Therapists in San Francisco, CA

Sometimes what weighs us down isn’t just what’s happening now, but what’s been quietly building over time—old wounds, overlooked moments, and the stories that shaped how we learned to survive. You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in your head, like you can’t turn your thoughts off. Maybe there’s a heaviness or a sense of disconnection you can’t quite explain. You might feel unseen in your relationships—unsupported, yet unsure how to ask for the care you need. Maybe you shut down quickly or find yourself bracing for something to go wrong, even when things seem to be going right. If any of this resonates, you’re not alone.
Sometimes what weighs us down isn’t just what’s happening now, but what’s been quietly building over time—old wounds, overlooked moments, and the stories that shaped how we learned to survive. You might feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in your head, like you can’t turn your thoughts off. Maybe there’s a heaviness or a sense of disconnection you can’t quite explain. You might feel unseen in your relationships—unsupported, yet unsure how to ask for the care you need. Maybe you shut down quickly or find yourself bracing for something to go wrong, even when things seem to be going right. If any of this resonates, you’re not alone.

The goal of therapy is for you be happy in your love and work. At the heart of it, therapy is about increasing your capacity to alleviate your suffering; feel more connected with yourself and others; expand and enrich yourself; recognize what you want; and recognize the internal and external forces that keep you from getting what you want. These are powerful antidotes to anxiety and depression.
The goal of therapy is for you be happy in your love and work. At the heart of it, therapy is about increasing your capacity to alleviate your suffering; feel more connected with yourself and others; expand and enrich yourself; recognize what you want; and recognize the internal and external forces that keep you from getting what you want. These are powerful antidotes to anxiety and depression.

Are you tired of feeling anxious, fearful & overwhelmed? Are you tired of your negative thoughts & patterns blocking you from accomplishing your daily goals, big or small? You feel stuck because your mind continues to tap into old stories that are creating self-doubt in who you want to be, what you want to do & what you want to have in your life. You’re tired of trying to figure it out alone & getting the same results. You finally want accountability, to learn how to decrease stress & to learn how to reverse engineer your thinking so that you can align with the women & mom you want to be & pursue what really excites you in life.
Are you tired of feeling anxious, fearful & overwhelmed? Are you tired of your negative thoughts & patterns blocking you from accomplishing your daily goals, big or small? You feel stuck because your mind continues to tap into old stories that are creating self-doubt in who you want to be, what you want to do & what you want to have in your life. You’re tired of trying to figure it out alone & getting the same results. You finally want accountability, to learn how to decrease stress & to learn how to reverse engineer your thinking so that you can align with the women & mom you want to be & pursue what really excites you in life.

I work with adults, including driven professionals, couples, individuals, families, and founders. My clients span the political spectrum, faiths, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, and genders. Folks I work with tend to have big jobs, busy lives, and often little kids. You may be pissed off, bored, or disconnected in your relationship or you may be stressed out, depressed, and dealing with corporate power struggles. I came from tech. I have a collaborative and leaderly style. I also want you to enjoy therapy while getting a lot out of it.
I work with adults, including driven professionals, couples, individuals, families, and founders. My clients span the political spectrum, faiths, sexual orientations, races, ethnicities, and genders. Folks I work with tend to have big jobs, busy lives, and often little kids. You may be pissed off, bored, or disconnected in your relationship or you may be stressed out, depressed, and dealing with corporate power struggles. I came from tech. I have a collaborative and leaderly style. I also want you to enjoy therapy while getting a lot out of it.

Are you tired of feeling that your anxiety/depression is in the driver’s seat and your innate creativity is held captive in the trunk? Are you ready for your anxiety/depression to take a back seat and choose what drives you - to feel creative, playful and confident. I am an expert in supporting creative folx who are feeling stuck, anxious, and alone and with no outlet, to feel seen and heard, and give expression to unspoken parts of themselves, to get clear on their needs, wants and their truth. Moving from a place of unbearable pain and stuckness to living full, creative, purpose-driven lives.
Are you tired of feeling that your anxiety/depression is in the driver’s seat and your innate creativity is held captive in the trunk? Are you ready for your anxiety/depression to take a back seat and choose what drives you - to feel creative, playful and confident. I am an expert in supporting creative folx who are feeling stuck, anxious, and alone and with no outlet, to feel seen and heard, and give expression to unspoken parts of themselves, to get clear on their needs, wants and their truth. Moving from a place of unbearable pain and stuckness to living full, creative, purpose-driven lives.

