Feminist Therapists in Washington, DC

Photo of Kathryn Wagner, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Kathryn Wagner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20010
Psychotherapy can help you make sense of complicated feelings, gain insight into relational patterns, and begin to move forward in areas of your life where you feel stuck. My focus is to help you untangle struggles, set meaningful goals, revise problematic narratives about yourself, and re-orient you toward your values. My integrative approach is informed by psychodynamic, feminist, multicultural, relational, and behaviorist theories. Above all, I value the therapeutic relationship and your personal growth. I offer therapy, assessment, and gender affirming evaluation services in person and remotely.
Psychotherapy can help you make sense of complicated feelings, gain insight into relational patterns, and begin to move forward in areas of your life where you feel stuck. My focus is to help you untangle struggles, set meaningful goals, revise problematic narratives about yourself, and re-orient you toward your values. My integrative approach is informed by psychodynamic, feminist, multicultural, relational, and behaviorist theories. Above all, I value the therapeutic relationship and your personal growth. I offer therapy, assessment, and gender affirming evaluation services in person and remotely.
(202) 729-9130 View (202) 729-9130
Photo of Eclectic DC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Eclectic DC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C, WPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as an ethicist; a Womanist who advocates and practices feminist ideals, cultural humility through continuous learning, bodily integrity, reproductive justice, sex work is work, pacifism by utilizing non-violent resistance techniques. I believe children have rights, whistleblowers are vital in society, I embrace LGBTQ+, Black Lives Matter is factual, and representation matters. I practice mindfulness with the philosophy of ‘margin to center’ action. I embody, advocate, and support activism in action and respect of human rights. Neither ever ends, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. We must remain firmly resolved
I identify as an ethicist; a Womanist who advocates and practices feminist ideals, cultural humility through continuous learning, bodily integrity, reproductive justice, sex work is work, pacifism by utilizing non-violent resistance techniques. I believe children have rights, whistleblowers are vital in society, I embrace LGBTQ+, Black Lives Matter is factual, and representation matters. I practice mindfulness with the philosophy of ‘margin to center’ action. I embody, advocate, and support activism in action and respect of human rights. Neither ever ends, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. We must remain firmly resolved
(202) 968-3652 View (202) 968-3652
Photo of Leah Liszka, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Leah Liszka
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I believe that we all have the resources to succeed within ourselves. Therapy connects us to our strengths and our resilience. As a client-centered therapist, I am honored to collaborate with you and help you reach your mental health goals. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing individual therapy to adults with a wide range of life experiences, including the LGBTQ+ community. I am body- and sex- positive, kink-aware, and poly-friendly, and my practice philosophy is grounded in intersectional and feminist theory.
I believe that we all have the resources to succeed within ourselves. Therapy connects us to our strengths and our resilience. As a client-centered therapist, I am honored to collaborate with you and help you reach your mental health goals. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience providing individual therapy to adults with a wide range of life experiences, including the LGBTQ+ community. I am body- and sex- positive, kink-aware, and poly-friendly, and my practice philosophy is grounded in intersectional and feminist theory.
(202) 417-7868 View (202) 417-7868
Photo of Emily Worthington, Counselor in Washington, DC
Emily Worthington
Counselor, M Ed, LGPC, LRC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I provide skills-based therapy using an integrative CBT and DBT approach, along with more traditional talk therapy informed by Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, and Feminist Theory.
Currently accepting new clients! My clients often begin therapy having identified some aspect of their life that is no longer serving them and wanting to make a change. As a licensed graduate professional counselor, I work with adolescents (starting at age 15) and adults who struggle with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, gender and sexual identity development, self harm, and attachment trauma. I aim to create a safe and secure therapeutic space where clients can not only imagine their ideal life, but start to turn that image into reality.
I provide skills-based therapy using an integrative CBT and DBT approach, along with more traditional talk therapy informed by Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, and Feminist Theory.
