Photo of Fierce Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Fierce Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I will incorporate expressive arts, music, the sense of smell, and mindfulness & gratitude.
I believe in meeting the client where they are, facing the issues presented with an open mind, and to always establish healthy boundaries. My approach is to help manage life's transitions together in a way that provides a nurturing & empathetic experience.
I will incorporate expressive arts, music, the sense of smell, and mindfulness & gratitude.
I believe in meeting the client where they are, facing the issues presented with an open mind, and to always establish healthy boundaries. My approach is to help manage life's transitions together in a way that provides a nurturing & empathetic experience.
(510) 240-1830 View (510) 240-1830
Photo of Sarah Kwan, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Sarah Kwan
Psychologist, MS, NCSP, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including narrative therapy, attachment theory as well as cognitive- and mindfulness-based skill building.
I am passionate about empowering clients to live a more spirited and enlivened existence. Recognizing that we all react out of habit in challenging situations, I offer concrete practices that build the necessary skills to intervene in these habitual reactions. These skills and insights will help you make new choices and live a more engaged and fulfilling life; you will learn effective ways to communicate personal needs, listen and respond to your own values, and connect with your innate wisdom and ability to heal.
I draw from a range of therapeutic modalities, including narrative therapy, attachment theory as well as cognitive- and mindfulness-based skill building.
I am passionate about empowering clients to live a more spirited and enlivened existence. Recognizing that we all react out of habit in challenging situations, I offer concrete practices that build the necessary skills to intervene in these habitual reactions. These skills and insights will help you make new choices and live a more engaged and fulfilling life; you will learn effective ways to communicate personal needs, listen and respond to your own values, and connect with your innate wisdom and ability to heal.
(415) 403-2384 View (415) 403-2384
Photo of Farrah Dalal, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Farrah Dalal, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
We will explore these ideas through IFS, mindfulness, and energy awareness.
Finding a deeper connection to self, others, and life events is part of the work we will do together. Coming into an awareness of your own thoughts and developing compassionate understanding of yourself fosters a loving kindness practice that can go with you into any situation. It also will help you create ease in your body and mind that begins to put a pause on past or future thinking. And as we begin to learn how to drop into the present moment with what is we begin to bring the wonderment of life back into our realty.
We will explore these ideas through IFS, mindfulness, and energy awareness.
Finding a deeper connection to self, others, and life events is part of the work we will do together. Coming into an awareness of your own thoughts and developing compassionate understanding of yourself fosters a loving kindness practice that can go with you into any situation. It also will help you create ease in your body and mind that begins to put a pause on past or future thinking. And as we begin to learn how to drop into the present moment with what is we begin to bring the wonderment of life back into our realty.
(510) 674-1102 View (510) 674-1102
Photo of Ruth Krumbhaar, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ruth Krumbhaar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA, CYT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other modalities including Internal Family Systems, mindfulness and non-violent communication.
Do you want to feel comfortable in your skin? Do you need support dealing with overwhelming emotions, a traumatic life event, or a life transition. I offer a grounding space where you can let your guard down and get to the heart of your personal work. With years of experience and training paired with a warm, playful, and pragmatic spirit. I encourage clients to explore their edge and find the connection between mind, body, behavior, and heart. Clients' unique cultural identity is honored throughout this process. I believe you are the expert on You and I help you connect with this innate wisdom to find your balance and potential.
I blend Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other modalities including Internal Family Systems, mindfulness and non-violent communication.
Do you want to feel comfortable in your skin? Do you need support dealing with overwhelming emotions, a traumatic life event, or a life transition. I offer a grounding space where you can let your guard down and get to the heart of your personal work. With years of experience and training paired with a warm, playful, and pragmatic spirit. I encourage clients to explore their edge and find the connection between mind, body, behavior, and heart. Clients' unique cultural identity is honored throughout this process. I believe you are the expert on You and I help you connect with this innate wisdom to find your balance and potential.
(415) 528-5711 View (415) 528-5711
Photo of Shevi Loewinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Shevi Loewinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
With individuals I focus on tools of awareness and mindfulness, parts work and attachment.
We all experience some level of depression, anxiety and low self esteem at some point in our lives. It can feel lonely and isolating. It affects our desires and aliveness, our ability to feel joy, fulfillment, and connection. We are craving to be understood and seen and have more clarity about our place in the world. We crave to find peace, self love and love from others. Healing starts with our relationship, client and therapist. Together we build a safe and brave space to meet the fears, to rediscover your intuition and creativity and to understand your unique experience, needs and wants.
With individuals I focus on tools of awareness and mindfulness, parts work and attachment.
We all experience some level of depression, anxiety and low self esteem at some point in our lives. It can feel lonely and isolating. It affects our desires and aliveness, our ability to feel joy, fulfillment, and connection. We are craving to be understood and seen and have more clarity about our place in the world. We crave to find peace, self love and love from others. Healing starts with our relationship, client and therapist. Together we build a safe and brave space to meet the fears, to rediscover your intuition and creativity and to understand your unique experience, needs and wants.