You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you're navigating a life transition, struggling with confidence, or seeking more purpose in your relationships or career, therapy can help. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, explore what’s getting in the way, and build a path forward that feels aligned and empowering.
You might feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step—but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Whether you're navigating a life transition, struggling with confidence, or seeking more purpose in your relationships or career, therapy can help. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, explore what’s getting in the way, and build a path forward that feels aligned and empowering.

Moving closer to a balanced and whole state of mind is the main goal of talk therapy. In a trusting and collaborative environment, you are given the chance to remove obstacles on the way of reaching your full potential for personal growth and improved mental health. Also, through conversation with an objective and trained individual, you will be able to understand the complexities of your mind, making your unknown known. In addition to working with adults, one of my main focuses is individual and family psychotherapy with adolescents dealing with issues such as identity formation and relationship building.
Moving closer to a balanced and whole state of mind is the main goal of talk therapy. In a trusting and collaborative environment, you are given the chance to remove obstacles on the way of reaching your full potential for personal growth and improved mental health. Also, through conversation with an objective and trained individual, you will be able to understand the complexities of your mind, making your unknown known. In addition to working with adults, one of my main focuses is individual and family psychotherapy with adolescents dealing with issues such as identity formation and relationship building.

You’ve read all the books and done all the research, but being in an open relationship is more complicated than it sounded. You thought you had it all figured out, but it turns out you’re just as lost as before. It was supposed to be an exciting time to explore and spice things up, but right now, you’re overwhelmed with anxiety and fear. You’re scared this will ruin your relationship, and jealousy has become a familiar presence. It was a time to explore, but now, talking feels so difficult, and resentment is building... the person closest to you now feels like a stranger. This can't be the end; Something has to change.
You’ve read all the books and done all the research, but being in an open relationship is more complicated than it sounded. You thought you had it all figured out, but it turns out you’re just as lost as before. It was supposed to be an exciting time to explore and spice things up, but right now, you’re overwhelmed with anxiety and fear. You’re scared this will ruin your relationship, and jealousy has become a familiar presence. It was a time to explore, but now, talking feels so difficult, and resentment is building... the person closest to you now feels like a stranger. This can't be the end; Something has to change.

I help adults who look like they have it together on the outside, but on the inside are struggling with low self esteem, relationship anxiety, perfectionism, and relational trauma. Maybe you are ready to learn how to navigate dating and partnerships without anxiety, fear, and spiraling thoughts. Or perhaps you are tired of imposter syndrome. Whatever you are struggling with, I can help. I like to balance being 'real' and direct with being warm and gentle. Together we can help you grow into the confident and secure you.
I help adults who look like they have it together on the outside, but on the inside are struggling with low self esteem, relationship anxiety, perfectionism, and relational trauma. Maybe you are ready to learn how to navigate dating and partnerships without anxiety, fear, and spiraling thoughts. Or perhaps you are tired of imposter syndrome. Whatever you are struggling with, I can help. I like to balance being 'real' and direct with being warm and gentle. Together we can help you grow into the confident and secure you.

Are you feeling stuck in patterns that erode self-esteem, drain your energy, leave you anxious, burntout, or disconnected from yourself? Perhaps you’re caught in cycles of perfectionism, self-criticism, doubt, or people-pleasing and are uncertain how to live differently. I help clients use these "stuck points" as powerful opportunities for deeper healing, going beyond what the mind alone can resolve. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your limiting beliefs and habits to help create meaningful shifts—whether you’re looking to build intimacy, boost career confidence, take risks, find balance, or feel more grounded in yourself.
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that erode self-esteem, drain your energy, leave you anxious, burntout, or disconnected from yourself? Perhaps you’re caught in cycles of perfectionism, self-criticism, doubt, or people-pleasing and are uncertain how to live differently. I help clients use these "stuck points" as powerful opportunities for deeper healing, going beyond what the mind alone can resolve. Together, we’ll explore the root causes of your limiting beliefs and habits to help create meaningful shifts—whether you’re looking to build intimacy, boost career confidence, take risks, find balance, or feel more grounded in yourself.

