Feminist Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Ari Kramer, Psychologist, PsyD
Ari Kramer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I use a multicultural feminist approach to explore and process those feelings, and bring in neurodivergent friendly skills and tools to help clients learn affirming, practical, and creative ways to cope and adapt to a changing world.
I provide a warm, affirming space to be your authentic self. I specialize in working with trans, non-binary and queer clients on gender exploration, autistic identity, ADHD, building assertiveness, fat positive body image, coping with dread about late stage capitalism, queer relationship dynamics, etc. I write letters of support for gender affirming surgery.
I use a multicultural feminist approach to explore and process those feelings, and bring in neurodivergent friendly skills and tools to help clients learn affirming, practical, and creative ways to cope and adapt to a changing world.
I provide a warm, affirming space to be your authentic self. I specialize in working with trans, non-binary and queer clients on gender exploration, autistic identity, ADHD, building assertiveness, fat positive body image, coping with dread about late stage capitalism, queer relationship dynamics, etc. I write letters of support for gender affirming surgery.
(503) 213-9173 View (503) 213-9173
Photo of Avantika Gupta, Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Avantika Gupta
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
I aim to embody the spirit of Humanistic Therapy and Feminist Therapy in my work.
I particularly enjoy working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals. I am a queer, immigrant, woman of color, and enjoy connecting with and helping others who have their own experiences of marginalization and value exploring these themes in the therapy space. I specialize in working with trauma and disordered eating/body image concerns.
I aim to embody the spirit of Humanistic Therapy and Feminist Therapy in my work.
I particularly enjoy working with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals. I am a queer, immigrant, woman of color, and enjoy connecting with and helping others who have their own experiences of marginalization and value exploring these themes in the therapy space. I specialize in working with trauma and disordered eating/body image concerns.
(503) 506-6318 View (503) 506-6318
Photo of Anna Jablonski, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Anna Jablonski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
My approach is rooted in a multicultural, feminist, social justice, LGBTQIA+, and intersectional perspective, creating space for your unique story.
I’m dedicated to supporting people of all ages through life’s challenges—whether emotional, behavioral, or transitional. I create a safe, nurturing space for healing, helping you feel seen and empowered. Using a strengths-based approach, I guide you in building self-confidence and reframing your story. I assist with anxiety, grief, work or school stress, relationship issues, depression, self-esteem, traumatic events, and more. My goal is to foster awareness and resilience, helping you connect with your own insights to navigate life’s complexities. You don’t have to face it alone.
My approach is rooted in a multicultural, feminist, social justice, LGBTQIA+, and intersectional perspective, creating space for your unique story.
I’m dedicated to supporting people of all ages through life’s challenges—whether emotional, behavioral, or transitional. I create a safe, nurturing space for healing, helping you feel seen and empowered. Using a strengths-based approach, I guide you in building self-confidence and reframing your story. I assist with anxiety, grief, work or school stress, relationship issues, depression, self-esteem, traumatic events, and more. My goal is to foster awareness and resilience, helping you connect with your own insights to navigate life’s complexities. You don’t have to face it alone.
(971) 257-6159 View (971) 257-6159
Photo of Rachel Paula Shapiro, Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CPCC
Rachel Paula Shapiro
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, CPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
I am a feminist, bilingual (Spanish), Internal Family Systems therapist.
In therapy, I create sacred space for clients to bring compassionate curiosity to life experiences. Therapy is a place to deepen one’s connection and relationship with the self, and to gain embodied insight about one’s personal process, dynamics, and patterning. It is also a place to explore one’s relationships to others to build more fulfilling connections and intimacy in one’s life. I offer various tools to support you in your journey, such as Internal Family Systems, mindful self compassion, guided visualization, and a somatic orientation to trauma.
I am a feminist, bilingual (Spanish), Internal Family Systems therapist.
In therapy, I create sacred space for clients to bring compassionate curiosity to life experiences. Therapy is a place to deepen one’s connection and relationship with the self, and to gain embodied insight about one’s personal process, dynamics, and patterning. It is also a place to explore one’s relationships to others to build more fulfilling connections and intimacy in one’s life. I offer various tools to support you in your journey, such as Internal Family Systems, mindful self compassion, guided visualization, and a somatic orientation to trauma.
