Existential Therapists in 94102

Photo of Niamh O’Sullivan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Niamh O’Sullivan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I have additional training in Gestalt therapy, Existential therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Sand Tray therapy.
You may be dealing with personal challenges or struggling with relationships in your life or life may have thrown you a curve ball. Asking for help can be tough and humbling and yet many of my clients tell me they wish they had done it sooner. Having a safe, compassionate and supportive space can be significant to healing and working through the trickier stages of our lives. My training combines the wisdom of Western and Eastern psychologies, embracing each person's uniqueness. I work compassionately supporting greater awareness, insight, choice and fulfillment.
I have additional training in Gestalt therapy, Existential therapy, Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Sand Tray therapy.
You may be dealing with personal challenges or struggling with relationships in your life or life may have thrown you a curve ball. Asking for help can be tough and humbling and yet many of my clients tell me they wish they had done it sooner. Having a safe, compassionate and supportive space can be significant to healing and working through the trickier stages of our lives. My training combines the wisdom of Western and Eastern psychologies, embracing each person's uniqueness. I work compassionately supporting greater awareness, insight, choice and fulfillment.
(415) 360-1569 View (415) 360-1569
Photo of Ryan Moore, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ryan Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
My goal is to create a safe and open space for you to explore your story and deepen your self understanding, putting you on a path to healing. I work with you to identify areas of frustration and concern, as well as areas of strength. My approach is based in relational psychotherapy and also incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, family systems and Existential perspectives.
My goal is to create a safe and open space for you to explore your story and deepen your self understanding, putting you on a path to healing. I work with you to identify areas of frustration and concern, as well as areas of strength. My approach is based in relational psychotherapy and also incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, family systems and Existential perspectives.
(415) 761-2815 View (415) 761-2815
Photo of Dr. Mariel Barcebal, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Mariel Barcebal
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I am profoundly moved by existential and spiritual growth processes and am honored to not only have experienced my own evolutions, but also to have the honor and privilege to support others on their path.
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ― Anais Nin. Choosing to start therapy is so powerful as it means that you are looking to create a shift within yourself and what you've been doing is no longer serving you. Have you noticed yourself feeling stuck and overwhelmed within the negative cycle of your circumstances & deeply established emotional patterns? Do you identify as a people pleaser, shrinking yourself & prioritizing others' needs over your own? I will work collaboratively with you to break intergenerational trauma patterns at its source & move forward anew.
I am profoundly moved by existential and spiritual growth processes and am honored to not only have experienced my own evolutions, but also to have the honor and privilege to support others on their path.
And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. ― Anais Nin. Choosing to start therapy is so powerful as it means that you are looking to create a shift within yourself and what you've been doing is no longer serving you. Have you noticed yourself feeling stuck and overwhelmed within the negative cycle of your circumstances & deeply established emotional patterns? Do you identify as a people pleaser, shrinking yourself & prioritizing others' needs over your own? I will work collaboratively with you to break intergenerational trauma patterns at its source & move forward anew.
(213) 335-2236 View (213) 335-2236
Photo of Lindsey B Hopkins, PhD, Psychologist
Lindsey B Hopkins
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral (CBT), but I also draw from interpersonal, mindfulness/acceptance-based, existential, and transpersonal approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with >15 yrs experience researching and providing evidence-based treatments. There are a number of highly effective therapies out there, and I focus primarily on those that help people overcome: Traumatic Stress (PTSD); Anxiety Disorders; and Disordered Eating. I also work with many young adults undergoing life transitions, exploring career identities/trajectories, navigating romantic partnerships, etc. An increasing focus of my practice is existential in nature, assisting clients with spiritual growth and exploration.
My approach is primarily cognitive-behavioral (CBT), but I also draw from interpersonal, mindfulness/acceptance-based, existential, and transpersonal approaches.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with >15 yrs experience researching and providing evidence-based treatments. There are a number of highly effective therapies out there, and I focus primarily on those that help people overcome: Traumatic Stress (PTSD); Anxiety Disorders; and Disordered Eating. I also work with many young adults undergoing life transitions, exploring career identities/trajectories, navigating romantic partnerships, etc. An increasing focus of my practice is existential in nature, assisting clients with spiritual growth and exploration.
(510) 901-3446 View (510) 901-3446
Photo of Wyatt Okeefe, LPCC
Wyatt Okeefe
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I use an existential approach and believe that finding meaning in our daily activities and relationships is essential to thrive.
My clients are typically facing big questions and change in their lives. They are exploring their identities, learning new coping strategies for stressful life transitions such as adjusting to single life after a break up, career changes, moving from student to worker, retirement, gender transition, relocation, or coming out. Big changes require good support. I provide professional individual and couples therapy to help my clients live their most fulfilled and authentic lives.
