Female Psychology

We are all different, with different preferences. Whilst research shows that outcomes with any gender are mostly equal, you may have an individual preference for seeing a female psychologist. Choosing a therapist is a big decision - after all, this is a person one shares things with one may never breathe a word to another.

 

Whilst gender is just one of the characteristics of a therapist, and certainly not the most important in terms of outcome, it may be important to you. For instance, you may feel as a female, that another female may ‘get you’ better than a male. Or perhaps you are looking for someone that seems to embody typically female characteristics such as greater expression of emotionality and compassion, or perhaps you have a need in this time for a therapist with some feminine nurturing qualities.

 

However important you feel the gender of your therapist is to you, the most important predictor of good therapeutic outcomes, is something called the therapeutic alliance. This is that ineffable sense that you and your therapist ‘gel’. The word ‘rapport’ is sometimes used to describe this which means that the therapeutic relationship is characterised by an easy understanding of feelings and ideas, fluent communication, trust, and a sense of being ‘in sync ’with each other. 

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Reasons for choosing a female psychologist

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• Personal Choice: You may simply just prefer to talk a woman, and as mentioned, feeling understood and building a therapeutic alliance is important for good outcomes. If this feels right for you, go with your intuition.

 

• Empathy and Compassion: Stereotypically, women are often perceived to embody traits like empathy and nurturing, which can be beneficial traits in a therapeutic setting and qualities you look for in a therapist.

 

• Insight into Gender-Specific Issues: Women psychologists may have a deeper understanding of certain gender-specific issues, such as reproductive health, body image, or societal pressures related to gender roles.

 

• Cultural Sensitivity: In certain cultures or communities, there may be preferences or taboos regarding interactions between genders. Choosing a female psychologist could align with cultural norms or personal comfort levels.

 

• Role Modelling: For clients who are seeking guidance or mentorship, especially young women or girls, having a female psychologist can provide a positive role model and inspiration.

 

• Needing a Female Perspective: Some clients may specifically seek out a female perspective on their issues, whether it's related to relationships, family dynamics, or personal growth.

 

• Previous Traumas and Abuse: Particularly if experienced by a male, it may be easier for you to feel comfortable and safe with a female therapist.  A female survivor of domestic violence in a heterosexual relationship, for example, may not feel comfortable pursuing treatment with a male therapist. It could potentially be too stressful or triggering, which could undermine the goal of a successful therapy session.

 

• LGBTQIA+ issues: For someone dealing with gender identity, feeling different, or experiencing social challenges, may find it easier to talk to a female or a therapist experienced in the field. Although all psychologists should be non-judgemental, if a person felt judged before, some may prefer a female therapist who may be perceived as potentially less judgemental.

 

• Relatability: Some people prefer a therapist that are similar enough to them that they feel a sense of resonance. This may expedite and facilitate building trust and a strong therapeutic partnership.

 

• Availability: If you don’t have a strong preference for the gender of your psychologist, the simple fact is that there are more female psychologists than male psychologists. You may be able to get in sooner to see a female psychologist because of this fact. As research shows that as a rule, the gender of your therapist doesn’t matter in terms of good therapeutic outcomes, you may be pleasantly surprised by the outcome

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So after all is said and done, choose a therapist that you sense will understand you and your situation. Read about their style of doing therapy and the issues they are experienced in, and make an informed decision that is right for you!

Our psychologists can be viewed here.

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Kensington Psychology & Well-Being Adelaide is located at:

82 Shipsters Road

Kensington Park

KENSINGTON  SA  5068

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