Photo of Erika Trowell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Erika Trowell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22312
I have provided therapeutic support for issues, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and family conflicts through the use of CBT, DBT, and Exposure Therapy.
We are not meant to do this thing called life alone. I believe in the need for the culture of therapy to include genuine, empathetic, helpful, and compassionate humans. I have a passion for providing others with support as they navigate through the ups and downs of life. I believe there is great importance in a safe, non-judgement, and supportive therapeutic environment and relationship.
I have provided therapeutic support for issues, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, self-harm, and family conflicts through the use of CBT, DBT, and Exposure Therapy.
We are not meant to do this thing called life alone. I believe in the need for the culture of therapy to include genuine, empathetic, helpful, and compassionate humans. I have a passion for providing others with support as they navigate through the ups and downs of life. I believe there is great importance in a safe, non-judgement, and supportive therapeutic environment and relationship.
(571) 520-6139 View (571) 520-6139
Photo of Rhonda L Yancey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Rhonda L Yancey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Virginia Beach, VA 23452  (Online Only)
I provide individual, family, and group counseling services.
I provide a nonjudgmental and compassionate atmosphere, in which you can safely explore and work feelings, thoughts, images, and beliefs that maybe keeping you from moving forward in life. I believe that for therapy to be effective, both you and I must be actively involved in developing treatment goals and assessing progress. Efforts to change self-perception, emotions and behaviors require work both in session and out of session. Therapy is a process in which you, the client gain insight, and tools that will facilitate continued growth and development after the counseling has ended.
I provide individual, family, and group counseling services.
I provide a nonjudgmental and compassionate atmosphere, in which you can safely explore and work feelings, thoughts, images, and beliefs that maybe keeping you from moving forward in life. I believe that for therapy to be effective, both you and I must be actively involved in developing treatment goals and assessing progress. Efforts to change self-perception, emotions and behaviors require work both in session and out of session. Therapy is a process in which you, the client gain insight, and tools that will facilitate continued growth and development after the counseling has ended.
(757) 703-4983 View (757) 703-4983
Photo of Angela W Fitzgerald, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Virginia
Angela W Fitzgerald
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, LMHP-R, M Ed, MFT-R
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23219
During the therapeutic process, a variety of theories, techniques and approaches are used to discuss Addiction, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, Anger Management, Bi-Polar Disorder, Career Adjustment, Childhood Abuse, Depression, Family Disorganization, Academic and Developmental challenges, Gender Transition, Grief, Health, Phobias, and Women's Health.
I have counseling experience with adults, children, and couples in areas to include Individual and Group Counseling Couples Counseling, Child Behavior and Development, Grief and Loss, Interpersonal Relationships, Life Coaching, Crisis Intervention, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Emotional Behavior Therapy, and using the Narrative Approach to aid others in achieving a greater well-being for themselves.
During the therapeutic process, a variety of theories, techniques and approaches are used to discuss Addiction, Adjustment Disorders, Anxiety, Anger Management, Bi-Polar Disorder, Career Adjustment, Childhood Abuse, Depression, Family Disorganization, Academic and Developmental challenges, Gender Transition, Grief, Health, Phobias, and Women's Health.
I have counseling experience with adults, children, and couples in areas to include Individual and Group Counseling Couples Counseling, Child Behavior and Development, Grief and Loss, Interpersonal Relationships, Life Coaching, Crisis Intervention, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Emotional Behavior Therapy, and using the Narrative Approach to aid others in achieving a greater well-being for themselves.
(804) 391-7833 View (804) 391-7833
Photo of Sofia Anna Crowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Sofia Anna Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23230
Clinical focus includes ADHD, child/adult, parenting and family concerns, young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
Clinical focus includes ADHD, child/adult, parenting and family concerns, young adulthood issues, post-COVID, depression, anxiety, bipolar and chronic medical issues, addiction, co-occurring issues and a variety of couples and family issues.
I have been a clinician for 23 years. I have a Master's from the U of MD Social Work program. I have enjoyed wide-ranging training and employment in many settings, including supervising a county-wide suicide hotline, in an adolescent residential facility, intensive outpatient and in-home therapy. I have worked in diverse settings, such as Johns Hopkins Methadone/Suboxone program and for an AZ Native Tribal Nation. I am experienced in diverse treatment modalities, including DBT (couples and family) dual-diagnosis treatment, Imago and in Imago/communication focused couples therapy, and multi-systemic or strategic family therapy.
(804) 596-4564 View (804) 596-4564
Photo of Jackie Custer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Jackie Custer
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
I provide trauma-informed counseling services for children, teens, and adults, focusing on life changes, conflict resolution, relationships, goal setting, family dynamics, depression, anxiety, and stress management. I have experience working with clients on issues such as bullying, healthy relationships, individualized education programs (IEPs), setting boundaries, and understanding when those boundaries have been crossed. I also incorporate case management and provide resources for a holistic approach to mental health care.
