Photo of Denise Stilwell, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Denise Stilwell
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109  (Online Only)
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
Dr. Denise Stilwell is a licensed clinical psychologist with seven years of experience providing psychotherapy in a variety of clinical settings. She worked as a nurse for sixteen years before she became a psychotherapist and brings that rich experience into her practice. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, identity issues, interpersonal issues, grief, managing chronic illness, and somatic symptom disorder. Dr. Stilwell collaborates with her clients to ensure they feel seen and heard in their sessions while utilizing evidence-based therapy approaches that are culturally sensitive and individually focused.
(415) 306-8574 View (415) 306-8574
Photo of Sandrah Susan Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Sandrah Susan Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I have extensive experience in relationship therapy, transracial adoption, EMDR, family therapy and chronic illness and disability.
I am empathic and warm yet direct and challenging in our collaborative relationship. I provide a safe harbor from which to work and together we will identify ways in which your past is preventing you from living the life you want. Some of my hopes are that your tendency to be self-critical will soften and that you will become compassionate towards yourself; that you will gain positive coping skills to deal with stress and anxiety and to decrease perfectionistic tendencies and that you accomplish the goals that you have set for yourself. I will be your guide in this process.
I have extensive experience in relationship therapy, transracial adoption, EMDR, family therapy and chronic illness and disability.
I am empathic and warm yet direct and challenging in our collaborative relationship. I provide a safe harbor from which to work and together we will identify ways in which your past is preventing you from living the life you want. Some of my hopes are that your tendency to be self-critical will soften and that you will become compassionate towards yourself; that you will gain positive coping skills to deal with stress and anxiety and to decrease perfectionistic tendencies and that you accomplish the goals that you have set for yourself. I will be your guide in this process.
(415) 965-8637 View (415) 965-8637
Photo of Michelle Takemoto, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Michelle Takemoto
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94127  (Online Only)
Therapy will open new doors for you, allow you to gain insight into your struggles, and create movement toward healing. I specialize in supporting women, families, and couples through difficult times such as parenting, chronic illness, marriage conflicts, grief and loss, parenting children with disabilities, cultural loss and trauma, anxiety/depression, and work-related stressors. Recovery and leading a life of fulfillment is truly possible. Take the first step toward finding hope and leading an authentic, love-filled life.
Therapy will open new doors for you, allow you to gain insight into your struggles, and create movement toward healing. I specialize in supporting women, families, and couples through difficult times such as parenting, chronic illness, marriage conflicts, grief and loss, parenting children with disabilities, cultural loss and trauma, anxiety/depression, and work-related stressors. Recovery and leading a life of fulfillment is truly possible. Take the first step toward finding hope and leading an authentic, love-filled life.
(707) 532-2360 View (707) 532-2360
Photo of Kiran Haynes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kiran Haynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I am particularly qualified in helping those with grief and loss, chronic illness, reproductive issues, questions of gender and sexuality, military personnel and their families, systemic trauma, attachment trauma, and non-traditional families (e.
Hello! My name is Kiran Haynes, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. By nurturing wholeness, a deep personal understanding, and empowerment, therapy can help foster lasting and positive change. I believe that collaboration in the therapeutic process is key as you are the expert in your own life. I take a compassionate approach while engaging and empowering you towards processing, exploring, and developing a deeper understanding and healthier relationship with yourself.
I am particularly qualified in helping those with grief and loss, chronic illness, reproductive issues, questions of gender and sexuality, military personnel and their families, systemic trauma, attachment trauma, and non-traditional families (e.
Hello! My name is Kiran Haynes, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist in California. By nurturing wholeness, a deep personal understanding, and empowerment, therapy can help foster lasting and positive change. I believe that collaboration in the therapeutic process is key as you are the expert in your own life. I take a compassionate approach while engaging and empowering you towards processing, exploring, and developing a deeper understanding and healthier relationship with yourself.
(951) 944-1928 View (951) 944-1928
Photo of Lisa Twilling, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lisa Twilling
Psychologist, PhD, MS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I am a Psychologist with over 25yrs. experience working with individuals in psychotherapy. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are coping with health issues (e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.
I am a Psychologist with over 25yrs. experience working with individuals in psychotherapy. I help people who seek relief from dealing with life's challenges (e.g., anxiety, depression, stress, stress management, relationship difficulties, etc.) and life transitions. I also specialize in Medical Psychology and work with people who are coping with health issues (e.g., adjusting to a medical diagnosis, managing an illness or chronic pain, coping with a loved one who suffers with an illness). Please contact me for a free phone consultation to discuss your specific situation and goals.
(415) 659-9212 View (415) 659-9212
Photo of Kyoko Tsuchiya, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Kyoko Tsuchiya
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
Are you feeling stuck in your life, your relationships or your job, or going through challenging life transitions? I strongly believe that we all have tremendous capacity for change, growth and healing. Drawing upon my professional training in body-oriented psychotherapy and decades of meditation practice, I can assist you in quieting your mind and taping into your own truth, strengths and wisdom within. Psychotherapy that integrates body, mind and spirit can help you move beyond the problems to release the creative energy, optimism and hope necessary to lead you to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Are you feeling stuck in your life, your relationships or your job, or going through challenging life transitions? I strongly believe that we all have tremendous capacity for change, growth and healing. Drawing upon my professional training in body-oriented psychotherapy and decades of meditation practice, I can assist you in quieting your mind and taping into your own truth, strengths and wisdom within. Psychotherapy that integrates body, mind and spirit can help you move beyond the problems to release the creative energy, optimism and hope necessary to lead you to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(510) 858-0979 View (510) 858-0979
Photo of Ashley Coover, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in San Francisco, CA
Ashley Coover
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94108
