Photo of Ilene Rich-Holtzberg Ph.D., Psychologist in San Francisco, 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 Brian King, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Brian King
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
, depression, anxiety, pain, self-destructive behaviors, substance use).
I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth. I provide a friendly and open atmosphere to invite sharing of whatever thought or feeling that comes up so that they can be explored, analyzed and ultimately changed if you want. I work in a collaborative way and do not necessarily see my role as an advice giver, but as a thoughtful companion in helping you find your own solutions and understanding. I use a flexible blend of clinical techniques and theories.
, depression, anxiety, pain, self-destructive behaviors, substance use).
I seek to provide a thoughtful and reflective setting where clients develop greater understanding of their problems and limitations through honest exploration of themselves, and to bolster strengths/foster growth. I provide a friendly and open atmosphere to invite sharing of whatever thought or feeling that comes up so that they can be explored, analyzed and ultimately changed if you want. I work in a collaborative way and do not necessarily see my role as an advice giver, but as a thoughtful companion in helping you find your own solutions and understanding. I use a flexible blend of clinical techniques and theories.
(415) 991-3069 View (415) 991-3069
Photo of Honeycomb Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Honeycomb Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
We believe that the value of your health goes beyond just your physical health. Emotional, psychological and social health are important in creating overall health and well being. It is our goal at Honeycomb Group to help you become the person, couple or family you want to be, and uncover your full potential.
(415) 338-9366 View (415) 338-9366
Photo of Abbie Loveland Tuller, Counselor in San Francisco, CA
Abbie Loveland Tuller
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
The greatest discovery I have made in life is to embrace the unexpected, to crave the twists and turns as much as the great joys of life, and to lead with curiosity. Life can often feel scary, and we may face challenges that leave us feeling like there is nowhere to turn. If you find yourself feeling this way, you are not alone. Whether you are dealing with feelings of great sadness, anxiousness that feels uncontrollable, or struggling to move past an event in your life you have turned to the right place. Seeking therapy can lead to a greater understanding of yourself, the world around you, and the person you want to be.
(917) 512-5866 View (917) 512-5866

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julia Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Julia Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94608  (Online Only)
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
Hello I'm Julia Mendoza, a therapist providing therapy throughout the state of California. I have experience working with children and adults, in the areas of depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, LGBT+ issues, OCD, personality disorders, family problems, relationship and partner conflict, and traumas. I truly enjoy helping others and I have been told that I am funny, genuine, open-minded, and a good listener. Se habla Español!
(951) 438-7873 View (951) 438-7873

Online Therapists

Photo of Andrew Schnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Andrew Schnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
This includes areas of community mental health, private practice, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
This includes areas of community mental health, private practice, residential facilities, foster care, county mental health, juvenile hall, schools, substance abuse and chemical dependency, adults with severe and persistent mental illness, and crisis intervention.
As human beings we learn, develop meaning, and create a sense of purpose through each other and the relationships we form. In the same spirit I believe the therapeutic process is driven by the relationship formed between the client and the therapist. This is why my approach in therapy is guided by the question - "How can I provide a relationship which this person may use for their personal growth?" I strive to create an empathic, nonjudgmental atmosphere where you feel safe and empowered to work toward personal growth and creating lasting change; forming trust and leaning toward vulnerability.
(650) 405-0646 View (650) 405-0646
Photo of Catherine Cohen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Catherine Cohen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95816
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
In my practice, I blend a warm, compassionate and respectful approach along with solid science and practical experience. Clients find that the simple act of talking in therapy provides a wealth of information which in turn brings decisions about what to do. My special areas of focus Include work with abuse and trauma survivors, relationship and intimacy issues, work concerns, culture and identity concerns, & chronic illness and health. I welcome adults and adolescents to my practice, and offer individual, couples and family therapy.
(916) 444-8834 View (916) 444-8834
Photo of Aza Tetelman, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Aza Tetelman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Orinda, CA 94563  (Online Only)
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
Dr. Aza Tetelman is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, inter-generational conflicts and acculturation difficulties. She enjoys facilitating self-understanding via bibliotherapy techniques, whether through the use of novels, self-help books, comics, or other media. She also believes that preventative care is just as important as healing in the aftermath of life challenges. Her clinical approach is warm and attentive, and takes on relational, dialectic, and insight-oriented approaches to treatment.
