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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Abby Leach, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Abby Leach
Counselor, MSE, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Centralia, WA 98531  (Online Only)
Are you interested in living an authentic life and being true to the visions and callings of your heart? Sometimes that's not easy when unhealthy learned patterns and/or limiting or negative beliefs get in the way. Our work together can be a catalyst which calls out your inner strengths and resources providing the ultimate guidance to experiencing more happiness and contentment. Life doesn't move in a straight line, instead the path twists and turns providing obstacles and hurdles. It's these challenges that present a doorway to living a more authentic life. You are not alone.
Are you interested in living an authentic life and being true to the visions and callings of your heart? Sometimes that's not easy when unhealthy learned patterns and/or limiting or negative beliefs get in the way. Our work together can be a catalyst which calls out your inner strengths and resources providing the ultimate guidance to experiencing more happiness and contentment. Life doesn't move in a straight line, instead the path twists and turns providing obstacles and hurdles. It's these challenges that present a doorway to living a more authentic life. You are not alone.
(360) 558-3399 View (360) 558-3399

Online Therapists

Photo of Hannah Elliott, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chehalis, WA
Hannah Elliott
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036
I was a researcher prior to pursuing my MA in Mindfulness-Based & Transpersonal Counseling.
Therapy is a messy, beautiful adventure of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My greatest desire is to empower you to use life’s challenges to discover your inner strength, wisdom, and sense of purpose. I am passionate about working with people seeking transformative growth and meaning in life. I specialize in supporting adults healing through trauma (esp. childhood/complex trauma); grief; life transitions (e.g. midlife crisis, end of life); and topics related to spirituality such as psychedelic integration, spiritual emergency/awakening, and near-death experiences.
I was a researcher prior to pursuing my MA in Mindfulness-Based & Transpersonal Counseling.
Therapy is a messy, beautiful adventure of healing, growth, and self-discovery. My greatest desire is to empower you to use life’s challenges to discover your inner strength, wisdom, and sense of purpose. I am passionate about working with people seeking transformative growth and meaning in life. I specialize in supporting adults healing through trauma (esp. childhood/complex trauma); grief; life transitions (e.g. midlife crisis, end of life); and topics related to spirituality such as psychedelic integration, spiritual emergency/awakening, and near-death experiences.
(425) 537-6893 View (425) 537-6893
Photo of Lisa M Miranda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Lisa M Miranda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Do you have trauma, anxiety or depression and feel ready to work on yourself? Perhaps you are new to therapy but feel motivated or inspired to heal and work through emotions, conflicts or blockages to living a more fulfilling life. Have you had other therapies but feel “it’s time” to go deeper and explore root causes of patterns and issues? Do you feel you are in an “awakening“ and hope to work with a Transpersonal Therapist to support the integration of your higher or Whole/Core Self?
Do you have trauma, anxiety or depression and feel ready to work on yourself? Perhaps you are new to therapy but feel motivated or inspired to heal and work through emotions, conflicts or blockages to living a more fulfilling life. Have you had other therapies but feel “it’s time” to go deeper and explore root causes of patterns and issues? Do you feel you are in an “awakening“ and hope to work with a Transpersonal Therapist to support the integration of your higher or Whole/Core Self?
(510) 800-9538 View (510) 800-9538
Photo of Lisa Celentano, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Lisa Celentano
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
I use an integrative perspective that allows me to skillfully draw from a wide variety of therapeutic modalities, such as Existential, Transpersonal or Faith-based.
Aloha! Welcome! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I will meet you exactly where you are at and walk the therapeutic journey with you. The therapeutic journey is a relational one, and together we will discover or recover your essential self, so that you can be the best version of the largest vision you hold about yourself. My therapeutic style is casual yet professional, with plenty of laughter and space for tears.
I use an integrative perspective that allows me to skillfully draw from a wide variety of therapeutic modalities, such as Existential, Transpersonal or Faith-based.
Aloha! Welcome! As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I will meet you exactly where you are at and walk the therapeutic journey with you. The therapeutic journey is a relational one, and together we will discover or recover your essential self, so that you can be the best version of the largest vision you hold about yourself. My therapeutic style is casual yet professional, with plenty of laughter and space for tears.