Currently accepting new clients! My clients often begin therapy having identified some aspect of their life that is no longer serving them and wanting to make a change. As a licensed graduate professional counselor, I work with adolescents (starting at age 15) and adults who struggle with eating disorders, anxiety, depression, gender and sexual identity development, self harm, and attachment trauma. I aim to create a safe and secure therapeutic space where clients can not only imagine their ideal life, but start to turn that image into reality.
(202) 796-7187 View (202) 796-7187
Photo of Matt Worhach, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Matt Worhach
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036
I also utilize elements of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Feminist therapy.
Welcome to my profile! I'm a compassionate and dedicated psychologist with 12 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals break free from repetitive and "stuck" thought patterns that may be hindering their personal growth and well-being. Our minds have a tendency to get caught in loops of negative or unhelpful thoughts, which can create distress and limit our ability to thrive. I believe in empowering individuals to challenge and move beyond these patterns, allowing them to embrace new perspectives.
I also utilize elements of ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and Feminist therapy.
Welcome to my profile! I'm a compassionate and dedicated psychologist with 12 years of experience. I specialize in helping individuals break free from repetitive and "stuck" thought patterns that may be hindering their personal growth and well-being. Our minds have a tendency to get caught in loops of negative or unhelpful thoughts, which can create distress and limit our ability to thrive. I believe in empowering individuals to challenge and move beyond these patterns, allowing them to embrace new perspectives.
(202) 499-4555 View (202) 499-4555
Photo of LaNesha' Parker in Washington, DC
LaNesha' Parker
MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20045  (Online Only)
Utilizing a holistic mindset, a culturally sensitive approach, and scientific-based therapeutic techniques and interventions like Emotionally-Focused, Somatic, Narrative, Solution-Focused, Feminist, & Sensate therapy for your healing journey.
Are you dramatic or is it stress or anxiety or fears...or dare I say trauma? Or have you noticed a pattern in you that cannot quite distinguish where it came from or how to overcome it? It can be difficult to navigate life outside of self in your inner world feels unbalanced. An unbalanced inner world tends to affect your day-to-day life, relationships (familial, romantic, or platonic,) careers, and goals. This can feel life-altering when all you crave is peace. Oftentimes, marginalized groups of people are not given the same grace as our counterparts. This is a space to express your innermost thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Utilizing a holistic mindset, a culturally sensitive approach, and scientific-based therapeutic techniques and interventions like Emotionally-Focused, Somatic, Narrative, Solution-Focused, Feminist, & Sensate therapy for your healing journey.
Are you dramatic or is it stress or anxiety or fears...or dare I say trauma? Or have you noticed a pattern in you that cannot quite distinguish where it came from or how to overcome it? It can be difficult to navigate life outside of self in your inner world feels unbalanced. An unbalanced inner world tends to affect your day-to-day life, relationships (familial, romantic, or platonic,) careers, and goals. This can feel life-altering when all you crave is peace. Oftentimes, marginalized groups of people are not given the same grace as our counterparts. This is a space to express your innermost thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
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Photo of Ayelet Silberberg, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Ayelet Silberberg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20011  (Online Only)
I work through a racially aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, feminist, fat-positive, neurodiversity affirming, and disability justice lens.
I am a trauma-informed psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I work with adults who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their worlds, and those who want to heal from relational wounds or complicated childhoods. As a relational therapist, I value getting to know my clients as human beings first and foremost, while supporting them in creating a path towards authentic healing and growth. I see clients with depression, anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), relationship issues, low self-esteem, trouble expressing emotions, and experiences around gender, sexuality, and identity.
I work through a racially aware, LGBTQIA+ affirming, feminist, fat-positive, neurodiversity affirming, and disability justice lens.
I am a trauma-informed psychologist with over 10 years of experience. I work with adults who seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their worlds, and those who want to heal from relational wounds or complicated childhoods. As a relational therapist, I value getting to know my clients as human beings first and foremost, while supporting them in creating a path towards authentic healing and growth. I see clients with depression, anxiety, CPTSD (complex trauma), relationship issues, low self-esteem, trouble expressing emotions, and experiences around gender, sexuality, and identity.