(415) 319-8665 View (415) 319-8665
Photo of Christina Nicole Cabral, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Christina Nicole Cabral
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94124
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
Christina Cabral, LMFT137667 Specialty areas: Anxiety, life transitions, attachment issues, anger management and perinatal mental health. Works with children, teens, & young adults. Utilizes an integrative approach composed of psychodynamic, CBT, mindfulness, client-centered, and strength -based interventions. I work from a client centered approach and value connection and the therapeutic relationship. I believe a safe, positive environment fosters the setting for vulnerability and comfortability.
(619) 762-3626 View (619) 762-3626
Photo of Kacey Truong, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Kacey Truong
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
I aim to work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals by using CBT, Mindfulness, and the Gottman Method.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
I aim to work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs and goals by using CBT, Mindfulness, and the Gottman Method.
Do you struggle with anxiety and depression due to your childhood trauma? Are you having problems with your partner or family members due to life transition issues? Are you experiencing increased stress, fears, and doubts around the future? I believe that we all have the capacity to heal our emotional wounds and create meaningful changes. My goal as a therapist is to offer you a safe place in which you can process insights, concerns, and emotions associated with trauma.
(408) 351-4182 View (408) 351-4182
Photo of Katrina Sesline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Katrina Sesline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
I specialize in treating adults living with a disabling health condition, caregivers who are supporting someone with a health condition, and those grieving the loss of a loved one. Living with a serious illness or grief can bring out difficult feelings of uncertainty, anxiety, depression and fear. I use an integrative approach with elements of narrative therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and mindfulness. Together, let's create a safe space to help you cope while attending to your heart, mind, and body.
(510) 616-9406 View (510) 616-9406
Photo of Nicole (Nikki) Heeren, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Nicole (Nikki) Heeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) incorporated with mindfulness.
Hi! I’m Nikki, a licensed psychotherapist with experience working in the field of mental health since 2015, including as a clinical director for a mental health nonprofit. I am naturally empathic and supportive and have a sense of humor that clients appreciate. I am always striving to gain resilience, meaning, and wisdom from my own experiences of loss, from my journey as a parent, and in my marriage of 17 years. Twice daily, I practice transcendental meditation, which provides inner clarity, keeping me centered and grounded in this beautiful yet turbulent world.
I provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) incorporated with mindfulness.
Hi! I’m Nikki, a licensed psychotherapist with experience working in the field of mental health since 2015, including as a clinical director for a mental health nonprofit. I am naturally empathic and supportive and have a sense of humor that clients appreciate. I am always striving to gain resilience, meaning, and wisdom from my own experiences of loss, from my journey as a parent, and in my marriage of 17 years. Twice daily, I practice transcendental meditation, which provides inner clarity, keeping me centered and grounded in this beautiful yet turbulent world.
(707) 813-3057 View (707) 813-3057
Photo of Bronwyn Wrobel, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Bronwyn Wrobel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
Some of the methods utilized include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, internal family systems, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, etc.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support. Transpersonal psychology emphasizes the importance of a healthy spirit in healing and wholeness. I utilize my empathic skills & intensive training to integrate your life experiences with modern psychology. My unique approach to healing focuses on how we create meaning & purpose through personal empowerment & expansion.
Some of the methods utilized include mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, internal family systems, attachment theory, hypnotherapy, etc.
As a Transpersonal Psychotherapist I offer mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual support. Transpersonal psychology emphasizes the importance of a healthy spirit in healing and wholeness. I utilize my empathic skills & intensive training to integrate your life experiences with modern psychology. My unique approach to healing focuses on how we create meaning & purpose through personal empowerment & expansion.
(310) 905-8625 View (310) 905-8625
Photo of Sasha Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sasha Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94133
I use somatic and mindfulness-led methods (trained in Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Attachment Therapy) which combine mindfulness with talk to increase self awareness and help insights sink in on a deeper level - rewiring your brain so that you can engage yourself and the world in new ways.
We were born to connect with ourselves and others, to be alive in our bodies and awake in the world, and to anchor into a sense of purpose. Painful experiences and negative patterns can disconnect us from our innate ability to full-heartedly live life. When you are stuck, dissatisfied in relationship, challenged by life transition, constrained by depression or anxiety, unable to heal from trauma, or simply feeling called to step more fully into your best self, therapy can be a powerful ally. I offer tools you can use to reconnect with your own power, resilience, and wholeness.
I use somatic and mindfulness-led methods (trained in Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Attachment Therapy) which combine mindfulness with talk to increase self awareness and help insights sink in on a deeper level - rewiring your brain so that you can engage yourself and the world in new ways.
