Photo of Pamela Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Pamela Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
It may involve somatic based work, art, storytelling and other modalities which will give us an opportunity to safely delve into exploring your internal world.
We are currently surviving, learning to navigate our lives during a health crisis. With such a fast pace, I deeply believe therapy provides us the container to check in with ourselves and find that moment to catch up. I invite you to give yourself the gift of three deep breaths - inhale deeply and exhale slowly letting something go repeat another two times. No matter what brings you into therapy, I aim to create a safe space alongside you. Every person is an expert on their own lives and I am here to simply help as WE discover and learn the tools to live a life that feels most authentic to YOU.
It may involve somatic based work, art, storytelling and other modalities which will give us an opportunity to safely delve into exploring your internal world.
We are currently surviving, learning to navigate our lives during a health crisis. With such a fast pace, I deeply believe therapy provides us the container to check in with ourselves and find that moment to catch up. I invite you to give yourself the gift of three deep breaths - inhale deeply and exhale slowly letting something go repeat another two times. No matter what brings you into therapy, I aim to create a safe space alongside you. Every person is an expert on their own lives and I am here to simply help as WE discover and learn the tools to live a life that feels most authentic to YOU.
(415) 366-3970 View (415) 366-3970
Photo of Elvira Kitrar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Elvira Kitrar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
I employ a variety of techniques ranging from standard psychotherapy to art therapy, sand play, relaxation and guided visualization.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
I employ a variety of techniques ranging from standard psychotherapy to art therapy, sand play, relaxation and guided visualization.
My approach to psychotherapy is holistic. I not only treat the "tip of the iceberg" problems, but also address the deeper, "bottom of the ocean," issues. I treat the whole person and honor the mind-body-spirit connections, taking into account the client's cultural, religious and ethnic background, ancestry, race and immigration history. I recognize the complexity of each person's history and circumstances and employ a wide variety of techniques to guide my clients in their self-discovery.
(415) 534-9620 View (415) 534-9620
Photo of Ashley Boyer, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ashley Boyer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
Waitlist for new clients
I gravitate towards Mindfulness and Art and play-based interventions.
Hi, I am a San Francisco Bay Area Child Psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and other related concerns such as perfectionism and difficult life adjustments. In my practice, I focus on the relationship and making you and your child feel comfortable through developmentally appropriate interventions. I want to help you work through your worries and achieve your best life.
I gravitate towards Mindfulness and Art and play-based interventions.
Hi, I am a San Francisco Bay Area Child Psychologist. I specialize in anxiety and other related concerns such as perfectionism and difficult life adjustments. In my practice, I focus on the relationship and making you and your child feel comfortable through developmentally appropriate interventions. I want to help you work through your worries and achieve your best life.
(628) 228-6535 View (628) 228-6535
Photo of Francine Filzen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Francine Filzen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94134
Hello! My name is Franni Filzen and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and credentialed art therapist. I work with youth, individuals, and families from a strength-based relational approach. I believe that every person is unique, and I employ an eclectic approach choosing from my years of experience and modality that I feel will work best with each individual. I use family systems, attachment theory, trauma-informed care, neuro-sequential model of therapeutics, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, collaborative problem solving, and other modalities as well as incorporating art therapy when appropriate.
Hello! My name is Franni Filzen and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and credentialed art therapist. I work with youth, individuals, and families from a strength-based relational approach. I believe that every person is unique, and I employ an eclectic approach choosing from my years of experience and modality that I feel will work best with each individual. I use family systems, attachment theory, trauma-informed care, neuro-sequential model of therapeutics, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, collaborative problem solving, and other modalities as well as incorporating art therapy when appropriate.
(510) 867-3650 View (510) 867-3650
Photo of Candace Kavanagh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Candace Kavanagh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94121
I am passionate about working with my clients to find creative ways of exploring their needs(Expressive Art, Role Playing and Dungeons and Dragons).
I love working with teens, families, couples and adults from 18 to 25. I specialize working LGBTQIA+ persons exploring identity and connection to their community. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, difficulty with motivation and doom scrolling.
I am passionate about working with my clients to find creative ways of exploring their needs(Expressive Art, Role Playing and Dungeons and Dragons).
I love working with teens, families, couples and adults from 18 to 25. I specialize working LGBTQIA+ persons exploring identity and connection to their community. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, difficulty with motivation and doom scrolling.
