Psychoanalytic Therapists in San Francisco, CA
While I have formal training in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, and somatic therapy, personal crisis has been my greatest teacher — catalyzing radical change and transforming the trajectory of my life.
I'm a San Francisco psychotherapist specializing in therapy for empaths, artists, seekers and survivors — sensitive and creative people who experience the world with profound emotional and sensory intensity. I offer trauma-informed somatic and psychodynamic therapy for individuals recovering from trauma, abusive relationships, and addiction; coping with anxiety and depression; exploring sex, identity and gender; or confronting existential doubts at midlife crisis. Couples therapy is designed to bring clarity to your path forward, honor your differences, improve communication skills, and deepen your connection with your loved ones.
While I have formal training in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic, and somatic therapy, personal crisis has been my greatest teacher — catalyzing radical change and transforming the trajectory of my life.
I'm a San Francisco psychotherapist specializing in therapy for empaths, artists, seekers and survivors — sensitive and creative people who experience the world with profound emotional and sensory intensity. I offer trauma-informed somatic and psychodynamic therapy for individuals recovering from trauma, abusive relationships, and addiction; coping with anxiety and depression; exploring sex, identity and gender; or confronting existential doubts at midlife crisis. Couples therapy is designed to bring clarity to your path forward, honor your differences, improve communication skills, and deepen your connection with your loved ones.
I believe therapy works best when you feel a deepening in self-awareness and inner-strength. When this happens it often coincides with feeling connected and understood by me. This is the main pathway to meaningful and lasting changes. My approach is psychodynamic and my style is direct, collaborative, and playful. Difficult and challenging behaviors often result in feeling stagnated and trapped in an endless cycle. By unpacking the underlying dynamics that are driving these struggles, you will feel more freedom to reach your goals.
I believe therapy works best when you feel a deepening in self-awareness and inner-strength. When this happens it often coincides with feeling connected and understood by me. This is the main pathway to meaningful and lasting changes. My approach is psychodynamic and my style is direct, collaborative, and playful. Difficult and challenging behaviors often result in feeling stagnated and trapped in an endless cycle. By unpacking the underlying dynamics that are driving these struggles, you will feel more freedom to reach your goals.
I work with creative, intelligent people who have gotten stuck somewhere along the way. I understand the anxiety, depression, and relationship woes that can accompany creative block and burnout.
Is your job losing its luster? Are you struggling to finish that screenplay, novel, or album? Maybe it seems like something big is right around the corner, but you don’t know how to get there. Perhaps you have the sense that something has to change, but you don’t know how. Let’s find out together.
I work with creative, intelligent people who have gotten stuck somewhere along the way. I understand the anxiety, depression, and relationship woes that can accompany creative block and burnout.
Is your job losing its luster? Are you struggling to finish that screenplay, novel, or album? Maybe it seems like something big is right around the corner, but you don’t know how to get there. Perhaps you have the sense that something has to change, but you don’t know how. Let’s find out together.
I see therapy as an opportunity for transformative insight, creativity, self-expression, and healing. It is a place to process and move past the painful experience that stick with us and hold us back. My clients often show up to therapy because of a need for meaningful change in their lives, and a desire to feel happier and more fulfilled. You may find yourself struggling with self-doubt and a harsh, critical inner voice; feeling stuck, sad, far away, and disconnected; navigating a new or difficult circumstance such as death of a loved one; or wanting help to reduce conflict and improve communication with your partner.
I see therapy as an opportunity for transformative insight, creativity, self-expression, and healing. It is a place to process and move past the painful experience that stick with us and hold us back. My clients often show up to therapy because of a need for meaningful change in their lives, and a desire to feel happier and more fulfilled. You may find yourself struggling with self-doubt and a harsh, critical inner voice; feeling stuck, sad, far away, and disconnected; navigating a new or difficult circumstance such as death of a loved one; or wanting help to reduce conflict and improve communication with your partner.