(202) 217-0741 View (202) 217-0741
Photo of Dr. Delishia Pittman, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Delishia Pittman
Psychologist, PhD, MPH, ABPP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Delishia Pittman, Founder & Clinical Director of The Wellness Collective. I applaud you for taking this brave step toward finding support to work through the issues that concern you most. It is my personal belief that humans have an innate capacity to heal and orientation toward growth. I subscribe to an integrative multicultural orientation and rely heavily on the language and interventions of relational cultural, feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to establish a sense of felt security and empowerment with the goal of managing presenting concerns and fostering growth and wellbeing.
I'm Dr. Delishia Pittman, Founder & Clinical Director of The Wellness Collective. I applaud you for taking this brave step toward finding support to work through the issues that concern you most. It is my personal belief that humans have an innate capacity to heal and orientation toward growth. I subscribe to an integrative multicultural orientation and rely heavily on the language and interventions of relational cultural, feminist and psychodynamic theories. I work to establish a sense of felt security and empowerment with the goal of managing presenting concerns and fostering growth and wellbeing.
(202) 930-9820 View (202) 930-9820
Photo of Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD, Sex, Therapi
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
I am trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, and incorporate psychoanalytic, feminist, humanistic, and pet therapy.
I am the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW). We provide individual, group, couples, family therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, dietitians, acupuncture, personal training, massage therapy, and teaching. Our approach to care is client centered. We help to figure out your unique individual needs and tailor treatment to you. I am a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and completing a PhD in Sexology. I specialize in working with all things sex related, LGBTQ+, social justice, mood disorders, eating concerns, body image, relationships, couples counseling, and group therapy.
I am trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy, and incorporate psychoanalytic, feminist, humanistic, and pet therapy.
I am the owner and CEO of the Capital Center for Psychotherapy and Wellness (CCPW). We provide individual, group, couples, family therapy, psychological testing, psychiatry, dietitians, acupuncture, personal training, massage therapy, and teaching. Our approach to care is client centered. We help to figure out your unique individual needs and tailor treatment to you. I am a clinical psychologist, certified sex therapist, and completing a PhD in Sexology. I specialize in working with all things sex related, LGBTQ+, social justice, mood disorders, eating concerns, body image, relationships, couples counseling, and group therapy.
(202) 759-6364 View (202) 759-6364
Photo of Micki Duran, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Micki Duran
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002
I strive to understand a person through their experiences, their own thoughts and feelings, and external factors, which mainly is through a multicultural and feminist lens.
I work with clients who are navigating discovering who they are as a person; who struggle with being heard or expressing themselves in interpersonal relationships; who have had difficult experiences that may make them feel overwhelmed to think of, let alone discuss. It can be difficult to even know where to start, and that is okay. I commend and welcome clients who are taking that first unsure step in therapy, or are continuing treatment to continue their journey towards a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
I strive to understand a person through their experiences, their own thoughts and feelings, and external factors, which mainly is through a multicultural and feminist lens.
I work with clients who are navigating discovering who they are as a person; who struggle with being heard or expressing themselves in interpersonal relationships; who have had difficult experiences that may make them feel overwhelmed to think of, let alone discuss. It can be difficult to even know where to start, and that is okay. I commend and welcome clients who are taking that first unsure step in therapy, or are continuing treatment to continue their journey towards a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.
(202) 929-0942 View (202) 929-0942
Photo of Imani Shanklin Roberts | Mind Body Art Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Imani Shanklin Roberts | Mind Body Art Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ATR-P
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I have a person-centered approach that is grounded in Humanism, Social Justice Competencies, Feminist Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
“True mastery of life’s tasks depends upon a disciplined freedom, whose model may be found in the artistic process (Edith Kramer).” As an Art Therapist, I desire to guide your artistic process as you come to your means of liberation, grounding, self-awareness, and inner peace. In our practice, we will work to develop personalized creative tools to work through all you may be seeking in therapy.
I have a person-centered approach that is grounded in Humanism, Social Justice Competencies, Feminist Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
“True mastery of life’s tasks depends upon a disciplined freedom, whose model may be found in the artistic process (Edith Kramer).” As an Art Therapist, I desire to guide your artistic process as you come to your means of liberation, grounding, self-awareness, and inner peace. In our practice, we will work to develop personalized creative tools to work through all you may be seeking in therapy.