(206) 489-3670 x1 View (206) 489-3670 x1
Photo of Flor Fernandez Barrios, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Flor Fernandez Barrios
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
" We are all broken and wounded in this world. Some choose to grow at the broken places." ~Harold J. Duarte-Bernhardt.~ You had the courage to travel this far in your quest for healing. As a Transpersonal therapist, I believe you are wise and that within you resides the ability to heal from pain and trauma. My role is to be a guide, a facilitator in your process of healing unhealthy patterns of behaviors causing you to feel anxious and depressed. My approach is holistic. I blend many disciplines in search of the most effective way to work with you.
" We are all broken and wounded in this world. Some choose to grow at the broken places." ~Harold J. Duarte-Bernhardt.~ You had the courage to travel this far in your quest for healing. As a Transpersonal therapist, I believe you are wise and that within you resides the ability to heal from pain and trauma. My role is to be a guide, a facilitator in your process of healing unhealthy patterns of behaviors causing you to feel anxious and depressed. My approach is holistic. I blend many disciplines in search of the most effective way to work with you.
(206) 922-8165 View (206) 922-8165
Photo of Cassie Salewske, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Cassie Salewske
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ACHt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bremerton, WA 98310
As a transpersonal therapist and coach, the bulk of my work is holistic in nature. This means that we are working with your whole being (light and shadow, seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious, mind and soul) with the intention of healing old wounds and patterns—personally, ancestrally, collectively.
As a transpersonal therapist and coach, the bulk of my work is holistic in nature. This means that we are working with your whole being (light and shadow, seen and unseen, conscious and unconscious, mind and soul) with the intention of healing old wounds and patterns—personally, ancestrally, collectively.
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Photo of Ann Strickland, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Ann Strickland
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110
I specialize in trauma-sensitive, somatic and transpersonal modalities that support the alignment of the spiritual, cognitive, physical, creative and emotional self.
I work collaboratively with each client, offering a compassionate and supportive approach. I value the power of music, visual art, poetry and movement to reveal and cultivate the strengths and innate potential of each person.
I specialize in trauma-sensitive, somatic and transpersonal modalities that support the alignment of the spiritual, cognitive, physical, creative and emotional self.
I work collaboratively with each client, offering a compassionate and supportive approach. I value the power of music, visual art, poetry and movement to reveal and cultivate the strengths and innate potential of each person.
(206) 745-0503 View (206) 745-0503
Photo of Rachel Davis, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Rachel Davis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sammamish, WA 98075  (Online Only)
My expertise lies in Integral/Transpersonal therapy stemming from Eastern philosophies and Western Depth psychotherapy such as Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Existential, and Family Dynamics.
Are you struggling with making meaning in life and feeling depressed? Do you no longer want to be held back by past trauma? Do you feel dissatisfied and going through an existential crisis? Are you feeling anxious about world events? Do you want to take a more mindful, holistic approach to your healing process? Are you going through a spiritual crisis? I support adults with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, spiritual emergence and emergency, and other issues to heal and thrive. I have 9+ years of experience and offer Telehealth across Washington. My passion is supporting clients with strengthening their core self.
My expertise lies in Integral/Transpersonal therapy stemming from Eastern philosophies and Western Depth psychotherapy such as Psychodynamic, Gestalt, Existential, and Family Dynamics.
Are you struggling with making meaning in life and feeling depressed? Do you no longer want to be held back by past trauma? Do you feel dissatisfied and going through an existential crisis? Are you feeling anxious about world events? Do you want to take a more mindful, holistic approach to your healing process? Are you going through a spiritual crisis? I support adults with symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, spiritual emergence and emergency, and other issues to heal and thrive. I have 9+ years of experience and offer Telehealth across Washington. My passion is supporting clients with strengthening their core self.
(425) 434-9378 View (425) 434-9378
Photo of Madeleine (Maddi) Turner, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Madeleine (Maddi) Turner
Counselor, MA, LMHC-A
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98296  (Online Only)
I take a person-centered, transpersonal approach, and I view therapy as a collaborative process between myself and the client.
Are you feeling lost, untethered, or disconnected? Are you going through transitions that are causing you to question who you are and what you want in life? Did you used to feel very certain and confident and now struggle with indecision? Are you ready to peel back the layers and dive into the discomfort of the unknown? You've come to the right place. I work with clients who are ready to take healing into their own hands and be an active participant in the journey back to themselves.
I take a person-centered, transpersonal approach, and I view therapy as a collaborative process between myself and the client.