You’re smart and capable, but something isn’t working the way you want—mood swings or low energy, tension with a partner, a stuck pattern with food, body image, porn, or substances. You want a place to safely “run experiments” on new ways of thinking and relating: try something different, see what changes, keep what helps. You value direct feedback and practical tools, not just talk. And you’d like a seasoned LMFT in San Francisco who understands men’s issues, anxiety and depression, couples dynamics, body image and eating disorders, and substance use/recovery—someone who will help you track what’s effective and build lasting change
You’re smart and capable, but something isn’t working the way you want—mood swings or low energy, tension with a partner, a stuck pattern with food, body image, porn, or substances. You want a place to safely “run experiments” on new ways of thinking and relating: try something different, see what changes, keep what helps. You value direct feedback and practical tools, not just talk. And you’d like a seasoned LMFT in San Francisco who understands men’s issues, anxiety and depression, couples dynamics, body image and eating disorders, and substance use/recovery—someone who will help you track what’s effective and build lasting change
Welcome. Perhaps you are seeking out therapy to help manage a crisis or maybe you finally have enough stability in your life to work on deeper issues? As a psychotherapist, I meet my clients where they are and offer the support most suited for their needs. In my practice, I work with everything from artistic blocks, anxiety, depression and relationship issues to severe trauma, grief, addiction and existential unrest.
Welcome. Perhaps you are seeking out therapy to help manage a crisis or maybe you finally have enough stability in your life to work on deeper issues? As a psychotherapist, I meet my clients where they are and offer the support most suited for their needs. In my practice, I work with everything from artistic blocks, anxiety, depression and relationship issues to severe trauma, grief, addiction and existential unrest.
I have 20 years of experience but I don't believe that says anything unless I can relate, connect and feel with my clients. I can be professional when necessary but I am better at just being real. I am not everyones therapist and I am okay with it. I engage in the conversation with respect and authenticity. I'm direct with the intention to help and shift the issues in a place for change . I am good at what I do and passionate about helping people through pain.
I have 20 years of experience but I don't believe that says anything unless I can relate, connect and feel with my clients. I can be professional when necessary but I am better at just being real. I am not everyones therapist and I am okay with it. I engage in the conversation with respect and authenticity. I'm direct with the intention to help and shift the issues in a place for change . I am good at what I do and passionate about helping people through pain.
Welcome. My name is Monique Damroth. I'm a licensed psychologist based in San Francisco and Oakland, California, and I also work with clients statewide through telehealth. In my practice, I've worked with a diverse population of individuals and couples to identify the root causes of stress and struggle by going beyond the obvious problems. This exploration can lead to a deeper level of self-knowledge, individuation, and the discovery of responses to life-altering inquiries and a happier, more fulfilling existence.
Welcome. My name is Monique Damroth. I'm a licensed psychologist based in San Francisco and Oakland, California, and I also work with clients statewide through telehealth. In my practice, I've worked with a diverse population of individuals and couples to identify the root causes of stress and struggle by going beyond the obvious problems. This exploration can lead to a deeper level of self-knowledge, individuation, and the discovery of responses to life-altering inquiries and a happier, more fulfilling existence.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, and/or transitioning to a non-monogamous relationship structure? As a queer therapist who specializes in supporting individuals and couples, I can provide a safe space and structure for you to explore your authentic self. Let’s increase your self-confidence by deepening your understanding of emotions and behaviors so you can bring your whole self to the table in all your relationships.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, sexuality, and/or transitioning to a non-monogamous relationship structure? As a queer therapist who specializes in supporting individuals and couples, I can provide a safe space and structure for you to explore your authentic self. Let’s increase your self-confidence by deepening your understanding of emotions and behaviors so you can bring your whole self to the table in all your relationships.
Are you feeling exhausted, lost, uncertain about who you are, who you want to become, and life's direction? Do you find yourself unsatisfied with your job or relationships, grappling with feelings of inadequacy, abandonment, and rejection? You're not alone. In therapy with me, you'll embark on a transformative journey to become an expert on YOU: your personality, your past, your needs and wants, the places you get stuck, and how to overcome painful feelings. You'll come to understand why you feel isolated and alone and that you're worthy and unique. You'll learn ways to make your relationships with others better and more satisfying.
Are you feeling exhausted, lost, uncertain about who you are, who you want to become, and life's direction? Do you find yourself unsatisfied with your job or relationships, grappling with feelings of inadequacy, abandonment, and rejection? You're not alone. In therapy with me, you'll embark on a transformative journey to become an expert on YOU: your personality, your past, your needs and wants, the places you get stuck, and how to overcome painful feelings. You'll come to understand why you feel isolated and alone and that you're worthy and unique. You'll learn ways to make your relationships with others better and more satisfying.