I provide trauma-informed counseling services for children, teens, and adults, focusing on life changes, conflict resolution, relationships, goal setting, family dynamics, depression, anxiety, and stress management. I have experience working with clients on issues such as bullying, healthy relationships, individualized education programs (IEPs), setting boundaries, and understanding when those boundaries have been crossed. I also incorporate case management and provide resources for a holistic approach to mental health care.
(571) 568-8307 View (571) 568-8307
Photo of Tamara W Childress, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Tamara W Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems therapy, I have assisted patients in overcoming a variety of stressful life events and family discord.
Immediate openings for in person appts on Saturdays available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating children and families in individual and/or family therapy sessions. I work with individuals and families who are experiencing issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and family conflict. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma and domestic violence. I have had VA supervision training and am credentialed to do licensure supervision. Please call 804-641-5176 to inquire about availability and rates.
Through the use of cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems therapy, I have assisted patients in overcoming a variety of stressful life events and family discord.
Immediate openings for in person appts on Saturdays available. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in treating children and families in individual and/or family therapy sessions. I work with individuals and families who are experiencing issues related to ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and family conflict. I have experience working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma and domestic violence. I have had VA supervision training and am credentialed to do licensure supervision. Please call 804-641-5176 to inquire about availability and rates.
(804) 554-3341 View (804) 554-3341
Yvonne Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-A, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
My treatment modalities are Individual, Group and Family Counseling.
I have been working in the counseling and substance use field for over 25+ years working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse , corrections and leadership. I serve various individuals who seek assistance in working through life issues and moving forward. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexuality, Gender Identification and other impasses.
My treatment modalities are Individual, Group and Family Counseling.
I have been working in the counseling and substance use field for over 25+ years working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse , corrections and leadership. I serve various individuals who seek assistance in working through life issues and moving forward. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexuality, Gender Identification and other impasses.
(703) 691-5027 View (703) 691-5027
Photo of Rising Recovery and Psychotherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Rising Recovery and Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Have you always felt like an outsider? Has substance use or trauma left you feeling like a spectator in your own life? Are you burnt out, frustrated, or tired of dealing with the same old patterns in your relationships? I am passionate about helping people to better understand and trust themselves and feel empowered in their lives. Together we can address challenges from anger, anxiety and depression to family history, relationship and parenting issues. You will find my therapeutic style is warm, active and direct. I will bring authenticity, humor and connection to our work, and am skilled in enhancing motivation and accountability.
Have you always felt like an outsider? Has substance use or trauma left you feeling like a spectator in your own life? Are you burnt out, frustrated, or tired of dealing with the same old patterns in your relationships? I am passionate about helping people to better understand and trust themselves and feel empowered in their lives. Together we can address challenges from anger, anxiety and depression to family history, relationship and parenting issues. You will find my therapeutic style is warm, active and direct. I will bring authenticity, humor and connection to our work, and am skilled in enhancing motivation and accountability.
(571) 336-1244 View (571) 336-1244
Photo of Kathryn A Fede, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kathryn A Fede
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Suffolk, VA 23437
I offer an emphasis on teen life, family issues, and military lifestyle.
There are times in life when you need an ally. Someone to listen, offer feedback, and help you realize your potential. During such times a therapist can be an important support. Whether you are struggling with isolation during COVID, are finding it hard to move past a break up, or cope with the absence of a loved one. Perhaps the struggle of "adulting" has you in total disbelief, or at a loss for words. These are times when you have an opportunity to make great change. Not because someone told you to go to therapy, but because you want to find yourself. My goal is to help you find your way and renew your outlook on life.
I offer an emphasis on teen life, family issues, and military lifestyle.
There are times in life when you need an ally. Someone to listen, offer feedback, and help you realize your potential. During such times a therapist can be an important support. Whether you are struggling with isolation during COVID, are finding it hard to move past a break up, or cope with the absence of a loved one. Perhaps the struggle of "adulting" has you in total disbelief, or at a loss for words. These are times when you have an opportunity to make great change. Not because someone told you to go to therapy, but because you want to find yourself. My goal is to help you find your way and renew your outlook on life.
(757) 906-3759 View (757) 906-3759
Photo of Robyn Davinic, Psychologist in Virginia
Robyn Davinic
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147
Dr. Robyn Resh Davinic is a licensed psychologist, practicing outpatient mental health therapy and psychological and neuropsychological assessments in Northern Virginia for over 20 years. Robyn conducts therapy with adults ages 20 and older using primarily a cognitive behavioral orientation. She also utilizes theories and strategies such as: family systems theory, solution focused therapy, and positive psychology including strengths-based therapy.
