Therapists in Virginia Beach, VA

Photo of Rachel Biesemeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Rachel Biesemeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Hello, my name is Rachel Biesemeyer, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from all walks of life. My approach to therapy is founded on building a solid therapeutic relationship and integrating coping skills that are practical and helpful with life's struggles. My client focus ranges from children, adolescents to adults from all walks of life. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/shame, mood disorders, ADHD, and ODD.
Hello, my name is Rachel Biesemeyer, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults from all walks of life. My approach to therapy is founded on building a solid therapeutic relationship and integrating coping skills that are practical and helpful with life's struggles. My client focus ranges from children, adolescents to adults from all walks of life. I have treated individuals with depression, anxiety, trauma, grief/shame, mood disorders, ADHD, and ODD.
(757) 992-9471 View (757) 992-9471
Photo of Maria Rheba Estante, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Maria Rheba Estante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462  (Online Only)
Compassionate client centered therapy for obsessive compulsive behaviors, sensory overload, perfectionism, ADHD, and other neurodiversity challenges.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story.
Compassionate client centered therapy for obsessive compulsive behaviors, sensory overload, perfectionism, ADHD, and other neurodiversity challenges.
Do you have intrusive thoughts that become distracting and disrupt your day? Do you feel compelled to perform certain acts or rituals to alleviate your anxiety? Have you experienced a traumatic event that still haunts you? Has the stress of moving to a new country impacted your well- being? Are you lonely and struggling in an unfamiliar environment? You can move beyond your struggles. Gain coping skills to manage your OCD, heal from trauma and thrive in your new home. Reach out now, I look forward to hearing your story.
(804) 575-5946 View (804) 575-5946
Photo of Natashia Nicole Cowan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Natashia Nicole Cowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LSATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
Natashia Cowan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and the owner of Essential Healing Services (EHS). EHS is an outpatient mental health practice that serves individuals, families, couples, and groups in coping with everyday stressors and unresolved issues. Other areas of focus include Grief and Loss, Marital Issues, Anger Management, Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Eating Disorders, and Mood Disorder. In therapy, individuals seeking care should be at the center of the process when it involves his or her quality of care.
Natashia Cowan is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and the owner of Essential Healing Services (EHS). EHS is an outpatient mental health practice that serves individuals, families, couples, and groups in coping with everyday stressors and unresolved issues. Other areas of focus include Grief and Loss, Marital Issues, Anger Management, Addiction, ADHD, Anxiety/Panic Disorders, Bipolar Disorder, Crisis Intervention, Depression, Eating Disorders, and Mood Disorder. In therapy, individuals seeking care should be at the center of the process when it involves his or her quality of care.
(757) 231-3391 View (757) 231-3391
Photo of Molly Mittel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Molly Mittel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Molly Mittel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience specializing in depression, anxiety, ADHD and Autism. Molly treats school aged children and adolescents as well as young adults utilizing specific treatment modalities that fit best with her clients. Molly has extensive experience counseling children and adolescents both individually and in groups. In her clinical work, Molly is well versed in both traditional therapeutic techniques as well as creative modalities such as play therapy and art.
Molly Mittel is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience specializing in depression, anxiety, ADHD and Autism. Molly treats school aged children and adolescents as well as young adults utilizing specific treatment modalities that fit best with her clients. Molly has extensive experience counseling children and adolescents both individually and in groups. In her clinical work, Molly is well versed in both traditional therapeutic techniques as well as creative modalities such as play therapy and art.
(757) 909-6848 View (757) 909-6848
Photo of Courtney Kramer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Courtney Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451  (Online Only)
Do you resonate with being a high-achieving perfectionist wanting to break free from the cycle of people pleasing and negative self talk? Do you often overthink to hide from your emotions? I would be honored to walk alongside you in rewriting your story, with acceptance and compassion. I specialize in helping you establish unshakable boundaries, discover ease in your everyday, communicate your needs, express your emotions, and love your true self. Whether you are facing ADHD, anxiety, or difficult life transitions I am here to support you in embracing a more genuine, empowered, and harmonious life.
