Therapists in San Francisco, CA
Psychotherapy can be an opportunity to reduce emotional suffering, to understand what gets in the way of becoming the person we want to be, and to find a meaningful path forward. In my work with adult clients, I often am engaged around significant relationship challenges, health and wellness concerns, career misgivings, and blocks in expressing oneself. My approach with children and teenagers emphasizes developmental strengths, family supports, and planning for the future. I provide clinical consultation to other mental health professionals for many of these same topics.
Psychotherapy can be an opportunity to reduce emotional suffering, to understand what gets in the way of becoming the person we want to be, and to find a meaningful path forward. In my work with adult clients, I often am engaged around significant relationship challenges, health and wellness concerns, career misgivings, and blocks in expressing oneself. My approach with children and teenagers emphasizes developmental strengths, family supports, and planning for the future. I provide clinical consultation to other mental health professionals for many of these same topics.
As a child and adult therapist I am fortunate to witness the entire developmental span. With this unique window into the lifespan, I help children, parents, adults and couples gain insight into the patterns being created and already created in the mind of how they relate to and with the world i.e.how they relate to themselves and others. By first developing a safe and respectful relationship with my patients, we can begin to understand and uncover these complicated yet reflexive patterns that at some point served them, by protecting their self integrity, but along the way began to cause more harm then good.
As a child and adult therapist I am fortunate to witness the entire developmental span. With this unique window into the lifespan, I help children, parents, adults and couples gain insight into the patterns being created and already created in the mind of how they relate to and with the world i.e.how they relate to themselves and others. By first developing a safe and respectful relationship with my patients, we can begin to understand and uncover these complicated yet reflexive patterns that at some point served them, by protecting their self integrity, but along the way began to cause more harm then good.
Growing up did you experience painful or confusing boundary violations? Did someone whom you trusted, respected, or even loved touch you or fondle you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable, scared, or perhaps even made you feel confused and pleasured? Do you feel embarrassed and bothered by your experience, and worry that others will not understand how you have been sexually violated and abused? Do you struggle with managing your romantic relationships, your friendships, as well as your emotions and thoughts because your past uncomfortable experience with sex have made sex and your sexuality confusing, uncomfortable or even overstimulating? You are not alone.
Growing up did you experience painful or confusing boundary violations? Did someone whom you trusted, respected, or even loved touch you or fondle you in a way that made you feel uncomfortable, scared, or perhaps even made you feel confused and pleasured? Do you feel embarrassed and bothered by your experience, and worry that others will not understand how you have been sexually violated and abused? Do you struggle with managing your romantic relationships, your friendships, as well as your emotions and thoughts because your past uncomfortable experience with sex have made sex and your sexuality confusing, uncomfortable or even overstimulating? You are not alone.
I am most experienced in working with people with pain, illness, addictions, anxiety and depression. I use interpersonal and cognitive approaches to these issues, and believe that the client is best able to assist in selecting the types of approaches best suited to them.
I am most experienced in working with people with pain, illness, addictions, anxiety and depression. I use interpersonal and cognitive approaches to these issues, and believe that the client is best able to assist in selecting the types of approaches best suited to them.
Anne Diedrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107
I trust that people come to therapy seeking a more authentic happiness; and I work as best as I can to help clients let go of concepts and mistaken views of themselves that have led to more pain and confusion. I work with individuals, couples, children and families, bringing warmth and understanding to the relationships and life problems that surround us. Sometimes the first call is the most difficult. I am often available to speak briefly or will return your call as soon as possible, making the next steps and new perspectives possible.
I trust that people come to therapy seeking a more authentic happiness; and I work as best as I can to help clients let go of concepts and mistaken views of themselves that have led to more pain and confusion. I work with individuals, couples, children and families, bringing warmth and understanding to the relationships and life problems that surround us. Sometimes the first call is the most difficult. I am often available to speak briefly or will return your call as soon as possible, making the next steps and new perspectives possible.
Whether you have worked with a therapist before, or are seeking services for the first time, the search for therapy can be daunting to say the least. The therapeutic relationship is unlike any other, and requires a specific type of trust and connection. It is my honor to have an opportunity to connect with you, and ultimately aid you in your healing, and I do not take that opportunity lightly. I am enthusiastic about working with folks in all walks of life, and I do no hesitate to practice humility, vulnerability, transparency, and humor in my work to meet you where you are now.
Whether you have worked with a therapist before, or are seeking services for the first time, the search for therapy can be daunting to say the least. The therapeutic relationship is unlike any other, and requires a specific type of trust and connection. It is my honor to have an opportunity to connect with you, and ultimately aid you in your healing, and I do not take that opportunity lightly. I am enthusiastic about working with folks in all walks of life, and I do no hesitate to practice humility, vulnerability, transparency, and humor in my work to meet you where you are now.