(415) 234-5098 View (415) 234-5098
Photo of Dr. Amy Waldron, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Amy Waldron
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself in a constant state of ‘doing’ in order to stay regulated and out of your head? Are you trying to care less about what others think? I work best with individuals who refer to themselves as “over-thinkers” and are looking for new ways to manage the stress of day-to-day life. Contact me for a free consultation if you struggle with the nagging feeling of being disconnected from others, or if you wonder what it would feel like if you could break free from your inner critic and the feeling that you’re lacking despite a mountain of accomplishments. I offer Art Therapy if you'd like to tap into your creative wisdom.
Do you find yourself in a constant state of ‘doing’ in order to stay regulated and out of your head? Are you trying to care less about what others think? I work best with individuals who refer to themselves as “over-thinkers” and are looking for new ways to manage the stress of day-to-day life. Contact me for a free consultation if you struggle with the nagging feeling of being disconnected from others, or if you wonder what it would feel like if you could break free from your inner critic and the feeling that you’re lacking despite a mountain of accomplishments. I offer Art Therapy if you'd like to tap into your creative wisdom.
(415) 936-8719 View (415) 936-8719
Photo of Caitlin Torres Graham, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Caitlin Torres Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative client-centered approach which may include art therapy, narrative therapy and DBT with a trauma informed lens through all of the work I do.
Life can feel like a big knot of different colored threads that can include overcoming trauma, life transitions, relationship issues and identity. My goal is to work with you to untangle that knot to improve your sense of wellbeing, insight, self-compassion and coping techniques. I know that doing this self work can be overwhelming, so I value a transparent, trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I have extensive experience working with trauma, intergenerational family dynamics and trauma, ethnic identity issues, self esteem, body image issues, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
I use an integrative client-centered approach which may include art therapy, narrative therapy and DBT with a trauma informed lens through all of the work I do.
Life can feel like a big knot of different colored threads that can include overcoming trauma, life transitions, relationship issues and identity. My goal is to work with you to untangle that knot to improve your sense of wellbeing, insight, self-compassion and coping techniques. I know that doing this self work can be overwhelming, so I value a transparent, trusting and collaborative relationship with my clients. I have extensive experience working with trauma, intergenerational family dynamics and trauma, ethnic identity issues, self esteem, body image issues, grief, loss, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(415) 754-7843 View (415) 754-7843
Photo of Courtney A Hartman, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Courtney A Hartman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I incorporate aspects of mindfulness and embodied self awareness including relaxation techniques, meditation and art, specializing in trauma, grief and child/family/parenting work.
Starting therapy and finding the right fit can be a daunting task. I view the therapeutic relationship as something that is co-created over time and as the primary tool for healing. I have experience working with ages 3-50+ providing specific insights and tools relevant for the progressive stages of life and the many difficulties that can come up along the way. Focusing on the here and now, we work to increase self awareness, compassion, insight and care while simultaneously holding the larger context within which we meet, including ways that race, gender, class and culture impact our experiences and identities.
I incorporate aspects of mindfulness and embodied self awareness including relaxation techniques, meditation and art, specializing in trauma, grief and child/family/parenting work.
Starting therapy and finding the right fit can be a daunting task. I view the therapeutic relationship as something that is co-created over time and as the primary tool for healing. I have experience working with ages 3-50+ providing specific insights and tools relevant for the progressive stages of life and the many difficulties that can come up along the way. Focusing on the here and now, we work to increase self awareness, compassion, insight and care while simultaneously holding the larger context within which we meet, including ways that race, gender, class and culture impact our experiences and identities.
(415) 799-1485 View (415) 799-1485
Photo of Rebecca Siegel, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Rebecca Siegel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I am trained in traditional talk therapy and experiential expressive art therapies.
I believe that the capacity to thrive already lives in your hands, heart, and imagination. As your therapist, I will work with you to uncover your own inherent wisdom. With your wise self in the room, we can explore how parts of you may feel lost, unsure or left out. As your wise self learns to take up more space in your life, you may come to realize that the painful parts of you are just that: a part of you, and that your life is not defined by these parts. I will help you to realize that you are indeed amazing, capable, and loved.
I am trained in traditional talk therapy and experiential expressive art therapies.