Skip John D Perkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Not accepting new clients
All people struggle, and I believe everyone has the capacity for change/growth hidden within themselves. I'm most successful working with those who are interested in meeting this potential with hope and curiosity. By building a trusting, safe and consistent relationship, together, I believe I can help you unlock or uncover your best potential and use it to meet your own goals.
All people struggle, and I believe everyone has the capacity for change/growth hidden within themselves. I'm most successful working with those who are interested in meeting this potential with hope and curiosity. By building a trusting, safe and consistent relationship, together, I believe I can help you unlock or uncover your best potential and use it to meet your own goals.

My clients come to therapy because there is something that prevents them from feeling satisfied and achieving their potential. It may be depression or anxiety. It may be some addiction (to alcohol or drugs, food, sex or internet). It may be that their relationships are stuck or they lack satisfying relationships. It may be that they are searching for a better sense of who they truly are. While my focus is to find the right approach for each client to bring about the changes they seek, with all clients I strive to create a safe and supportive relationship.
My clients come to therapy because there is something that prevents them from feeling satisfied and achieving their potential. It may be depression or anxiety. It may be some addiction (to alcohol or drugs, food, sex or internet). It may be that their relationships are stuck or they lack satisfying relationships. It may be that they are searching for a better sense of who they truly are. While my focus is to find the right approach for each client to bring about the changes they seek, with all clients I strive to create a safe and supportive relationship.

Therapy for Single People Who Want Partnership
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPS, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of us struggle to find, or be happy, in our personal relationships. And it can feel like a mystery as to why it is so difficult to feel seen and understood by a partner. Some of us may feel we give too much energy to our relationships, while some of us feel reticent to engage at more intimate levels. I work with clients to pinpoint the personal struggles and self-beliefs that are impeding the ability to feel comfortable and energized in relationship. With skill and care I bring a new perspective to your specific situation.
Many of us struggle to find, or be happy, in our personal relationships. And it can feel like a mystery as to why it is so difficult to feel seen and understood by a partner. Some of us may feel we give too much energy to our relationships, while some of us feel reticent to engage at more intimate levels. I work with clients to pinpoint the personal struggles and self-beliefs that are impeding the ability to feel comfortable and energized in relationship. With skill and care I bring a new perspective to your specific situation.

I have extensive experience addressing trauma in women who have been victims of domestic violence. My approach is mostly Psychodynamic with Cognitive Restructuring to help clients process past trauma and gain insight into establishing healthy boundaries. This has helped many gain self-confidence and self-empowerment to move forward as survivors. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychoeducation, and skill training to help clients develop tools to manage somatic and emotional symptoms, fostering a sense of control and self in their lives.
I have extensive experience addressing trauma in women who have been victims of domestic violence. My approach is mostly Psychodynamic with Cognitive Restructuring to help clients process past trauma and gain insight into establishing healthy boundaries. This has helped many gain self-confidence and self-empowerment to move forward as survivors. I also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychoeducation, and skill training to help clients develop tools to manage somatic and emotional symptoms, fostering a sense of control and self in their lives.

There are many factors that can lead a person to therapy. Perhaps you’re experiencing a persistent feeling of fear, loneliness, or anxiety, but can’t quite put your finger on where it’s coming from. You may have experienced a recent change or loss of a loved one, relationship, or job that is profoundly impacting you. Or, it could be that the voice of your inner critic is so loud that they/she/he is all you hear.
There are many factors that can lead a person to therapy. Perhaps you’re experiencing a persistent feeling of fear, loneliness, or anxiety, but can’t quite put your finger on where it’s coming from. You may have experienced a recent change or loss of a loved one, relationship, or job that is profoundly impacting you. Or, it could be that the voice of your inner critic is so loud that they/she/he is all you hear.

