeutic relationship is our first goal. I offer both traditional general therapy and sex therapy; the current focus in my practice has been on sexual health issues including sexual and pelvic pain disorders (such as dyspareunia and vaginismus), chronic health issues, hormonal difficulties, and coping with relationship struggles or transitions.
My goal as a therapist is to help people deepen their understanding of themselves and their unique struggles. Building a trusting and compassionate therapeutic relationship is our first goal. I offer both traditional general therapy and sex therapy; the current focus in my practice has been on sexual health issues including sexual and pelvic pain disorders (such as dyspareunia and vaginismus), chronic health issues, hormonal difficulties, and coping with relationship struggles or transitions.
(503) 444-8808 View (503) 444-8808
Photo of Erica Tan, Psychologist in Hillsboro, OR
Erica Tan
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005
I appreciate the complexity of sexuality and spirituality and have received training with respect to working in both areas.
As a clinical psychologist trained as an integrationist, I enjoy working with people from a holistic perspective. I believe it is important to consider not only what is going on in the present, but also what has happened developmentally, biologically, interpersonally,and cognitively. In addition to conceptualizing our experiences as people from a systems perspective, I conduct individual, group, and family therapy using a DBT-informed frame of practice. What this means is that change comes about by learning new behaviors in a variety of contexts while balancing the reality of a person's situation and skill level with acceptance.
I appreciate the complexity of sexuality and spirituality and have received training with respect to working in both areas.
As a clinical psychologist trained as an integrationist, I enjoy working with people from a holistic perspective. I believe it is important to consider not only what is going on in the present, but also what has happened developmentally, biologically, interpersonally,and cognitively. In addition to conceptualizing our experiences as people from a systems perspective, I conduct individual, group, and family therapy using a DBT-informed frame of practice. What this means is that change comes about by learning new behaviors in a variety of contexts while balancing the reality of a person's situation and skill level with acceptance.
(503) 980-1301 View (503) 980-1301
Photo of Trisha Nozumi, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hillsboro, OR
Trisha Nozumi
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97006
I am currently working towards an AASECT sex therapy certification.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and person-centered counseling. I don’t believe that therapy is a “one size fits all,” and I utilize a variety of methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Attachment Theory to provide an approach that will fit your individual needs.
I am currently working towards an AASECT sex therapy certification.
As a therapist, my approach is grounded in empathy, compassion, and person-centered counseling. I don’t believe that therapy is a “one size fits all,” and I utilize a variety of methods, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, and Attachment Theory to provide an approach that will fit your individual needs.
(503) 461-5449 View (503) 461-5449
Photo of Stephani Robles, LPC Intern in Hillsboro, OR
Stephani Robles
LPC Intern, PCA
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97007  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adolescents 14+ and adults with issues relating to anxiety, depression, life transitions, communication breakdowns, stress, generational dynamics, trauma, self esteem, women's issues, parenting/parenting skills, non heteronormative relationships, sexuality, relationships both monogamous and non monogamous, ADHD, loss/grief.
Hello my name is Stephani and I am taking new clients in Oregon. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. As a counselor, I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths and challenges, provide new perspectives, and help identify tools and skills to work towards goals. My clinical approach draws upon various therapeutic models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy
I specialize in working with adolescents 14+ and adults with issues relating to anxiety, depression, life transitions, communication breakdowns, stress, generational dynamics, trauma, self esteem, women's issues, parenting/parenting skills, non heteronormative relationships, sexuality, relationships both monogamous and non monogamous, ADHD, loss/grief.
Hello my name is Stephani and I am taking new clients in Oregon. I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives. As a counselor, I work collaboratively with clients to identify strengths and challenges, provide new perspectives, and help identify tools and skills to work towards goals. My clinical approach draws upon various therapeutic models, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy
(503) 966-3203 View (503) 966-3203
Photo of Elizabeth Wallace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Elizabeth Wallace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
Hello! I specialize in couples/sex, addictions, and trauma/anxiety. I take Cigna, Aetna and Optum insurance. I have been helping adults and couples reach their goals for 19 years. I'm here for those that want to free themselves from old patterns, be they traumatic events, anxiety attacks, destructive patterns, infidelity, issues with sex, or unhelpful styles of communication. I'm known for being an active participant, open-minded and direct. I also love using my great sense of humor, when appropriate. I'm casual. Cussing in sessions welcome!
