Some clients would prefer a therapist of a certain gender. If clients do express a preference to see a a man or a woman, it's important to ask about the thought process behind the request, because it might be based on erroneous beliefs or stereotypes. 

Ask about thought process

Although research shows that therapist gender has minimal effects on therapeutic outcomes, client preference should be taken into consideration when possible. 

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* Potential reasons why clients seek therapists of a certain gender
* Does therapist gender matter?
* Practice implications
* Therapist development/Training/Supervision

Gender matching in therapy

Blow, A. J., Timm, T. M., & Cox, R. (2008). The role of the therapist in therapeutic change: Does therapist gender matter?. Journal of Feminist Family Therapy, 20(1), 66-86. https://doi.org/10.1080/0895280801907150

The Role of the Therapist in Therapeutic Change: Does Therapist Gender Matter?

* Client comfort
* "Just because"
* Unconscious reasons
* Gender bias

Potential reasons why clients seek therapists of a certain gender

* Effect of therapist gender on outcome and process in general psychotherapy
* Effect of therapist gender on outcome and process in couples and family therapy
* Effect of client gender on outcome and process in general psychotherapy
* Effect of client gender on outcome and process in couple and family therapy

Does therapist gender matter?

Practice implications

* More training on the topic of gender
* Do not assume that nothing can be done
* Reflect upon their own thoughts and beliefs

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