(415) 449-1861 View (415) 449-1861
Photo of Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Tristan C. Buzzini
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95825
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
I sincerely believe in whole-person wellness and that mind, body, and spirit need to be nurtured for overall mental health and well-being to be stabilized. It is my hope to support you in taking the steps you believe need to be taken to live a healthy, fulfilling, peaceful, and empowered life. As an expert in mindfulness and meditation, I work with adults and teens to effectively manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also skilled in working with individuals who struggle with substance use, conduct disorders, and academic challenges.
(916) 269-5660 View (916) 269-5660
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in San Francisco, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Grayce Marie Stratton, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Grayce Marie Stratton
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasanton, CA 94566
Accessing hope, grounding, greater energy, and newfound peace are my specialities and passion, and I assist the patient to take charge in finding harmony and illuminating a vibrant life. Working creatively and eclectically, I emphasize psychophysiology and integrative modalities, the medical end of psychology in my practice, Lifetime Development in Pleasanton, California. Assessing carefully the unique strengths and needs of each child, adolescent, and adult who calls, my goal is to assist clients to become more masterful in their lives at every age. Using the lens of in-depth traditional psychotherapeutic knowledge, I aim for faster outcomes than those possible with "talk therapy" alone.
Accessing hope, grounding, greater energy, and newfound peace are my specialities and passion, and I assist the patient to take charge in finding harmony and illuminating a vibrant life. Working creatively and eclectically, I emphasize psychophysiology and integrative modalities, the medical end of psychology in my practice, Lifetime Development in Pleasanton, California. Assessing carefully the unique strengths and needs of each child, adolescent, and adult who calls, my goal is to assist clients to become more masterful in their lives at every age. Using the lens of in-depth traditional psychotherapeutic knowledge, I aim for faster outcomes than those possible with "talk therapy" alone.
(925) 462-2123 View (925) 462-2123
Photo of Marilee G. Ruebsamen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Marilee G. Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Monterey, CA 93940
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
Promoting healing & trustworthy engagement for children, youth, their families, adults who come seeking shelter, emotional safety and refuge (see abbeypsychservices.com). Even the youngest demonstrate remarkable strengths with precise, attuned, attention to their levels of awareness, given new experiences to help transform distorted cognitive appraisals of themselves, others, relationships, the world. Working together, we cultivate more accurate appraisals of internal/external experience, shift into clearer, more realistic thinking, enhanced empathy, healthier, more effective coping styles. We co-create new, hopeful, cooperative stories to replace hopeless, repetitive, "traumatic reliving" within the safety of a predictable, nurturing, skillfully maintained therapeutic environment.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260
Photo of Lorretta J. Abbott, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Lorretta J. Abbott
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94301  (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice! Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Unhappy with your relationships? Challenges at work or school? Feeling like something needs to change? You've come to the right place. Find your inner strength and discover your true potential through therapy. It takes courage to reach out when you need help. Call me for a 15-minute complimentary consultation to determine your options.
Welcome to my practice! Are you feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or frustrated? Unhappy with your relationships? Challenges at work or school? Feeling like something needs to change? You've come to the right place. Find your inner strength and discover your true potential through therapy. It takes courage to reach out when you need help. Call me for a 15-minute complimentary consultation to determine your options.
(650) 399-7388 View (650) 399-7388
Photo of Fritz Bixler, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Fritz Bixler
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pacifica, CA 94044
My priority is helping you build a life beyond your wildest dreams. I am dedicated to meeting you where you’re at, and supporting you in carving out your own unique path towards healing and self-actualization. I believe everyone has the capacity to flourish, and I aim to create space for my clients to explore what wellness looks like for them. I really get intensity and emotional sensitivity, and understand the blessings and burdens that come with diverse ways of seeing the world. I am primarily a drama therapist specializing in creative play, but also provide straightforward talk therapy.
