Feminist Therapists in Ventura County, CA

Photo of Hayley Willis, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura County, CA
Hayley Willis
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Hayley utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which includes narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, feminist therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Text or Call (747) 666-7331. Being present with people during their most trying times and witnessing their transformation is what Hayley is most passionate about. Her goal is to give people a chance to be seen, to be heard, to utilize their unique strengths and resources, and to ultimately thrive. Marriage and Family therapists work with a wide range of individuals, not just families and couples, so your story, your experiences, are welcome, and you deserve a safe space to heal and to grow. If you are interested in additional resources, then you can follow Hayley's professional Facebook and Instagram pages called: Heartwood Therapy.
Hayley utilizes an integrative, strength-based approach, which includes narrative therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, feminist therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
Text or Call (747) 666-7331. Being present with people during their most trying times and witnessing their transformation is what Hayley is most passionate about. Her goal is to give people a chance to be seen, to be heard, to utilize their unique strengths and resources, and to ultimately thrive. Marriage and Family therapists work with a wide range of individuals, not just families and couples, so your story, your experiences, are welcome, and you deserve a safe space to heal and to grow. If you are interested in additional resources, then you can follow Hayley's professional Facebook and Instagram pages called: Heartwood Therapy.
(310) 818-7205 View (310) 818-7205
Photo of Elizabeth Vines, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Elizabeth Vines
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360  (Online Only)
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
I specialize in complex trauma, phobias/anxiety, and chronic illness for adults and teens. Many of my clients are recovering from developmental trauma, learning to soothe overactive nervous systems, and hoping to identify and express their needs in a new way. My work is depth oriented, empowering, feminist, compassion focused, and client-centered. I work well with artists and creative types, perfectionists, high achievers, those who identify as highly sensitive, and those who suffer from chronic illness.
(424) 622-8418 View (424) 622-8418
Photo of Be Curious Therapy, Jean Pappalardo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Be Curious Therapy, Jean Pappalardo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93002  (Online Only)
I work through an intersectional, feminist, and social justice lens.
I work with clients in CA and FL. I provide individual (not couples) therapy to curious people who are ready to get to work! I specialize in working with Black, POC, & LGBTQIA+ individuals and Fat/bigger-bodied people of all genders.
I work through an intersectional, feminist, and social justice lens.
I work with clients in CA and FL. I provide individual (not couples) therapy to curious people who are ready to get to work! I specialize in working with Black, POC, & LGBTQIA+ individuals and Fat/bigger-bodied people of all genders.
(310) 425-3783 View (310) 425-3783
Photo of Kathleen Ekins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Kathleen Ekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
(805) 263-1373 View (805) 263-1373
Photo of Carla Korn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Carla Korn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
You've been struggling for far too long obsessing about food and your body. You are ready for a change. It's time. Maybe you've been stuck restricting, emotional eating, binging, or over-exercising. You work hard to stick to the plan, but you just feel like you can’t be trusted around food. On the outside, everything looks great. People think you “have it all” but inside it feels like you’re a total fraud. Each day, you're determined to do things differently, to finally get things “under control,” but you're trapped on this never-ending cycle. You know there's got to be a better way, but you have no idea where to start.
You've been struggling for far too long obsessing about food and your body. You are ready for a change. It's time. Maybe you've been stuck restricting, emotional eating, binging, or over-exercising. You work hard to stick to the plan, but you just feel like you can’t be trusted around food. On the outside, everything looks great. People think you “have it all” but inside it feels like you’re a total fraud. Each day, you're determined to do things differently, to finally get things “under control,” but you're trapped on this never-ending cycle. You know there's got to be a better way, but you have no idea where to start.
(818) 584-1021 View (818) 584-1021
Photo of Allison Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura County, CA
Allison Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Are you struggling to navigate the intricate emotions of life, grappling with relationship challenges, battling negative self-image, or just feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? If you're seeking a turning point toward a path to self-discovery and personal growth, therapy may be the next step in fostering meaningful insights, cultivating resilience, and building a foundation for positive change in your life.
Are you struggling to navigate the intricate emotions of life, grappling with relationship challenges, battling negative self-image, or just feeling overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? If you're seeking a turning point toward a path to self-discovery and personal growth, therapy may be the next step in fostering meaningful insights, cultivating resilience, and building a foundation for positive change in your life.
(424) 397-2619 View (424) 397-2619
Photo of Dr. Tracy Bennett, Psychologist in Ventura County, CA
Dr. Tracy Bennett
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93010
When life gets complicated you may need a safe, confidential space to figure things out with an experienced, nonjudgmental expert you trust. I've had a successful practice for over 25 yrs. Because each client and situation is unique, I've learned what it takes to help clients thrive. Using goal-oriented psychotherapy, I offer a prescriptive combination of strategies based on preference. By gaining insight into emotional and behavioral responses and applying best-fit coping skills, my clients get the relief they need to not just move through the challenges, but beyond them.
When life gets complicated you may need a safe, confidential space to figure things out with an experienced, nonjudgmental expert you trust. I've had a successful practice for over 25 yrs. Because each client and situation is unique, I've learned what it takes to help clients thrive. Using goal-oriented psychotherapy, I offer a prescriptive combination of strategies based on preference. By gaining insight into emotional and behavioral responses and applying best-fit coping skills, my clients get the relief they need to not just move through the challenges, but beyond them.
(805) 413-4674 View (805) 413-4674
