Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA

Photo of Caroline Dickens, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Caroline Dickens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, identity development, relationship difficulties, couples, and the perinatal period.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! In my practice, I strive to build open, compassionate, and genuine relationships with my clients. I work to understand each client’s unique cultural identities, values, life experiences, and ongoing stressors. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to individualize treatment based on their needs, preferences, and our shared understanding of their challenges. I frequently implement mindfulness, values, and acceptance-based techniques to help clients identify or clarify the lives they want to live, understand the obstacles standing in their way, and build skills to overcome these barriers.
I specialize in providing evidence-based treatment for anxiety, depression, OCD, life transitions, identity development, relationship difficulties, couples, and the perinatal period.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here! In my practice, I strive to build open, compassionate, and genuine relationships with my clients. I work to understand each client’s unique cultural identities, values, life experiences, and ongoing stressors. I enjoy working collaboratively with my clients to individualize treatment based on their needs, preferences, and our shared understanding of their challenges. I frequently implement mindfulness, values, and acceptance-based techniques to help clients identify or clarify the lives they want to live, understand the obstacles standing in their way, and build skills to overcome these barriers.
(415) 226-4134 View (415) 226-4134
Photo of Linda Michels, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Linda Michels
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
I think you know what would make you happy but don't know how to make it happen. This applies to both individuals and couples. People stop themselves from moving forward because they think they can't or don't deserve to get their own needs met. I can help you overcome blocks, fears, guilt, depression, and/or self-defeating behaviors so you can free yourself to be happy and more successful. It seems daunting but, with support and direction, it is possible to improve your life. This is even true for people who are suffering from more debilitating problems such as Bipolar Disorder, OCD,or Schizoaffective Disorders.
I think you know what would make you happy but don't know how to make it happen. This applies to both individuals and couples. People stop themselves from moving forward because they think they can't or don't deserve to get their own needs met. I can help you overcome blocks, fears, guilt, depression, and/or self-defeating behaviors so you can free yourself to be happy and more successful. It seems daunting but, with support and direction, it is possible to improve your life. This is even true for people who are suffering from more debilitating problems such as Bipolar Disorder, OCD,or Schizoaffective Disorders.
(415) 800-3916 View (415) 800-3916
Photo of Megan Fuller O'Donnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Megan Fuller O'Donnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Hello! I work with adolescents, parents, adults and couples. I create a safe space for individuals to explore and learn more about themselves. I aim to understand each individual's motivations and experience. I provide clients with insights that will help them get clarity about their circumstances in hopes of reducing symptoms. I provide psycho-education about the client's behavior and help them connect the links between their thoughts, feelings and actions. I utilize my clinical experience to determine what interventions and theoretical orientation makes the most sense for each individual to help support their progress.
Hello! I work with adolescents, parents, adults and couples. I create a safe space for individuals to explore and learn more about themselves. I aim to understand each individual's motivations and experience. I provide clients with insights that will help them get clarity about their circumstances in hopes of reducing symptoms. I provide psycho-education about the client's behavior and help them connect the links between their thoughts, feelings and actions. I utilize my clinical experience to determine what interventions and theoretical orientation makes the most sense for each individual to help support their progress.
(415) 915-2486 View (415) 915-2486
Photo of Holly Gordon, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Holly Gordon
Psychologist, DMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Talking to someone who understands the pain you feel-depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck-can relieve inner distress and give you a new perspective on your life. I am empathic and experienced at providing a safe setting where we can explore what is causing you to feel anxious, distressed or unfulfilled. In therapy we work together to clarify those emotions that have kept you from moving forward in your life. You will find new ways to see yourself and others, which leads to more meaningful relationships and a more fulfilling life.
Talking to someone who understands the pain you feel-depression, anxiety, or feeling stuck-can relieve inner distress and give you a new perspective on your life. I am empathic and experienced at providing a safe setting where we can explore what is causing you to feel anxious, distressed or unfulfilled. In therapy we work together to clarify those emotions that have kept you from moving forward in your life. You will find new ways to see yourself and others, which leads to more meaningful relationships and a more fulfilling life.
(415) 787-3993 View (415) 787-3993
Photo of Ingrid Tauber, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Ingrid Tauber
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and obtained a M.S.in Psychopharmacology in 2001. I've been in private practice for 40 years and an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCSF since 2005. My practice includes individuals and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss, and grief. I work within a relational, psychodynamic theoretical model as a means of understanding and integrating the complex relationship that individuals and couples present. In my clinical work as a therapist and supervisor, I work collaboratively in pursuing goals and objectives.
I have a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology and obtained a M.S.in Psychopharmacology in 2001. I've been in private practice for 40 years and an Assistant Clinical Professor at UCSF since 2005. My practice includes individuals and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, loss, and grief. I work within a relational, psychodynamic theoretical model as a means of understanding and integrating the complex relationship that individuals and couples present. In my clinical work as a therapist and supervisor, I work collaboratively in pursuing goals and objectives.
(415) 894-0981 View (415) 894-0981
Photo of Whitney Lynch, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Whitney Lynch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Perhaps you are seeking healthier ways to cope with stressful life experiences or want to make more enduring changes to how you relate to yourself and others. In my work, I aim to not only help you feel better but provide you the tools to lead a more meaningful life. I help clients recognize and harness their own personal strengths while learning new ways to challenge negative thought patterns and unhealthy behaviors that can keep us feeling stuck, depressed, and anxious.