Do you resonate with being a high-achieving perfectionist wanting to break free from the cycle of people pleasing and negative self talk? Do you often overthink to hide from your emotions? I would be honored to walk alongside you in rewriting your story, with acceptance and compassion. I specialize in helping you establish unshakable boundaries, discover ease in your everyday, communicate your needs, express your emotions, and love your true self. Whether you are facing ADHD, anxiety, or difficult life transitions I am here to support you in embracing a more genuine, empowered, and harmonious life.
(757) 906-6789 View (757) 906-6789
Photo of Well Neuropsychology, Psychologist in Virginia Beach, VA
Well Neuropsychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluations to assess cognitive and psychological functioning. I have specialization in working with adults and older adults with complex medical conditions. I also conduct comprehensive evaluations for children to assess neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ADHD and autism, as well as psychoeducational evaluations to assess learning disorders, in addition to mental health issues. My evaluations provide a comprehensive look at cognitive and psychological functioning to assist with diagnosis, as well as provide treatment recommendations and academic/work accommodations.
I specialize in neuropsychological evaluations to assess cognitive and psychological functioning. I have specialization in working with adults and older adults with complex medical conditions. I also conduct comprehensive evaluations for children to assess neurodevelopmental disorders, such as ADHD and autism, as well as psychoeducational evaluations to assess learning disorders, in addition to mental health issues. My evaluations provide a comprehensive look at cognitive and psychological functioning to assist with diagnosis, as well as provide treatment recommendations and academic/work accommodations.
(757) 797-8980 View (757) 797-8980
Photo of Ashley Ryan, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Virginia Beach, VA
Ashley Ryan
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Ashley specifically works with individuals that have challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, active-duty military, life transitions, relationship/family issues, men's specific issues, social skills, ADHD, school avoidance, and transition from military to civilian employment.
Ashley is a Resident in Counseling with specialties in Clinical Mental Health Counseling for couples and individuals. She got her B.S. of Psychology and Integrative Health from Virginia Tech and Masters of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She helps her clients navigate the stressors in their lives and values building a connection with her clients and non-judgmental space that fosters growth.
Ashley specifically works with individuals that have challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, active-duty military, life transitions, relationship/family issues, men's specific issues, social skills, ADHD, school avoidance, and transition from military to civilian employment.
Ashley is a Resident in Counseling with specialties in Clinical Mental Health Counseling for couples and individuals. She got her B.S. of Psychology and Integrative Health from Virginia Tech and Masters of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. She helps her clients navigate the stressors in their lives and values building a connection with her clients and non-judgmental space that fosters growth.
(757) 909-7191 View (757) 909-7191
Photo of Laura Michelle Samalya, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Laura Michelle Samalya
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
From challenges related to ADHD, like staying focused and managing time, to finding that elusive work-life balance, I'll work side by side with you to overcome these hurdles and embrace your uniqueness.
Welcome! I have a passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals of all ages and families seeking acceptance and understanding. I have a personal connection to this journey as well. I am what some may call, 'neuro-spicy' myself. It is this unique blend of experience and expertise that sets me apart and allows me to truly connect with my clients on a profound level. Life can be tough, and sometimes, all we need is a little empathy, humor, and realism to navigate its complexities. That is where Shooting Star Counseling comes in!
From challenges related to ADHD, like staying focused and managing time, to finding that elusive work-life balance, I'll work side by side with you to overcome these hurdles and embrace your uniqueness.
Welcome! I have a passion for supporting neurodiverse individuals of all ages and families seeking acceptance and understanding. I have a personal connection to this journey as well. I am what some may call, 'neuro-spicy' myself. It is this unique blend of experience and expertise that sets me apart and allows me to truly connect with my clients on a profound level. Life can be tough, and sometimes, all we need is a little empathy, humor, and realism to navigate its complexities. That is where Shooting Star Counseling comes in!
