Racial Identity Therapists in San Francisco, CA
You’ve learned to be many versions of yourself, but may feel disconnected from who you are underneath it all. You may be the dependable one, the thoughtful one, or the one who knows how to adapt, while underneath feeling anxious, emotionally tired, or unsure of what you truly need.
I work with adults who feel stuck in patterns of people-pleasing, over-responsibility, burnout, and self-doubt. Many of my clients are navigating mixed or multicultural identities, family expectations, relationship stress, and the pressure to hold everything together while feeling alone inside.
You’ve learned to be many versions of yourself, but may feel disconnected from who you are underneath it all. You may be the dependable one, the thoughtful one, or the one who knows how to adapt, while underneath feeling anxious, emotionally tired, or unsure of what you truly need.
I work with adults who feel stuck in patterns of people-pleasing, over-responsibility, burnout, and self-doubt. Many of my clients are navigating mixed or multicultural identities, family expectations, relationship stress, and the pressure to hold everything together while feeling alone inside.
You may be carrying stories that aren’t fully yours—expectations, shame, or beliefs that no longer fit. Maybe you’re stuck in cycles of self-doubt, navigating trauma, or trying to break free from patterns rooted in old wounds. You’re not looking for someone to tell you what to do—you want space to think clearly, feel safely, and start making different choices. My clients are often thoughtful, resilient people doing hard emotional work—many from marginalized communities, navigating stressors shaped by both personal history and larger systems. Together, we begin with curiosity and build from there.
You may be carrying stories that aren’t fully yours—expectations, shame, or beliefs that no longer fit. Maybe you’re stuck in cycles of self-doubt, navigating trauma, or trying to break free from patterns rooted in old wounds. You’re not looking for someone to tell you what to do—you want space to think clearly, feel safely, and start making different choices. My clients are often thoughtful, resilient people doing hard emotional work—many from marginalized communities, navigating stressors shaped by both personal history and larger systems. Together, we begin with curiosity and build from there.
I typically work best with clients that have a high degree of self-agency and are in a career building or sustaining phase of life. I enjoy working with clients that enjoy a challenge from their therapist to grow and improve from visit to visit.
I typically work best with clients that have a high degree of self-agency and are in a career building or sustaining phase of life. I enjoy working with clients that enjoy a challenge from their therapist to grow and improve from visit to visit.
Mireya Peña
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122
Waitlist for new clients
Do you or a loved one want to change your relationship with substances? I work with individuals, couples and families who are struggling with addiction and substance use through a harm reduction framework. Through this framework I pay special attention to creating a non-judgmental relationship with clients along every part of their relationship with substance use, be that with the goal of moderation or abstinence.
Do you or a loved one want to change your relationship with substances? I work with individuals, couples and families who are struggling with addiction and substance use through a harm reduction framework. Through this framework I pay special attention to creating a non-judgmental relationship with clients along every part of their relationship with substance use, be that with the goal of moderation or abstinence.
Trauma does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone no matter their circumstances. Fortunately, there are also treatments that can help. In my 20 years of experience, I have born witness to the incredible resilience of individuals who have experienced trauma and firmly believe that recovery is possible. I have expertise in working with survivors of all forms of trauma including (but not limited to) service members, veterans, journalists (JTSN certificate), childhood abuse, chronic invalidation, developmental trauma, intergenerational trauma, immigration-related trauma, race-based trauma, and interpersonal violence.
Trauma does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone no matter their circumstances. Fortunately, there are also treatments that can help. In my 20 years of experience, I have born witness to the incredible resilience of individuals who have experienced trauma and firmly believe that recovery is possible. I have expertise in working with survivors of all forms of trauma including (but not limited to) service members, veterans, journalists (JTSN certificate), childhood abuse, chronic invalidation, developmental trauma, intergenerational trauma, immigration-related trauma, race-based trauma, and interpersonal violence.
Welcome! My practice is currently open to Children under 18, Families given or chosen, & Couples romantic to platonic, polycules welcome.
Sliding scale is available for those in financial need.