Perhaps you are seeking healthier ways to cope with stressful life experiences or want to make more enduring changes to how you relate to yourself and others. In my work, I aim to not only help you feel better but provide you the tools to lead a more meaningful life. I help clients recognize and harness their own personal strengths while learning new ways to challenge negative thought patterns and unhealthy behaviors that can keep us feeling stuck, depressed, and anxious.
(415) 243-7249 View (415) 243-7249
Photo of Nate Hinerman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Nate Hinerman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
Nate Hinerman, PhD, LMFT, is Dean of Undergraduate Programs at Golden Gate University, San Francisco, where he is also a tenured Professor of Psychology, as well as the Chair of the Psychology Department. He is also on the faculty at the University of San Francisco, teaching in the Nursing School, and in the Religious Studies Department. He serves as Chair of the San Francisco End of Life Network, a community-based support and education group for hospice and palliative care professionals and patients, now in its 23rd year (www.sfeol.org).
(628) 215-8084 View (628) 215-8084
Photo of David A Thomson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
David A Thomson, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CAS
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties.
Do you feel that your everyday challenges are beginning to overwhelm you? Have you set goals for yourself, but you have not been able to achieve them? The solution is in sight. With skill, professionalism, empathy, and compassion I can help you to achieve your goals and the life that you want. Because you are a unique individual, I will tailor my treatment methods to fit your unique situation and needs. I believe that we all have what it takes to meet and conquer life's many challenges and difficulties.
(415) 508-8805 View (415) 508-8805
Photo of Dr. Aaron Robert Jacobson, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Dr. Aaron Robert Jacobson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
I believe that therapy should be collaborative, and I will invite you to share your hopes for therapy, as well as your reservations about the process. I will work with you to uncover what led you to reach out, and what works best for you in therapy. Your story is particular and specific to you, and I will ask for your guidance as we lead you around the blind corners of your own life. Stylistically, I believe in direct and transparent communication, and in making as much space for laughter as for other challenging emotions that can come up in therapy.
I believe that therapy should be collaborative, and I will invite you to share your hopes for therapy, as well as your reservations about the process. I will work with you to uncover what led you to reach out, and what works best for you in therapy. Your story is particular and specific to you, and I will ask for your guidance as we lead you around the blind corners of your own life. Stylistically, I believe in direct and transparent communication, and in making as much space for laughter as for other challenging emotions that can come up in therapy.
(415) 712-1267 View (415) 712-1267
Photo of Ivan Belyaev, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Ivan Belyaev
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
I have been registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) by the Board OF Behavioral Sciences in California; my Registration number is AMFT144021. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. MEd in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselling (PCC). Supervised by Anastasia Berezovskaya, Clinical Psychologist PsyD, PSY 25100
I have been registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) by the Board OF Behavioral Sciences in California; my Registration number is AMFT144021. I provide psychotherapy to individuals, couples, and families. MEd in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) and Professional Clinical Counselling (PCC). Supervised by Anastasia Berezovskaya, Clinical Psychologist PsyD, PSY 25100
(415) 723-5655 View (415) 723-5655
Photo of Audrey Martin, Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Audrey Martin, Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94117
I am an experienced psychotherapist with offices in both San Francisco and Berkeley. I provide therapy for adults and adolescents as my primary focus. I meet with individuals, couples, and families to help them overcome areas of emotional and relational difficulties. I have an active, open way of working and am curious, engaged, honest, and direct. I take people's need for change very seriously, and am an advocate for finding ways to help people live with greater depth, satisfaction, and choice. While this can involve diligence, resilience, and perseverance, play and creativity are also integral in the process.
I am an experienced psychotherapist with offices in both San Francisco and Berkeley. I provide therapy for adults and adolescents as my primary focus. I meet with individuals, couples, and families to help them overcome areas of emotional and relational difficulties. I have an active, open way of working and am curious, engaged, honest, and direct. I take people's need for change very seriously, and am an advocate for finding ways to help people live with greater depth, satisfaction, and choice. While this can involve diligence, resilience, and perseverance, play and creativity are also integral in the process.
(415) 360-6323 View (415) 360-6323
Photo of Kristina Holloway, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Kristina Holloway
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
We all experience challenges in life. At times, these can seem beyond our ability to handle. I would like to offer you my support. I welcome individuals and couples of all ages, backgrounds, and orientations into the therapeutic journey.
We all experience challenges in life. At times, these can seem beyond our ability to handle. I would like to offer you my support. I welcome individuals and couples of all ages, backgrounds, and orientations into the therapeutic journey.
(925) 492-7266 View (925) 492-7266
Photo of Joseph Campi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Joseph Campi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Psychotherapy offers emotional and psychological space for change. It is an opportunity to decode what is not working and with therapeutic guidance provide clients with a scaffolding to try out new thinking and ways of feeling. I see psychotherapy as a kind of lab, where clients safely get to try new approaches out, notice what works and what is most effective. My work is about helping clients; whether a problem to be solved, a desired behavioral change, or finding meaning during a life challenging experience. I encourage individuals to contact me and explore that change. I am here to help.
Psychotherapy offers emotional and psychological space for change. It is an opportunity to decode what is not working and with therapeutic guidance provide clients with a scaffolding to try out new thinking and ways of feeling. I see psychotherapy as a kind of lab, where clients safely get to try new approaches out, notice what works and what is most effective. My work is about helping clients; whether a problem to be solved, a desired behavioral change, or finding meaning during a life challenging experience. I encourage individuals to contact me and explore that change. I am here to help.
(415) 610-7772 View (415) 610-7772
Photo of Sveta Alshvang, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Sveta Alshvang
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