Photo of Karyn Noel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Karyn Noel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oxnard, CA 93036  (Online Only)
Our inner critics can be relentless and cruel. We talk to ourselves in ways we would NEVER consider speaking to a friend. And as if our own inner monologues weren't enough, there's the constant bombardment of messaging from all directions about what we need to "fix" to be good enough. All that noise is enough to make even the most grounded person feel hopeless at times. But these critics are not our true voices. They have been sculpted by abusive and oppressive systems that were built to keep us distracted, submissive, and compliant.
Our inner critics can be relentless and cruel. We talk to ourselves in ways we would NEVER consider speaking to a friend. And as if our own inner monologues weren't enough, there's the constant bombardment of messaging from all directions about what we need to "fix" to be good enough. All that noise is enough to make even the most grounded person feel hopeless at times. But these critics are not our true voices. They have been sculpted by abusive and oppressive systems that were built to keep us distracted, submissive, and compliant.
(805) 902-4237 View (805) 902-4237
Photo of Suzanne Perry, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Ventura County, CA
Suzanne Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Have you tried dealing with things on your own but need to reach out to a professional for yourself, your relationship, your child, or your family? You don't have to do this alone. I will work with you to help you find tools to help you build resilience and coping skills, while enhancing your well-being, in a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space.
Have you tried dealing with things on your own but need to reach out to a professional for yourself, your relationship, your child, or your family? You don't have to do this alone. I will work with you to help you find tools to help you build resilience and coping skills, while enhancing your well-being, in a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental space.
(805) 214-6079 View (805) 214-6079
Photo of Brid Power, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Brid Power
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Camarillo, CA 93012
My name is Brid Power, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) living in Chico, California, and working with clients throughout the state. I work with adults and specialize in supporting clients as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and a myriad of life transitions, stressors, and traumas. I utilize a strength-based approach to assist you in getting to where you would like to be. I utilize a combination of therapies including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
My name is Brid Power, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) living in Chico, California, and working with clients throughout the state. I work with adults and specialize in supporting clients as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and a myriad of life transitions, stressors, and traumas. I utilize a strength-based approach to assist you in getting to where you would like to be. I utilize a combination of therapies including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy.
(805) 262-9463 View (805) 262-9463
Photo of Ruth Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Ruth Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Want to learn how you can stop feeling so anxious or depressed, and feel more joy and less stress? Maybe you’ve had symptoms of anxiety, or panic attacks that seem to come from nowhere. Sleep problems. Losing motivation and focus. Obsessive thinking. Many people first try to get help by going to the doctor for medication. Others use alcohol or marijuana to cope. These may provide some relief, but they might not address the underlying issues. Or perhaps you are looking for help with a relationship issue. Are you experiencing an escalation of conflict, or feeling disconnected and drifting apart, or too focused on work or the kids?
Want to learn how you can stop feeling so anxious or depressed, and feel more joy and less stress? Maybe you’ve had symptoms of anxiety, or panic attacks that seem to come from nowhere. Sleep problems. Losing motivation and focus. Obsessive thinking. Many people first try to get help by going to the doctor for medication. Others use alcohol or marijuana to cope. These may provide some relief, but they might not address the underlying issues. Or perhaps you are looking for help with a relationship issue. Are you experiencing an escalation of conflict, or feeling disconnected and drifting apart, or too focused on work or the kids?
(805) 467-7319 View (805) 467-7319
Photo of Alan Richard Valdes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Alan Richard Valdes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
One who is experiencing any type of relationship issue, that is wanting to work on themselves and continue to strengthen either themselves or their relationship by working through the challenges that have exposed areas of growth in the individual.
One who is experiencing any type of relationship issue, that is wanting to work on themselves and continue to strengthen either themselves or their relationship by working through the challenges that have exposed areas of growth in the individual.
(805) 429-8637 View (805) 429-8637
Photo of Susan LaCroix, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Susan LaCroix
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ojai, CA 93023
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
I provide compassionate guidance and support to individuals and couples who want to confront challenges, gain insight, and improve relationships and communication. I especially enjoy working with adults of all ages who are navigating life transitions, such as entering adulthood, facing midlife, changing careers, ending long-term relationships, or adjusting to an "empty nest." No matter what issues are being addressed, I bring a calm presence, a nonjudgmental attitude, curiosity, and a sense of humor.
(510) 996-5573 View (510) 996-5573
Photo of Christine A. Harrington, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Christine A. Harrington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
I appreciate very much that you are taking the time to read my page today! I take my job very seriously and thoughtfully and have the utmost respect for your desire to find some help for yourself or a loved one. I think that your story is important. Both professionally and personally, I know that feeling Depressed or Anxious or a combination of both can really effect our lives. Though I work with all ages, I tend to see Teens and Young Adults as well as Couples and Families in addressing issues resulting from these conditions.
I appreciate very much that you are taking the time to read my page today! I take my job very seriously and thoughtfully and have the utmost respect for your desire to find some help for yourself or a loved one. I think that your story is important. Both professionally and personally, I know that feeling Depressed or Anxious or a combination of both can really effect our lives. Though I work with all ages, I tend to see Teens and Young Adults as well as Couples and Families in addressing issues resulting from these conditions.