I use an existential approach and believe that finding meaning in our daily activities and relationships is essential to thrive.
My clients are typically facing big questions and change in their lives. They are exploring their identities, learning new coping strategies for stressful life transitions such as adjusting to single life after a break up, career changes, moving from student to worker, retirement, gender transition, relocation, or coming out. Big changes require good support. I provide professional individual and couples therapy to help my clients live their most fulfilled and authentic lives.
(323) 613-3145 View (323) 613-3145
Photo of Scott Andrew Johnson, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Andrew Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
It is also highly successful with mood disorders, grief, PTSD, substance abuse issues, work/career stress, profound discontentment (existential angst), relationship difficulties, and other challenges we humans face.
Pain in life is inevitable, but suffering is optional; let me help you move away from the suffering. We live in a culture that has taught us to ignore our emotions and inner intuitive wisdom, and 'think' all situations to death—meanwhile we already have in us all the untapped wisdom we need to face our lives and its challenges. We just need to learn to access this wisdom. Rather than pathologizing our thoughts and behaviors, therapy can be about discovering how you “get in your own way” by not knowing yourself as fully as you might. I am here to help you start to realize your full potential and move away from the suffering.
It is also highly successful with mood disorders, grief, PTSD, substance abuse issues, work/career stress, profound discontentment (existential angst), relationship difficulties, and other challenges we humans face.
Pain in life is inevitable, but suffering is optional; let me help you move away from the suffering. We live in a culture that has taught us to ignore our emotions and inner intuitive wisdom, and 'think' all situations to death—meanwhile we already have in us all the untapped wisdom we need to face our lives and its challenges. We just need to learn to access this wisdom. Rather than pathologizing our thoughts and behaviors, therapy can be about discovering how you “get in your own way” by not knowing yourself as fully as you might. I am here to help you start to realize your full potential and move away from the suffering.
(707) 267-2368 View (707) 267-2368
Photo of Vanessa Wolter, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Wolter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Taking new clients. I specialize in holistically and compassionately treating anxiety, social anxiety, low self esteem, depression, grief, and existential issues such as finding purpose and meaning. My mission is to help clients transform pain into an opportunity for self-discovery, healing and empowerment, so that they can also reclaim their voice, purpose, and self-worth. I compassionately welcome individuals who feel silenced, disconnected from loved ones, overwhelmed, lost, or that they "don't belong," as well as people who have experienced bullying, abuse, or struggle with negative body image or a harsh inner critic.
Taking new clients. I specialize in holistically and compassionately treating anxiety, social anxiety, low self esteem, depression, grief, and existential issues such as finding purpose and meaning. My mission is to help clients transform pain into an opportunity for self-discovery, healing and empowerment, so that they can also reclaim their voice, purpose, and self-worth. I compassionately welcome individuals who feel silenced, disconnected from loved ones, overwhelmed, lost, or that they "don't belong," as well as people who have experienced bullying, abuse, or struggle with negative body image or a harsh inner critic.
(415) 237-9513 View (415) 237-9513
Photo of Dr. Melis Alkin Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, FT, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Melis Alkin Board Certified Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, FT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Welcome to my practice! I am a board certified clinical psychologist with over 20 years in practice and specialize in depression, trauma, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. I support clients in navigating life transitions such as existential, trauma, relational issues. Together we will explore how past experiences shape your current thoughts, emotions and behavior and work towards your goals for change, meaning making and finding renewed purpose, connection, and vitality. I am licensed in CA and NY.
Welcome to my practice! I am a board certified clinical psychologist with over 20 years in practice and specialize in depression, trauma, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. I support clients in navigating life transitions such as existential, trauma, relational issues. Together we will explore how past experiences shape your current thoughts, emotions and behavior and work towards your goals for change, meaning making and finding renewed purpose, connection, and vitality. I am licensed in CA and NY.
(424) 999-0532 View (424) 999-0532
Brown Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
We work with a diverse population of adult individuals, couples, and special interest groups who may be struggling with any number of mental health challenges related to anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and substance abuse, among others. We are committed to providing culturally competent care across the spectrum of age, race, gender, sexuality, religion, and background.
(415) 849-7242 View (415) 849-7242
Photo of Chris Kim, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chris Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
We are all wired to change and grow. But sometimes we get stuck in old patterns and beliefs that keep us from realizing the fullest expression of ourselves. I collaborate with my clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment where we identify these patterns and start developing new ways of experiencing them.
We are all wired to change and grow. But sometimes we get stuck in old patterns and beliefs that keep us from realizing the fullest expression of ourselves. I collaborate with my clients in a safe, non-judgmental environment where we identify these patterns and start developing new ways of experiencing them.
(415) 423-3954 View (415) 423-3954
Photo of Pirouz P Ganji, PsyD, Psychologist
Pirouz P Ganji