Anne Rettenberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work with diverse persons, treating depression, anxiety disorders, relationship problems and trauma-related problems. I am licensed in California and New York.
I work with diverse persons, treating depression, anxiety disorders, relationship problems and trauma-related problems. I am licensed in California and New York.
Ariella Tanzer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my profile page. Are you feeling stuck and are unsure how to get back in motion? Are you noticing a pattern in your life that you want to understand or change? Have you recently gone through a difficult life event, are feeling overwhelmed and in need of some emotional support? You have found your way to the right place. I know that change is possible and I believe you are strong, resilient and capable of positive growth. I will help guide you to finding a way to show up in your life that feels most authentic for you.
Hello and welcome to my profile page. Are you feeling stuck and are unsure how to get back in motion? Are you noticing a pattern in your life that you want to understand or change? Have you recently gone through a difficult life event, are feeling overwhelmed and in need of some emotional support? You have found your way to the right place. I know that change is possible and I believe you are strong, resilient and capable of positive growth. I will help guide you to finding a way to show up in your life that feels most authentic for you.
With nearly 20 years of experience as a teacher and artist locally and internationally, I have worked with individuals ranging from preschoolers to elders, including those with diverse abilities, needs, and strengths. As a Drama Therapist focusing on Transgenerational Therapy, mindfulness and Feminist Psychology, I bring play, humor, and deep self-inquiry to the therapeutic work we engage in together. The experience of expressing oneself through a creative process can provide fresh perspectives and a sense of hope and empowerment.
With nearly 20 years of experience as a teacher and artist locally and internationally, I have worked with individuals ranging from preschoolers to elders, including those with diverse abilities, needs, and strengths. As a Drama Therapist focusing on Transgenerational Therapy, mindfulness and Feminist Psychology, I bring play, humor, and deep self-inquiry to the therapeutic work we engage in together. The experience of expressing oneself through a creative process can provide fresh perspectives and a sense of hope and empowerment.
My practice is devoted to supporting children, teens, parents, and young adults in creating a life they find meaningful and can thrive in. My style is warm, and building a strong and trusting relationship will be essential in our work together. I strive to appreciate and understand you or your child’s unique story and struggles, offer insights on issues that might be beyond your awareness, and share adaptive tools in managing your life’s challenges.
My practice is devoted to supporting children, teens, parents, and young adults in creating a life they find meaningful and can thrive in. My style is warm, and building a strong and trusting relationship will be essential in our work together. I strive to appreciate and understand you or your child’s unique story and struggles, offer insights on issues that might be beyond your awareness, and share adaptive tools in managing your life’s challenges.
Eliot M. Lev
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
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If you are struggling with unbearable feelings, loneliness, identity issues, shame, guilt, and/or relationship difficulties, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore yourself in relation to your world. My approach rests on the belief that our ways of understanding and coping with the present may be limited by our previous experiences. By working together, we find new expanded ways to help you understand and cope more effectively.
If you are struggling with unbearable feelings, loneliness, identity issues, shame, guilt, and/or relationship difficulties, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore yourself in relation to your world. My approach rests on the belief that our ways of understanding and coping with the present may be limited by our previous experiences. By working together, we find new expanded ways to help you understand and cope more effectively.
My name is Joe Ninomiya, and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) working with a wide variety of clients throughout California via telehealth. My clients range from children to adults of all ages. I am able to assist with each stage of life. Whether it be Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, traumatic brain injury, or adjustment to disability.
My name is Joe Ninomiya, and I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT) working with a wide variety of clients throughout California via telehealth. My clients range from children to adults of all ages. I am able to assist with each stage of life. Whether it be Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, traumatic brain injury, or adjustment to disability.
My name is Brandi Hughes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I offer telehealth services to adolescents and adults of every gender expression and sexual orientation who are experiencing relational difficulties, environmental stressors, challenges with life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
My name is Brandi Hughes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Los Angeles, California. I offer telehealth services to adolescents and adults of every gender expression and sexual orientation who are experiencing relational difficulties, environmental stressors, challenges with life transitions, anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am a caring, empathetic, and experienced therapist with more than 20 years in practice. I can assist you to find your unique life's path, overcome obstacles such as difficult emotions and past trauma, and expand your potential for happiness. I work with individuals, families, and people in many sorts of relationships, especially in the areas of anxiety and stress management, trauma and post-traumatic stress, depression, self worth and self-actualization, gender identity, sexuality and intimacy, and life transitions.