(757) 699-5894 View (757) 699-5894
Photo of Erica Foreman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Erica Foreman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Hello. Searching for someone to provide encouragement and support in tough seasons is not always easy. I’m grateful you stopped by my page, and I hope that I can assist you. I’ve been in the mental health field for seven years. I’m a licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor. I strive to help others better understand mental health and identify ways to enjoy life. I see individuals who present issues with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, and anger. I also work closely with adolescents who present with ADHD, autism, conduct disorder, behavioral problems, and mental health issues.
Hello. Searching for someone to provide encouragement and support in tough seasons is not always easy. I’m grateful you stopped by my page, and I hope that I can assist you. I’ve been in the mental health field for seven years. I’m a licensed professional counselor and certified substance abuse counselor. I strive to help others better understand mental health and identify ways to enjoy life. I see individuals who present issues with trauma, depression, anxiety, substance use, grief, and anger. I also work closely with adolescents who present with ADHD, autism, conduct disorder, behavioral problems, and mental health issues.
(757) 780-1650 View (757) 780-1650
Photo of Annie L Phillips, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Annie L Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LCP, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Waitlist for new clients
Many of my clients need help with self-esteem, PTSD, ADHD, mother/daughter issues, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, emotional & narcissistic abuse, postpartum depression, infertility, trauma, child development and parenting issues, and relationship issues. I have 15 years of experience with children, families, teenage girls, college girls, and women. I will help you or your family member access the strengths that have been overshadowed by life's challenges. We will work together to help you find your way no matter what the circumstances may be. I am practical, compassionate, and nonjudgmental and will be invested in your care.
Many of my clients need help with self-esteem, PTSD, ADHD, mother/daughter issues, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, emotional & narcissistic abuse, postpartum depression, infertility, trauma, child development and parenting issues, and relationship issues. I have 15 years of experience with children, families, teenage girls, college girls, and women. I will help you or your family member access the strengths that have been overshadowed by life's challenges. We will work together to help you find your way no matter what the circumstances may be. I am practical, compassionate, and nonjudgmental and will be invested in your care.
(757) 354-4813 View (757) 354-4813
Photo of Donna Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Donna Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Welcome! My name is Donna Adams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over 31 years of experience. I work with all ages, races and genders. I work with people who find the need to have assistance with regulating their world so that they are able to focus and balance themselves on a daily basis. My areas of focus include ADHD, anger management, behavioral issues, family conflict, and relationship issues. I work with each person on their level, and I do not assume that a certain therapeutic concept will work for anyone.
Welcome! My name is Donna Adams and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia with over 31 years of experience. I work with all ages, races and genders. I work with people who find the need to have assistance with regulating their world so that they are able to focus and balance themselves on a daily basis. My areas of focus include ADHD, anger management, behavioral issues, family conflict, and relationship issues. I work with each person on their level, and I do not assume that a certain therapeutic concept will work for anyone.
(757) 979-3582 View (757) 979-3582
Photo of Meichell Worthing, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Meichell Worthing
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
Lighthouse Counseling is HIRING! LOOKING for 2-3 Licensed Christian Clinicians to add to our team!..Welcome to my page! I specialize in trauma treatment for PTSD, Complex PTSD and Dissociative Disorders. I am a ComplexPTSD survivor myself. I know both personally and professionally the heartache of abuse trauma. I love offering hope through trauma informed care and spiritual integration as the situation warrants. I also have two other Licensed Professional Counselors working for me and three Licensed Residents in Counseling with varying specialties/training. We see kids, families, couples, individuals and groups.
Lighthouse Counseling is HIRING! LOOKING for 2-3 Licensed Christian Clinicians to add to our team!..Welcome to my page! I specialize in trauma treatment for PTSD, Complex PTSD and Dissociative Disorders. I am a ComplexPTSD survivor myself. I know both personally and professionally the heartache of abuse trauma. I love offering hope through trauma informed care and spiritual integration as the situation warrants. I also have two other Licensed Professional Counselors working for me and three Licensed Residents in Counseling with varying specialties/training. We see kids, families, couples, individuals and groups.