(971) 459-0674 View (971) 459-0674
Photo of Rachel Burk, Professional Counselor Associate, PCA
Rachel Burk
Professional Counselor Associate, PCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
I use an Existential Therapy approach to counseling, with influences of Feminist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques.
Life is challenging, and for some, it feels impossible. Unwelcome and harmful thoughts and feelings make happiness a task that seems far out of reach. It can be overwhelming, and it can negatively affect the way we function in our day to day lives. If this speaks to you, I want you to know that you are not alone, and I would be honored to help you work toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
I use an Existential Therapy approach to counseling, with influences of Feminist and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques.
Life is challenging, and for some, it feels impossible. Unwelcome and harmful thoughts and feelings make happiness a task that seems far out of reach. It can be overwhelming, and it can negatively affect the way we function in our day to day lives. If this speaks to you, I want you to know that you are not alone, and I would be honored to help you work toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
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Photo of Monica Adams, Pre-Licensed Professional
Monica Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I approach counseling through a relational, systemic, and feminist lens, recognizing how deeply our lives are shaped by the systems, relationships, and cultural contexts we are a part of.
Hello, and welcome! I'm so glad you're considering taking the next step toward support and growth. As a counselor, I believe in creating a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel truly heard and understood. Whether you're navigating stress, anxiety, or complex relational dynamics, my goal is to work alongside you to help you find clarity, strength, and the tools to build a life that feels meaningful and balanced.
I approach counseling through a relational, systemic, and feminist lens, recognizing how deeply our lives are shaped by the systems, relationships, and cultural contexts we are a part of.
Hello, and welcome! I'm so glad you're considering taking the next step toward support and growth. As a counselor, I believe in creating a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel truly heard and understood. Whether you're navigating stress, anxiety, or complex relational dynamics, my goal is to work alongside you to help you find clarity, strength, and the tools to build a life that feels meaningful and balanced.
(971) 999-3520 View (971) 999-3520
Photo of Alison Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC I
Alison Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is affirming, strengths-based & collaborative, and my clinical orientation is holistic and fluid to meet the presenting needs, rooted in liberation psychology, intersectional feminist theory, systems theory and humanistic psychology.
We are all born with the innate capacity to be connected to our feelings and needs, without judgement or shame. Experiences in life, and sociocultural messages, all inform and influence our understanding of ourselves, our feelings of worthiness, and our connection with these deeper parts of ourselves. Sometimes, in experiences of trauma or prolonged stress, we develop ways of existing and coping that are necessary for our survival, but over time may no longer be needed, and can decrease feelings of connection, with self & others.
My approach is affirming, strengths-based & collaborative, and my clinical orientation is holistic and fluid to meet the presenting needs, rooted in liberation psychology, intersectional feminist theory, systems theory and humanistic psychology.
We are all born with the innate capacity to be connected to our feelings and needs, without judgement or shame. Experiences in life, and sociocultural messages, all inform and influence our understanding of ourselves, our feelings of worthiness, and our connection with these deeper parts of ourselves. Sometimes, in experiences of trauma or prolonged stress, we develop ways of existing and coping that are necessary for our survival, but over time may no longer be needed, and can decrease feelings of connection, with self & others.
(971) 251-4546 View (971) 251-4546
Photo of Emily Ardent, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Emily Ardent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Online Only
I draw from feminist and somatic approaches, using IFS to help you reconnect with your centered-self, those around you, and broader structures of support and thriving.
I have specific experience working with people who have a history of complex trauma; folks in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum transitions; those experiencing intimate partner violence; queer, trans, gender non-conforming and questioning people; individuals and relationships who are non-monogamous; and those dealing with the impacts of oppression.
I draw from feminist and somatic approaches, using IFS to help you reconnect with your centered-self, those around you, and broader structures of support and thriving.
I have specific experience working with people who have a history of complex trauma; folks in pregnancy, birth, and postpartum transitions; those experiencing intimate partner violence; queer, trans, gender non-conforming and questioning people; individuals and relationships who are non-monogamous; and those dealing with the impacts of oppression.