I believe that the capacity to thrive already lives in your hands, heart, and imagination. As your therapist, I will work with you to uncover your own inherent wisdom. With your wise self in the room, we can explore how parts of you may feel lost, unsure or left out. As your wise self learns to take up more space in your life, you may come to realize that the painful parts of you are just that: a part of you, and that your life is not defined by these parts. I will help you to realize that you are indeed amazing, capable, and loved.
(415) 877-3616 View (415) 877-3616
Photo of Max Kopeikin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Max Kopeikin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, PgDip, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
Imagination and creativity are infused into my approach, whether in art therapy, yoga therapy or in a more traditional talk-based individual or couples therapy.
I help adults and teens looking to become more aware, learn and better themselves. Maybe there is something that needs to shift/change or maybe it is just a growth-oriented process. I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary. Other queer populations who I have a lot of experience helping include couples, polyamorous relationships, the Latinx community, long-term HIV survivors, and gay/Queer men. My work celebrates diverse genders, sexualities and kink identities. My ideal client is open to work in a way that combines talk therapy, yoga/somatic approaches and art-based therapies.
Imagination and creativity are infused into my approach, whether in art therapy, yoga therapy or in a more traditional talk-based individual or couples therapy.
I help adults and teens looking to become more aware, learn and better themselves. Maybe there is something that needs to shift/change or maybe it is just a growth-oriented process. I have done a lot of my work with people who identify as Trans/Gender Non-Conforming/Nonbinary. Other queer populations who I have a lot of experience helping include couples, polyamorous relationships, the Latinx community, long-term HIV survivors, and gay/Queer men. My work celebrates diverse genders, sexualities and kink identities. My ideal client is open to work in a way that combines talk therapy, yoga/somatic approaches and art-based therapies.
(628) 244-3943 View (628) 244-3943
Photo of Meredith Holmes, Psychological Associate in San Francisco, CA
Meredith Holmes
Psychological Associate, MSW, MSCP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. When appropriate, I utilize humor in the therapy room, and I also welcome exploring creative ways of healing through avenues such as art, music, and play.
I am a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with over 6 years of experience as a psychotherapist and over 16 years of experience as a social worker. I support and empower clients who have a range of concerns including adjusting to life transitions, relationship challenges, exploring various aspects of identity (i.e., race, sexuality, gender), trauma, grief and loss, navigating the world as a neurodivergent person, and more. When appropriate, I utilize humor in the therapy room, and I also welcome exploring creative ways of healing through avenues such as art, music, and play.
(415) 874-0759 View (415) 874-0759
Photo of Lindsay Kay Parkinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Lindsay Kay Parkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
Talk therapy using Narrative & CBT methods is a primary focus while Art Therapy is a specialty offered to those who have interest in combining art and creativity with the traditional approach.
I am passionate and dedicated to creating a trusting relationship and safe space for the process of narrating your personal story. Over 10 years I've worked in community-based programs with both teens and adults. I especially enjoy working with young people ages 16 to 25 (Transitional Aged Youth) a population that’s often overlooked and underserved. Having personally struggled myself during that time, I know how to identify with that challenging life transition and sometimes overwhelming decisions of "What's next?" let alone the bigger question of "Who am I?".
Talk therapy using Narrative & CBT methods is a primary focus while Art Therapy is a specialty offered to those who have interest in combining art and creativity with the traditional approach.
I am passionate and dedicated to creating a trusting relationship and safe space for the process of narrating your personal story. Over 10 years I've worked in community-based programs with both teens and adults. I especially enjoy working with young people ages 16 to 25 (Transitional Aged Youth) a population that’s often overlooked and underserved. Having personally struggled myself during that time, I know how to identify with that challenging life transition and sometimes overwhelming decisions of "What's next?" let alone the bigger question of "Who am I?".
(916) 764-3974 View (916) 764-3974
Photo of Kadence Mitchell, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Kadence Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
My approach is eclectic and evidence-based, with a range of interventions like psychodynamic, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, CBT and art therapy.
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
My approach is eclectic and evidence-based, with a range of interventions like psychodynamic, narrative therapy, motivational interviewing, CBT and art therapy.
As a Black, queer femme with mixed ancestry, I carry with me both a personal and professional understanding of the systems of oppression and domination that entangle with identity and wreak havoc in our lives. I have specific interest and experience working with those struggling with racial identity, sexual identity and gender identity; those healing from and finding their independence from/within dysfunctional family dynamics; folks who have been affected by intimate partner violence and dating violence; and those seeking to uncover patterns of intergenerational trauma within themselves and their family systems.
(415) 360-3764 View (415) 360-3764