My priority is helping you build a life beyond your wildest dreams. I am dedicated to meeting you where you’re at, and supporting you in carving out your own unique path towards healing and self-actualization. I believe everyone has the capacity to flourish, and I aim to create space for my clients to explore what wellness looks like for them. I really get intensity and emotional sensitivity, and understand the blessings and burdens that come with diverse ways of seeing the world. I am primarily a drama therapist specializing in creative play, but also provide straightforward talk therapy.
(925) 966-3435 View (925) 966-3435
Photo of Healthy Minds Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Healthy Minds Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Welcome to Healthy Minds Counseling Center, where we are dedicated to providing top-notch mental health counseling and psychiatry services. Our team of highly qualified professionals is committed to creating a nurturing environment, a sanctuary where individuals from the community can embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental health, enhanced wellbeing, and an enriched quality of life. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including individual, couples, and family therapy. Additionally, we curate a diverse selection of groups and workshops throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and support.
Welcome to Healthy Minds Counseling Center, where we are dedicated to providing top-notch mental health counseling and psychiatry services. Our team of highly qualified professionals is committed to creating a nurturing environment, a sanctuary where individuals from the community can embark on a transformative journey towards improved mental health, enhanced wellbeing, and an enriched quality of life. We offer a comprehensive range of services, including individual, couples, and family therapy. Additionally, we curate a diverse selection of groups and workshops throughout the year, fostering a sense of community and support.
(925) 663-8158 View (925) 663-8158
Photo of Ruth Cohn, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ruth Cohn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fair Oaks, CA 95628
I don't have a specific client that is "ideal" as every client has their own unique history and backstory. I definitely look forward to meeting with people who are interested in self-growth but I also enjoy helping people get to the point to where the may be ready to work on their self-growth. If you are reading this, you would probably be the ideal client since you have taken the first step in just having that thought in your head about maybe it is time to give yourself the love you give to others and focusing on yourself.
I don't have a specific client that is "ideal" as every client has their own unique history and backstory. I definitely look forward to meeting with people who are interested in self-growth but I also enjoy helping people get to the point to where the may be ready to work on their self-growth. If you are reading this, you would probably be the ideal client since you have taken the first step in just having that thought in your head about maybe it is time to give yourself the love you give to others and focusing on yourself.
(916) 269-4853 View (916) 269-4853
Photo of Marilee Ruebsamen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Marilee Ruebsamen
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Saratoga, CA 95070
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
Are you concerned for your children in an ongoing high conflict divorce or another highly distressing situation? I consult, support, offer parent/child coping strategies to prevent longterm effects of severe stress & trauma for children/affected others. Even the youngest can demonstrate remarkable resilience. We attend to their confusion, impaired awareness, degree of distorted cognition. Parents cultivate enhanced attunement, insight, learn to see beyond children's distorted appraisal. We co-create more accurate thinking, safer, more healthy relationships, make space for more realistic understanding, provide predictability, constancy, enhanced trust, explore feelings, support emotional regulation, form new, hope-filled stories to replace frightening, traumatic ones.
(831) 275-8260 View (831) 275-8260
Photo of Pali Gill, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Pali Gill
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, NCC, PPS-SC
Verified Verified
Folsom, CA 95630
As a therapist, I believe I can work with most situations because I am eager to learn from you, to research, and to problem solve with you for the best solutions regarding your current need for therapy. I believe I am astute at assisting missed possibilities or blinders that might be hindering you and your ability to live the life you know is possible. This can be related to uprooting past traumas, coping with current stressors, or the uncertainty of developing your life purpose. I listen carefully to assist with ruptured relationships, strained life circumstances, hindered growth, and the grief and loss that comes from these hurts.
As a therapist, I believe I can work with most situations because I am eager to learn from you, to research, and to problem solve with you for the best solutions regarding your current need for therapy. I believe I am astute at assisting missed possibilities or blinders that might be hindering you and your ability to live the life you know is possible. This can be related to uprooting past traumas, coping with current stressors, or the uncertainty of developing your life purpose. I listen carefully to assist with ruptured relationships, strained life circumstances, hindered growth, and the grief and loss that comes from these hurts.
(916) 866-9446 View (916) 866-9446

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.