Your preference can be part of the match
Some clients feel more comfortable requesting a therapist of a particular gender. It is appropriate to include that preference when asking for a match.
Clinician Gender
Female Therapists
Finding the right fit
The therapists listed below identify as Female. We believe fit matters, and we want you to feel comfortable from the start.
Michelle Chavez is available for clients seeking a female therapist at Prickly Pear Therapy in Rio Rancho. Review the profile below for specialties, experience, availability, and approach.
Telehealth is available across New Mexico. Availability can differ by clinician, service, and client location.
Review the clinician profile below for current availability and details. Contact Prickly Pear Therapy to ask questions, confirm fit, or discuss next steps.
Finding a therapist who feels right
Comfort and identity preferences can matter. Experience, approach, availability, and the therapeutic relationship matter too.
Review the whole clinician fit
A therapist’s gender is only one part of fit. Review specialties, populations served, therapy approaches, availability, insurance, communication style, and how comfortable you feel during an initial conversation.
How to request a match
Michelle Chavez currently matches this preference. Review the full profile before requesting an appointment.
Matching clinician
Female therapist: Michelle Chavez
-
Accepting New ClientsTelehealthOwner & Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Michelle Chavez is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Prickly Pear Therapy. She provides warm, collaborative care for children, teens, adults, and families, with an emphasis on recognizing each client’s strengths and creating practical paths toward healing and growth.
Insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield Medicaid Molina Healthcare Presbyterian TRICARE United Healthcare
Questions about therapist matching
These answers are a starting point. Contact the practice to confirm what applies to your situation and current services.
Can I request a Female therapist?
Some clients feel more comfortable requesting a therapist of a particular gender. It is appropriate to include that preference when asking for a match. Michelle Chavez currently matches this preference. Review the full profile before requesting an appointment.
What else should I consider when choosing a therapist?
A therapist’s gender is only one part of fit. Review specialties, populations served, therapy approaches, availability, insurance, communication style, and how comfortable you feel during an initial conversation.
How do I ask for a match?
Contact Prickly Pear Therapy, share any preferences that matter to you, and describe the support you are seeking. The practice can explain which clinicians are currently available.
Do I need to explain why I have a preference?
No. You can share only what feels relevant. A preference may relate to comfort, identity, culture, prior experiences, or simply what helps you feel more able to engage in therapy.
What if my preferred clinician is not available?
Prickly Pear Therapy can explain current options, including another clinician, a waitlist if offered, or a different next step. You remain free to decide what feels acceptable to you.
Explore services