If you are reading this page then something is not working for you. Some aspect of your life feels painful, anxious making, or dissatisfying and you have likely exhausted your own efforts to resolve things independently. You may, for example, be baffled as to why the same relational difficulties are repeating themselves. Or you may be wondering why you don't seem to be able to achieve your work aspirations and goals. Sometimes challenges like these are impossible to resolve alone and we need professional assistance.
If you are reading this page then something is not working for you. Some aspect of your life feels painful, anxious making, or dissatisfying and you have likely exhausted your own efforts to resolve things independently. You may, for example, be baffled as to why the same relational difficulties are repeating themselves. Or you may be wondering why you don't seem to be able to achieve your work aspirations and goals. Sometimes challenges like these are impossible to resolve alone and we need professional assistance.
My approach to my work with clients is warm and engaging, honest and straightforward. Together we can explore the areas of your life that you have concerns about so that we can identify and understand what is getting in your way. We will work collaboratively in a non-judgmental atmosphere that is individually tailored to your needs. Engaging in a focused and thoughtful therapy process can help you gain clarity about yourself and your relationships, develop new emotional skills and capacities, and overall cultivate a more fulfilling life.
My approach to my work with clients is warm and engaging, honest and straightforward. Together we can explore the areas of your life that you have concerns about so that we can identify and understand what is getting in your way. We will work collaboratively in a non-judgmental atmosphere that is individually tailored to your needs. Engaging in a focused and thoughtful therapy process can help you gain clarity about yourself and your relationships, develop new emotional skills and capacities, and overall cultivate a more fulfilling life.
Marina Counseling | Affirming & Inclusive Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, AMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Our diverse team of therapists provides trauma-informed, holistic, and culturally-sensitive psychotherapy for adults, children, teens, couples, and families, in person in San Francisco's Marina and Downtown districts, and virtually for residents in all of California. Our sliding scale is thoughtfully adjusted to your financial circumstances. We take great care to connect you with a therapist who resonates with your lived experience and the challenges you're facing.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. Our diverse team of therapists provides trauma-informed, holistic, and culturally-sensitive psychotherapy for adults, children, teens, couples, and families, in person in San Francisco's Marina and Downtown districts, and virtually for residents in all of California. Our sliding scale is thoughtfully adjusted to your financial circumstances. We take great care to connect you with a therapist who resonates with your lived experience and the challenges you're facing.
Adam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel like you are "not enough"? Do you struggle with people-pleasing? I support individuals and partners to resolve issues around dating difficulties, low self-worth, relationship & sexual dissatisfaction, troubling sexual behavior/addiction, abuse & trauma, and motivation. I use effective modalities including somatic and attachment-based interventions coupled with my compassionate model of change to help uncover and celebrate your authentic self.
Do you feel like you are "not enough"? Do you struggle with people-pleasing? I support individuals and partners to resolve issues around dating difficulties, low self-worth, relationship & sexual dissatisfaction, troubling sexual behavior/addiction, abuse & trauma, and motivation. I use effective modalities including somatic and attachment-based interventions coupled with my compassionate model of change to help uncover and celebrate your authentic self.
I have training in psychoanalytic thinking, linking your lifeline to the place of understanding while in the " here and now
You are unique.
Are you struggling with life transitions, job, academic, relationships? You do not have to do it alone. I offer support in working with your shadow and finding self-empowerment by integrating all your different parts of Self. I approach from a holistic lens through relational psychodynamics. I hope that we will build a foundational relationship that is based on trust and acceptance. I will walk with you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. I utilize my self-reflective journey through depth psychology, meeting you where you are in the here and now, offering acceptance and understanding.
I have training in psychoanalytic thinking, linking your lifeline to the place of understanding while in the " here and now
You are unique.
Are you struggling with life transitions, job, academic, relationships? You do not have to do it alone. I offer support in working with your shadow and finding self-empowerment by integrating all your different parts of Self. I approach from a holistic lens through relational psychodynamics. I hope that we will build a foundational relationship that is based on trust and acceptance. I will walk with you through your journey of healing and self-discovery. I utilize my self-reflective journey through depth psychology, meeting you where you are in the here and now, offering acceptance and understanding.
Using a warm, collaborative and grounded approach, I work with families, and young children providing play and art-based therapy. I also provide dyadic therapy, with caregiver and child together. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, parenting and family dynamics using a relational, psychodynamic, and attachment-based framework.
Using a warm, collaborative and grounded approach, I work with families, and young children providing play and art-based therapy. I also provide dyadic therapy, with caregiver and child together. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, parenting and family dynamics using a relational, psychodynamic, and attachment-based framework.
Are you struggling with anxiety, loneliness, or unease? I listen carefully and help create a safe space to increase understanding and ultimately, facilitate moving away from self-defeating patterns towards greater well-being. This includes improved relationships, relief from painful feelings, stronger communication and coping skills, and greater meaning in life.
Are you struggling with anxiety, loneliness, or unease? I listen carefully and help create a safe space to increase understanding and ultimately, facilitate moving away from self-defeating patterns towards greater well-being. This includes improved relationships, relief from painful feelings, stronger communication and coping skills, and greater meaning in life.
As a licensed psychoanalytic psychotherapist and relational psychoanalyst, I believe in the collaborative process of assisting clients in uncovering their emotional and personal truths.
I specialize in working with adults and teens to help mitigate depression and anxiety, interpersonal challenges, life transitions, school or professional difficulties and entrenched familial conflicts. My treatment modality is psychodynamic psychotherapy and relational psychoanalysis —for those whose past trauma needs a more immersive approach to heal.
As a licensed psychoanalytic psychotherapist and relational psychoanalyst, I believe in the collaborative process of assisting clients in uncovering their emotional and personal truths.
I specialize in working with adults and teens to help mitigate depression and anxiety, interpersonal challenges, life transitions, school or professional difficulties and entrenched familial conflicts. My treatment modality is psychodynamic psychotherapy and relational psychoanalysis —for those whose past trauma needs a more immersive approach to heal.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. I provide compassionate support to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups facing concerns such as chronic illness, anxiety, depression, panic disorders, mood disorders, parenting struggles, and relationship issues. I am also dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence, offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. My background includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy, family therapy, and crisis intervention.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 30 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate life’s challenges. I provide compassionate support to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups facing concerns such as chronic illness, anxiety, depression, panic disorders, mood disorders, parenting struggles, and relationship issues. I am also dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence, offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. My background includes working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual therapy, family therapy, and crisis intervention.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples to find the healing and solutions they’re looking for. I serve people from many backgrounds—high performers, first responders, mission-driven professionals, and those living with severe and persistent mental illness, struggling with addition—people who often carry significant responsibility while feeling alone in their struggles. Though many challenges come from unresolved emotions, family dynamics, systemic inequities, and collective trauma, deep healing becomes possible when we turn inward.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples to find the healing and solutions they’re looking for. I serve people from many backgrounds—high performers, first responders, mission-driven professionals, and those living with severe and persistent mental illness, struggling with addition—people who often carry significant responsibility while feeling alone in their struggles. Though many challenges come from unresolved emotions, family dynamics, systemic inequities, and collective trauma, deep healing becomes possible when we turn inward.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Psychoanalytic Therapists Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Pacifica
- Piedmont
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
Psychoanalytic Therapists
Does psychoanalytic therapy work?
Psychoanalytic therapy derives from the work of Sigmund Freud. In this type of therapy, discovering buried thoughts and emotions from the unconscious will help a person work through their difficulties and negative behaviors. Research shows that psychoanalytic therapy can be highly effective, with patients reporting improvement in mood, quality of life, and overall well-being.
How long are people typically in psychoanalytic therapy?
Traditional psychoanalysis is in-depth and is conducted in five sessions every week. Today, modern psychoanalytic therapy is less intense and normally incorporates as few as one or two sessions a week. In some cases, positive change can occur quickly. However, if the condition, difficulty, or behavior is deep-seated, improvement may require many months or years of therapy.
Is psychoanalytic therapy suitable for young people?
Children and adolescents can benefit from this type of therapy. Many kids and teens are often unable to form and communicate their thoughts and emotions. Psychoanalytic therapy uses specific techniques such as dream analysis, symbolism, and free association or word association; all of which can be useful tools for less-communicative young people. Through this therapy, a patient will hopefully make connections between what they feel inside and how the world works outside.
Can psychoanalytic therapy be done online?
Modern-day psychoanalytic therapy is very different from traditional psychoanalysis. While an individual can sit face-to-face with the psychoanalyst for multiple sessions a week, they do not have to. Today, psychoanalytic therapy can be effectively conducted online or by phone. The key is that the individual confronts what is repressed and avoided, and this can be done whether in person or over online video.