We were born to connect with ourselves and others, to be alive in our bodies and awake in the world, and to anchor into a sense of purpose. Painful experiences and negative patterns can disconnect us from our innate ability to full-heartedly live life. When you are stuck, dissatisfied in relationship, challenged by life transition, constrained by depression or anxiety, unable to heal from trauma, or simply feeling called to step more fully into your best self, therapy can be a powerful ally. I offer tools you can use to reconnect with your own power, resilience, and wholeness.
(510) 306-7137 View (510) 306-7137
Photo of Natasha Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Natasha Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101
I use Mindfulness exercises and a somatic (body-centered) focus to support people in becoming more aware and accepting of their thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
I am an experienced and interactive therapist who cares about helping you feel better as soon as possible. I will work to help you identify and accomplish your own goals. Together we will create a safe environment to help you feel comfortable and understood without judgement. My approach varies based on individual needs, and is influenced by several types of therapeutic orientations including Hakomi, Narrative, Mindfulness-based CBT and Brainspotting. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, families and women. Everyone is welcome.
I use Mindfulness exercises and a somatic (body-centered) focus to support people in becoming more aware and accepting of their thoughts, feelings and beliefs.
I am an experienced and interactive therapist who cares about helping you feel better as soon as possible. I will work to help you identify and accomplish your own goals. Together we will create a safe environment to help you feel comfortable and understood without judgement. My approach varies based on individual needs, and is influenced by several types of therapeutic orientations including Hakomi, Narrative, Mindfulness-based CBT and Brainspotting. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, families and women. Everyone is welcome.
(415) 236-3185 View (415) 236-3185
Photo of Noelle Darling, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Noelle Darling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94101
Using a warm and engaging approach, I merge cutting-edge research in neuroscience with proven therapeutic tools, including expression through the arts, mindfulness and somatic awareness.
I care deeply about supporting people when they feel lonely, stuck and hopeless, and the usual things just aren't working. My clients tend to be high functioning adults who have reached a critical point where something has to give. Often this becomes evident while undergoing a major life transition such as a break up, divorce, the death of a loved one, or a career change. These low points can be scary and painful, but they can also be incredible opportunities for growth and healing. But growing is hard work and sometimes we can't do it on our own.
Using a warm and engaging approach, I merge cutting-edge research in neuroscience with proven therapeutic tools, including expression through the arts, mindfulness and somatic awareness.
I care deeply about supporting people when they feel lonely, stuck and hopeless, and the usual things just aren't working. My clients tend to be high functioning adults who have reached a critical point where something has to give. Often this becomes evident while undergoing a major life transition such as a break up, divorce, the death of a loved one, or a career change. These low points can be scary and painful, but they can also be incredible opportunities for growth and healing. But growing is hard work and sometimes we can't do it on our own.
(831) 400-3890 View (831) 400-3890
Photo of Elyse Sg Bart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Elyse Sg Bart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
With the history I hold of being a wilderness therapist, teaching yoga, holding mindfulness and joy as guides - and over 20 years of practice - my frame is highly informed by the strength and power of our bodies and minds - and the world around us.
As an Integrative Psychotherapist, I base my approach from the relational work of Psychodynamic Therapy and integrate forms of Attachment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Practices, Parts Work, Addiction and Trauma work - all based in Social Justice. I fully believe that every individual has the power and strength they need to actualize the changes they want, and can shift the old and new narratives of established stories and patterns of their daily lives.
With the history I hold of being a wilderness therapist, teaching yoga, holding mindfulness and joy as guides - and over 20 years of practice - my frame is highly informed by the strength and power of our bodies and minds - and the world around us.
As an Integrative Psychotherapist, I base my approach from the relational work of Psychodynamic Therapy and integrate forms of Attachment Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness Practices, Parts Work, Addiction and Trauma work - all based in Social Justice. I fully believe that every individual has the power and strength they need to actualize the changes they want, and can shift the old and new narratives of established stories and patterns of their daily lives.
(510) 394-1740 View (510) 394-1740
Photo of Jo Burrows, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jo Burrows
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Utilizing somatic and active techniques, mindfulness based CBT; and motivational coaching, I will join you in unearthing unhelpful beliefs, patterns and communication styles, to examine strengths and weaknesses with loving kindness.
Life is increasingly busy and complex. Compassionate Brain Life Coaching (CPLC), helps you to press the pause button, slow down and remember and or newly discover who you are. Science tells us that our brains at rest are actually programmed to be happy. But it sure doesn't always feel that way. CBLC equips you with the cognitive and mindfulness tools to counter the self-critic and manage difficult times. I will help you identify, name and validate the places you go under stress, with a view to exploring what works and creating newly, including moving from surviving to thriving.
Utilizing somatic and active techniques, mindfulness based CBT; and motivational coaching, I will join you in unearthing unhelpful beliefs, patterns and communication styles, to examine strengths and weaknesses with loving kindness.