My clients are passionate, sensitive, often highly creative people searching for a place where their full self can be witnessed, celebrated, and supported. Sometimes this includes mourning for what was not possible or the intensity of previous experiences they were put through and what that has cost them. My clients tend to struggle with a variety of complex issues. They often come from families with a legacy of unprocessed intergenerational trauma, which can take many forms. Ultimately, clients who seek me are looking for a place to try out new ways of being in the world. Ways that will better support their deepest values.
My clients are passionate, sensitive, often highly creative people searching for a place where their full self can be witnessed, celebrated, and supported. Sometimes this includes mourning for what was not possible or the intensity of previous experiences they were put through and what that has cost them. My clients tend to struggle with a variety of complex issues. They often come from families with a legacy of unprocessed intergenerational trauma, which can take many forms. Ultimately, clients who seek me are looking for a place to try out new ways of being in the world. Ways that will better support their deepest values.
(510) 369-1025 View (510) 369-1025
Photo of Cait Glenn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Cait Glenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Those in your life might think everything is fine, but inside you feel overwhelmed and stuck. Your anxiety is ramped up trying to control something that you cannot control. You find yourself not trusting yourself and seeking external validation frequently. Feelings of distraction are constant and worries take over your thoughts. You may even feel that your relationships have changed and that you need to protect the ones you love by hiding how you truly feel. Trying to stay "positive" just isn't working. If you are ready for change, you have come to the right place. I am not a smile and nod therapist and will partner with you.
Those in your life might think everything is fine, but inside you feel overwhelmed and stuck. Your anxiety is ramped up trying to control something that you cannot control. You find yourself not trusting yourself and seeking external validation frequently. Feelings of distraction are constant and worries take over your thoughts. You may even feel that your relationships have changed and that you need to protect the ones you love by hiding how you truly feel. Trying to stay "positive" just isn't working. If you are ready for change, you have come to the right place. I am not a smile and nod therapist and will partner with you.
(949) 702-9453 View (949) 702-9453
Photo of Jocelyne Gardner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jocelyne Gardner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94127
​​I specialize in supporting parents. I help clients who are coping with stressful circumstances such as a challenging or neurodivergent child, a serious medical diagnosis, divorce, co-parenting, infidelity, a career crisis or the loss of a loved one.
​​I specialize in supporting parents. I help clients who are coping with stressful circumstances such as a challenging or neurodivergent child, a serious medical diagnosis, divorce, co-parenting, infidelity, a career crisis or the loss of a loved one.
(510) 270-4090 View (510) 270-4090
Photo of Joe Olivo, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Joe Olivo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
in my private practice I see individuals, couples, and families. I work with you to find what is most important for you; what is your best practice. Together we can heal the past and allow you to move forward. My years of life experience and gentle yet direct manner will help you get back on track and get the most from your life and relationships.
in my private practice I see individuals, couples, and families. I work with you to find what is most important for you; what is your best practice. Together we can heal the past and allow you to move forward. My years of life experience and gentle yet direct manner will help you get back on track and get the most from your life and relationships.
(415) 463-1793 View (415) 463-1793
Photo of Christina Insalaco, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Christina Insalaco
Counselor, MS, LPCC, LMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94110
Pain is often difficult to describe- it may even be unspeakable. As a licensed psychotherapist and doctoral researcher with experience in the areas of clinical psychology, clinical social work, and psychoanalysis, I offer a unique set of skills to help you deeply explore and understand the reasons you seek treatment. In my practice I offer a warm, nonjudgmental, and confidential space for you to say whatever comes to mind. In this space, one in which I am attuned to you and what you have to say, you may discover solutions for your suffering and experience transformative change.
Pain is often difficult to describe- it may even be unspeakable. As a licensed psychotherapist and doctoral researcher with experience in the areas of clinical psychology, clinical social work, and psychoanalysis, I offer a unique set of skills to help you deeply explore and understand the reasons you seek treatment. In my practice I offer a warm, nonjudgmental, and confidential space for you to say whatever comes to mind. In this space, one in which I am attuned to you and what you have to say, you may discover solutions for your suffering and experience transformative change.
(415) 475-2386 View (415) 475-2386
Photo of Mia Gutfreund, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mia Gutfreund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
When you are struggling individually or in your relationships, it can be hard to know where to begin, and harder at times to believe that getting what you need is even possible. You may have feelings you don't understand, experiences that you are trying to make sense of, or patterns that you feel stuck in. Your experiences and feelings are worthy of our curiosity and consideration. Through our conversations together, the therapy process can help us get to know you better, and open up possibilities for deepening understanding, compassion, connection, and resilience in your life.
When you are struggling individually or in your relationships, it can be hard to know where to begin, and harder at times to believe that getting what you need is even possible. You may have feelings you don't understand, experiences that you are trying to make sense of, or patterns that you feel stuck in. Your experiences and feelings are worthy of our curiosity and consideration. Through our conversations together, the therapy process can help us get to know you better, and open up possibilities for deepening understanding, compassion, connection, and resilience in your life.
(415) 980-6912 View (415) 980-6912
Photo of Samuel Khanukayev, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Samuel Khanukayev
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
I strive to facilitate a reflective and explorative environment where the unbearable can be held and truth can be spoken. Multicultural and bilingual elements of my identity, and a history of enduring ethnic discrimination and immigration, significantly inform how I listen to my clients, think through trauma and fragmentation with them. Unconscious repetitions of aversion, clinging, and reenactments of familiar/familial ways of being bind us in suffering. Through psychotherapy, rigid frames of being can be deconstructed and psychological space can be reclaimed for creativity, desire and becoming.
I strive to facilitate a reflective and explorative environment where the unbearable can be held and truth can be spoken. Multicultural and bilingual elements of my identity, and a history of enduring ethnic discrimination and immigration, significantly inform how I listen to my clients, think through trauma and fragmentation with them. Unconscious repetitions of aversion, clinging, and reenactments of familiar/familial ways of being bind us in suffering. Through psychotherapy, rigid frames of being can be deconstructed and psychological space can be reclaimed for creativity, desire and becoming.