(971) 290-1182 View (971) 290-1182
Photo of April Slabosheski, Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
April Slabosheski
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I draw on trauma-informed, attachment-based, feminist, and person-centered therapy to support you in exploring your hopes and dreams, as well as the obstacles that get in the way.
No matter what you’re going through, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer warm, trauma-informed therapy for people navigating anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, queer identity, relationships, and life’s big questions.
I draw on trauma-informed, attachment-based, feminist, and person-centered therapy to support you in exploring your hopes and dreams, as well as the obstacles that get in the way.
No matter what you’re going through, you don’t have to do it alone. I offer warm, trauma-informed therapy for people navigating anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, queer identity, relationships, and life’s big questions.
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Photo of Natalia Uribe Menendez - Uribe Music Therapy, LLC, Music Therapist, MT-BC
Uribe Music Therapy, LLC
Music Therapist, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
My name is Natalia Uribe (They/Them), I am a Latine Music Therapist, born and raised in Colombia. My ethical duty as a mental health professional is to reach out to underserved communities and break the barriers of access down, by offering high quality mental health services at an affordable price. It is also my duty as a professional to educate myself on systemic issues that affect my current and future clients, in order to truly be of service to them. My practice is based on a combination of humanistic and feminist approaches, through an anti-racist lens.
My name is Natalia Uribe (They/Them), I am a Latine Music Therapist, born and raised in Colombia. My ethical duty as a mental health professional is to reach out to underserved communities and break the barriers of access down, by offering high quality mental health services at an affordable price. It is also my duty as a professional to educate myself on systemic issues that affect my current and future clients, in order to truly be of service to them. My practice is based on a combination of humanistic and feminist approaches, through an anti-racist lens.
(503) 832-6386 View (503) 832-6386
Photo of Diana Crane, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Diana Crane
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities depending on the client, though I most often use Humanistic and Person-Centered Therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Feminist Therapy, mindfulness practices and IFS parts work.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression and PTSD.
I integrate a variety of therapeutic modalities depending on the client, though I most often use Humanistic and Person-Centered Therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Feminist Therapy, mindfulness practices and IFS parts work.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression and PTSD.
(503) 647-4154 View (503) 647-4154
Photo of Dana Stroud, Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), MS, QMHP, MFT
Dana Stroud
Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), MS, QMHP, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Dana's culturally sensitive, feminist, and attachment-based lens creates a safe, empowering space for growth and connection.
My ideal client is someone navigating the complexities of anxiety, trauma, neurodiversity, or chronic pain, who seeks understanding and practical tools to build a more fulfilling life. They are motivated to explore their inner world, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop resilience. They value authenticity and want to heal in a safe, inclusive space where their unique experiences and identity are honored. Their goal is to feel empowered, self-accepting, and connected to themselves and others.
Dana's culturally sensitive, feminist, and attachment-based lens creates a safe, empowering space for growth and connection.
My ideal client is someone navigating the complexities of anxiety, trauma, neurodiversity, or chronic pain, who seeks understanding and practical tools to build a more fulfilling life. They are motivated to explore their inner world, challenge limiting beliefs, and develop resilience. They value authenticity and want to heal in a safe, inclusive space where their unique experiences and identity are honored. Their goal is to feel empowered, self-accepting, and connected to themselves and others.
(971) 453-0960 View (971) 453-0960
Photo of Elizabeth Sumpf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200, TCYM
Elizabeth Sumpf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT-200, TCYM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We’ll explore this through somatic therapy, parts work, tapping, mindfulness, self-compassion and spirituality along with a feminist and cultural framework.
Does it feel like you wear a mask in everyday life? As if there’s a disconnect between your true self and what you show to others. Maybe you feel disconnected from yourself and uncertain what it even means to feel connected to your body and aligned with your soul. Do you want to be guided by your intuition but feel it’s clouded by fear and shame? Does a judgmental inner critic control most of your thoughts and you don’t know how to stop it? You have awareness that things need to change and now it’s exploring how to make these changes. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, “Mindfulness must be engaged. Once there is seeing, there must be acting."
We’ll explore this through somatic therapy, parts work, tapping, mindfulness, self-compassion and spirituality along with a feminist and cultural framework.