Life is increasingly busy and complex. Compassionate Brain Life Coaching (CPLC), helps you to press the pause button, slow down and remember and or newly discover who you are. Science tells us that our brains at rest are actually programmed to be happy. But it sure doesn't always feel that way. CBLC equips you with the cognitive and mindfulness tools to counter the self-critic and manage difficult times. I will help you identify, name and validate the places you go under stress, with a view to exploring what works and creating newly, including moving from surviving to thriving.
(510) 306-7232 View (510) 306-7232
Photo of Sara Bingaman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sara Bingaman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and mindfulness.
I work with people who want to feel happy, safe, and be able to connect with others. If you are feeling down, lonely or lost I can help. My goal is to create a safe place where you can express yourself without judgment, explore what is troubling you, and develop strategies to facilitate the change you desire. Together we will figure out what is holding you back and how to overcome it.
I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and mindfulness.
I work with people who want to feel happy, safe, and be able to connect with others. If you are feeling down, lonely or lost I can help. My goal is to create a safe place where you can express yourself without judgment, explore what is troubling you, and develop strategies to facilitate the change you desire. Together we will figure out what is holding you back and how to overcome it.
(415) 578-7709 View (415) 578-7709
Photo of Sara Cadalig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sara Cadalig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109
I utilize diverse therapeutic interventions and modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to name a few.
Thank you for visiting my site. This is your first step towards your journey to healing. My specialty areas are in trauma, anxiety, and grief/loss. Life can present challenges and create roadblocks to your growth and success. You deserve to thrive and I would be honored to work in collaboration with you on your journey of healing and rediscovering your full potential. I provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment. My therapeutic style can be best described as empathetic, interactive, infusing scientific wisdom, curiosity, and clinical intuition.
I utilize diverse therapeutic interventions and modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, to name a few.
Thank you for visiting my site. This is your first step towards your journey to healing. My specialty areas are in trauma, anxiety, and grief/loss. Life can present challenges and create roadblocks to your growth and success. You deserve to thrive and I would be honored to work in collaboration with you on your journey of healing and rediscovering your full potential. I provide a safe, non-judgmental and supportive environment. My therapeutic style can be best described as empathetic, interactive, infusing scientific wisdom, curiosity, and clinical intuition.
(209) 783-3037 View (209) 783-3037
Photo of Sandy Huynh, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sandy Huynh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Change is the one constant in life - but how do we adapt or make sense of it? My approach is relational and warm, with a focus on holding an expansive container for you to explore the depth of your feelings and what they mean to you. I integrate mindfulness based breathing practices, somatic practices, Eastern/Western philosophy, a psychodynamic (how the past impacts the present) lens, and the belief that we're all imperfect humans trying to figure out this messy endeavor of being alive. I welcome all the parts that make up who you are and the wisdom they have to share. I want to support you in living an aligned life.
Change is the one constant in life - but how do we adapt or make sense of it? My approach is relational and warm, with a focus on holding an expansive container for you to explore the depth of your feelings and what they mean to you. I integrate mindfulness based breathing practices, somatic practices, Eastern/Western philosophy, a psychodynamic (how the past impacts the present) lens, and the belief that we're all imperfect humans trying to figure out this messy endeavor of being alive. I welcome all the parts that make up who you are and the wisdom they have to share. I want to support you in living an aligned life.
(510) 328-4109 View (510) 328-4109
Photo of Kaci Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kaci Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
I specialize in women's issues and offer individual therapy and women's group therapy, including a postpartum group and a Sunday evening women's journaling & mindfulness group. I have a passion for supporting women through all of life's stages. I believe in female empowerment and help women find their voice in order to live more authentic, balanced, and fulfilling lives.
I specialize in women's issues and offer individual therapy and women's group therapy, including a postpartum group and a Sunday evening women's journaling & mindfulness group. I have a passion for supporting women through all of life's stages. I believe in female empowerment and help women find their voice in order to live more authentic, balanced, and fulfilling lives.
(510) 298-3842 View (510) 298-3842
Photo of Venessa Ramirez, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Venessa Ramirez
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MSW, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94101  (Online Only)
She utilizes narrative, cognitive-behavioral, strength-based, empowerment, person-centered, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable, low-cost, telehealth therapy, exclusively in California. I provide supportive and restorative therapy for those impacted by grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, fear of the future or unknown, as well as sadness, regret, guilt, and/or shame. I also support individuals who want to work on their own personal growth including self-esteem, self-confidence, identity appreciation, life choices, and life transitions.
She utilizes narrative, cognitive-behavioral, strength-based, empowerment, person-centered, and mindfulness-based therapies.
Hello and Welcome. Our agency offers affordable, low-cost, telehealth therapy, exclusively in California. I provide supportive and restorative therapy for those impacted by grief and loss, stress, anxiety, depression, fear of the future or unknown, as well as sadness, regret, guilt, and/or shame. I also support individuals who want to work on their own personal growth including self-esteem, self-confidence, identity appreciation, life choices, and life transitions.
(909) 850-4676 View (909) 850-4676