(510) 982-6497 View (510) 982-6497
Photo of Isis Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Isis Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through their struggles with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
I am a passionate and empathetic therapist with strong counseling abilities and an understanding of interpersonal familial relationships. I have experience leading clients through their struggles with interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. Through clinical experience, compassion, and empathy I support and assist those willing to make a positive difference in their lives.
(312) 561-3208 View (312) 561-3208
Photo of Jane Reingold, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jane Reingold
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I help people unwind and unravel the ways in which they get stuck in life. Through looking at how the past is affecting the present and what is actually going on in the present as seen through relationships, we can work as a team to further digest experiences, get to the root of painful patterns, free up choices and help develop a richer internal life.
I help people unwind and unravel the ways in which they get stuck in life. Through looking at how the past is affecting the present and what is actually going on in the present as seen through relationships, we can work as a team to further digest experiences, get to the root of painful patterns, free up choices and help develop a richer internal life.
(415) 820-3209 View (415) 820-3209
Photo of Jasper Cornelius Mather, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Jasper Cornelius Mather
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
I am passionate about helping individuals in the transgender community navigate the unique challenges that come with gender identity and expression. As a transgender person myself, I understand firsthand the complexity of these issues and the importance of providing a safe and inclusive space for clients to explore their identity. I believe that every person has the capacity to heal and grow, and I am committed to providing a supportive and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their identity, work through challenges, and build resilience. I also work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues.
(415) 727-3423 View (415) 727-3423
Photo of Amanda Lesky, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Amanda Lesky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I assist you to develop and use your strengths to improve your relationships and yourself through self-exploration and guidance. I use an integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. I work with individuals that struggle with depression and anxiety related to career, athletics, interpersonal relationships, medical conditions, disease, pre/post op surgery and injuries. Through a safe and supportive environment, I believe in the importance of devising a realistic plan for treatment that is personalized for your particular symptoms and collaborate with you to improve your quality of life.
I assist you to develop and use your strengths to improve your relationships and yourself through self-exploration and guidance. I use an integrative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) approach. I work with individuals that struggle with depression and anxiety related to career, athletics, interpersonal relationships, medical conditions, disease, pre/post op surgery and injuries. Through a safe and supportive environment, I believe in the importance of devising a realistic plan for treatment that is personalized for your particular symptoms and collaborate with you to improve your quality of life.
(628) 244-3762 View (628) 244-3762
Photo of Jessica E Groberio, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Jessica E Groberio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
I initially specialized in treating PTSD, and trauma therapy continues to be one of my main passions. I have a diverse experience with a wide range of mental health/neurological disorders but more importantly, an ideal patient would be one who is open and willing to process difficult topics and memories as opposed to continuing to engage in avoidance (a short term bandage for a long term injury). I describe my style as collaborative, directive, and solution oriented, but also find power in allowing clients to process deep rooted issues in a non-judgmental way. **Please note I do not accept insurance***
I initially specialized in treating PTSD, and trauma therapy continues to be one of my main passions. I have a diverse experience with a wide range of mental health/neurological disorders but more importantly, an ideal patient would be one who is open and willing to process difficult topics and memories as opposed to continuing to engage in avoidance (a short term bandage for a long term injury). I describe my style as collaborative, directive, and solution oriented, but also find power in allowing clients to process deep rooted issues in a non-judgmental way. **Please note I do not accept insurance***
(650) 830-9004 View (650) 830-9004
Photo of W. Craig McDermit, PhD, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
W. Craig McDermit, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
I'm a "seasoned" psychologist in practice for 40 years. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds and have always preferred having a "general practice" which allows addressing a wide range of personal concerns. While each individual requires a unique approach; the transformative power of therapy is rooted in the trusting relationship that evolves between you & I. It's the alliance between us which helps you become the person you aspire to be. The work is serious but also allows for having a bit of fun while seeking the most gratifying life to foster a sense of fulfilling purpose for yourself.
I'm a "seasoned" psychologist in practice for 40 years. I enjoy working with people from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds and have always preferred having a "general practice" which allows addressing a wide range of personal concerns. While each individual requires a unique approach; the transformative power of therapy is rooted in the trusting relationship that evolves between you & I. It's the alliance between us which helps you become the person you aspire to be. The work is serious but also allows for having a bit of fun while seeking the most gratifying life to foster a sense of fulfilling purpose for yourself.
(415) 534-6559 View (415) 534-6559
Photo of Carrie K Evenden, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Carrie K Evenden
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
The decision to start psychotherapy is significant as it often means that you are suffering in some way or you've realized that what you have been doing is no longer working, and you are seeking change in your life. As your therapist, I will help you find meaning in the connections of your story and the patterns of your relationships, as well as discover and challenge your conflicts, assumptions and limitations. Through this exploration, you will be able to know yourself more deeply and live with more freedom, possibility, joy and self-understanding. My approach is collaborative, warm, and authentic.
The decision to start psychotherapy is significant as it often means that you are suffering in some way or you've realized that what you have been doing is no longer working, and you are seeking change in your life. As your therapist, I will help you find meaning in the connections of your story and the patterns of your relationships, as well as discover and challenge your conflicts, assumptions and limitations. Through this exploration, you will be able to know yourself more deeply and live with more freedom, possibility, joy and self-understanding. My approach is collaborative, warm, and authentic.
(415) 980-8621 View (415) 980-8621