It’s tough to go through the day dealing with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or haunting memories. You may struggle with harsh self-criticism and a fear of failing while trying to maintain a facade of accomplishment and success. It can be exhausting to always feel the pressure to be perfect and support everyone else while neglecting your own needs. It might feel easier to push through alone than to ask for help, as you worry about being judged or burdening others. You could turn to unhealthy coping for relief, which leads to more stress. There is a way out, and I want to help you get your life back.
It’s tough to go through the day dealing with overwhelming feelings of anxiety, anger, sadness, shame, or haunting memories. You may struggle with harsh self-criticism and a fear of failing while trying to maintain a facade of accomplishment and success. It can be exhausting to always feel the pressure to be perfect and support everyone else while neglecting your own needs. It might feel easier to push through alone than to ask for help, as you worry about being judged or burdening others. You could turn to unhealthy coping for relief, which leads to more stress. There is a way out, and I want to help you get your life back.
(650) 215-6194 View (650) 215-6194
Photo of Shanna Holladay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Shanna Holladay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Have you been strugging with Depression, Relationship issues, or Life Transitions? I can help you find a place of acceptance and healing through our relationship and work together. I have been helping people change their lives for 20 years. I use an interactive, relational approach to help guide you toward a higher level of self-awareness, and improved self-esteem. I believe therapy works through exploring your relationships to others, and by developing our relationship and connection to each other. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for us to explore who you are and who you want to be.
Have you been strugging with Depression, Relationship issues, or Life Transitions? I can help you find a place of acceptance and healing through our relationship and work together. I have been helping people change their lives for 20 years. I use an interactive, relational approach to help guide you toward a higher level of self-awareness, and improved self-esteem. I believe therapy works through exploring your relationships to others, and by developing our relationship and connection to each other. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for us to explore who you are and who you want to be.
(415) 936-8372 View (415) 936-8372
Photo of Howard Sugarman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Howard Sugarman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
I bring 40 plus years of assorted, diverse and complex Clinical Experience to the care of my patients. I offer Psychoanalysis & Psychotherapy providing Individual, Couple & Family Treatments. MFT License 17611 - May 1982; Certified as a Psychoanalyst by The International Psychoanalytical Association. Working in conjunction with each person that comes to me, I strive to formulate a treatment which is responsive and that creates the conditions to most deeply address their personal concerns.
I bring 40 plus years of assorted, diverse and complex Clinical Experience to the care of my patients. I offer Psychoanalysis & Psychotherapy providing Individual, Couple & Family Treatments. MFT License 17611 - May 1982; Certified as a Psychoanalyst by The International Psychoanalytical Association. Working in conjunction with each person that comes to me, I strive to formulate a treatment which is responsive and that creates the conditions to most deeply address their personal concerns.
(415) 766-9178 View (415) 766-9178
Photo of Marina Kopman, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Marina Kopman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
Are your feelings of sadness, anger, guilt and confusion about your relationships or other matters getting you down? Have your children's, wife's, husband's, parents', other relatives', or friends' behavior driven you to your wits' end? Are you coping with your inner demons with alcohol and other drugs? Have your experiences of immigration, war, or prison left your nerves numbed, overwhelmed, or shattered? If so, call me and decide for yourself if I can help you as I have successfully assisted others feel better and live healthier lives.
Are your feelings of sadness, anger, guilt and confusion about your relationships or other matters getting you down? Have your children's, wife's, husband's, parents', other relatives', or friends' behavior driven you to your wits' end? Are you coping with your inner demons with alcohol and other drugs? Have your experiences of immigration, war, or prison left your nerves numbed, overwhelmed, or shattered? If so, call me and decide for yourself if I can help you as I have successfully assisted others feel better and live healthier lives.
(415) 968-2057 View (415) 968-2057
Photo of Rachel Arthur, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Rachel Arthur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Feeling stress, anxiety and sadness during this unprecedented time is normal. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an eclectic approach based on individual needs, I can work with you to change the negative thoughts and behaviors that may be leading to unhealthy patterns in your life or that may be making you feel stuck. Whether you are coping with sadness or stress as a result of the pandemic, or struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship or self-esteem issues that started awhile back, I can provide you with the tools to lead a more enjoyable and satisfying life.
Feeling stress, anxiety and sadness during this unprecedented time is normal. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an eclectic approach based on individual needs, I can work with you to change the negative thoughts and behaviors that may be leading to unhealthy patterns in your life or that may be making you feel stuck. Whether you are coping with sadness or stress as a result of the pandemic, or struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship or self-esteem issues that started awhile back, I can provide you with the tools to lead a more enjoyable and satisfying life.
(415) 965-6227 View (415) 965-6227
Photo of Kirsten M Bauer, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Kirsten M Bauer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
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.
(415) 389-1788 View (415) 389-1788
Photo of Carol Winetsky, Psychologist in Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA
Carol Winetsky
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Presidio Heights, San Francisco, CA 94118
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over thirty years of experience. I have helped people navigate a variety of different life transitions such as divorce and separation, job loss, leaving home, starting a family or new career or both, as well as end-of-life issues. I have helped children deal with school and peer issues as well as parental loss and separation. My therapy style is interactive and psychodynamic and may entail short or long-term therapy, individual psychotherapy or couples work.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over thirty years of experience. I have helped people navigate a variety of different life transitions such as divorce and separation, job loss, leaving home, starting a family or new career or both, as well as end-of-life issues. I have helped children deal with school and peer issues as well as parental loss and separation. My therapy style is interactive and psychodynamic and may entail short or long-term therapy, individual psychotherapy or couples work.
(415) 236-2948 View (415) 236-2948