Hello! I specialize in couples/sex, addictions, and trauma/anxiety. I take Cigna, Aetna and Optum insurance. I have been helping adults and couples reach their goals for 19 years. I'm here for those that want to free themselves from old patterns, be they traumatic events, anxiety attacks, destructive patterns, infidelity, issues with sex, or unhelpful styles of communication. I'm known for being an active participant, open-minded and direct. I also love using my great sense of humor, when appropriate. I'm casual. Cussing in sessions welcome!
(503) 470-7009 View (503) 470-7009
Photo of Leah Haas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Leah Haas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
With over 13 years of experience in the field of sexuality education and a passion for sex therapy, I specialize in supporting clients address intimacy, desire, healthy relationships, sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual trauma, kinks and any other sexuality related topics.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and compassionate. My goal is to create a safe and warm space so each client feels comfortable sharing what's on their mind and in their heart. This may include diving into trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent a person from feeling at peace and operating at their highest potential. The philosophy that guides my work is that everyone has the inner wisdom needed to thrive. My role is to help clients access this inner wisdom so they can heal, grow and live the fulfilling life they are seeking.
With over 13 years of experience in the field of sexuality education and a passion for sex therapy, I specialize in supporting clients address intimacy, desire, healthy relationships, sexual orientation, gender identity, sexual trauma, kinks and any other sexuality related topics.
My approach to therapy is collaborative, creative, and compassionate. My goal is to create a safe and warm space so each client feels comfortable sharing what's on their mind and in their heart. This may include diving into trauma, grief, and other challenging life experiences that prevent a person from feeling at peace and operating at their highest potential. The philosophy that guides my work is that everyone has the inner wisdom needed to thrive. My role is to help clients access this inner wisdom so they can heal, grow and live the fulfilling life they are seeking.
View
Photo of Italia Hensley : Congruent Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Italia Hensley : Congruent Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CNM-C
Verified Verified
Beaverton, OR 97008  (Online Only)
I am enrolled with MSTI for my PhD in Sexology to be a sex therapist and am in supervision to see clients to address sexual issues.
Hello! In addition to counseling services, I am hiring to supervise Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselor Associates. You are in a relationship with your partner(s) or a part of a family unit. You have gotten to a place you never thought you could get to with yourself or loved one(s); you feel unheard, unloved, and undervalued, but you love them, and that is why you are here seeking me, a couple, polycule, and family therapist. I have been where you are now; it is overwhelming, painful, and discouraging. I am here to tell you this happens for so many people, and there is hope and a path to where you want to be.
I am enrolled with MSTI for my PhD in Sexology to be a sex therapist and am in supervision to see clients to address sexual issues.
Hello! In addition to counseling services, I am hiring to supervise Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselor Associates. You are in a relationship with your partner(s) or a part of a family unit. You have gotten to a place you never thought you could get to with yourself or loved one(s); you feel unheard, unloved, and undervalued, but you love them, and that is why you are here seeking me, a couple, polycule, and family therapist. I have been where you are now; it is overwhelming, painful, and discouraging. I am here to tell you this happens for so many people, and there is hope and a path to where you want to be.
(458) 204-0197 View (458) 204-0197
Photo of Colleen Quigley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Colleen Quigley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SIFI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Are you experiencing difficulties in achieving sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Do you feel there's a gap between your sexual desires and how they align with your identity? Do you find it challenging to communicate openly about your sexual needs and preferences with your partner(s)? Are you exploring new facets of your sexuality and seeking guidance in doing so in a supportive, affirming environment? Has googling these questions left you more confused and frustrated? My mission as a sex therapist is to guide you through this journey of self-discovery and provide you with the sexual & relational skills that you are looking for.
Are you experiencing difficulties in achieving sexual satisfaction or pleasure? Do you feel there's a gap between your sexual desires and how they align with your identity? Do you find it challenging to communicate openly about your sexual needs and preferences with your partner(s)? Are you exploring new facets of your sexuality and seeking guidance in doing so in a supportive, affirming environment? Has googling these questions left you more confused and frustrated? My mission as a sex therapist is to guide you through this journey of self-discovery and provide you with the sexual & relational skills that you are looking for.
(347) 429-7998 View (347) 429-7998
Photo of Jen Joseph, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hillsboro, OR
Jen Joseph
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
As a specialist in sex and relationship, I treat a variety of issues including: infidelity and betrayal recovery, out of control sexual behavior aka 'sex addiction,' desire discrepancies, low-sex or no-sex marriages, sex pain, 'sexual performance' issues, challenges with ethical non-monogamy or a desire to open up a relationship, conflicts around porn or fetishes, religious sexual shame, arguing + communication issues, lack of intimacy, major life transitions and couples on the brink of divorce who want clarity and confidence about how to move forward.