(805) 725-5373 View (805) 725-5373
Photo of Dana Fortier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Dana Fortier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93065
Hello there! I am Dana Suzanne Fortier and am a licensed clinical social worker and registered nurse seeing clients in California via telehealth sessions. I believe in the power of good therapy to help all of us to live the rich and fulfilling lives we deserve. Too often people settle for less than their dreams and then quietly slip into a grey world of indifference and resignation. Or they find they have chased the wrong dreams and are uncertain about how to make the changes their hearts and minds demand. If this describes you, therapy with me can help you.
Hello there! I am Dana Suzanne Fortier and am a licensed clinical social worker and registered nurse seeing clients in California via telehealth sessions. I believe in the power of good therapy to help all of us to live the rich and fulfilling lives we deserve. Too often people settle for less than their dreams and then quietly slip into a grey world of indifference and resignation. Or they find they have chased the wrong dreams and are uncertain about how to make the changes their hearts and minds demand. If this describes you, therapy with me can help you.
(805) 301-6656 View (805) 301-6656
Photo of Mallory Hepp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Mallory Hepp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
Welcome! Are you struggling with your food, weight or body image? Are your relationships strained? I believe that transformation is possible. Even the toughest problems can be improved as we explore challenges in the context of a safe, therapeutic relationship. I believe that in order to make and sustain meaningful changes, we need a non-judgmental environment where one feels understood. My goal is to work with you to explore your hopes and desires, to honor your efforts and accomplishments, to sit with you in discomfort and pain, and to help you create a path that brings meaning, depth and connection to your life.
Welcome! Are you struggling with your food, weight or body image? Are your relationships strained? I believe that transformation is possible. Even the toughest problems can be improved as we explore challenges in the context of a safe, therapeutic relationship. I believe that in order to make and sustain meaningful changes, we need a non-judgmental environment where one feels understood. My goal is to work with you to explore your hopes and desires, to honor your efforts and accomplishments, to sit with you in discomfort and pain, and to help you create a path that brings meaning, depth and connection to your life.
(747) 246-7912 View (747) 246-7912
Photo of Linda Lavagnino, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Linda Lavagnino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Thousand Oaks, CA 91362  (Online Only)
Reaching out for help can feel like a matter of life and death. You might delay the call, hoping that whatever is wrong will go away. Unfortunately, profound suffering usually can’t be wished away. It needs to be confronted directly. Though perhaps not obvious, suffering internally or in your relationships may be an expression of unresolved childhood wounds. Now is the time to heal those wounds and reclaim your authentic self.
Reaching out for help can feel like a matter of life and death. You might delay the call, hoping that whatever is wrong will go away. Unfortunately, profound suffering usually can’t be wished away. It needs to be confronted directly. Though perhaps not obvious, suffering internally or in your relationships may be an expression of unresolved childhood wounds. Now is the time to heal those wounds and reclaim your authentic self.
(747) 233-0207 View (747) 233-0207
Photo of Judith C McMahon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Judith C McMahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Simi Valley, CA 93063
Being in practice for over 25 years and having worked with individuals of all ages, couples, and families in various settings. I approach my work with clients from a place of genuine courtesy and understanding. I aim to provide a safe space where we can discuss the challenges getting in the way of achieving one's goals, and creating a sustainable support system for lasting changes in one's life.
Being in practice for over 25 years and having worked with individuals of all ages, couples, and families in various settings. I approach my work with clients from a place of genuine courtesy and understanding. I aim to provide a safe space where we can discuss the challenges getting in the way of achieving one's goals, and creating a sustainable support system for lasting changes in one's life.
(805) 243-2196 View (805) 243-2196
Photo of Dr. Ray Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Dr. Ray Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oak Park, CA 91377
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is the EXPERT of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. Many times therapists tend to talk about their ideal client...this seems backwards to me...why does it matter about the therapists' needs? Clients should be empowered to seek out their ideal therapist and what the therapist has to offer them individually, their family, spouse, partner, children, etc.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. My therapeutic philosophy is that individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. Each person is the EXPERT of their own life; not anyone else. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own dedication and hard work. Many times therapists tend to talk about their ideal client...this seems backwards to me...why does it matter about the therapists' needs? Clients should be empowered to seek out their ideal therapist and what the therapist has to offer them individually, their family, spouse, partner, children, etc.
(818) 485-2998 View (818) 485-2998
Photo of Joshua Sage Kendrick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Ventura County, CA
Joshua Sage Kendrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
My approach to therapy is helping people explore thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns between themselves, & our surroundings. Counseling will often be a guided process of how I can help clients utilize their coping skills & strength based tools that people may learn to employ immediately. Sessions are structured around evidence based techniques. I have extensive experience working with lgbtq+ issues surrounding gender identity & sexual orientation. I also have a background working with individuals, couples & families of loved ones dealing with various life changes, including depression, grief, addiction, & mental illnesses.
My approach to therapy is helping people explore thoughts, feelings and behavioral patterns between themselves, & our surroundings. Counseling will often be a guided process of how I can help clients utilize their coping skills & strength based tools that people may learn to employ immediately. Sessions are structured around evidence based techniques. I have extensive experience working with lgbtq+ issues surrounding gender identity & sexual orientation. I also have a background working with individuals, couples & families of loved ones dealing with various life changes, including depression, grief, addiction, & mental illnesses.
(805) 804-3650 View (805) 804-3650