Dr. Robyn Resh Davinic is a licensed psychologist, practicing outpatient mental health therapy and psychological and neuropsychological assessments in Northern Virginia for over 20 years. Robyn conducts therapy with adults ages 20 and older using primarily a cognitive behavioral orientation. She also utilizes theories and strategies such as: family systems theory, solution focused therapy, and positive psychology including strengths-based therapy.
(571) 462-6161 View (571) 462-6161
Photo of Marjorie Knight, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Marjorie Knight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sterling, VA 20165
I specialize in depression and anxiety, work with many individuals interested in working through family of origin issues, and am particularly interested in supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse issues and in recovery from a variety of chemical and process addictions.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 25 years, working with a variety of individuals, couples, families and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My holistic approach to psychotherapy tailors treatment to each client's individual needs and goals. I have worked with clients of all ages who struggle with a wide variety of issues. I believe that significant healing can take place within the therapeutic relationship and I am adept at creating a safe and comfortable space within which each client's personal growth process is respected and supported.
I specialize in depression and anxiety, work with many individuals interested in working through family of origin issues, and am particularly interested in supporting individuals struggling with substance abuse issues and in recovery from a variety of chemical and process addictions.
I have been practicing psychotherapy for over 25 years, working with a variety of individuals, couples, families and groups in both inpatient and outpatient settings. My holistic approach to psychotherapy tailors treatment to each client's individual needs and goals. I have worked with clients of all ages who struggle with a wide variety of issues. I believe that significant healing can take place within the therapeutic relationship and I am adept at creating a safe and comfortable space within which each client's personal growth process is respected and supported.
(703) 596-0425 View (703) 596-0425
Photo of Erin Sheetz Mace, Counselor in Virginia
Erin Sheetz Mace
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forest, VA 24551
I am licensed in Virginia with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with mindfulness and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with change.
I am licensed in Virginia with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with mindfulness and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & coping with change.
(434) 448-9378 View (434) 448-9378
Photo of Cecilia Thurman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Cecilia Thurman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Supporting military family members while they navigate all the ups and downs associated with beginning again is a specialty of mine.
I am board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years experience. I have substantial experience working with adults with a diverse range of demographic backgrounds and mental health needs. My goal is to help clients overcome difficult circumstances impacting their health and wellness. I work to help my clients uncover their strengths, develop resiliency and become an agent of change in their life. In my practice, I honor diversity and inclusion; I do this by offering supportive and affirming services to every individual I work with.
Supporting military family members while they navigate all the ups and downs associated with beginning again is a specialty of mine.
I am board-certified Licensed Professional Counselor with over 10 years experience. I have substantial experience working with adults with a diverse range of demographic backgrounds and mental health needs. My goal is to help clients overcome difficult circumstances impacting their health and wellness. I work to help my clients uncover their strengths, develop resiliency and become an agent of change in their life. In my practice, I honor diversity and inclusion; I do this by offering supportive and affirming services to every individual I work with.
(571) 253-7190 View (571) 253-7190
Photo of E Ashley Steelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
E Ashley Steelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakton, VA 22124
I am enthusiastic about helping people become the best versions of themselves. My passion is helping clients struggling with eating disorders, trauma, and common co-occurring mood disorders. As a Clinical Director, Program Manager, and Therapist at various facilities I am comfortable speaking with individuals, family systems, and community groups (Educators and PTAs) about eating disorder presentation and. treatment I am able to assess level of care needs as well as provide recommendations and support to clients and families struggling in the face of an eating disorder.
I am enthusiastic about helping people become the best versions of themselves. My passion is helping clients struggling with eating disorders, trauma, and common co-occurring mood disorders. As a Clinical Director, Program Manager, and Therapist at various facilities I am comfortable speaking with individuals, family systems, and community groups (Educators and PTAs) about eating disorder presentation and. treatment I am able to assess level of care needs as well as provide recommendations and support to clients and families struggling in the face of an eating disorder.
(571) 450-9268 View (571) 450-9268
Photo of Stormi Addison, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
Stormi Addison
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188  (Online Only)
In my free time, I love playing video games and socializing with family and friends.
Life can be difficult to navigate with challenges from the past and ongoing stressors which feels as if we're in a constant state of survival. Sound familiar? You are not alone. Therapy can be a safe space to explore and process these stressors, feelings, thoughts, etc. I work from a person-centered perspective to process your feelings, identify strengths, and help you access the tools you need to take back control to navigate the direction of your life. Through the art of processing information and applying evidence-based interventions, we will work together to meet your therapy goals and get a better grip on life.
In my free time, I love playing video games and socializing with family and friends.
Life can be difficult to navigate with challenges from the past and ongoing stressors which feels as if we're in a constant state of survival. Sound familiar? You are not alone. Therapy can be a safe space to explore and process these stressors, feelings, thoughts, etc. I work from a person-centered perspective to process your feelings, identify strengths, and help you access the tools you need to take back control to navigate the direction of your life. Through the art of processing information and applying evidence-based interventions, we will work together to meet your therapy goals and get a better grip on life.