Photo of Adilia E Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Adilia E Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94120  (Online Only)
During our sessions we will incorporate different modalities that may call to you such as movement, journaling, art, mindfulness and breathing exercises, among other possibilities that will aid in your healing.
Healing is a gift that emerges from seeds cultivated by struggle, broken borders, and bold dreams. I am a queer mental health practitioner in the Bay Area. My daily practice as a mental health clinician is guided and shaped by culturally relevant services imbued with an Indigenous approach to healing and medicine. My work is focused on trauma-trauma-informed care and recovery services for children, youth, adults, and families impacted by (im)migration, displacement, and other forms of oppression. We individualize and collaborate with the creation of your treatment plan of care tailored to the needs of each person. English & Spanish
During our sessions we will incorporate different modalities that may call to you such as movement, journaling, art, mindfulness and breathing exercises, among other possibilities that will aid in your healing.
Healing is a gift that emerges from seeds cultivated by struggle, broken borders, and bold dreams. I am a queer mental health practitioner in the Bay Area. My daily practice as a mental health clinician is guided and shaped by culturally relevant services imbued with an Indigenous approach to healing and medicine. My work is focused on trauma-trauma-informed care and recovery services for children, youth, adults, and families impacted by (im)migration, displacement, and other forms of oppression. We individualize and collaborate with the creation of your treatment plan of care tailored to the needs of each person. English & Spanish
(415) 639-3276 View (415) 639-3276
Photo of Crystal Compton, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Crystal Compton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108  (Online Only)
Some of the treatment modalities I use are; art therapy, CBT, narrative therapy, and mindfulness.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) serving California resident. 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.
Some of the treatment modalities I use are; art therapy, CBT, narrative therapy, and mindfulness.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Board Certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC) serving California resident. 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 Brigitte Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Brigitte Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children birth to adolescence, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. Upon request, I provide case coordination with other providers. I have provided therapeutic services in schools & the SF Bay Area community for over 25 years in English and Spanish.
I use a variety of therapeutic methods including art, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and play therapy.
I specialize in therapeutic services for children birth to adolescence, families & adults. I use a trauma-sensitive, strengths-based approach & believe that through the therapeutic relationship one develops the ability to make change, process past & present challenges, and learn coping skills for specific needs and overall wellness. I support and respect clients to develop goals & intentions for their wellness, at their own comfort level and pace. Upon request, I provide case coordination with other providers. I have provided therapeutic services in schools & the SF Bay Area community for over 25 years in English and Spanish.
(415) 366-3636 View (415) 366-3636
Photo of Estelle Rubenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Estelle Rubenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I have a Bachelors Degree in Therapeutic Recreation from San Diego State University and a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University.
Welcome. I know that choosing a therapist can be hard. How can a therapist help you? How can you find the right therapist? I hope the information here helps. I work with all age groups - and especially well with clients whose challenges include gender identity and sexuality, life transitions, alcohol and drug addiction, foster care and adoption issues, parenting, ageing, depression, anxiety, veterans and active duty military, relationships, grief, loss, and trauma. I can work within short-term and long-term frameworks, depending on your goals and expectations. I am kink-, gender-, and ENM/poly-affirming.
I have a Bachelors Degree in Therapeutic Recreation from San Diego State University and a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Art Therapy from Notre Dame de Namur University.
Welcome. I know that choosing a therapist can be hard. How can a therapist help you? How can you find the right therapist? I hope the information here helps. I work with all age groups - and especially well with clients whose challenges include gender identity and sexuality, life transitions, alcohol and drug addiction, foster care and adoption issues, parenting, ageing, depression, anxiety, veterans and active duty military, relationships, grief, loss, and trauma. I can work within short-term and long-term frameworks, depending on your goals and expectations. I am kink-, gender-, and ENM/poly-affirming.
(415) 639-3834 View (415) 639-3834
Photo of Jo Sopko, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jo Sopko
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, RDT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
I am an expressive art & drama therapist, dedicated to the inquiry and exploration of the client's life as we travel together along the therapeutic path.
* ADULTS: I work with issues of loss, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, sex addiction, spiritual guidance, and developmental life changes.* CHILDREN: I invite their stories that may be troubled due to emotional and academic issues. Through play, art and sand tray, I address issues of divorce, traumatic losses, abuse, adoption, bullying and low self esteem that may be affecting your children. * COUPLES: My passion is to help the couple find a yet unknown way to a compassionate, loving, open communicative relationship; to become vulnerable to the pain and wounds of each other's soul.