As a specialist in sex and relationship, I treat a variety of issues including: infidelity and betrayal recovery, out of control sexual behavior aka 'sex addiction,' desire discrepancies, low-sex or no-sex marriages, sex pain, 'sexual performance' issues, challenges with ethical non-monogamy or a desire to open up a relationship, conflicts around porn or fetishes, religious sexual shame, arguing + communication issues, lack of intimacy, major life transitions and couples on the brink of divorce who want clarity and confidence about how to move forward.
(971) 260-4397 View (971) 260-4397
Photo of Jules Duncan-Martinez, Pre-Licensed Professional in Hillsboro, OR
Jules Duncan-Martinez
Pre-Licensed Professional, PCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Additionally, inclusion of feminism and a sex positive belief system is important in my practice.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her) it is nice to meet you. I’m a mental health therapist located in Oregon, welcoming to people of diverse social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I specialize in working with adolescents (14+) and adults presenting with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, sexual assault, sexual and gender identity, and self-harm. In my approach, traumatic experiences must be approached through a trauma informed lens, meaning creating an environment that understands trauma as multifaceted while minimizing risk of re-traumatization
Additionally, inclusion of feminism and a sex positive belief system is important in my practice.
Hello my name is Jules (she/her) it is nice to meet you. I’m a mental health therapist located in Oregon, welcoming to people of diverse social, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds. I specialize in working with adolescents (14+) and adults presenting with issues related to depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief and loss, history of abuse, sexual assault, sexual and gender identity, and self-harm. In my approach, traumatic experiences must be approached through a trauma informed lens, meaning creating an environment that understands trauma as multifaceted while minimizing risk of re-traumatization
(503) 809-5582 View (503) 809-5582
Photo of Kristina Barnett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hillsboro, OR
Kristina Barnett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
I bring an intersectional feminist, anti-racist, LGBTQIA2+-affirming, sex-positive perspective to the therapy process.
I'm so glad you found me! Whether you are struggling with relationship issues or experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, I am here to help. Many of our human struggles emerge from troubled connections with significant people in our lives or with ourselves. Together, we will explore and change the patterns in your life that are getting in the way of your peace and well-being by cultivating a sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
I bring an intersectional feminist, anti-racist, LGBTQIA2+-affirming, sex-positive perspective to the therapy process.
I'm so glad you found me! Whether you are struggling with relationship issues or experiencing anxiety and depression symptoms, I am here to help. Many of our human struggles emerge from troubled connections with significant people in our lives or with ourselves. Together, we will explore and change the patterns in your life that are getting in the way of your peace and well-being by cultivating a sense of safety and healthy boundaries.
(503) 461-7367 View (503) 461-7367
Photo of Jessica Macklin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hillsboro, OR
Jessica Macklin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADCIII, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97005  (Online Only)
I believe that human nature in its many forms is always evolving and if we are able to harness and lean into this change and learn to grow in healthy ways we can become our best selves. I seek to build a positive therapeutic relationship with all my clients to better comprehend the problems that they may be dealing with in their lives and attempt to assist them in finding healthy resolutions.
I believe that human nature in its many forms is always evolving and if we are able to harness and lean into this change and learn to grow in healthy ways we can become our best selves. I seek to build a positive therapeutic relationship with all my clients to better comprehend the problems that they may be dealing with in their lives and attempt to assist them in finding healthy resolutions.
(971) 239-4985 View (971) 239-4985
Photo of Woodland Therapy Portland LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Hillsboro, OR
Woodland Therapy Portland LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello! I am not currently accepting new clients, but am happy to put you on my waitlist. Please reach out for a free 20 minute consultation! I see people as unique and relational beings whose stories have been formed by the society they live in, the families they were raised by, and the stories they believe about themselves formed from their life experiences. I believe that the re-telling of these stories, and the language people use, form the realities people experience. I believe building strong and healthy relationships provides the support and community everyone needs.
Hello! I am not currently accepting new clients, but am happy to put you on my waitlist. Please reach out for a free 20 minute consultation! I see people as unique and relational beings whose stories have been formed by the society they live in, the families they were raised by, and the stories they believe about themselves formed from their life experiences. I believe that the re-telling of these stories, and the language people use, form the realities people experience. I believe building strong and healthy relationships provides the support and community everyone needs.
(971) 251-4441 View (971) 251-4441
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.