I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
Welcome! My practice is currently open to Children under 18, Families given or chosen, & Couples romantic to platonic, polycules welcome.
Sliding scale is available for those in financial need.
I offer Xychotherapy: psychotherapy that recognizes therapeutic experiences existed long before psychotherapy was invented, and incorporates psychotherapy into global therapeutic wisdoms and practices.
I am passionate about supporting adults in their healing journeys of grief, depression, and trauma. As an Asian American immigrant, I feel deeply about the unique challenges and stressors of code-switching from one culture to another to survive. If you feel othered, devastated, or losing control of your life, I offer you a safe and compassionate space to navigate complex emotions, find support within yourself and your community, and experience transformation to feel balanced and whole.
I am passionate about supporting adults in their healing journeys of grief, depression, and trauma. As an Asian American immigrant, I feel deeply about the unique challenges and stressors of code-switching from one culture to another to survive. If you feel othered, devastated, or losing control of your life, I offer you a safe and compassionate space to navigate complex emotions, find support within yourself and your community, and experience transformation to feel balanced and whole.
I have extensive experience working with people facing racial identity issues, overcoming racial trauma, multicultural and identity issues, exploring and supporting sexuality, relationships, gender expression, eating disorders, body image, disembodiment concerns, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, and relationships of all races/ethnicities, abilities, sizes, genders, spiritual beliefs, and relationship styles. Wherever you are along the gender and sexuality spectrum, from teens to older adults, you are welcome and supported here.
I have extensive experience working with people facing racial identity issues, overcoming racial trauma, multicultural and identity issues, exploring and supporting sexuality, relationships, gender expression, eating disorders, body image, disembodiment concerns, depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, and relationships of all races/ethnicities, abilities, sizes, genders, spiritual beliefs, and relationship styles. Wherever you are along the gender and sexuality spectrum, from teens to older adults, you are welcome and supported here.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Life’s challenges—whether they involve anxiety, depression, or difficulty setting healthy boundaries—can feel heavy and isolating. You may also be navigating the added complexities of living in a world that doesn’t always understand or celebrate your identity. Starting therapy is a brave step toward living with purpose, peace, and authenticity. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking to deepen your sense of self, or learning to advocate for yourself, we’ll work together to create a life that truly feels like yours.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected? Life’s challenges—whether they involve anxiety, depression, or difficulty setting healthy boundaries—can feel heavy and isolating. You may also be navigating the added complexities of living in a world that doesn’t always understand or celebrate your identity. Starting therapy is a brave step toward living with purpose, peace, and authenticity. Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking to deepen your sense of self, or learning to advocate for yourself, we’ll work together to create a life that truly feels like yours.
Do you feel as though no one can ever truly know, understand or help you? Do you have a sense that something is missing; that if you found one magical thing, life would become fuller, happier, more peaceful and steady? You are trying. You are doing your best. And yet, you still feel stuck. If this speaks to you, you may be in the right place.
Hello! I'm Alexandra "Xana" Cook-Milligan (pronounced Shana).
I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy, offering virtual sessions to clients throughout California.
Do you feel as though no one can ever truly know, understand or help you? Do you have a sense that something is missing; that if you found one magical thing, life would become fuller, happier, more peaceful and steady? You are trying. You are doing your best. And yet, you still feel stuck. If this speaks to you, you may be in the right place.
Hello! I'm Alexandra "Xana" Cook-Milligan (pronounced Shana).
I am a Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at the Center for Mindful Psychotherapy, offering virtual sessions to clients throughout California.
You don’t have to choose between your roots and your growth. You get to honor both.
As a Desi therapist, I specialize in helping clients navigate the rich, complex space between cultures. Whether you're balancing Indian and American identities, exploring intersectional experiences, or simply trying to make sense of where you belong—I see you. I’ve lived that journey myself, and I bring deep empathy, cultural insight, and clinical expertise to support yours.
In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, affirming space where your story matters.
You don’t have to choose between your roots and your growth. You get to honor both.
As a Desi therapist, I specialize in helping clients navigate the rich, complex space between cultures. Whether you're balancing Indian and American identities, exploring intersectional experiences, or simply trying to make sense of where you belong—I see you. I’ve lived that journey myself, and I bring deep empathy, cultural insight, and clinical expertise to support yours.