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Most people who come to see me are individuals and couples who are aware that something's wrong, but find that their own solutions to their issues are falling short, or even making matters more complicated. They are looking for support, understanding and REAL help that can be felt both in the present and that will leave a lasting impact.
Most people who come to see me are individuals and couples who are aware that something's wrong, but find that their own solutions to their issues are falling short, or even making matters more complicated. They are looking for support, understanding and REAL help that can be felt both in the present and that will leave a lasting impact.
(415) 528-3505 View (415) 528-3505
Photo of Bella Yousif, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bella Yousif
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
We cannot get through life without experiencing difficult times. None of us can. Whether it's dissatisfaction in a relationship, family conflict, career predicament, trauma, or personal distress, we all experience suffering at some point. And yet, how we respond can make all the difference in our future and the future of those we love. Therapy can often be one of the first steps on a path toward a life that is fulfilling and allows you to be your authentic self. The best place to start is right where you are; the time to start is now.
We cannot get through life without experiencing difficult times. None of us can. Whether it's dissatisfaction in a relationship, family conflict, career predicament, trauma, or personal distress, we all experience suffering at some point. And yet, how we respond can make all the difference in our future and the future of those we love. Therapy can often be one of the first steps on a path toward a life that is fulfilling and allows you to be your authentic self. The best place to start is right where you are; the time to start is now.
(628) 345-2619 View (628) 345-2619
Photo of Joshua Cross, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joshua Cross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Do you know what you want? Do you want to be free? Happy? Relaxed in your body? Content? Passionate and sexy? Courageous in the face of fear? More connected to your partner or to the Divine? How do you get in the way of living the life you want? Do you constantly judge yourself? Noticing all the ways you "fail" to live up to way you "should" be. Or do you tend to direct that criticism outwards? Blaming others, feeling envy, or always waiting for external circumstances to line up just right so you can finally live how you want.
Do you know what you want? Do you want to be free? Happy? Relaxed in your body? Content? Passionate and sexy? Courageous in the face of fear? More connected to your partner or to the Divine? How do you get in the way of living the life you want? Do you constantly judge yourself? Noticing all the ways you "fail" to live up to way you "should" be. Or do you tend to direct that criticism outwards? Blaming others, feeling envy, or always waiting for external circumstances to line up just right so you can finally live how you want.
(415) 968-5393 View (415) 968-5393
Photo of Crystal Compton, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Crystal Compton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) serving California residents. I specialize in working with anxiety and women's issues, though I welcome those experiencing a wider range of challenges. I work holistically, meaning that I take into consideration many aspects of your wellbeing. My approach is attachment focused, trauma-informed, and collaborative.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) serving California residents. I specialize in working with anxiety and women's issues, though I welcome those experiencing a wider range of challenges. I work holistically, meaning that I take into consideration many aspects of your wellbeing. My approach is attachment focused, trauma-informed, and collaborative.
(628) 600-3255 View (628) 600-3255
Photo of undefined - Liz Diamond - Brown Therapy Center, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Liz Diamond - Brown Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting process. I am inspired by anyone who is willing to reach out to a complete stranger, in order to challenge and heal themselves. I believe safety and non-judgment are among the most important aspects of the therapeutic relationship. I am committed to supporting you as we explore your thoughts and feelings, looking closely at barriers that until now have limited your insights and clarity. Your power to feel better comes from looking inward, instead of out, and I want to help you do the work to get to that healing place.
Choosing a therapist can be a daunting process. I am inspired by anyone who is willing to reach out to a complete stranger, in order to challenge and heal themselves. I believe safety and non-judgment are among the most important aspects of the therapeutic relationship. I am committed to supporting you as we explore your thoughts and feelings, looking closely at barriers that until now have limited your insights and clarity. Your power to feel better comes from looking inward, instead of out, and I want to help you do the work to get to that healing place.
(415) 324-6323 View (415) 324-6323
Photo of Yashua Gonzalez Robledo, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yashua Gonzalez Robledo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Are you feeling stuck in life, struggling with depression, anxiety, shame, relationship conflicts, or patterns you want to change? I’m here to support you in finding your way, cultivating self-awareness, and greater clarity. I approach therapy with warmth, sensitivity, and compassion. Our work together will hold a space for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. We will identify your goals, get attuned to what you need, and how to achieve it while learning to be gentle with yourself in the process.
Are you feeling stuck in life, struggling with depression, anxiety, shame, relationship conflicts, or patterns you want to change? I’m here to support you in finding your way, cultivating self-awareness, and greater clarity. I approach therapy with warmth, sensitivity, and compassion. Our work together will hold a space for you to feel seen, heard, and understood. We will identify your goals, get attuned to what you need, and how to achieve it while learning to be gentle with yourself in the process.
(415) 638-9804 View (415) 638-9804
