My T is a male and we have a beautiful relationship. I never expected that I would begin to heal in such a way with a guy. But....I do see how some things are left unsaid because he is a guy!!

For example, even little stories about what you are feeling at the moment, such as:

"I have a crampy feeling, I wonder if I could be still ovulating even though I'm past menopause?" (LOL, I would never say that to T, but if he were a she I might just say it casually).

OR

"I tried to wax my own eyebrows yesterday and wound up with wax all over my face and head." (hahahaha--true story)

So, these are casual type things that are not issue of the heart but speak to where someone is at the moment. And then there are the other things, such as body-image and other issues that might be easier to discuss with a woman. Also, as KD pointed out, abuse issues may or may not be easier with a woman. I have issues with my mother not being there for me and now my male T is like a mom to me, so go figure.

But the upside is the male perspective. I have a husband and three sons so I am accustomed to being around guys and very comfortable with it. T is able to help me understand the men I live with in a way that a woman couldn't as well. My relatinoship with my husband has improved since I began therapy, no doubt.

So, bottom line, I think that the abillity to forge a meaningful relationship is more important than the gender.

As to training and orientation, my T is humanstic and psychoanalytic/psychodynamic training. This is a good fit for me and gives me what I need in the way of support and "holding." He helps me to understand me without judgement. He is an MSW, LCSW. tons of training and supervision. I got him from a personal reference.