See more therapy options for San Francisco

Chronic Illness Therapists

How does therapy for chronic illness work?

Many people living with a chronic illness may feel they cannot speak honestly about their experience out of embarrassment or fear of being a burden, or because those close to them do not understand, for example, that they may “look good” even if they do not feel good. Therapy sessions are an opportunity to speak openly with someone who knows their symptoms are not in their head and who can offer practical, proven suggestions for managing feelings of grief, shame, or fatigue, such as techniques to challenge unhelpful thoughts about symptoms and develop new ways to respond to them, such as distraction or calming breathing practices.

Can therapy help with physical symptoms of chronic illness?

Yes, especially if an individual with chronic illness has developed depression. People with depression are less likely to maintain their health treatment regimens or to take positive steps to manage physical symptoms when they arise, thereby potentially complicating their medical prognosis. Treatment of depression, through talk therapy, medication, or both, will often improve one’s physical state as it eases the emotional burden of illness.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic illness?

No one living with a chronic illness, or their loved ones, should see depression as an unavoidable result of their condition. Instead, they should actively seek treatment. Research shows that people with depression are less likely to devote the required time and effort to maintaining or monitoring their health, and so therapy to limit the risk of depression can be vital for physical health as well. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness-based stress reduction have been found to help individuals reduce stress and anxiety.

How long does therapy for chronic illness take?

There is no set timeline for therapy for people living with chronic illnesses, but many will see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 weekly sessions. Some people feel that they experience progress faster than others but even some who quickly feel improvement may continue with sessions for months or years. Some people may benefit from maintenance therapy if their symptoms change or they experience a decline in physical health. Others find that the skills learned in short-term therapy can be used on an ongoing basis, even after therapy has concluded.