Are you feeling lost, untethered, or disconnected? Are you going through transitions that are causing you to question who you are and what you want in life? Did you used to feel very certain and confident and now struggle with indecision? Are you ready to peel back the layers and dive into the discomfort of the unknown? You've come to the right place. I work with clients who are ready to take healing into their own hands and be an active participant in the journey back to themselves.
(425) 215-0264 View (425) 215-0264
Photo of Justine Joslyn in Chehalis, WA
Justine Joslyn
MA
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
Prior to my careers as a therapist, coach and teacher, I worked in psychology research at the University of Washington & have continued my work as a transpersonal teacher/researcher.
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
Prior to my careers as a therapist, coach and teacher, I worked in psychology research at the University of Washington & have continued my work as a transpersonal teacher/researcher.
Hello! Since 2007, I have helped couples & families with communication and connection, using coaching, mediation & reconciliation. I also assist individuals recover from depression, anxiety, trauma, addiction & ADHD/ADD, with support through transitions such as divorce, loss, abuse recovery & existential or spiritual awakening. My style is flexible and tailored to your preferences, balancing compassion with real results. You'll learn skills that re-connect you with your wise inner guidance, creating steady, calm confidence & energizing you to make smart, bold moves towards your life, career & creative goals.
(360) 946-0941 View (360) 946-0941
Photo of Jessa White, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Jessa White
Counselor, LMCHA, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
MA; Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling- Naropa University, Colorado USA Positive Psychology- Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands Bachelor of Arts- Psychology, Central Washington University, Washington State RYT/ EFIT/ CCTP.
Monday at 4:00pm available in person or online- Thursday at 3:00 in person or online ———-I’ve found that therapy is most powerful when there is a combination of traditional western methodology and eastern philosophy practices. Together, we’ll discuss who you are. I’ll form questions that provide insight into your systems, and patterns. We’ll discuss family of origin. Time and time again. We’ll talk about diet; we’ll talk about love. We’ll discuss death. Together we’ll uncover aspects of your human experience and award you the opportunity to look further inward.
MA; Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling- Naropa University, Colorado USA Positive Psychology- Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands Bachelor of Arts- Psychology, Central Washington University, Washington State RYT/ EFIT/ CCTP.
Monday at 4:00pm available in person or online- Thursday at 3:00 in person or online ———-I’ve found that therapy is most powerful when there is a combination of traditional western methodology and eastern philosophy practices. Together, we’ll discuss who you are. I’ll form questions that provide insight into your systems, and patterns. We’ll discuss family of origin. Time and time again. We’ll talk about diet; we’ll talk about love. We’ll discuss death. Together we’ll uncover aspects of your human experience and award you the opportunity to look further inward.
(206) 761-0670 View (206) 761-0670
Photo of Clara Sherman, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Chehalis, WA
Clara Sherman
Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA, SUDPT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
If you are feeling disconnected from yourself and others, overwhelmed by your emotions, or feeling lost, you are in good company. Clara Sherman is a Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counselor. With her, you will dive deeply into your emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors to uncover what underlies your automatic self. She will guide you to discover new awarenesses within you, learn how to navigate challenging emotions, cultivate lasting self-compassion, and give you tools to grow your own inner exploration.
If you are feeling disconnected from yourself and others, overwhelmed by your emotions, or feeling lost, you are in good company. Clara Sherman is a Mindfulness-Based Transpersonal Counselor. With her, you will dive deeply into your emotions, thought patterns, and behaviors to uncover what underlies your automatic self. She will guide you to discover new awarenesses within you, learn how to navigate challenging emotions, cultivate lasting self-compassion, and give you tools to grow your own inner exploration.
(206) 785-3132 View (206) 785-3132
Photo of Lisa Vaughan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chehalis, WA
Lisa Vaughan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA, MACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
One of my goals is to assist you in accessing this deep evolutionary, and transpersonal orientation towards self-actualization or wholeness.
Healing is an intimate journey towards ever greater wholeness (acceptance, compassion, and integration of all parts of ourselves). I value the sacred opportunity to join alongside you. Therapy is a unique endeavor; one in which you the client and me as therapist collaborate to create a space for the unburdening of life’s stressors, of pain, grief, sorrow, and confusion as well as space to seek answers to existential questions about what gives life meaning; being witness to your growth as you unfurl, soften, and ultimately discover deeper compassion for self and others.
One of my goals is to assist you in accessing this deep evolutionary, and transpersonal orientation towards self-actualization or wholeness.