See more therapy options for Ventura County

Feminist Therapists

How does feminist therapy work?

Feminist therapy sessions are not only personal but often cultural or political in nature, as the approach is based on the belief that people are affected by, and often struggle with, cultural and societal norms and biases, and need to move beyond those external pressures or stressors to tap their own confidence and engage more fully in their own identity. Sessions may therefore include discussions of sexism, diversity, and gender issues and talk of steps toward greater empowerment for patients who believe they have been silenced and seek to raise their voices.

What are examples of feminist therapy techniques?

Along with traditional talk therapy and analysis, a feminist therapist may employ techniques such as role-playing and assertiveness training to help clients build their self-esteem so that they feel they can act freely, and not based on cultural expectations or gender roles dictated by others. A feminist therapist may also engage in bibliotherapy, offering suggested readings on gender identity or social power inequities as they work toward viewing mental-health concerns through a broad cultural lens before focusing on how they affect the individual. Somatic therapy techniques, with an emphasis on body awareness, self-compassion, and mindfulness practices are also often part of feminist therapist practice.

How long does feminist therapy last?

As with most forms of talk therapy, there is no set duration or end point for feminist therapy; people who believe that they are making progress typically continue until they feel they’ve addressed the issues that had been holding them back. It may take some time to become comfortable discussing personal issues, but once a client feels they can do so, they could expect therapy to last for a number of months, typically including at least 12 sessions.

Does feminist therapy work?

As a relatively recent therapeutic technique, there is not yet a body of evidence proving the efficacy of feminist therapy. However, the approach is based on proven core principles of talk therapy, with a particular emphasis on developing a therapeutic relationship based on equality and authentic connection between therapist and client and discovering and building on clients’ personal strengths to help them gain a greater sense of personal power and agency.