(757) 210-7412 View (757) 210-7412
Photo of Sierra H Gray, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Sierra H Gray, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073  (Online Only)
I have spent 10 years working with clients who struggle with mental health and/or addiction. Client "specialties" are as follows (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, parenting/attachment, ineffective communication, career counseling and relationship or family systems issues.
I have spent 10 years working with clients who struggle with mental health and/or addiction. Client "specialties" are as follows (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, parenting/attachment, ineffective communication, career counseling and relationship or family systems issues.
(540) 269-5535 View (540) 269-5535
Photo of Stephanie Messerly, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Stephanie Messerly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie's 10 years in the mental health field has given her the opportunity to serve and counsel individuals, couples, and families working through depression, anxiety, marital stress, trauma, family strain, self harm, and suicidal ideation. She has worked on hospital psychiatric units and outpatient offices. She is trained as a facilitator in the premarital/marital assessment tools and education from SYMBIS, PREPARE/ENRICH, and Level I Gottman Training. She is trained in EMDR and uses it with clients working through trauma. Stephanie is also an AAMFT supervisor candidate who supervises students and residents.
Stephanie's 10 years in the mental health field has given her the opportunity to serve and counsel individuals, couples, and families working through depression, anxiety, marital stress, trauma, family strain, self harm, and suicidal ideation. She has worked on hospital psychiatric units and outpatient offices. She is trained as a facilitator in the premarital/marital assessment tools and education from SYMBIS, PREPARE/ENRICH, and Level I Gottman Training. She is trained in EMDR and uses it with clients working through trauma. Stephanie is also an AAMFT supervisor candidate who supervises students and residents.
(434) 595-3734 View (434) 595-3734
Photo of Shelly Bleil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Shelly Bleil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself, your relationships, or your life? Do you find yourself repeating the same patterns or feeling stuck? I can help you reconnect with your body-mind. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 7 years clinical experience in the mental health field. I provide individual, family, marriage, and couples therapy. My treatment approaches include: a Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT), the Gottman Method for couple’s therapy, neuropsychobiological approaches that promote brain regulation, body-mind interventions such as Meditation, Mindfulness, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
Are you feeling disconnected from yourself, your relationships, or your life? Do you find yourself repeating the same patterns or feeling stuck? I can help you reconnect with your body-mind. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 7 years clinical experience in the mental health field. I provide individual, family, marriage, and couples therapy. My treatment approaches include: a Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT), the Gottman Method for couple’s therapy, neuropsychobiological approaches that promote brain regulation, body-mind interventions such as Meditation, Mindfulness, and Trauma Informed Yoga.
(757) 347-5901 View (757) 347-5901
Photo of Open Doors to Redefining , Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Open Doors to Redefining
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Prince George, VA 23875  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Mitchell utilizes collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, and solution focused approaches in therapy while maintaining creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, family, and couple.
Dr. Mitchell is a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 10 years of experience partnering with children, adolescents, adults, and families. With 10 years of experience, Dr. Mitchell’s expertise includes Trauma-related disorders and symptoms, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Career and Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss, Life Stressors, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, and self-esteem-building skills.
Mitchell utilizes collaborative, strength based, cognitive behavioral, mindfulness based, and solution focused approaches in therapy while maintaining creativity, flexibility and awareness necessary to best meet the needs of every unique individual, family, and couple.
Dr. Mitchell is a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor, a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Virginia, a Certified Addictions-Informed Mental Health Professional, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 10 years of experience partnering with children, adolescents, adults, and families. With 10 years of experience, Dr. Mitchell’s expertise includes Trauma-related disorders and symptoms, Depression, Anxiety, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Career and Phase of life changes, Grief and Loss, Life Stressors, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse Disorders, and self-esteem-building skills.
(804) 889-2681 View (804) 889-2681
McLean Psychology, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
If you are looking for evidence-based assessment or therapy tailored for your needs (or those of a loved one), we are likely the ideal expert for you. We specialize in psychological assessment, individual therapy, family therapy, and parenting support. We foster growth by building upon current strengths, goals, and collaboratively developing practical interventions. This is delivered in a safe, welcoming environment, taking into account your unique intersectionality of worldview, identities, and values. We tailor services grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for you.
If you are looking for evidence-based assessment or therapy tailored for your needs (or those of a loved one), we are likely the ideal expert for you. We specialize in psychological assessment, individual therapy, family therapy, and parenting support. We foster growth by building upon current strengths, goals, and collaboratively developing practical interventions. This is delivered in a safe, welcoming environment, taking into account your unique intersectionality of worldview, identities, and values. We tailor services grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for you.
(571) 200-1576 View (571) 200-1576
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.