Support

Empowerment

Diversity

Change

As feminist therapists, we believe:

A person’s circumstances are always affected by her or his economic

and social position in society.

Symptoms such as depression, anxiety and low self-esteem are often a response

to roles characterized by gender, economic, racial, social or political

powerlessness. Oppression in any form is recognized as a therapeutic issue. It is

acknowledged that what affects one affects all. Examples of oppression include,

but are not limited to: sexism, racism, sizeism, homophobia and ageism.

No one should ever be blamed for being abused.

Feminist therapists strive to educate about abuse of power and control in

relationships and in larger social systems. Power within rather than power over

is stressed.

The inherent power differences in the therapist-client relationship

should be acknowledged.

Therapist and client work toward equalizing this imbalance as part of the healing and empowerment process. All goal setting is done in the context of appropriate

therapeutic boundaries.

Initiative and change are healthy.

A primary focus of therapy is empowerment, self-definition and self-determination. Clients are supported in moving from surviving to thriving. Individual growth is enhanced within the context of community and relationship. As part of finding one's own voice, social and community involvement outside the therapy hour are supported.