See more therapy options for San Francisco

Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Therapists

How does mindfulness-based cognitive therapy work?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy originated in the work of John Kabat-Zinn of the University of Massachusetts Medical School. He developed mindfulness-based stress reduction, which is a technique found in yoga and meditation. MBCT is a combination of this type of stress reduction and cognitive behavioral therapy; it essentially quiets emotional distress through mindfulness, utilizing proper breathing and meditation. These techniques aim to bring the individual into the present moment when in a state of distress.

When do I know if I need treatment with mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

If an individual’s mind is filled with emotional distress and general negativity, the person may feel trapped. A mindfulness-based cognitive therapist can help a person change their thinking patterns as well as their behavior through calm acceptance and compassion. This therapy can provide an individual with the coping skills needed for a healthier and more constructive life.

What should I expect from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy?

This therapy often takes place in group sessions. A therapist will work with the group as well as with each individual. Meditation and breathing exercises are core practices that aim to invite inquiry and discovery into a person’s troubled mental state. The objective is to identify and lessen negative thoughts and behaviors and move toward optimal health and productivity. The individual will see life in a more realistic way. This therapy is supportive, accepting, and warm.

Is mindfulness-based cognitive therapy effective?

Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy is evidence-based and effective. One study found that people with major depressive disorder have benefitted from this type of therapy; the person accepts their distressed thoughts and also moves into healthier patterns of thinking. This therapy also aims to move an individual away from automatic negative responses. This type of therapy can bring a person lifelong change, with higher levels of satisfaction, less stress, as well as positive emotional and behavioral habits.