(240) 670-1793 View (240) 670-1793
Photo of Lindsay Summers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lindsay Summers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Maryland, DC, and South Carolina. I approach my practice through a lens of anti-oppression, feminist, and queer theory. Recognizing the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship, I emphasize client-centered therapy that values and honors all aspects of my clients' identities. I continuously strive to address my power and privilege, serving as an ally to BIPOC, disabled individuals, sex workers, those living in poverty, fat/larger bodied individuals, immigrants, houseless individuals, the aging population, individuals under the age of 18, and those who are or have been incarcerated.
I am a licensed therapist practicing in Maryland, DC, and South Carolina. I approach my practice through a lens of anti-oppression, feminist, and queer theory. Recognizing the healing potential of the therapeutic relationship, I emphasize client-centered therapy that values and honors all aspects of my clients' identities. I continuously strive to address my power and privilege, serving as an ally to BIPOC, disabled individuals, sex workers, those living in poverty, fat/larger bodied individuals, immigrants, houseless individuals, the aging population, individuals under the age of 18, and those who are or have been incarcerated.
(301) 820-7762 View (301) 820-7762
Photo of Taylor Rapuano, Counselor in Washington, DC
Taylor Rapuano
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20016
I work from a humanistic, feminist perspective, and recognize the importance of examining social, political, and intergenerational contexts and how these factors impact individuals in the present moment.
Welcome! I specialize in eating disorders, disordered relationships with food and movement, body image, substance use, and relationship issues. I am equally passionate about cultural humility and competence in psychotherapy—especially for members of marginalized communities—as well as LGBTQIA+ issues. I use a Non-Diet, Health at Every Size (HAES) approach to recovery from eating disorders and disordered eating. I have extensive experience working with eating disorder and substance use patients with a wide range of co-occurring diagnoses, and at all levels of care.
I work from a humanistic, feminist perspective, and recognize the importance of examining social, political, and intergenerational contexts and how these factors impact individuals in the present moment.
Welcome! I specialize in eating disorders, disordered relationships with food and movement, body image, substance use, and relationship issues. I am equally passionate about cultural humility and competence in psychotherapy—especially for members of marginalized communities—as well as LGBTQIA+ issues. I use a Non-Diet, Health at Every Size (HAES) approach to recovery from eating disorders and disordered eating. I have extensive experience working with eating disorder and substance use patients with a wide range of co-occurring diagnoses, and at all levels of care.
(240) 774-2156 View (240) 774-2156
Photo of Allison Drewno, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Allison Drewno
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, substance use problems, or difficulties related to past traumatic experiences, I would like to help you to improve your quality of life. My gentle, compassionate, nonjudgmental style will enable us to create a therapeutic alliance that feels attuned and engaged. Within the context of this safe, validating relationship you can explore important personal material, increase understanding, grow, and heal.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, substance use problems, or difficulties related to past traumatic experiences, I would like to help you to improve your quality of life. My gentle, compassionate, nonjudgmental style will enable us to create a therapeutic alliance that feels attuned and engaged. Within the context of this safe, validating relationship you can explore important personal material, increase understanding, grow, and heal.
(202) 417-7261 View (202) 417-7261
Photo of Adi Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Adi Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20002  (Online Only)
I am accepting new clients! I am a therapist that believes in meeting clients where they are and building sessions based on what the Client feels interested in focusing on. If you’re struggling with understanding how your past has impacted your current thoughts and actions, navigating through oppressive systems while maintaining pride in your identities, or interrupting unwanted thoughts and patterns- I can support you in building a life where you feel equipped to face the unexpected and feel present in your joyous moments. We will work together to find your inner strengths and support system to get you to your best life.
I am accepting new clients! I am a therapist that believes in meeting clients where they are and building sessions based on what the Client feels interested in focusing on. If you’re struggling with understanding how your past has impacted your current thoughts and actions, navigating through oppressive systems while maintaining pride in your identities, or interrupting unwanted thoughts and patterns- I can support you in building a life where you feel equipped to face the unexpected and feel present in your joyous moments. We will work together to find your inner strengths and support system to get you to your best life.