I am a caring, empathetic, and experienced therapist with more than 20 years in practice. I can assist you to find your unique life's path, overcome obstacles such as difficult emotions and past trauma, and expand your potential for happiness. I work with individuals, families, and people in many sorts of relationships, especially in the areas of anxiety and stress management, trauma and post-traumatic stress, depression, self worth and self-actualization, gender identity, sexuality and intimacy, and life transitions.
Do you feel isolated, overwhelmed, or interested in making a life transition without knowing where to begin? Are you experiencing conflict in relationship or struggling with intimacy? I am passionate about helping individuals and couples forge new pathways for personal growth and nurture authentic connection. Through our work together, you can expect to feel a closer bond with your partner, experience greater sexual satisfaction, and develop more effective communication strategies. Whether seen as an individual client or as part of a couple, you will begin to live in closer alignment with your deepest values.
Do you feel isolated, overwhelmed, or interested in making a life transition without knowing where to begin? Are you experiencing conflict in relationship or struggling with intimacy? I am passionate about helping individuals and couples forge new pathways for personal growth and nurture authentic connection. Through our work together, you can expect to feel a closer bond with your partner, experience greater sexual satisfaction, and develop more effective communication strategies. Whether seen as an individual client or as part of a couple, you will begin to live in closer alignment with your deepest values.
Scott D Altamirano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you're failing at your relationships? Feeling burned out at work? Do you have issues with smoking too much, isolating too much, or do you have trouble opening up about feelings? Contact me for non-judgmental therapy so we can slowly start fixing everything, so that we can go back to everyone being happy again.
Do you feel like you're failing at your relationships? Feeling burned out at work? Do you have issues with smoking too much, isolating too much, or do you have trouble opening up about feelings? Contact me for non-judgmental therapy so we can slowly start fixing everything, so that we can go back to everyone being happy again.
Jhoana Sarabia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103 (Online Only)
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
Jhoana Sarabia is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in California. Whether a client is facing anxiety, depression, experiencing grief and loss, or has substance abuse issues, Jhoana offers a judgement free environment for people of all ages, genders, cultures, and social backgrounds to explore their concerns. She specializes in helping members of the Latinx community, and has extensive cultural and linguistic knowledge.
Erica Antoinette Nocera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Erica, a warm, empathetic, and open Marriage and Family Therapist that helps clients find their purpose, heal, and thrive! I'd love to be your guide to holistic healing and transformation. With expertise in trauma- rooted anxiety and depression, recovery counseling with addictions, and women’s issues including body image, low self esteem, and eating disorders, I'll help teach you evidence-based tools to reframe thoughts and regulate emotions, as well as explore root causes for symptom management. Let's empower you to achieve resilience and personal growth, leading to a healthier and happier future:)
Hi! I'm Erica, a warm, empathetic, and open Marriage and Family Therapist that helps clients find their purpose, heal, and thrive! I'd love to be your guide to holistic healing and transformation. With expertise in trauma- rooted anxiety and depression, recovery counseling with addictions, and women’s issues including body image, low self esteem, and eating disorders, I'll help teach you evidence-based tools to reframe thoughts and regulate emotions, as well as explore root causes for symptom management. Let's empower you to achieve resilience and personal growth, leading to a healthier and happier future:)
I am passionate about helping clients understand and rise above that unwanted presence that has likely been a steady companion for some time — anxiety. This anxious part of the brain can have quite a loud voice, triggering uncomfortable symptoms that lead you to avoid what you fear. You can then become stuck in a smaller, less vibrant life, one where you stop pursuing what matters most. Anxiety can show up in the form of worry that is difficult to control, public speaking anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, OCD, health anxiety, and work stress/burnout. I also treat insomnia, which can be a related problem.
I am passionate about helping clients understand and rise above that unwanted presence that has likely been a steady companion for some time — anxiety. This anxious part of the brain can have quite a loud voice, triggering uncomfortable symptoms that lead you to avoid what you fear. You can then become stuck in a smaller, less vibrant life, one where you stop pursuing what matters most. Anxiety can show up in the form of worry that is difficult to control, public speaking anxiety, social anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, OCD, health anxiety, and work stress/burnout. I also treat insomnia, which can be a related problem.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Belvedere
- Belvedere Tiburon
- Brisbane
- Colma
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Oakland
- San Bruno
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
How does your Therapist compare?
Number of Therapists in San Francisco, CA
3,000+
Average cost per session
$189
Therapists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
82% | Relationship Issues |
74% | Self Esteem |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Stress |
66% | Life Transitions |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
72% | Aetna |
56% | Cigna and Evernorth |
54% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Francisco, CA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
23% | Male | |
2% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling
How can I find a therapist in San Francisco?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Learn more about how to find a therapist
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
How much does therapy cost?
The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.
What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?
Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
Are therapy sessions confidential?
Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.