See more therapy options for Presidio Heights, San Francisco

Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) Therapists

How long does OCD treatment take?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often treated on a weekly or twice-weekly schedule, depending on symptom severity and the client’s preferences. Some clients may start to see a noticeable improvement in symptoms in as little as six weeks, but it’s also possible, especially in more severe cases, for treatment to take several months to a year before significant progress is made.

What happens if OCD is not treated?

Some people with OCD, especially those with mild symptoms, may find that they are able to adapt reasonably well to life with the condition, even if their symptoms never resolve completely. However, many people, particularly those whose symptoms are severe at the outset, find that their obsessions and compulsions grow more intrusive with time, making it harder to maintain relationships, hold down a job, or navigate the world successfully.

Are there medications for OCD?

Medication can be used to treat OCD. The class of drugs most often prescribed are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, which include fluvoxamine (under the brand name Luvox), fluoxetine (Prozac), and sertraline (Zoloft), among others. In cases of treatment-resistant OCD, other classes of medication, such as tricyclic antidepressants or atypical antipsychotics, may be prescribed. Medication is frequently used in conjunction with therapy.

Can OCD come back after treatment?

Yes. Major life transitions, periods of stress, or other factors can cause symptoms to return or, if they were never fully eradicated, to ramp back up in intensity. For some, these relapses are brief and do not require additional treatment; identifying specific triggers and practicing the skills learned in therapy can help speed their course. For others, returning to therapy for a brief period can help address the underlying stress and strengthen coping mechanisms.