In our sessions, you’ll find a safe, affirming space where your story matters.
Hi! I’m Larsa. You may find yourself here because you’re carrying wounds from complex family dynamics, cultural disconnection, religious disillusionment, or deeply painful experiences that turned your world upside down. Or maybe you’ve spent your whole life navigating and trying to fit in to two different worlds—the dominant, American culture, and your own culture of origin. Or maybe you've spent years as a parentified, people-pleasing perfectionist. You might be seeking a safe, supportive space to reconnect with your authentic self, to heal, and to be witnessed as you root down and anchor in to who you truly are.
Hi! I’m Larsa. You may find yourself here because you’re carrying wounds from complex family dynamics, cultural disconnection, religious disillusionment, or deeply painful experiences that turned your world upside down. Or maybe you’ve spent your whole life navigating and trying to fit in to two different worlds—the dominant, American culture, and your own culture of origin. Or maybe you've spent years as a parentified, people-pleasing perfectionist. You might be seeking a safe, supportive space to reconnect with your authentic self, to heal, and to be witnessed as you root down and anchor in to who you truly are.
Hi there :) Welcome.
I became a therapist because of my own life experiences and my desire to support others in their healing journey. I specialize in the following areas: couples therapy, intergenerational trauma, racial trauma, complex PTSD, ADHD, and sleep issues. I am trained in sleep coaching and CBT for Insomnia. I enjoy working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks, especially those from immigrant families. I take a special interest in working with couples and families on cultural and family issues, including partners from different cultural / immigration backgrounds.
Hi there :) Welcome.
I became a therapist because of my own life experiences and my desire to support others in their healing journey. I specialize in the following areas: couples therapy, intergenerational trauma, racial trauma, complex PTSD, ADHD, and sleep issues. I am trained in sleep coaching and CBT for Insomnia. I enjoy working with BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks, especially those from immigrant families. I take a special interest in working with couples and families on cultural and family issues, including partners from different cultural / immigration backgrounds.
As we change and grow, and get caught up in the daily grind, we forget to tend to our relationships and they can begin to feel burdensome. Part of what I do is normalize that relationships are work. Over time they disappoint us, trigger us, and often serve as mirrors for parts of ourselves we like the least. We start to forget that they bring us joy and purpose and get wrapped up in toxic thought patterns. The neglect breeds contempt and then we feel more disconnected than ever. My passion lies in helping you reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
As we change and grow, and get caught up in the daily grind, we forget to tend to our relationships and they can begin to feel burdensome. Part of what I do is normalize that relationships are work. Over time they disappoint us, trigger us, and often serve as mirrors for parts of ourselves we like the least. We start to forget that they bring us joy and purpose and get wrapped up in toxic thought patterns. The neglect breeds contempt and then we feel more disconnected than ever. My passion lies in helping you reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
Taking the step to begin therapy can feel vulnerable, but it’s also a powerful investment in yourself and your well-being. Therapy offers a space to better understand your experiences, work through what may be keeping you stuck, and create meaningful change in your life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, burnout, or a desire for deeper self-understanding, I strive to provide a space where you feel supported, understood, and genuinely seen.
Together, we’ll explore patterns that no longer serve you while creating space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
Taking the step to begin therapy can feel vulnerable, but it’s also a powerful investment in yourself and your well-being. Therapy offers a space to better understand your experiences, work through what may be keeping you stuck, and create meaningful change in your life. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, burnout, or a desire for deeper self-understanding, I strive to provide a space where you feel supported, understood, and genuinely seen.
Together, we’ll explore patterns that no longer serve you while creating space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
Psychotherapy isn't one size fits all. It's a unique relationship that develops and responds to your needs, life-experiences, gender/ethnic/cultural identity, challenges and resources. Overwhelmed? Stuck in painful patterns, and wanting to make changes? Are the ways you've been coping not working anymore? I meet you where you are and bring my clinical and life experience, deep listening, compassion, acceptance, warmth and creativity. Together we create and draw on the power of a safe, supportive and accepting therapeutic relationship to support your growth and wholeness.