Healing is an intimate journey towards ever greater wholeness (acceptance, compassion, and integration of all parts of ourselves). I value the sacred opportunity to join alongside you. Therapy is a unique endeavor; one in which you the client and me as therapist collaborate to create a space for the unburdening of life’s stressors, of pain, grief, sorrow, and confusion as well as space to seek answers to existential questions about what gives life meaning; being witness to your growth as you unfurl, soften, and ultimately discover deeper compassion for self and others.
(206) 759-2369 View (206) 759-2369
Photo of Erika Laurentz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Erika Laurentz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPsych, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98506  (Online Only)
Therapy takes many forms. Sometimes, it is quick and transformational. Sometimes, it’s slow and gentle, so as not to overwhelm your nervous system. Together, we will craft an approach that work best for you. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, couples therapy, hypnotherapy, and Shamanic Healing. Although Shamanic Healing is typically outside of the scope of behavioral health, I use my training to work with metaphor, which is the language our limbic brains understand best. And, my experiences in Shamanic Healing inform my work in transpersonal therapy.
Therapy takes many forms. Sometimes, it is quick and transformational. Sometimes, it’s slow and gentle, so as not to overwhelm your nervous system. Together, we will craft an approach that work best for you. I have extensive training in trauma therapy, couples therapy, hypnotherapy, and Shamanic Healing. Although Shamanic Healing is typically outside of the scope of behavioral health, I use my training to work with metaphor, which is the language our limbic brains understand best. And, my experiences in Shamanic Healing inform my work in transpersonal therapy.
(844) 571-5035 View (844) 571-5035
Photo of Jacqueline Conquest, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Jacqueline Conquest
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sammamish, WA 98075
Transpersonal Therapy and Intuitively i have integrated, Vibrational Energy Medicine into my practice for over 35+ years.
Telehealth & Over 35+yrs professional experience. If you are open to exploring and accessing your inner wisdom, knowing & releasing what does not serve you & understanding what is preventing you from your sense of well being then I can assist you in your process of enfoldment & self empowerment. You have your own inner wisdom to access. If you are feeling stuck, depressed, stressed, anxious, or struggle with low-self esteem, addictions, negative destructive thinking or relationships, unhappy with your sense of self, life, profession or whatever my intention is to help you discover your empowerment and freedom to be your trueself.
Transpersonal Therapy and Intuitively i have integrated, Vibrational Energy Medicine into my practice for over 35+ years.
Telehealth & Over 35+yrs professional experience. If you are open to exploring and accessing your inner wisdom, knowing & releasing what does not serve you & understanding what is preventing you from your sense of well being then I can assist you in your process of enfoldment & self empowerment. You have your own inner wisdom to access. If you are feeling stuck, depressed, stressed, anxious, or struggle with low-self esteem, addictions, negative destructive thinking or relationships, unhappy with your sense of self, life, profession or whatever my intention is to help you discover your empowerment and freedom to be your trueself.
(206) 462-5935 View (206) 462-5935
Photo of Mukti Khanna, Psychologist in Chehalis, WA
Mukti Khanna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
I work from humanistic, multicultural and transpersonal psychology paradigms to provide psychotherapy, person centered expressive arts therapy and psycheducational consultation to support well being for individuals, families and communities.
Have you ever wondered how you can become a more active participant in your own healthcare? Mind-Body Medicine Psychology can provide a biopsychosocial perspective to help alleviate individual and intergenerational trauma, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, spiritual emergence and other health related concerns. Learning to regulate your nervous system through mindfulness based practices, expressive arts therapy and energy psychology can decrease stress, enhance emotional well being and self care for both the person who has a health challenge and their caregivers or family members.
I work from humanistic, multicultural and transpersonal psychology paradigms to provide psychotherapy, person centered expressive arts therapy and psycheducational consultation to support well being for individuals, families and communities.
Have you ever wondered how you can become a more active participant in your own healthcare? Mind-Body Medicine Psychology can provide a biopsychosocial perspective to help alleviate individual and intergenerational trauma, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, spiritual emergence and other health related concerns. Learning to regulate your nervous system through mindfulness based practices, expressive arts therapy and energy psychology can decrease stress, enhance emotional well being and self care for both the person who has a health challenge and their caregivers or family members.
(360) 529-4935 View (360) 529-4935
Photo of Gretchen Burkholder, Counselor in Chehalis, WA
Gretchen Burkholder
Counselor, MA, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Vashon, WA 98070
I draw upon a variety of theories such as family systems, transpersonal theory, mindfulness cognitive behavioral, art therapy and other modalities.