(202) 937-2698 View (202) 937-2698
Photo of John Hardenbergh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
John Hardenbergh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
A lot of our psychological pain is rooted in past traumatic experiences. When we experience trauma, memories of these events remain with us as unprocessed memories, affecting our moods, behaviors, sense of self, and our body. As a Holistic Psychotherapist specializing in EMDR, I empower my clients to create impactful change in their lives by helping them gain insight into themselves/others and overcome their limiting beliefs through processing these difficult memories. Healing from trauma can be hard work but I am with my clients every step of the way and provide them tthem the skills and resources that they need.
A lot of our psychological pain is rooted in past traumatic experiences. When we experience trauma, memories of these events remain with us as unprocessed memories, affecting our moods, behaviors, sense of self, and our body. As a Holistic Psychotherapist specializing in EMDR, I empower my clients to create impactful change in their lives by helping them gain insight into themselves/others and overcome their limiting beliefs through processing these difficult memories. Healing from trauma can be hard work but I am with my clients every step of the way and provide them tthem the skills and resources that they need.
(202) 873-8912 x508 View (202) 873-8912 x508
Photo of Sarah Holland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sarah Holland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults process the unique challenges of their age, tame their inner critic and self-doubt, and heal from trauma. Together we will get really curious about what makes you tick and how your current patterns and coping mechanisms came to be. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies in my work.
I am currently accepting new clients for daytime, virtual sessions. I help young adults process the unique challenges of their age, tame their inner critic and self-doubt, and heal from trauma. Together we will get really curious about what makes you tick and how your current patterns and coping mechanisms came to be. We can work through trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, shame and guilt, decision making, emotional regulation, feeling lost or purposeless, and building tangible coping skills. I utilize principles of Internal Family Systems, psychodynamic, somatic, and mindfulness-based therapies in my work.
(202) 890-1828 View (202) 890-1828
Photo of Morgan Christie, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Morgan Christie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist working online with adults (both individuals and couples) in Maryland, DC, and Ohio. I provide evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, gender-affirming care, body affirmation and wellness, and identity development. My collaborative approach with clients allows us to build a strong connection in treatment, creating a space where clients feel safe and understood. We will work together to identify goals for therapy, develop helpful coping skills, and process life events in meaningful ways.
(202) 953-4328 View (202) 953-4328
Photo of Alex Swales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Alex Swales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning. Similar to spring cleaning, therapy can be slow, overwhelming, & messy. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. Together, we will work to unpack and find meaning, connection, understanding, and even humor. I work with individuals that have experienced sexual trauma, relational trauma, eating disorders, and struggle with the impacts of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with individuals that want to deepen their connection to self and community.
Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning. Similar to spring cleaning, therapy can be slow, overwhelming, & messy. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. Together, we will work to unpack and find meaning, connection, understanding, and even humor. I work with individuals that have experienced sexual trauma, relational trauma, eating disorders, and struggle with the impacts of trauma. I deeply enjoy working with individuals that want to deepen their connection to self and community.
(855) 922-4373 View (855) 922-4373
Photo of MyTherapist DC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
MyTherapist DC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD, CAC-II
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
​MyTherapist DC is a small private practice that prioritizes your personal growth. I have over 15 years of experience in helping individuals & families journey to emotional well-being.  Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Remember the FACs, its NOT your Fault, you're NOT Alone, and you're NOT Crazy. Its time to heal so you can hear what's being said without the filter of your wounds.
​MyTherapist DC is a small private practice that prioritizes your personal growth. I have over 15 years of experience in helping individuals & families journey to emotional well-being.  Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, addiction, depression, anxiety, or major life changes? Remember the FACs, its NOT your Fault, you're NOT Alone, and you're NOT Crazy. Its time to heal so you can hear what's being said without the filter of your wounds.
(202) 998-7484 View (202) 998-7484
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.