Psychotherapy isn't one size fits all. It's a unique relationship that develops and responds to your needs, life-experiences, gender/ethnic/cultural identity, challenges and resources. Overwhelmed? Stuck in painful patterns, and wanting to make changes? Are the ways you've been coping not working anymore? I meet you where you are and bring my clinical and life experience, deep listening, compassion, acceptance, warmth and creativity. Together we create and draw on the power of a safe, supportive and accepting therapeutic relationship to support your growth and wholeness.
Finding balance and living a fulfilling life is easier said than done. The concepts may seem simple, but the reality is that it takes patience and bravery to ride out the waves. As a therapist, I encourage you to find confidence, purpose, and meaning to live authentically in the present. I have experience and passion working with those experiencing multigenerational trauma and transitions, as well as a special emphasis on creative/artistic lifestyles, and cultural competency. Prior to becoming a therapist, I was a music journalist. My roots reside in the Bay Area. I currently also serve on the Board for Donaldina Cameron House.
Finding balance and living a fulfilling life is easier said than done. The concepts may seem simple, but the reality is that it takes patience and bravery to ride out the waves. As a therapist, I encourage you to find confidence, purpose, and meaning to live authentically in the present. I have experience and passion working with those experiencing multigenerational trauma and transitions, as well as a special emphasis on creative/artistic lifestyles, and cultural competency. Prior to becoming a therapist, I was a music journalist. My roots reside in the Bay Area. I currently also serve on the Board for Donaldina Cameron House.
Life can be very overwhelming and lonely at times. When this feels too much to deal with alone, psychotherapy can be a place to have someone else see your struggles and help you bear them. I believe that through a meaningful relationship, we can work together to help you understand why you are suffering and how you can have more options for relating to yourself and others. For couples, being in a relationship itself can feel impossible. Through allowing in a third person to witness your dynamics and understand both members of the couple, it can be easier to communicate with each other.
Life can be very overwhelming and lonely at times. When this feels too much to deal with alone, psychotherapy can be a place to have someone else see your struggles and help you bear them. I believe that through a meaningful relationship, we can work together to help you understand why you are suffering and how you can have more options for relating to yourself and others. For couples, being in a relationship itself can feel impossible. Through allowing in a third person to witness your dynamics and understand both members of the couple, it can be easier to communicate with each other.
Frances
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
7 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
Waitlist for new clients
Something brought you here. Maybe it's the exhaustion that doesn't go away no matter how much you rest. Maybe it's the tension between who you are at home and who you have to be everywhere else. Maybe you've been holding things together for so long you're not sure what falling apart would even look like.
I work with immigrants, children of immigrants, and people from BIPOC communities, especially Filipino-Americans and Asian-Americans who are navigating trauma, family pressure, and the particular kind of burnout that comes from living between worlds.
Something brought you here. Maybe it's the exhaustion that doesn't go away no matter how much you rest. Maybe it's the tension between who you are at home and who you have to be everywhere else. Maybe you've been holding things together for so long you're not sure what falling apart would even look like.
I work with immigrants, children of immigrants, and people from BIPOC communities, especially Filipino-Americans and Asian-Americans who are navigating trauma, family pressure, and the particular kind of burnout that comes from living between worlds.
You don't have to do it alone. People often come into therapy when they have hit a crisis in their lives. It can be hard to feel like your usual coping mechanisms are not working anymore, or the situation you are dealing with is more than you can handle. Having a warm, compassionate, supportive, and qualified ally to listen and help with these issues in a safe and confidential space can help you feel less isolated and overwhelmed.
You don't have to do it alone. People often come into therapy when they have hit a crisis in their lives. It can be hard to feel like your usual coping mechanisms are not working anymore, or the situation you are dealing with is more than you can handle. Having a warm, compassionate, supportive, and qualified ally to listen and help with these issues in a safe and confidential space can help you feel less isolated and overwhelmed.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Racial Identity Therapists Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Pacifica
- Piedmont
- San Bruno
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco