Photo of Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D., Psychologist in 94104, CA
Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
My specialty areas are substance abuse, couples issues, eating disorders, life coaching, bariatric surgery issues, infertility/adoption, helping caregivers cope with dealing with a loved one's chronic illness.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
My specialty areas are substance abuse, couples issues, eating disorders, life coaching, bariatric surgery issues, infertility/adoption, helping caregivers cope with dealing with a loved one's chronic illness.
My focus is to develop a relationship with the client. This is called the two person model which is different than the old fashion practice where the doctor is one up and the client is one down. Rather, the two person model attempts to understand the client through questions and mutual discussion. I am not a silent therapist. I give feedback and remain fully engaged with the patient. Together we build a rapport. I adhere to a humanistic approach.
(415) 366-8999 View (415) 366-8999
Photo of Dr. Helge Osterhold, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Dr. Helge Osterhold
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I'm an integrative psychotherapist working with individuals and couples. My approach is engaged and caring, providing a safe and supportive environment, where you can reflect and develop new ways of handling challenges you are facing. The focus of my practice is twofold: relationship issues and life transitions (e.g. themes like change in relationship, career changes, relocation, pregnancy, child birth and parenting, facing illness, trauma and loss as well as seeking more meaning and fulfillment in life). I have a particular expertise in working with people who immigrated to the US or have diverse cultural backgrounds.
I'm an integrative psychotherapist working with individuals and couples. My approach is engaged and caring, providing a safe and supportive environment, where you can reflect and develop new ways of handling challenges you are facing. The focus of my practice is twofold: relationship issues and life transitions (e.g. themes like change in relationship, career changes, relocation, pregnancy, child birth and parenting, facing illness, trauma and loss as well as seeking more meaning and fulfillment in life). I have a particular expertise in working with people who immigrated to the US or have diverse cultural backgrounds.
(650) 450-8918 View (650) 450-8918
Photo of Athena Panzar, Psychologist in 94104, CA
Athena Panzar
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist providing compassionate evidenced-based psychotherapy to adults in the Bay Area. I specialize in helping people with difficulties like depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, life transitions including pregnancy and parenthood, health problems and pain conditions. Through my work I aim to help people improve their well-being, self-fulfillment, health and relationships. I enjoy my work as a therapist immensely and feel honored to be given the opportunity to work with people during some of the more challenging times of their lives.
I am a licensed psychologist providing compassionate evidenced-based psychotherapy to adults in the Bay Area. I specialize in helping people with difficulties like depression, anxiety, work stress, relationship problems, life transitions including pregnancy and parenthood, health problems and pain conditions. Through my work I aim to help people improve their well-being, self-fulfillment, health and relationships. I enjoy my work as a therapist immensely and feel honored to be given the opportunity to work with people during some of the more challenging times of their lives.
(925) 568-8951 View (925) 568-8951
Photo of Aliah Kristin Mestrovich Seay, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Aliah Kristin Mestrovich Seay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns and identities including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism), and other developmental disabilities, vocational stress, chronic illness, women’s issues, infertility and disability-related work and school-place barriers. I have experience working with individuals from historically underrepresented underserved communities, international clients, interracial couples and families, women, immigrants/refugees as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
I work with clients with a wide range of concerns and identities including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, relationship issues, neurodiversity (ADHD and Autism), and other developmental disabilities, vocational stress, chronic illness, women’s issues, infertility and disability-related work and school-place barriers. I have experience working with individuals from historically underrepresented underserved communities, international clients, interracial couples and families, women, immigrants/refugees as well as the LGBTQIA+ community.
(785) 465-2487 View (785) 465-2487
Photo of Two Chairs - San Francisco/Oakland, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Two Chairs - San Francisco/Oakland
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
Two Chairs was founded in 2017 with a mission to build a world where everyone has access to exceptional mental healthcare. We're creating a better experience for both patients and clinicians by starting with an in-depth, research-backed matching process to ensure the ideal patient-therapist fit, offering hybrid care that gives patients and clinicians flexibility between in-person and virtual sessions, and measuring outcomes to ensure patients get better faster.
Two Chairs was founded in 2017 with a mission to build a world where everyone has access to exceptional mental healthcare. We're creating a better experience for both patients and clinicians by starting with an in-depth, research-backed matching process to ensure the ideal patient-therapist fit, offering hybrid care that gives patients and clinicians flexibility between in-person and virtual sessions, and measuring outcomes to ensure patients get better faster.
(628) 265-6950 View (628) 265-6950
Photo of Amy Diner, Psychologist in 94104, CA
Amy Diner
Psychologist, PsyD, CEAP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
Therapy is a highly transformative and fascinating process. It has the power to heal, enliven, and repair. I enthusiastically invite you to begin this process with me. My warm, engaging, curious, and playful approach can help you feel like your personal experience and unique point of view is consistently appreciated. From this place, you may begin to feel more empowered and liberated in your life. I am a doctor with over 20 years of professional experience treating adults, couples, and adolescents.
Therapy is a highly transformative and fascinating process. It has the power to heal, enliven, and repair. I enthusiastically invite you to begin this process with me. My warm, engaging, curious, and playful approach can help you feel like your personal experience and unique point of view is consistently appreciated. From this place, you may begin to feel more empowered and liberated in your life. I am a doctor with over 20 years of professional experience treating adults, couples, and adolescents.
(415) 799-9491 View (415) 799-9491
Photo of Octave - Financial District SF Clinic, Psychologist in 94104, CA
Octave - Financial District SF Clinic
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(415) 634-1043 View (415) 634-1043
Photo of Dr. Aaron Smith, Psychologist in 94104, CA
Dr. Aaron Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing psychotherapy to adults and their families. I have provided treatment and conducted evaluations for individuals in clinical settings from private practices, to hospitals, to community health centers. I have a true passion for working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and values cultural awareness in a therapeutic setting. I empower individuals to enhance their lives through the application of evidence-based therapeutic models and relational support.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in providing psychotherapy to adults and their families. I have provided treatment and conducted evaluations for individuals in clinical settings from private practices, to hospitals, to community health centers. I have a true passion for working with clients from diverse cultural backgrounds and values cultural awareness in a therapeutic setting. I empower individuals to enhance their lives through the application of evidence-based therapeutic models and relational support.
(424) 477-3608 View (424) 477-3608
Photo of Ellen B Klyce, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Ellen B Klyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
I mostly treat couples who are navigating parenting and communication. But I work with individual clients too, Bay area residents who have multiple responsibilities and many demands placed on them daily. I help clients ease their doubt in social situations, calm down the inner critic. In my sessions we explore new ways to connect in many different circumstances. If you have fallen into negative thinking patterns, this constant worry may wear you down. I am there to be your collaborator, to find the best solution for you.
I mostly treat couples who are navigating parenting and communication. But I work with individual clients too, Bay area residents who have multiple responsibilities and many demands placed on them daily. I help clients ease their doubt in social situations, calm down the inner critic. In my sessions we explore new ways to connect in many different circumstances. If you have fallen into negative thinking patterns, this constant worry may wear you down. I am there to be your collaborator, to find the best solution for you.
(510) 768-7175 View (510) 768-7175
Photo of Joe Olivo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Joe Olivo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (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 Kristen Zimmermann, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in 94104, CA
Kristen Zimmermann
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself stuck in unwanted patterns? Are you overwhelmed with past experiences that seem to still be lingering? Are you wrestling with anxiety and difficult emotions? I believe that healing is possible! I believe so many of us stay stuck because we do not have the right support for healing. While having an outlet to talk or vent can be helpful, my approach involves working more directly with the root cause of the issue, which is stored in our nervous system. I enjoy helping client’s make sense of what’s going on, so we can compassionately resolve the identified problems and achieve their goals.
Do you find yourself stuck in unwanted patterns? Are you overwhelmed with past experiences that seem to still be lingering? Are you wrestling with anxiety and difficult emotions? I believe that healing is possible! I believe so many of us stay stuck because we do not have the right support for healing. While having an outlet to talk or vent can be helpful, my approach involves working more directly with the root cause of the issue, which is stored in our nervous system. I enjoy helping client’s make sense of what’s going on, so we can compassionately resolve the identified problems and achieve their goals.
(619) 639-8465 View (619) 639-8465
Photo of Life by Design Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Life by Design Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104
When life gets rough, it's important to know there are safe and supportive spaces you can turn to for support. Whether you're seeking real relief from anxiety or depression, needing help establishing better boundaries, questioning your identity, sexuality, or personal relationships or just having trouble managing the day-to-day, we can help. At Life by Design Therapy we believe change is possible for you. We offer holistic and somatic therapy to support you in navigating life's challenges without having to dismiss, avoid, or disconnect from what you truly want. It's time to live life on your own terms and Create A Life You Love!
When life gets rough, it's important to know there are safe and supportive spaces you can turn to for support. Whether you're seeking real relief from anxiety or depression, needing help establishing better boundaries, questioning your identity, sexuality, or personal relationships or just having trouble managing the day-to-day, we can help. At Life by Design Therapy we believe change is possible for you. We offer holistic and somatic therapy to support you in navigating life's challenges without having to dismiss, avoid, or disconnect from what you truly want. It's time to live life on your own terms and Create A Life You Love!
(510) 422-0349 View (510) 422-0349
Photo of Almaz Nigusse-Bland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94104, CA
Almaz Nigusse-Bland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
You are feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions. You feel disconnected from those around you and maybe from yourself. Maybe you shut out the world. Maybe you don't feel like yourself. Maybe you are not sleeping well. Maybe it is challenging to create boundaries. Past negative experiences may be contributing to your current concerns. You want to find a way to manage these feelings. Your goal is to have an awareness of yourself and triggers. With the right tools and interventions customized to your needs, healing is possible.
You are feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts and emotions. You feel disconnected from those around you and maybe from yourself. Maybe you shut out the world. Maybe you don't feel like yourself. Maybe you are not sleeping well. Maybe it is challenging to create boundaries. Past negative experiences may be contributing to your current concerns. You want to find a way to manage these feelings. Your goal is to have an awareness of yourself and triggers. With the right tools and interventions customized to your needs, healing is possible.
(510) 288-3343 View (510) 288-3343
Photo of Colleen Haddock, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94104, CA
Colleen Haddock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
(415) 799-5413 View (415) 799-5413
Chronic Pain Therapists