Does it feel like you wear a mask in everyday life? As if there’s a disconnect between your true self and what you show to others. Maybe you feel disconnected from yourself and uncertain what it even means to feel connected to your body and aligned with your soul. Do you want to be guided by your intuition but feel it’s clouded by fear and shame? Does a judgmental inner critic control most of your thoughts and you don’t know how to stop it? You have awareness that things need to change and now it’s exploring how to make these changes. As Thich Nhat Hanh said, “Mindfulness must be engaged. Once there is seeing, there must be acting."
(954) 715-6050 View (954) 715-6050
Photo of Kim Stetson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kim Stetson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
My approach to counseling is client-centered, collaborative, relational and feminist.
I’m passionate about helping people who are depressed, anxious, disconnected and overwhelmed with the world. I offer individual therapy for adults in SE Portland, Oregon with a focus on trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I provide counseling that is strengths-based and respectful. I am kind and compassionate, and also direct and authentic. I will warmly meet you wherever you’re at in your journey while also inviting you to grow and change. I am accepting new clients. I only work with individual adults age 18+ (no couples).
My approach to counseling is client-centered, collaborative, relational and feminist.
I’m passionate about helping people who are depressed, anxious, disconnected and overwhelmed with the world. I offer individual therapy for adults in SE Portland, Oregon with a focus on trauma, addiction, and relationship issues. I provide counseling that is strengths-based and respectful. I am kind and compassionate, and also direct and authentic. I will warmly meet you wherever you’re at in your journey while also inviting you to grow and change. I am accepting new clients. I only work with individual adults age 18+ (no couples).
(503) 470-2343 View (503) 470-2343
Photo of Paige Ramsey, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Paige Ramsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I operate from a queer-affirming, feminist, and social justice-oriented perspective.
Do you feel overwhelmed by major life changes? Are you searching for a supportive space to explore your gender identity and/or sexuality? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety? I help my clients cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and the sources of their struggles to build greater self-awareness, pursue meaningful change, and feel a greater sense of joy, authenticity, and fulfillment in everyday life. Together we will explore new perspectives and skills to help you feel more confident in your ability to face life's challenges and connect with yourself and others.
I operate from a queer-affirming, feminist, and social justice-oriented perspective.
Do you feel overwhelmed by major life changes? Are you searching for a supportive space to explore your gender identity and/or sexuality? Do you struggle with low self-esteem, depression, or anxiety? I help my clients cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves and the sources of their struggles to build greater self-awareness, pursue meaningful change, and feel a greater sense of joy, authenticity, and fulfillment in everyday life. Together we will explore new perspectives and skills to help you feel more confident in your ability to face life's challenges and connect with yourself and others.
(971) 257-6330 View (971) 257-6330
Photo of Melanie Sellers, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Melanie Sellers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I utilize interventions from Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST), Strengths Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Currently accepting new clients. You hold the innate wisdom of your body, and my role is to guide and support you on your journey of self discovery. Your autonomy in leading sessions is valued, allowing for a personalized and self directed exploration. The pace of our work will be guided by your comfort and readiness. Nature offers a unique perspective in therapy and is an integral part of who we are. Exploring your relationship with Nature may enhance our discussions and contribute to the holistic nature of your therapeutic journey.
I utilize interventions from Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST), Strengths Based Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Feminist Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT).
Currently accepting new clients. You hold the innate wisdom of your body, and my role is to guide and support you on your journey of self discovery. Your autonomy in leading sessions is valued, allowing for a personalized and self directed exploration. The pace of our work will be guided by your comfort and readiness. Nature offers a unique perspective in therapy and is an integral part of who we are. Exploring your relationship with Nature may enhance our discussions and contribute to the holistic nature of your therapeutic journey.
(503) 300-5675 View (503) 300-5675
Photo of Natasha Laumei, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Natasha Laumei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I bring empathy, intuition, and humor into our work together, and integrate trauma-informed, attachment-focused, anti-oppressive, neurodiverse-affirming, and feminist frameworks into my clinical approach in both therapy sessions and evaluations.
I provide psychotherapy, clinical supervision and consultation, EMDR consultation, and EMDR intensives for adults in the states of Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. I work from a person-centered and collaborative foundation, supporting clients looking to process and heal from trauma, develop further personal insight, improve relationships with self and others, and explore opportunities for growth, empowerment, and deepened quality of life.
I bring empathy, intuition, and humor into our work together, and integrate trauma-informed, attachment-focused, anti-oppressive, neurodiverse-affirming, and feminist frameworks into my clinical approach in both therapy sessions and evaluations.
I provide psychotherapy, clinical supervision and consultation, EMDR consultation, and EMDR intensives for adults in the states of Oregon, Washington, and Alaska. I work from a person-centered and collaborative foundation, supporting clients looking to process and heal from trauma, develop further personal insight, improve relationships with self and others, and explore opportunities for growth, empowerment, and deepened quality of life.
(503) 610-4414 View (503) 610-4414
Photo of Lily Krutel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lily Krutel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I work from a feminist and liberatory framework and collaborate to identify your goals, needs, and values, and determine a path in therapy that will support you in living as your most authentic and healthy self.
Experiencing harm from caregivers, family of origin, or partners can wound us deeply. The painful memories continue to overshadow your daily life. You find yourself in similar relationships, making yourself small in order to get some semblance of love or safety. You spend so much energy anticipating and attending to others’ emotions and needs, that yours are overlooked. You feel like you have abandoned yourself. Whether you are recovering from an unhealthy or abusive relationship, or seeking to more fully embody your lived gender, you’re ready to work with a specialist who can help you heal and embrace your full, authentic self.
I work from a feminist and liberatory framework and collaborate to identify your goals, needs, and values, and determine a path in therapy that will support you in living as your most authentic and healthy self.
Experiencing harm from caregivers, family of origin, or partners can wound us deeply. The painful memories continue to overshadow your daily life. You find yourself in similar relationships, making yourself small in order to get some semblance of love or safety. You spend so much energy anticipating and attending to others’ emotions and needs, that yours are overlooked. You feel like you have abandoned yourself. Whether you are recovering from an unhealthy or abusive relationship, or seeking to more fully embody your lived gender, you’re ready to work with a specialist who can help you heal and embrace your full, authentic self.
(510) 626-0215 View (510) 626-0215
Photo of Niki Adams, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP
Niki Adams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I utilize feminist, multicultural, and affirming approaches to help one better understand themselves and how they deal with day-to-day life.
I have experience working with young adults and adults from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, gender identities and backgrounds with a wide range of mental health concerns. Although I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds, I am particularly excited about working with emerging adults, LGBTQIA+, people who identify as being disabled, and neurodivergent folx. Many of my clients are in a state of adjustment and often just need someone to help them through new and emerging life obstacles.
I utilize feminist, multicultural, and affirming approaches to help one better understand themselves and how they deal with day-to-day life.
I have experience working with young adults and adults from diverse racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, gender identities and backgrounds with a wide range of mental health concerns. Although I enjoy working with people of all backgrounds, I am particularly excited about working with emerging adults, LGBTQIA+, people who identify as being disabled, and neurodivergent folx. Many of my clients are in a state of adjustment and often just need someone to help them through new and emerging life obstacles.
(971) 365-3750 View (971) 365-3750
Photo of Savannah V. Jackson, Pre-Licensed Professional, AAS, BA, MA-Psy, LPCr, QMHPr
Savannah V. Jackson
Pre-Licensed Professional, AAS, BA, MA-Psy, LPCr, QMHPr
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
This feminist-queer lens includes your intersectional identity, personal goals, individual growth speed, identity, religious background, ethnicity, race, sexuality, gender, social economic status, and social stratification.
I've professionally studied & taught gender diversity for over 27 years. I’ve potentially educated millions of Americans through television, radio interviews, podcasts, conferences, and workshops. My clients often have multicultural backgrounds that include gender issues, domestic violence, neurodiversity, trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression.
This feminist-queer lens includes your intersectional identity, personal goals, individual growth speed, identity, religious background, ethnicity, race, sexuality, gender, social economic status, and social stratification.
I've professionally studied & taught gender diversity for over 27 years. I’ve potentially educated millions of Americans through television, radio interviews, podcasts, conferences, and workshops. My clients often have multicultural backgrounds that include gender issues, domestic violence, neurodiversity, trauma, addiction, anxiety and depression.
(503) 966-4187 View (503) 966-4187
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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.