I am an expressive art & drama therapist, dedicated to the inquiry and exploration of the client's life as we travel together along the therapeutic path.
* ADULTS: I work with issues of loss, stress, anxiety, depression, abuse, sex addiction, spiritual guidance, and developmental life changes.* CHILDREN: I invite their stories that may be troubled due to emotional and academic issues. Through play, art and sand tray, I address issues of divorce, traumatic losses, abuse, adoption, bullying and low self esteem that may be affecting your children. * COUPLES: My passion is to help the couple find a yet unknown way to a compassionate, loving, open communicative relationship; to become vulnerable to the pain and wounds of each other's soul.
(415) 799-4143 View (415) 799-4143
Photo of Chelsea Owens, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Chelsea Owens
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I practice using an integrative approach to therapy, drawing upon art therapy modalities, Internal Family Systems, humanistic, transpersonal/mindfulness practices, and diversity to inform and provide an empathetic foundation from which the process of growth can flourish.
Hello! I'm a level 2-trained IFS therapist, I know how important relationships are, and how little we are taught about how to do them! I work with women who are feeling disconnected from themselves. Women who are struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, trauma, boundaries and relationship issues. I'm here to help facilitate a relationship between you and all parts of you. I believe there is creativity, reflection and expression inside of everyone and it can be easier to communicate without words. I bring warmth and energy to the room and levity to situations that can sometimes feel overwhelming and heavy.
I practice using an integrative approach to therapy, drawing upon art therapy modalities, Internal Family Systems, humanistic, transpersonal/mindfulness practices, and diversity to inform and provide an empathetic foundation from which the process of growth can flourish.
Hello! I'm a level 2-trained IFS therapist, I know how important relationships are, and how little we are taught about how to do them! I work with women who are feeling disconnected from themselves. Women who are struggling with body image issues, eating disorders, trauma, boundaries and relationship issues. I'm here to help facilitate a relationship between you and all parts of you. I believe there is creativity, reflection and expression inside of everyone and it can be easier to communicate without words. I bring warmth and energy to the room and levity to situations that can sometimes feel overwhelming and heavy.
(650) 651-5952 View (650) 651-5952
Photo of Gerardo Salinas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Gerardo Salinas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
My name is Gerardo Salinas. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist for more than 12 years. I have experience working with adults, youth, and families from varied life experiences. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds. I offer Talk, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, Art Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help resolve conflict, improve communication, and work to resolve trauma with both children and adults. Another focus I have is on early attachment and developmental needs. I also offer parent coaching to help with challenging behaviors at school or in the home.
My name is Gerardo Salinas. I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Therapist for more than 12 years. I have experience working with adults, youth, and families from varied life experiences. I enjoy working with clients from diverse backgrounds. I offer Talk, Play Therapy, Mindfulness, Art Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help resolve conflict, improve communication, and work to resolve trauma with both children and adults. Another focus I have is on early attachment and developmental needs. I also offer parent coaching to help with challenging behaviors at school or in the home.
(442) 259-6410 View (442) 259-6410

See more therapy options for San Francisco

Art Therapy

How does art therapy work?

The process of making art allows people to express themselves. Art-making can take many forms, such as painting, collage, or sculpting. The therapist asks questions that the work elicits, such as how the person felt while creating their piece, or if any memories surfaced that they can discuss. The therapist will then work with the patient to process their experience, understand themselves better, and work toward change.

Does art therapy help with trauma?

Art therapy can be a valuable treatment option for those suffering from trauma. Traumatic experiences such as combat, rape, or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. The physical nature of creating art can also help people feel rooted in the body, which may benefit those who feel disconnected from their body in the aftermath of trauma.

How long does art therapy last?

The duration of art therapy varies, but a common length for treatment is 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Some people may see improvement in just a few weeks, while others may choose to remain in therapy longer term. Patients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

What are the limitations of art therapy?

Art therapy is helpful for many people, but a limitation is that it doesn’t have as robust an evidence base as other forms of therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or acceptance and commitment therapy. The evidence on art therapy is mixed; some research demonstrates its benefits, while other research suggests that it has little impact on patients.