Feminist Psychotherapy emerged as an approach to counseling as the waves of feminism gained popularity in mainstream western society. It examines the unique way women relate to the world around them after being seen as inferior to men for many generations. It’s also a response to the once male-dominated field of psychotherapy as a whole.
Feminist therapists aim to treat all genders as equally deserving of respect and dignity and accept. They believe in the historical marginalization of all genders besides males.
Critical to Feminist Psychotherapy is an analysis of power dynamics. Power dynamics are inherent in any relationship, specifically within the counseling relationship. Usually, a counselor is an “expert” with high levels of education and status. The client then is thought to be less than. Feminist Psychotherapy, instead of ignoring this power dynamic or using it to their advantage to tell clients what they ought to do, seeks to highlight it and converse about it. Bringing up how the power dynamics affect the counseling relationship helps people examine the power dynamics in all other areas of their life.
Feminist Psychotherapy can be helpful for a range of mental health concerns, can be utilized for a person of any gender identity, and can be used in group settings, family settings, or individual counseling.
Critical to Feminist Psychotherapy is the idea that people grow through relationships with others. Your therapist might help you analyze your patterns of relating to significant others in your life and might ask you to recall some of your early relationships with parents or other caregivers.
Feminist Psychotherapy does not have a list of techniques necessary for treatment. It focuses on the ideas of empathetically relating to you, from one human being (your counselor) to another (you). A healthy relationship with your counselor becomes a model for all of your relationships.
Therapists Who Specialize in Using Feminist Psychotherapy
Ashley Lawrence is a graduate of Emporia State University’s clinical counseling and art therapy programs. Ashley has found a passion for working with youth and adolescents of all ages, with an emphasis in Autism Spectrum Disorders and developmental delays....
I enjoy working with clients who are looking to explore connections between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and who seek to use that insight to make concrete changes in their every day life. I love to see clients reshape their lives and bring into focus what is important and meaningful to them. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy. I specialize in eating disorders, anxiety...
Do you feel stuck in a certain stage or aspect of your life? I use these “stuck” feelings to explore inconsistencies in an effort to move back in alignment towards a more authentic self. Within our fast paced world, there is a theme of inadequacy; not being enough, not doing enough. I work collaboratively with my clients to create realistic goals that align with their own values. These goals...
Are you experiencing anxiety, social anxiety, parenting anxiety, depression, relationship issues or creative block? I can help with these and many other concerns. I provide clinical individual therapy, family therapy and life coaching sessions in person. Therapy and coaching help clients discover what makes them happy and what is holding them back. As a therapist I enjoy working with a diverse...
I practice systemic relational therapy, focusing on how we all live in relationship to our bodies, to each other, and our communities. I have spent the majority of my career working with individuals and families with eating disorders, and focus on related depression, anxiety, substance use, impulse control, and sexual issues. I have particular interest in sexuality, sexual health and developmen...
I offer individual, family and couples/relationship therapy and treat clients dealing with depression, anxiety, unresolved trauma, relationship issues (including relationships which are considered "non-traditional" - polyamorous, open etc.), LGBT-related concerns, issues related to sexuality or sexual orientation and issues related to gender/gender identity (Trans, Ave and ENBY clients, you are...
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who are experiencing relationship distress, communication difficulties, intimacy & sex concerns, low self-esteem, infidelity, or betrayal. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming as well as poly friendly & kink aware. My belief is that therapy is a collaborative experience that allows you to explore the issues that may be causing you distress, trauma, or...
Has there ever been a time in your life when you felt unworthy, unlovable, filled with self judgement, fear and anxiety? When no matter what you tried--new job, new town, new relationship; long lasting satisfaction eluded you. Perhaps you’re feeling that way now? Allow me to assist you on your journey to gain access to the emotional wellness you are seeking. I offer understanding and compassion...
(For the period of social distancing I offer video and phone sessions using mostly CBT/talk therapy) Sometimes words feel too shallow and we're left feeling overwhelmed by our emotions. This state could affect our overall performance, including productivity at work and intimate relationships. By teaching you a non-verbal way of expressing your emotions I will help you reach a state of greater...
I love working with children, adults and families of all kinds. Individuals and families who are navigating the impacts of change, ability/disability, loss, divorce or simply feeling disconnected can get stuck. Seeking support and finding time to dedicate to therapy is a brave first step in determining your course, and I honor you for it. I welcome people of all backgrounds in my practice and h...
Welcome to my practice. I am a licensed clinical social worker with a passion for narrative. I love to bear witness to the nuances of each individual's story, and I treasure the opportunity to help clients draw new meaning from their experiences. My work with clients focuses on fostering flexibility, authenticity, and healthy boundaries. I take an eclectic therapeutic approach incorporating...
Change is possible! Making the decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one and often comes from a place of frustration, anger, sadness, or just feeling "stuck". Therapy can be a way to help you feel "unstuck" and to help you find balance so that you're in a better position to reach your goals. I'm a firm believer that change can happen when we create a safe space for conversation. By buildi...
Do you often find that you compare yourself to others? Do you want to stop unhealthy behaviors but have a hard time making change? Do you find yourself stuck in a cycle of unhealthy relationships, but you're not sure what to do about it? Maybe you struggle with setting and keeping boundaries with yourself and others. We all have limits in relationships that help us feel safe and...
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, by the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners of the State of New Jersey. I hold a Master degree in Clinical Counseling from William Paterson University. Providing a supportive and safe space for the process of healing to occur is of the utmost importance to me as a therapist. I serve adults who may be struggling with mood and/or personality...
Here at Whole Connection, we believe that a healing relationship is the most important part of therapy. This connection allows each client to safely explore and create the changes and healing they are striving for. Our therapists support clients working with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, grief, identity exploration, and a variety of other challenges that can arise in everyday li...