How does chronic pain therapy work?

Engaging with a psychotherapist to help treat chronic pain does not mean that one’s pain is all in their head. Therapy for chronic-pain patients has been shown to benefit both the mind and the body, targeting physical symptoms and increasing daily functioning. In other words, for many, addressing their emotional health through therapy affects their physical health. A therapist can help a client challenge unhelpful thoughts about pain and develop new ways to respond to it, such as distraction or calming breathing techniques. Studies have found that therapy can be as effective as surgery for certain cases of chronic pain and many doctors recommend trying psychotherapy in advance of considering invasive surgery.

What are the most effective treatment options for chronic pain?

Stress, anxiety, depression, catastrophizing, ruminating, lack of activity, and social withdrawal all make chronic pain worse. Addressing these issues, research shows, can help people gain control over their pain symptoms. Therapeutic approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback, and mindfulness-based stress reduction, along with greater pain-management education, have been found to help people reduce fear and disability.

Are there new treatments for chronic pain?

Many cases of chronic pain, particularly those involving back pain, remain medically unexplained. But there is evidence that changes in the brain or nervous system are caused by previous physical ailments such as tissue damage; in such cases, the brain may continue to send out pain signals despite the physical cause having healed. To aid patients under these circumstances, a recently developed treatment known as pain reprocessing therapy (PRT) is designed to help the brain “unlearn” this response. A PRT practitioner helps individuals to reduce the “threat value” of their ongoing pain signals until they can reappraise them as less threatening and fear-inducing. They also help an individual to develop new emotional regulation skills.

How long does therapy for chronic pain take?

There is no set timeline for recovery from chronic pain, especially as there may be a range of physical and psychological causes for any individual’s discomfort, but most patients should expect to see a therapist for a number of weeks or months, typically spanning at least 12 sessions. Studies of pain reprocessing therapy found that many individuals’ experience of pain lessened in eight sessions over four weeks.