Photo of David Jay Goldman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Jay Goldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?' - Mary Oliver. Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating process and reaching out for help can be uncomfortable, but we all need support in order to thrive. Within a warm, open and compassionate environment, my practice helps clients make sense of the challenges they face and use this understanding to navigate their lives with increased resilience and grace.
'Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?' - Mary Oliver. Choosing a therapist can be an intimidating process and reaching out for help can be uncomfortable, but we all need support in order to thrive. Within a warm, open and compassionate environment, my practice helps clients make sense of the challenges they face and use this understanding to navigate their lives with increased resilience and grace.
(415) 942-8947 View (415) 942-8947
Photo of Claudio Zanet, MA, LMFT, MBA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudio Zanet
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Are you making it through the day, looking to the rest of the world as if you're doing just fine, but deep down inside you feel stuck and uninspired? Do you wonder what is holding you back from thriving in the world? In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we've created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives.
Are you making it through the day, looking to the rest of the world as if you're doing just fine, but deep down inside you feel stuck and uninspired? Do you wonder what is holding you back from thriving in the world? In our hectic world we often find ourselves afraid to take risks that could jeopardize the stable lives we've created for ourselves. We remain in jobs, relationships and old patterns that no longer work, while symptoms such as anxiety, depression, stress, anger and self-defeating patterns keep us from making real changes to our lives.
(415) 578-7307 x3 View (415) 578-7307 x3
Photo of Ziqiu Yan, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ziqiu Yan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I am a bilingual (English/Mandarin) therapist based in SF Bay area. Client comes to see me for more fulfillment in life including depression, anxiety, insomnia, trauma, relationship issues etc,. I have holistic trainings on Gestalt Therapy, Hakomi (somatic) therapy and Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), which provides me a framework on combining mindfulness, somatic experience and neurobiological studies into my practice. I want to hold a safe space for my clients that they feel supported, cared for, resourced but also challenged, so that they can unfold their own unique way toward healing.
I am a bilingual (English/Mandarin) therapist based in SF Bay area. Client comes to see me for more fulfillment in life including depression, anxiety, insomnia, trauma, relationship issues etc,. I have holistic trainings on Gestalt Therapy, Hakomi (somatic) therapy and Psychobiological Approach to Couple Therapy (PACT), which provides me a framework on combining mindfulness, somatic experience and neurobiological studies into my practice. I want to hold a safe space for my clients that they feel supported, cared for, resourced but also challenged, so that they can unfold their own unique way toward healing.
(415) 843-7850 View (415) 843-7850
Photo of Dr. Shahrzad Nouraini, PsyD, MSc, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Shahrzad Nouraini
Psychologist, PsyD, MSc, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
One of the most surprising, powerful (and sometimes scary) parts of therapy is finding out we have more agency to create change than we realize. My clients often start therapy confused about why their life successes have not reduced their feelings of self-doubt, discontent, disconnectedness, and the impacts of old fears and traumas. In my practice, I work with you to find those spaces, where you can move towards a more desirable, authentic and joyful life. Through our therapeutic journey together, many client report feeling a greater sense of freedom, compassion, balance, connection, joy and overall trust within themselves.
One of the most surprising, powerful (and sometimes scary) parts of therapy is finding out we have more agency to create change than we realize. My clients often start therapy confused about why their life successes have not reduced their feelings of self-doubt, discontent, disconnectedness, and the impacts of old fears and traumas. In my practice, I work with you to find those spaces, where you can move towards a more desirable, authentic and joyful life. Through our therapeutic journey together, many client report feeling a greater sense of freedom, compassion, balance, connection, joy and overall trust within themselves.
(415) 985-0183 View (415) 985-0183
Existential Therapists

How does existential therapy work?

Existential therapy focuses on a patient’s inner experiences. The therapist tries to help the individual comprehend and alleviate symptoms by exploring their interior life. By confronting negative disquiet and emotions, the individual will hopefully become more open to finding meaning and purpose. This therapy can be administered to individuals or groups.

Is existential therapy evidence-based?

Existential therapy is an evidence-based practice. Research has determined that existential therapy can lead to significant improvement in the mental health of patients, and for some people it can be just as effective as cognitive behavioral therapy. The benefits of existential therapy are enduring, even long after treatment has ended.

How long does existential therapy last?

The goal of existential therapy is to understand a person’s internal experiences, which may sound like a lengthy process, but it does not have to be so in-depth. However, sessions are not short-term, and therapy can continue for months or up to a year. And because patients learn the theory behind existential therapy during treatment, they can also practice its tenets throughout life after therapy sessions have been completed.

Is existential therapy effective?

According to research, many patients find success with existential therapy. Researchers note that the therapy is particularly useful in improving feelings of isolation, feelings of purposelessness, as well as conditions such as anxiety and depression. Improvements in problem areas can persist even after the end of existential therapy, as individuals can continue working on themselves by using the tools they’ve developed during treatment.