(757) 384-9401 View (757) 384-9401
Photo of Micah Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Micah Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Micah Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience working in the Human Services and Mental Health Field. She utilizes a Holistic approach. Areas of focus include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Woman issues, Self-esteem, and emotional distress. I work best with clients who are looking for assistance in developing skills to better navigate ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Woman issues, Self-esteem, and emotional distress.
Micah Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 13 years of experience working in the Human Services and Mental Health Field. She utilizes a Holistic approach. Areas of focus include ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Woman issues, Self-esteem, and emotional distress. I work best with clients who are looking for assistance in developing skills to better navigate ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Woman issues, Self-esteem, and emotional distress.
(757) 300-1602 View (757) 300-1602
Photo of Megan Leann Schalembier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Megan Leann Schalembier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
I am passionate about helping clients work through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, pre and post-adoption for children or caregivers, ADHD, anger management, and spiritual issues.
My practice is client-centered and universal. I believe in treating the entire person. I look at past experiences, trauma, current issues, and future hopes and goals. I specialize in treating children ages (5+), adolescents, young adults, and adults. Most of my experience is working with clients healing from trauma. I pull from a variety of therapeutic techniques to work with the individual. If one therapy is not working, let's try something else.
I am passionate about helping clients work through depression, anxiety, grief and loss, pre and post-adoption for children or caregivers, ADHD, anger management, and spiritual issues.
My practice is client-centered and universal. I believe in treating the entire person. I look at past experiences, trauma, current issues, and future hopes and goals. I specialize in treating children ages (5+), adolescents, young adults, and adults. Most of my experience is working with clients healing from trauma. I pull from a variety of therapeutic techniques to work with the individual. If one therapy is not working, let's try something else.
(970) 710-6439 View (970) 710-6439
Photo of Susanne E Preston-Josey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Susanne E Preston-Josey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, ACS, BC-THM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
These evaluations are used to assess ADHD and other potential behavioral concerns.
Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere to discuss your problems? Do you need a counselor who can really connect with you? Are you in need of someone who will listen to you in a supportive environment? I can help! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor; practicing for twenty years. I specialize in working with women's issues, relationship concerns, online counseling, and teens. I use a Person-Centered approach and a blend of other therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
These evaluations are used to assess ADHD and other potential behavioral concerns.
Are you looking for a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere to discuss your problems? Do you need a counselor who can really connect with you? Are you in need of someone who will listen to you in a supportive environment? I can help! I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor; practicing for twenty years. I specialize in working with women's issues, relationship concerns, online counseling, and teens. I use a Person-Centered approach and a blend of other therapeutic techniques, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
(757) 699-5088 View (757) 699-5088
Photo of Nikki Schwartz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Nikki Schwartz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23453
Having ADHD myself, I understand the struggle to stay on task, be on time, sit still, pay attention when it's boring, etc.
“A different kind of therapy experience.” You are the expert on you. Maybe you're looking for something that's not "just talking". If you're struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, autism, OCD, etc., this very personalized approach, can make all the difference. If that’s you, or your child, maybe this is what you've been searching for. Maybe you’ve noticed you can focus better if you’re fidgeting or playing a game, taking a walk, doodling, or petting a dog. My clients seem to think more clearly, make better decisions, feel calmer and happier, because we use these strategies in session, combined with traditional talk therapy.
Having ADHD myself, I understand the struggle to stay on task, be on time, sit still, pay attention when it's boring, etc.
“A different kind of therapy experience.” You are the expert on you. Maybe you're looking for something that's not "just talking". If you're struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, autism, OCD, etc., this very personalized approach, can make all the difference. If that’s you, or your child, maybe this is what you've been searching for. Maybe you’ve noticed you can focus better if you’re fidgeting or playing a game, taking a walk, doodling, or petting a dog. My clients seem to think more clearly, make better decisions, feel calmer and happier, because we use these strategies in session, combined with traditional talk therapy.