I believe everyone has the ability to transform and grow into their fullest potential. I bring compassion and intuitive wisdom to help you find the courage and healing to fully become your true authentic and thriving self. I create a compassionate and empathetic space in which you can feel safe to explore whatever brings you into therapy. I enjoy working with adults, with a special interest in individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and shame, or are adjusting to change.
I draw upon a variety of theories such as family systems, transpersonal theory, mindfulness cognitive behavioral, art therapy and other modalities.
I believe everyone has the ability to transform and grow into their fullest potential. I bring compassion and intuitive wisdom to help you find the courage and healing to fully become your true authentic and thriving self. I create a compassionate and empathetic space in which you can feel safe to explore whatever brings you into therapy. I enjoy working with adults, with a special interest in individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, grief, and shame, or are adjusting to change.
(206) 735-4867 View (206) 735-4867
Photo of Brenda Ruttenberg, Psychologist in Chehalis, WA
Brenda Ruttenberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98290
Use of hypnotherapy, visualization, and art therapy, in addition to, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Transpersonal and Humanistic techniques.
My clients seek counseling, guidance, support and new skills to resolve issues. We work together to explore personal and family relationships which can include work-related problems and trauma. A deeper understanding results. We work on improving communication skills, perspectives and attitudes. With therapy, self confidence and depressive states show improvement. I specialize in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, and chronic health issues in a safe and comfortable environment. I work mainly with adults of all ages and orientations.
Use of hypnotherapy, visualization, and art therapy, in addition to, Interpersonal, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Transpersonal and Humanistic techniques.
My clients seek counseling, guidance, support and new skills to resolve issues. We work together to explore personal and family relationships which can include work-related problems and trauma. A deeper understanding results. We work on improving communication skills, perspectives and attitudes. With therapy, self confidence and depressive states show improvement. I specialize in the treatment of depression and mood disorders, anxiety, panic, trauma, PTSD, and chronic health issues in a safe and comfortable environment. I work mainly with adults of all ages and orientations.
(206) 745-0939 View (206) 745-0939
Photo of Audrey Comber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Audrey Comber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, PPSC
Verified Verified
Mukilteo, WA 98275  (Online Only)
I am positive psychology, transpersonal psychology, and narrative therapy based.
If you have struggled with trauma related to childhood abuse, dysfunction, attachment issues; and/or interpersonal violence (domestic abuse, sexual abuse) I can help! I also specialize in helping clients diagnosed with BPD unpack and heal their underlying trauma. In working with me, you will learn how to HEAL your trauma without constant use of coping skills to dull the pain. First session is free.
I am positive psychology, transpersonal psychology, and narrative therapy based.
If you have struggled with trauma related to childhood abuse, dysfunction, attachment issues; and/or interpersonal violence (domestic abuse, sexual abuse) I can help! I also specialize in helping clients diagnosed with BPD unpack and heal their underlying trauma. In working with me, you will learn how to HEAL your trauma without constant use of coping skills to dull the pain. First session is free.
(425) 470-5882 View (425) 470-5882
Photo of Rainer Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chehalis, WA
Rainer Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I pull from multiple modalities but my primary focus is based in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) , Functional Remediation for bipolar disorder, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy.
Have you reached a point where your own will has sabotaged your life? Either recognizing how small you are in the grand scheme of things, lack of ability to transcend stagnancy or break free from bad habits or symptoms that rob you of joy? I have found the difference between being alive and living is rooted in transcending your identity (or sense of self ) beyond one dimensional perspectives, and I utilize the medium of color (and archetypes) to create a bridge between the conscious and unconscious world that exists within, among, and around you.
I pull from multiple modalities but my primary focus is based in Cognitive Enhancement Therapy (CET) , Functional Remediation for bipolar disorder, and Transpersonal Psychotherapy.
Have you reached a point where your own will has sabotaged your life? Either recognizing how small you are in the grand scheme of things, lack of ability to transcend stagnancy or break free from bad habits or symptoms that rob you of joy? I have found the difference between being alive and living is rooted in transcending your identity (or sense of self ) beyond one dimensional perspectives, and I utilize the medium of color (and archetypes) to create a bridge between the conscious and unconscious world that exists within, among, and around you.
(206) 337-4521 View (206) 337-4521

See more therapy options for Chehalis


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.