Attachment-based Therapists in Western Addition, San Francisco, CA

I specialize in attachment theory, addictions& addiction related issues (like codependency). I also enjoy working with premarital couples/couples wanting to strengthen communication skills or rebuild trust within their relationship. Caregivers were the first to teach us how to relate to others. Healthy relationships are often not modeled for us & we wonder why the same troubled patterns repeat. I can help you gain insight into these patterns & work together to have healthier relationships. My goal is to get to know you, establish a strong connection, and provide a safe space to begin your healing journey together.

I offer a warm, collaborative approach intended to foster personal growth and self understanding for individuals and couples. I specialize in helping clients navigate through relationship challenges addictions, self esteem issues ,Premarital and Divorce challenges. Using psychodynamic , holistic and present moment therapeutic approaches , my work is intended to help clients cultivate their own inner healing and enabling them to make meaningful and lasting change. Honoring every individual and couple as unique, I bring an engaged and compassionate presence to our work together.

People can feel stuck in their lives for many reasons. You may have vague feelings of dissatisfaction, or have an idea of what isn’t working but struggle to find a way forward. Perhaps you're feeling overwhelmed by familiar feelings from earlier difficulties or trauma that are being stirred up by current situations. My aim is to help you uncover the meanings and underlying causes of patterns of thinking, feeling, and interacting that may be holding you back. These can emerge in addressing day-to-day challenges, or while untangling old narratives formed by deeply rooted experiences.

My practice focuses on self-esteem, relationships, and personal growth. I specialize in working with people who are wanting to know themselves well, deepen relationships, and manage anxiety and depression. I help you connect with your inner world (feelings, needs, values) and explore how past experiences have shaped who you are. Through the safety of a compassionate and nurturing therapeutic relationship, we'll get curious about what is holding you back, define what is important to you, explore any unhelpful patterns you may be stuck in, and start trying new ways of coping.

In my practice, I strive to create relationships with my clients that foster their growth and help them achieve their full potential. I value empathy and unconditional positive regard toward my clients. Understanding is called for when someone is hurting, confused, anxious, alienated, or doubtful of their self-worth. The gentle, empathic approach provides insight and healing. I respect the courage and vulnerability to come to therapy and try to take good care of my client's trust in me.

I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 22 years of experience working in Marin and San Francisco. I have helped adults, teens and couples work through a wide range of problems, including life transitions, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, addiction, low self-esteem, unresolved grief, and trauma. I strive to create a supportive, safe environment within which we can address the issues that prevent you from living a fuller and more meaningful life.

My ideal client is committed to taking a deep dive into themselves - past, present, and future, realizing that true healing can only occur through time and energy devoted to self. In my practice, I work with issues ranging from early childhood/relational/or single incident trauma, difficulties in new phases of life, self discovery, grief and loss, or longstanding depression and anxiety. I provide open dialogue, warmth, and compassion, with willingness to take a look at how beliefs about self, shame, fear, and early childhood experiences can have an incredible impact on our current well-being and self perception.

Are you feeling stuck and unhappy? Are you struggling in your work or family life? Do you want more from your relationships? If so, it might be time to reach out to a professional for help. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of self-compassion. It's the beginning of the healing process. Whether you choose to engage in Individual, Couple, or Family Therapy together we can find a way to restore a sense of hope and well-being. Please contact me for more information on how therapy can help you reach your goals.

You want better relationships, with your partner, your family, at work and with yourself. You’re at the point where all of the boxes are checked, but you’re still not feeling happy or fulfilled. You struggle with guilt for wanting more, but know deep down that there's something holding you back. If you’re a couple, you want deeper intimacy and connection, to resolve recurring disagreements, or support when facing key milestones such as moving in together or getting engaged. You’re in the right place. I specialize in attachment-based therapy for those wanting to improve their relationships, beginning with themselves.

We are all inherently whole- we've just forgotten... Underneath the tumult and overwhelming flood of uncomfortable emotions is a core unscathed by the stress and trauma. My role is to help you find your way back to your center where life again feels manageable, satisfying, and vibrant. Ultimately you're the expert; yet each step of the way I will be there with you to collaborate and support your efforts.

I'm a sex and relationship therapist helping folks create fulfilling relationships with themselves and those most important to them. I love working with partners seeking more passion and intimacy in long-term relationships; those longing to rebuild trust and erotic connection after betrayal; non-monogamous partners or those curious about opening up; folks struggling with sexual challenges and partners who want to fight less and enjoy each other more. Additionally, I enjoy working with folks facing big life transitions, work stressors, relationship and/or erotic challenges and those wanting to shift unhealthy patterns and behaviors.

Perhaps you are feeling stuck, off balance, or trying to make sense of the complex rainbow of feelings you are having. You may be dealing with challenging relational, work, or personal issues. Let’s sit down together and with acceptance and compassion fully take stock of where you are, what it is you really want, and what is getting in the way of making it happen. No part of you gets left behind. I work with both couples and individuals.

I believe in your capacity to thrive - no matter how bleak or challenging things feel. My approach is curious, warm, active, trauma-informed and culturally humble. I integrate a depth, relational approach with holistic methods involving present-moment awareness of the body, mind and emotions.

Dr. Vertin specializes in modern-day relationships with self and others. Her work helps people thrive by revolutionizing how people think about health and relationship and thus, how they function. Vanessa's specializations are integral health, coupling relationships, and life transitions/stress. Other areas in which she has extensive training and therapeutic experience include: freedom and intimacy dynamics, marriage and other relationship forms, survivors of abuse, anxiety and depression, issues of elders and their families, aging & death, developmental issues, PTSD, and women’s issues.

I tend to be quite direct in my approach and begin therapy with a combination of focused goal and solution oriented work. As the therapy proceeds, I then branch out into deeper issues concerning the unconscious, dream work, unresolved trauma and more. Additionally, I specialize and am not limited to, treating depression, anxiety and chemical dependency. Lastly, I also enjoy working with adolescents, couples and families. ** I host a podcast called "Look, Just Tell Me What To Do" which addresses issues related to mental health which is available here https://lookjusttellmewhattodo.podbean.com/ or on most podcast platforms.

People come to see me when they feel challenged by life circumstances, by depression, anxiety, or because they know that life holds more for them than they are currently experiencing. We can come to understand the roots of these experiences and to see where the blocks are to either living a life that feels like your own, or being more of yourself in the life that you have. I have found there to be a wide range of people who feel comfortable working with me, quite varied with regard to gender, age, stage of life, cultural background and sexual orientation.

Difficult life events or trauma may have shaped your past, but you have the power to define your future. Let’s rewrite your story together, focusing on your innate strengths and building your capacity to create a fulfilling life. Together, we can make sense of overwhelming emotions, work through relationship challenges, and transform shame into self-esteem.

Accepting new clients (update 2/23): I help clients shine a light on things not serving them - limiting beliefs, low self-esteem, negative habits, self-critical thoughts, or unhealthy relationships. Each of my clients is an expert in their own experience, and my role is to help you understand and take affirming actions and positive steps in the right direction. I am particularly interested in working with people navigating transition, relationship issues, or who have a deep desire for a greater sense of meaning or healthier self-esteem. I also enjoy working with college-age adults struggling with anxiety or depression.