Each of us is at our own unique place in the healing process: facing old and new challenges, wondering whether to stay with what we've been trying, or feeling ready to start something new. Our time in this life is brief; we cannot afford to keep making the same mistakes and hope to live an inspired life. Let me help you identify the next step on your journey to wholeness. The best place to start is right where you are; the time to start is now.
Each of us is at our own unique place in the healing process: facing old and new challenges, wondering whether to stay with what we've been trying, or feeling ready to start something new. Our time in this life is brief; we cannot afford to keep making the same mistakes and hope to live an inspired life. Let me help you identify the next step on your journey to wholeness. The best place to start is right where you are; the time to start is now.

If you're the parent of an adolescent or teen who's struggling to find the help your child, your family, and you need and deserve, look no further! I've spent the better part of the past decade helping teens, adolescents, and young adults figure out who they really are, reconnect with those they love, and discover their sense of meaning, purpose, and joy. Yes, we all face challenges and change in our relationships and lives. But what many don't realize is that the problems we struggle with are often caused by unconscious beliefs and behaviors we've picked up in our relationships with others ...
If you're the parent of an adolescent or teen who's struggling to find the help your child, your family, and you need and deserve, look no further! I've spent the better part of the past decade helping teens, adolescents, and young adults figure out who they really are, reconnect with those they love, and discover their sense of meaning, purpose, and joy. Yes, we all face challenges and change in our relationships and lives. But what many don't realize is that the problems we struggle with are often caused by unconscious beliefs and behaviors we've picked up in our relationships with others ...

The stress of our fast-paced lives can challenge our most import relationships. Families are juggling so many responsibilities that its easy to let relationships take a back seat. Don't let stressful times derail you from living the life you always envisioned. I work with clients to manage stress, learn new problem solving tools, improve their relationships with loved ones and be the partner and/or parent you always wanted to be.
The stress of our fast-paced lives can challenge our most import relationships. Families are juggling so many responsibilities that its easy to let relationships take a back seat. Don't let stressful times derail you from living the life you always envisioned. I work with clients to manage stress, learn new problem solving tools, improve their relationships with loved ones and be the partner and/or parent you always wanted to be.

In a field with very few recognized experts, Dr. Lee is an acknowledged professional in the assessment and treatment of persons with addictive sexual disorders and domestic violence.Clients come to us for professional and compassionate guidance in creating the most appropriate treatment plan for their success.
In a field with very few recognized experts, Dr. Lee is an acknowledged professional in the assessment and treatment of persons with addictive sexual disorders and domestic violence.Clients come to us for professional and compassionate guidance in creating the most appropriate treatment plan for their success.

I have been a practicing psychologist since 1989 helping individuals and couples in emotional distress due to the common sources of adult unhappiness: divorce or romantic disappointment, family strife, alcohol or substance addiction, job stress, life transitions, chronic or life-threatening illness, and difficulties with aging. For couples I employ the Gottman approach to counseling, which is most useful for couples seeking to de-escalate arguments and/or recover from an affair. I also offer consulting and supervision services to psychotherapists and psychology students on a reduced fee basis. I am licensed in California and Idaho.
I have been a practicing psychologist since 1989 helping individuals and couples in emotional distress due to the common sources of adult unhappiness: divorce or romantic disappointment, family strife, alcohol or substance addiction, job stress, life transitions, chronic or life-threatening illness, and difficulties with aging. For couples I employ the Gottman approach to counseling, which is most useful for couples seeking to de-escalate arguments and/or recover from an affair. I also offer consulting and supervision services to psychotherapists and psychology students on a reduced fee basis. I am licensed in California and Idaho.
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
$185
Therapists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
86% | Depression |
74% | Relationship Issues |
73% | Self Esteem |
66% | Coping Skills |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Stress |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
83% | Aetna |
67% | Cigna and Evernorth |
61% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Therapists in San Francisco, CA see their clients
65% | Online Only | |
35% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
77% | Female | |
21% | 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.