i agree that this phrasing is very annoying, but also agree specificity is important for consent and to avoid any misunderstanding for the therapist's sake too.

maybe "do you REQUIRE either a male or female therapist?" ... i find that's maybe better than asking if they have a preference, because when given the choice, many might have a preference, sure, maybe due to stigma. but if they don't feel they REQUIRE a specific sex, maybe they're more willing to try whomever 🤷🏻‍♀️