(757) 517-3868 View (757) 517-3868
Photo of Christina Nichole Hart, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia Beach, VA
Christina Nichole Hart
Pre-Licensed Professional, ATR-P, MAAT
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Hello, I am a pre-licensed professional holding a provisional art therapy certification after receiving my Master's degree in art therapy at Saint Mary of the Woods College. I am an employee with HopeWell Equipping and Counseling Ministries in Virginia Beach. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, couples, and families dealing with a range of situations such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship distress, divorce and all through the therapeutic lens of art therapy that is non-diagnostic.
Hello, I am a pre-licensed professional holding a provisional art therapy certification after receiving my Master's degree in art therapy at Saint Mary of the Woods College. I am an employee with HopeWell Equipping and Counseling Ministries in Virginia Beach. I have experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, couples, and families dealing with a range of situations such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, relationship distress, divorce and all through the therapeutic lens of art therapy that is non-diagnostic.
(757) 333-1548 View (757) 333-1548
Photo of Christina L. Patac, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Christina L. Patac
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23464  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ experiences, multicultural issues, veterans (as an Army vet), relationship issues, life changes, and day to day stressors.
Now accepting new clients via telehealth, for adults, teens, and children ages 10+ providing a comprehensive perspective on the human experience across various life stages and transitions. With a commitment to fostering a safe, transparent, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment for processing, reflection, and learning, I meet clients where they are, tailoring the therapy approach to one's individual needs.
I have experience working with individuals with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, LGBTQIA+ experiences, multicultural issues, veterans (as an Army vet), relationship issues, life changes, and day to day stressors.
Now accepting new clients via telehealth, for adults, teens, and children ages 10+ providing a comprehensive perspective on the human experience across various life stages and transitions. With a commitment to fostering a safe, transparent, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment for processing, reflection, and learning, I meet clients where they are, tailoring the therapy approach to one's individual needs.
(540) 274-0729 View (540) 274-0729
Photo of Traci Joan Hunter-Leslie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia Beach, VA
Traci Joan Hunter-Leslie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
I am not accepting new clients at this time I have over 30 years experience working in the mental health field to include inpatient psychiatric, outpatient private practice, and home based therapy. My certification in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) has shown to be been beneficial in assisting clients in managing symptoms related to PTSD, ADD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Sexual Abuse and Attachment Disorders. I believe in a person's desire and inherent capacity to grow and change.
I am not accepting new clients at this time I have over 30 years experience working in the mental health field to include inpatient psychiatric, outpatient private practice, and home based therapy. My certification in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) has shown to be been beneficial in assisting clients in managing symptoms related to PTSD, ADD, Depression, Anxiety, Substance Abuse, Sexual Abuse and Attachment Disorders. I believe in a person's desire and inherent capacity to grow and change.
(757) 828-2159 View (757) 828-2159
Photo of Markisha Gravely, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia Beach, VA
Markisha Gravely
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23452
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Making the decision to participate in counseling can be intimidating at first. My mission is to normalize counseling and detach the stigma associated with getting help. All sessions are individualized and collaborated to focus on the client’s current needs. My goal is to provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based counseling to assist individuals in processing and working through life stressors. I assist adults to walk through their life journey and improve their overall mental and emotional well-being.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Making the decision to participate in counseling can be intimidating at first. My mission is to normalize counseling and detach the stigma associated with getting help. All sessions are individualized and collaborated to focus on the client’s current needs. My goal is to provide culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based counseling to assist individuals in processing and working through life stressors. I assist adults to walk through their life journey and improve their overall mental and emotional well-being.
(757) 665-2124 View (757) 665-2124

See more therapy options for Virginia Beach

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.